Web Design
The following Web design tools are free, online applications that can be used to create and edit Web pages. They are accessible for users who don’t want to purchase expensive software. The only requirements needed are an email address, a computer, and online access. Also, the Web design tools are useful for those inexperienced with Web design. Following registration, the online sites guide the user with tutorials and helpful examples.
What can I do with it?
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Introduce students to Web design with hands-on practice. The students don’t need any prior Web design training to be able to use these tools.
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One educator used Jimdo to engage her Kinesiology students with practical training. The students created Web sites for hypothetical schools while playing roles as educators. They were able to individualize their sites and input their own creativity.
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Advanced Web designers can use these tools to brainstorm a design idea. The ease of use and quick editing tools allow for rapid website creation.
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Websites can also be used for advertisement, information, blogging, sharing media, communication and more.
Bravenet
Bravenet provides a list of Web tools that allow the creation of guestbooks, blogs, message forums and websites for free. The site provides two different Web design tools. Bravehost features a classic control panel that allows the user to host a website with a personalized domain. Viviti is a newer tool providing drag and drop Web building options. Following registration, the user can set up their own domain and choose from a list of templates to get started sharing content with the public.
Where is it? http://www.bravenet.com
Jimdo
Pronounced Jim-dew, the site allows the user to begin sharing information instantly and easily. Following registration, Jimdo provides a user with their own site where they can create and edit content. A short video tutorial located on the home page explains the entire process. Pictures, videos, blogs, statistics, and more can be incorporated into a personalized website.
Where is it? http://www.jimdo.com
Webs
After selecting a “Business,” “Organization,” or “Personal” website type, users are guided through the process of creating their own content. Webs provides over three hundred template options that allow users to adapt an interesting layout and apply their own creativity. The site promotes the use of websites for communication in any level of the community.
Where is it? http://www.webs.com
Wetpaint
Wetpaint enables users to insert their own Web page title and URL to immediately begin sharing content online. The site also provides features of wikis, blogs, forums, and social networks that can be used to enhance a Web page. A toolbar makes editing easier with the option to click on any open page and begin typing. Many other sites are included within the Wetpaint network. A user can easily communicate on any Web page and contribute to the growing community.
Where is it? http://www.wetpaint.com
Wikidot
Wikidot is a tool that makes Web design easy with the traditional features of wikis, blogs, and forums. Templates and forms from these other online sources can be used in the creation of personalized websites. Wikidot advertises its use for business, education, personal blogs and more.
Where is it? http://www.wikidot.com/
