URL:

http://www.ning.com

Description: Ning allows you to create your own social network that can be public (like MySpace or Facebook) or private for only your class. You can include personal profiles so your students can get to know one another. You can include a blog, share files, share images and share videos, all within a private, password-protected area. It's great for group work and class communication. If you allow your site to be public it's great for starting interest groups or getting your information to the world. Ning has "widgets" that allow for easy addition of tools such as events listings, video, discussion forums, slideshows, etc.

Price: Free.

Privacy: Private and Public views and defined groups.

Online/Download: Ning is an online program only.

Uses in the Classroom:

• Class webspace for information sharing
• Class blog
• Class discussions
• Research collaboration
• Portfolio