Mural.ly

=[|Mural.ly]= Organize your thoughts visually. Collect and share information in multiple formats from multiple users, in a non-linear, more visual fashion. Collaboration for visual people.

Resources and links
http://techcrunch.com/2012/09/10/mural-ly-opens-its-web-based-creative-collaboration-platform-to-the-public/ http://www.teachersfirst.com/single.cfm?id=14075 http://pandodaily.com/2013/02/26/mural-ly-gets-collaborative-lets-teams-create-and-manage-multi-media-pinboards/

Strengths:

 * Free
 * easy drag and drop interface
 * easily keeps track of multiple formats in one place (images, videos, links, documents, spreasheets, etc.)
 * supports multiple file formats (.doc, .xls, .ppt, .pdf, .tiff,.zip, and many more)
 * ability to manage privacy and permissions
 * users can collaborate in real time
 * made for interface on desktops, laptops and touch devices (including ipads).
 * auto saves
 * terms of service does not exclude users by age, so it can be used in K-6 classrooms

Weaknesses:

 * District internet guidelines may block content on outside websites
 * Newer versions may require payment for private boards
 * similar to online pinboards such as pinterest

Opportunities:

 * Teachers and students could brainstorm projects or leaning goals for new units
 * Students could create personal "murals" during the first week of school and then explore them to build community
 * Classes could collaborate on projects with other classes within a school, a district, or world wide
 * Visual aspect would support ELL students and visual learners
 * Loose structure of content allows for creativity among students- highly customizable

**Threats**:

 * Content on outside websites cannot be controlled
 * Users can add any content from the web, including images and videos
 * Comments and discussion could digress into inappropriate conversations

Ideas:

 * Use to create a KWL chart during a unit- which goes beyond text and includes pictures and videos
 * Gives students an alternative format to writing a paper for a book report
 * Use to create story boards
 * Use to deepen understanding of vocabulary and terms in science
 * Use as an online portfolio that students maintain throughout the year