Thing #16

     I chose to use IGooge for my start page simply because it is very easy and user-friendly. I love how I can put fun apps on my IGoogle, such as cartoons and optical illusions. I will probably end up putting it as my start page so I can have everything in one place and have Google already open if I need it. I really enjoyed this, however, I don't think it's something that will be life changing.
     I chose to use the calendar created by Google. I loved it because there was so much that could be done with the calendar. I was able to color code my different things such as classes, workshops, fun stuff, and other. I thought it was really nice that you could view various calendar options such as the 4 day, week, day, month, and agenda. It also allows you to edit your event and invite others to join the event and have the option to add to it. You can also use keyboard shortcuts, which I love, to view the different modes including 4 for 4 day and m for month. If you needed a calender for different thing, lets say one for work and one for school, the Google calendar gives you that option. It's also very user friendly, especially since most people enjoy using Google.
     One thing I'm always doing is creating to-do lists, however I always seem to loose them because they are just on notebook paper. I love the idea of having a to-do list online. I really liked the Remember the Milk to-do lists, mainly because of the cute cow.....well other things were great about it too. I really liked how it had a different list for personal stuff, study, and work. You could also customize each thing on the list with when it's due, where, and so on. It also gives you a little pat on the back when you finish all the things on a list. The only problem with this is that I would have to access it on either a computer or smart phone, and I don't have a smart phone and I don't want to carry my laptop with me everywhere. This could be a very helpful tool, however sometime you cannot beat the good old fashion paper lists.
    One tool that I have had a little bit of experience with is engrade. The last year I was at my home school enrichment they were just starting to use this web 2.0 tool. Most of my teachers never used it for that first year however, so I did not find out too much about it until now. The number one thing about it is that it is free. Teachers can track attendance, grades, homework, send messages, and so much more. It gives the students a way to keep up with their grades. Parents can also keep a check on their kids.