07a)+Creating+Teacher+Websites

=Developing An Effective Classroom Website (2-part series)=

Scheduled Dates:

 * Part 1 - Wed, 02/16/2011
 * Part 2 - Tues, 03/01/2011
 * Part 1 - Wed, 04/13/2011
 * Part 2 - Wed, 04/27/2011

Tips to consider (prior to the session):

 * Please ensure your FZSD Username/Password works by following the login instructions shared by email.
 * While surfing the web and other teacher websites, make note of things you like.
 * Explore this tentative agenda and helpful links below like a quick start guide to Google Sites and PowerPoint created by FZSD.

Objective:
Attendees will learn the value of and steps involved in creating an effective classroom website.

Part 1 Goals:

 * Understand the reasons for a website
 * Explore best practices
 * Consider content for site/pages
 * Begin the website in Google Sites

Part 2 Goals:

 * Review the basics
 * Explore customizing and personalizing site
 * Continue building site with hands-on support

Agenda (Part 1)

 * Explore other teacher websites & discuss what is appealing
 * See Sample Classroom Websites & Examples of Google Sites links below
 * Do your own search and explore other local districts
 * Explore best practices & questions to consider
 * What is the purpose of the website?
 * Who is your audience? Who is going to see and use the website?
 * Any classroom challenges that could be simplified with website (e.g. absences/missing work)?
 * Have you considered a Team website vs. Personal website?
 * Are you interested in incorporating interactive elements (calendar, blog, etc.) or media (audio, video, pictures)?
 * Begin step-by-step instruction & start website development
 * Brainstorm basic pages to include in website (consider brief outline or storyboard)
 * Cover using Google Sites main menus/navigation
 * Start website – name it and choose template or blank template
 * Edit website – basic tools (add page, edit page, Manage Site settings)
 * Use toolbars to format content, add link, insert image, etc.
 * Q&A

Agenda (Part 2)

 * Temp check on Google Site experience/progress
 * Discuss hot items to address with Q&A
 * Review the basics
 * Google Sites Main Menus (e.g. create/edit site, sharing, add/edit page)
 * Edit/update website navigation (more actions/manage site)
 * Add/Edit pages vs. page settings (e.g. page name/in nav. vs. url)
 * Insert images
 * Insert & edit/remove hyperlinks (words & images)
 * Explore customizing and personalizing site (i.e. Manage Site)
 * Site name (General)
 * Site Appearance like colors, fonts, themes
 * Navigation (order/placement/sidebar)
 * Insert Google Apps, Docs & Gadgets
 * Header & footer (logo & district links)
 * Insert other media (audio, video, etc.)
 * Tips to save time & headache
 * Create/Save desired page template (Additional Actions)
 * Delete unneeded pages, objects, etc. (Manage Site)
 * Create/embed Google docs/apps where possible to streamline maintenance
 * Create backup copy of site (Manage Site/General)
 * Development & support
 * District policy & next steps

Sample Classroom Websites
Examples of Google Sites Quick Start Guide to Google Sites Step-by-step Online Tutorials on Google Sites (created by Google Certified Teacher) Free Online Resources

Resources | Development Tools
Color Theory & Wizard RGB to Hex Code Conversion Table Free Stock Photos Custom Fonts (recommend as graphic only) Web Banner Creator Image Editor Audio Editor Video Editor

Resources | FZSD-specific

 * Want a shortcut to logging in?
 * Visit FZ My Sites Login Page.
 * Enter first part of district username and password.
 * Want official how-tos, design tips, policies & forms?
 * Visit FZ My Sites Home.
 * View FZ My Sites PowerPoint.
 * Want support for logging in or have questions about the process?
 * Email help@fz.k12.mo.us.