by Leanna Johnson
"Scoop.it collates work from online publications using an online magazine format, and this visual impact alone makes it very effective.
"The additional appeal of broadcasting from a hub allows me to tap into and share with my ed tech networks, which is why I find myself using it more often during time constraints.
"First of all, it’s powerful–it incorporates multiple elements of familiar social media tools. But it’s also very flexible–the mobile app is quite functional for both iPhone and Android, and a toolbar plugin can be installed on browser windows. Scoop.it’s athleticism makes it a time-saver; educators and students will quickly grasp its value in content gathering.
"Additionally, using Scoop.it will meet multiple standards (Common Core and NETS-S) across the curriculum. Students use critical thinking skills to collect, evaluate and analyze content; they may identify trends from discourse; they develop writing skills in original expression; and they interact, communicate and publish to a global audience. But perhaps more importantly, students practice digital citizenship and personal responsibility to lifelong learning.
"Curation is a valuable skill for today’s learner. In a culture of content overload, members that provide great content to their audience will be recognized leaders in network communities. Optimally, we equip students to differentiate good content from bad in preparation for their further education and careers. Curating an online topic (and allowing comments) also increases self-awareness and provides additional insight from others. The nuances of sharing content and writing to an audience become much better understood through interactivity between the curator and participating audience."
