Blog #11: Web 2.0 Tool

 

Web 2.0 Tool: STORYBIRD

www.storybird.com

         Storybird is a web 2.0 tool that allows you to create original illustrated books. You can add your own text and select illustrations from several different artists.  You have the option of sharing their Storybird privately or publicly on the network. The final product can be printed, watched on screen, or shared through a worldwide library.

Storybird could be used in the classroom for the following:

·   Create a children’s story on saving money, budgeting, etc… (personal finance class)

·   Use an original poem and create a book with illustrations (english class)

·   Create a book on a period of history from a child’s perspective (social studies class)

·   Create a book about the importance of healthy eating and good fitness habits (health class)

To  use Storybird, you need to create an account. Once it is created, you browse through the various artists and select a group of images for your book. Multiple artists can be used and you can search by topics (for example, dogs; all artists with dog images would appear to pick from).

As you create each page, you select from the illustrations and add your own text.

Once you are finished you can save and publish your book. You can make your book private (only for viewing by those you select) or public (for all to see). You can also order the book and have it printed and sent directly to you.