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Feed2JS: Feed To Javascript

 

Ratings

Overall Rating:

4.5 stars
Content Quality: 4.25 stars
Effectiveness: 4.25 stars
Ease of Use: 4.75 stars
Reviewed: Jun 30, 2009 by Faculty Development
Overview: Feed 2JS allows instructors to easily add RSS feeds to websites, online courses, etc. by converting the RSS code into javascript that can then be copied and pasted on a web page. This becomes creates a useful tool for instructors who want to provide continuously updated material to students. It can be used to direct student attention to specific sites/sources.
Learning Goals: 1. Explain what RSS is 2. Explain how to find RSS feeds 3. Teach instructors how to build their own feed 4. Introduce basic style changes
Target Student Population: Grade School , Middle School , High School , College General Ed , Graduate School , Professional
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills: Basic understanding of web page development
Type of Material: Downloadable program and information on javascripts and RSS feeds
Recommended Uses: The javascript can be inserted in any html page. Suggested uses include building RSS feeds for classes run on Blackboard, WebCT, and Desire2Learn. It may also work on ANGEL, SAKAI, and Moodle since they also have html page capability.
Technical Requirements: None

Evaluation and Observation

Content Quality

Rating: 4.25 stars
Strengths: The information is well indexed and easy to understand for the novice but the pages are also designed so the experienced user can find the script easily. There is a lot of information about RSS feeds and javascripts available under the various tabs.
Concerns: There seems to be a wealth of information and it might be intimidating to new users. Many schools have locked down their computer systems so students and teachers may not be able to download the javascript.

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating: 4.25 stars
Strengths: The information well written, which makes it easy to follow. The Build tab is easy to follow and the process builds an easy to copy and paste script to insert.
Concerns: No noticeable problems. A contact page would be useful or a forum for users to share tips and tricks.

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating: 4.75 stars
Strengths: The site was very easy to use and well written. The boxes housing the html and javascript were clear and easy to understand. All the instructions, examples, and support provided were well done.
Concerns: None.
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