Tech Tip - TodaysMeet

I have highlighted TodaysMeet before, but wanted to share some of the recent updates from the summer that make this a great classroom tool.  TodaysMeet is a website that allows you to setup a chat room.  The chat room can be used as a place for students to share thoughts and/or talk about a movie while it's playing.  I use it when I present as a way for attendees to talk and share ideas while I present.

Summer Updates

Moderate the rooms - before this update TodaysMeet chat rooms were unmoderated.  Meaning the creator of the room had no control over things that were said.  Now the creator can delete unwanted posts.

Log In Feature - You now have the ability to log in to an account and save rooms.  

Tech Tip

Google Hangouts
If you are looking for a way to connect multiple classrooms via a video chat, look no further than Google Hangouts!  If you already have a Google account, you more than likely already have the ability to chat using Google Hangouts.  Unlike Skype, Hangouts allow for multiple people to be video chatting at one time on the same screen.  You can get the same feature from Skype, but there is a cost associated with upgrading to this feature.  NASA has a very active Google Hangouts page and allows you to connect your students with astronauts or even visit with someone in space.  President Obama has also used the Hangouts as a way to connect with people.  He recently completed a chat with people from all around the country.  Google Hangouts would be a great way to share a guest speaker with your colleagues or even with a friend or classroom miles away.

Google Hangout Tutorial Video
NASA on Google+