I really didn't know where to begin with this "thing" -- there are SO-O-O-O many Web 2.0 tools that are ...interesting, useful, dynamic, amazing, practical, entertaining,... oh, where to begin. The Seemoz.org list of award-winning tools could take hours to explore.
I was drawn to Zillow, however. I've used Zillow before, as I have been trying to sell a home by owner. I wanted to be every place an Internet seeker may look. Wow, has it changed -- from a Web 1.0 site to a great interactive Web 2.0 site. It has come such a long way, from being a spot to view the "market value" of the house, to a community of sellers, buyers, and real estate professionals to discuss real estate issues, vote on favorite rooms and houses, search for real estate (yours or where you're looking to buy) on great street/aerial/hybrid maps, update your basic home facts to reflect improvements and information useful to buyers, learn about your home's valuation, and get home-selling/buying tips. A real estate social network.
Not only are Web 2.0 tools improving personal productivity, but they are changing the way commerce functions. I like being empowered with information and knowledge -- to NOT be dependent on sales people, advertisements, and businesses who are not forthcoming with ALL the details. I don't like fine print or sales pitches.
The power of information is changing every part of our lives -- a welcome change indeed.
Can this tool be used in the high school library? Maybe. But, more importantly, it is useful, as one of many tools, for students to realize and embrace this information power -- whether in business, personal, education, or any life issue. Learning is not just within the walls of a school building any longer.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment