What's it all about?
At first glance it resembles a 'YouTube clone' by which it functions as a global respository for media. Specifically, SlideShare is a web application that caters as a respository for documents and presentations (and like YouTube, also stores video).
Here's how it works: You go to the site and perform searches on particular content (subjects, titles, lesson type etc) by various keywords or by browsing through channels. What kind of documents you view or receive depends upon your search query.
In addition, you can contribute your own information to the repository by creating and uploading your own documents (DOC, PPT, PDF etc)! :)
So how is this an effective application in the supporting of teaching and learning?
Online availabilityAs a web application, all you need is a web browser and a username/password for access. There is no need for additional software. As a result, access is made easier.
Free to use ('Basic' account)
A free account is available for students and educators to easily register and use. Other accounts are available (for a subscription fee) with more complex features, but the basic account should suffice.
Large global audience with vast information
There is lots of useful information that independent educators and creators have made online. Because so many people contribute to SlideShare, there is vast information for research and education purposes. Learning communities can be formed online and information can be shared amongst them. Similar to YouTube, you may also visit other people's channels to see what they have to showcase. It is also possible to collaborate on documents with other students/educators via. comment boxes.
Viral tools for distribution
There are 'share' buttons available for Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn use. Having these viral tools help push content BEYOND SlideShare to allow connections with even wider audiences and keen learners. It also helps those using Facebook to post and embed their own presentations through it.
Security features
Security features are available as to specify which audiences can view documents. For example, a school may create a private lesson with documents only available to their students (and no outsiders).
Voicethread coming soon! Stay tuned.
- Paul
I like all the screenshots you have on this blog - its a great reminder to take advantage of the multimedia nature of blogs. As a biology teacher I could really use a site like SlideShare.
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