Before the course Managing E-learning, I was oblivious to what an RSS (Really Simple Syndication) Aggregator was, what it is used for and how useful it can be. To be honest I was a bit intimidated, thinking that this would be some complex program that only ICT experts could possibly know about. I was pleased to find I was completely wrong.
Of course to familiarise myself with what an RSS Aggregator was, I Googled the term. Wikipedia (2009) described an aggregator as a web application that collates web content from multiple sites into one simple reader. The web content may include blog entries, news headlines and podcasts to name a few (Wikipedia, 2009). Put simply, instead of searching for updates, an RSS Aggregator brings the updates to you in one easy to read account. This saves time searching a number of websites for the latest news or blog update.
The RSS Aggregator that I chose to use is GOOGLE Reader as I had an existing Google account. To set up my account i simply logged in and began subscribing to the blogs of my fellow course members. Once I had subscribed I could immediately see their posts in an easy to read format.
This application would be very useful for a learning manager (teacher) and students to use. In a secondary school context, a learning manager may present course material and weblinks via blog, encourage students to create their own blogs for collaborating and reflecting on their learning, and subscribing to newscasts relevant to their subject. The RSS Aggregator would be useful for the learning manager and students to subscribge to the blogs of their peers and check for updates all in one account. This simple application would provide a fast and efficient means for tracking course material, blogs, news headlines and podcasts without wasted time searching for these updates.
Reference
Wikipedia. (2009, November 27). Aggregator. Retrieved November 27, 2009 from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aggregator
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Hi Liisa,
ReplyDeleteI agree there is a real need for aggregators if we are going to be able to organise all of the additional feeds and sources the internet has made available to us and our students.
Regards,
Sharon
Hi!
ReplyDeleteI can not even imagine to visit each blog I read is updated or not anymore! RSS is very helpful to see only updated blog post, website and news. I agree this is very effective tools for all.
Regards
Makiko
Hi Liisa,
ReplyDeleteGreat Post!
I was worried how I get to read everyone's postings.By readig some blog about RSS.It me realise I had to really do something.
You made it sound so simple!
I still dont know how I manage to subscribe or upload mine. I just noticed I had it.Don't ask me how. I think I must have click so many buttons. Thats me! I have just realised I have it. It would have been handy if I have RSS in the beginning before I've done anything else.
Cheers
Mary-Ann
Mary-Ann
Having reflected on my current experience using Google Reader as my RSS Aggregator, I can see how important it is to manage my time better and make sure I check the up to date postings each day. If this is not done, the number of postings accumulates and the process of checking your updates takes a little more time. One other issue is that you need to keep an eye on your Internet Access plan as you may find an increase in your 'Usage'. I have quickly started to use up my usual 2gb of access. Seems like lessons on how to be more organised.
ReplyDeleteHi Emma,
ReplyDeleteGreat point about internet usage! That is something I haven't thought about before but is very relevant to my own needs. Thanks!
cheers,
Liisa