WORKSHOP RESOURCES
The Internet is a network of computer systems and people, allowing you to access information, resources, and people. It is a publishing space where individuals and groups may publish their text, images, and videos/audio files for access from anywhere on the net.
The VASA Project, whenever possible, will use applications found on your computer (Mac and Windows), opensource applications, and free or trial applications and tools. The purpose for using these applications is to introduce you to what is available for you to use, thus enabling you to continue your learning and work after the workshop has ended, and to save you money by not requiring expensive applications or software.
What follows below are resources to help you be successful in your workshop experience. Note, many of the tools listed here have up-to-date tutorials on their web site, as well as helpdesks. VASA points you to these resources to access the most up-to-date information. VASA uses only applications, environments, and tools that serve both Mac and Windows operating systems.
All of the tools listed below are used to enhance the interaction of participants and provide for a rich learning environment. Each workshop instructor selects the tools that best fit the content and purpose of the workshop.
Conferencing and Communications
• SKYPE •
Skype is a free application that allows you to have 1:1 video conversations, audio conferencing with a group, and (if your account is set up) call phones. Go to http://skype.com to open a "free" account. Tutorials are available onsite. Many of the workshops use Skype Confernece" for real-time workshop meetings and discussion. In Skype Conference there is no video.
• ELLUMINATE •
Elluminate is an online meeting room where media can be viewed, audio discussions are held, and presentations are made. Currently VASA uses Skype for its Gallery Talk Programs, some workshops, and discussion groups. To use Elluminate you will need a microphone and headset or earphones. Elluminate is not an application you download but you are sent to internet address where you access it. Access information is sent to you by VASA. for support on using elluminate please go to: http://www.elluminate.com/Services/Training/?id=70/
• NING •
Ning is an online social networking environment. Here students and instructors may upload images into individual galleries, host a blog, and use a discussion board, as well as post links to video sources like YouTube.
• DIMDIM •
DimDim is a virtual meeting room where desktops can be shared, web pages viewed. Tutorials are available on site. Instructors will priovide you with meeting login information.
• GOTO MEETING •
Goto Meeting is a virtual meeting room. In this space ther can be audio discussions, desktops shared, whiteboard, and other meeting resources. Tutorials are avaibale onsite. To join a meeting select "Join a Meeting" button on the left of the screen. You will be given a meeting ID number by the workshop instructor return to list of resources.
Google Tools
The VASA-Project uses many of the Google tools in its workshops. You will need to set up your own Google account as directed by your workshop instructor.
Setting up a Google account is easy. Just goto http://google.com and create a free account by selecting the "Create an account now" button on the right of the page.
For some workshops and discussion groups VASA will use:
Google Mail
Google Documents
Google Groups for group email
Voice Thread
VoiceThread is a tool which allows the user to post images and short
digital videos to a singleframe.
Users may then leave comments in various formats: text, audio, video. You will need to open a free account when first using VoiceThread,
http://voicethread.com.
Media Editing
• GIMP (IMAGE EDITING) •
Gimp is an opensource image editing application. It is similar to photoshop. Gimp is free and is cross platform (Mac and Windows).
To download a free copy of Gimp for your computer go to:
Gimp for Windows: http://gimp-win.sourceforge.net/
Gimp for Mac: http://www.gimp.org/macintosh/
• AUDACITY (AUDIO EDITING) •
Audacity is a "top of the line" free opensource audio editing application. For downloads and information go to: http://audacity.sourceforge.net/download/mac
