Digital materials/resources and emerging technologies
‘Outside of a
dog, a book is a man’s best friend. Inside a dog, it’s too dark to read.’
– Groucho Marx
"Inside a dog" website achieves exactly what it sets out to
achieve, a safe space for teenagers to talk
together about books and stories. The popular and fun website is Australia’s
peer book-reviewing site for young people. I found the layout bright, clear, friendly and
appealing. The websites great use of videos and book trailers are amazing. Its clever
use of visual presentation and its well-paced timing on the homepage are also skilfully
done. Information on the website is constantly updated proving that the site is
topical.
"Inside a dog" also encourages involvement with the website
by offering clear and straightforward instructions to become a registered user.
Then you can write your own book reviews, comment on others or join and or
manage a book club if you like. "Inside a dog" also provides an opportunity for
students to post material and interact in a safe environment, and to learn to
work in a collaborative and supportive manner in an on-line space. All content
and comments are moderated for anything inappropriate before being uploaded as
a post. Once you become a “trusted” user then your post can be live. Inside a
dog has a clear expectation of website etiquette and being respectful of
others.
"Inside a dog" website has dual purpose’s, fantastic and
interactive for young people and brilliant as a teacher resource. Its
educational content is excellent and diverse from curriculum requirements
advice to clearly explaining copyright practice appropriate for students and or
teachers. In the ‘Teachers’ section a lot of care and attention has been given
to encourage and support literacy and learning. The menu guide on the right
hand side is comprehensive and extensive.
In 2014 at a PLVN CYS seminar I was introduced to ‘Scratch’
by Emma Hewitt from SLV. Scratch is a visual programming language that allows simple and
quick creation of interactive stories, games, and multimedia. When I spotted
the link to Scratch on "Inside a dog" multimedia resources section I went
exploring. The programme is a free download that helps students learn to think creatively, reason
systematically, and work collaboratively.
To start with it uses simple inter connect/snap blocks to
make your character/sprite move, add sound, costumes, add or change backgrounds
or include new sprites. By inter connecting directional blocks you can make
your story come alive. Then share it with others. Students can also download
and remix projects created by other site users. I have been talking to
colleges’ at SLIS about running Scratch learning project in the school holidays.
Scratch is designed and
maintained by the Lifelong Kindergarten group at the MIT Media Lab.
State Library of Victoria, Centre for Youth Literature (CYL), Inside a dog Retrieved from
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