Softchalk LessonBuilder
Overview
SoftChalk LessonBuider is a content authoring tool to build web-based lessons using its built-in templates. It is a word processor like editor, which is easy to create professional looking, interactive content, html pages that contain pop up text descriptions, quizzes and games.
A 30-day evaluation version of LessonBuilder is available by visiting http://softchalk.com/lb_trial.html.
Uses as an Instructional Technology
- Create interactive web pages easily, using technology as simple as word processing.
- Engage students with lessons include pop-up text annotations to define terminology, or to enhance the interactivity of lesson content; self-assessment quizzes; and interactive learning games, such as hot spot, matching, sorting and ordering activities, cross-words and flashcards.
- Package lessons that can be delivered in a variety of formats. CD-ROM, as a stand alone web site, or integrate with a course management system like Blackboard, Sakai, or Moodle using industry standard SCORM format*.
- Students can print certificates of completion at the end of lessons.
How does it work?
For an overview of the Softchalk LessonBuilder feature set, with screen shots that demonstrate how it works, click here.
Things to consider
- File size limitations. An error occurs when importing a large lesson package over 25 MB to Blackboard. Duke University sets up a policy that 25 MB is the maximum file size allowed to be uploaded to a Blackboard course site. If you need an exemption for your course contact cit@duke.edu
What do I need to use it?
LessonBuilder runs on Microsoft Windows computers (WIN 98, ME, 2000 XP), as well as Macintosh OSX. LessonBuilder is a Java Web Start application. The Sun™ Java JRE version 1.5 or higher is required for the installation of LessonBuilder. The LessonBuilder installer will install or upgrade the Java JRE as part of the LessonBuilder installation process.
