Type+With+Me

=Tech Tip #1 - Tim Stauffer= = = =[|www.typewith.me]=

Typewith.me is a collaborative writing tool which allows multiple users to produce a written document together in real time.

Here is an explanatory YouTube video:

media type="youtube" key="lOybsa4CXII" height="345" width="560"

__How Typewith.me works:__
One person logs onto the website and then sends out invitations to their friends through Instant Messaging or Email and then those people can join and start typing. Each contributor has their typing appear in a distinct color so it is known who is adding what. Also on the screen to the side is a chat window so group members can interact.

__Pros:__

 * It is not Google docs. (In case one has concerns about Google monopolizing the Internet and gaining excessive power).
 * It's free
 * The Time Slider feature allows the teacher to see who made what inputs.
 * Chat tool enables communication among students
 * Info is stored on web
 * Can export your work to other programs to edit and improve

__Cons:__

 * Only basic options
 * Only for making a written document. No Spreadsheets or anything like that.

__Uses in Classroom:__

 * 1) Good for group writing assignments
 * 2) Could be used for students to conduct interviews by inviting the interviewee to the page
 * 3) If students have their own computers in the room the whole class (up to sixteen?) could help write

//Google docs://
Google docs has the advantage of a much higher product id which may make it easier to get people interested in using it with you. It also has more sophisticated options for making a written document and it also offers the opportunity to collaborate on other projects such as spreadsheets and PowerPoint type slides. Typewith.me only offers the template for a written document.

Those who prefer simplicity over a plethora of options may want to stick with Typewith.me.

//Wikispaces://
Wikispaces also has the advantage of being a more comprehensive system but it seems not to offer the advantage of multiple users being able to see what each other are typing in real time. This deficiency could lead to confusion as students collaborate on a project. Also users must join Wikispaces in order to access the program which may deter some potential users. Typewith.me offers a less intrusive option with a more straightforward platform.


 * Overall the appeal of Typewith.me seems to be its simplicity.**