My name is Bill Jackson. I am an instructional
designer, specializing in SAP implementation. I
have developed and delivered training to a wide
range of professional users. I have also taught
college courses in Business Writing and Composition,
both in front of a class and online. I live in Big
Rapids, MI (USA), but I often travel during the week
to various client sites around the country.
Bill's Top 10 Tools as at
16
January 2008
GradeEaze — this is a Word-based
grading tool that allows the user to create her
own database of comments, lecture or any other
instructional aids. These comments can then be
instantly inserted into a student’s online
submission. Great for compiling a database of
“canned” text (mini-lectures on grammar and
style; links to instructional resources, etc.).
I have found the tool invaluable in shaving
hours off of grading.
Google Scholar — with a limited access to a
libraries database, this site has offered a
wonderful first step toward advanced research.
Lectora — one of the nicer programs to create a
web-based course, I have used it to create
various CBT courses, quickly and with polish.
Cute
PDF — create a PDF file by sending the
document to the Cute PDF “printer.” This is
great if you want the safety of a PDF (no
changes can be made) but lack the funds for a
full version of Adobe.
Google Desktop — great at compiling a list
of documents (usually e-mails or student papers)
by keyword.
Firefox
— I like the add-ons (weather, news scroll,
etc.)
Skype —
this phone-through-the-computer service (VOIP)
allows me to call toll-free numbers without
tying up the home line. I have stuck with the
free service thus far.
GIMP —
full Photoshop functionality (some you have to
be more creative to replicate than others) at
none of the price.
CAM Unzip — an alternative zip application
to WinZip. I have found no problems zipping or
unzipping with this.
Sitemeter — plug in your website, define your
parameters, install the counter code and receive
e-mail breakdowns of visitors to your site. A
great and free way to track your traffic.
What are your
Top 10 Tools for learning? Let us know and help us to build
the Top 100 Tools for Learning 2008
