PortaPortal.com

Abstract: PortaPortal is a web based bookmarking utility that lets you store links to your favorite websites online. Now your bookmarks are no longer limited to any one machine. Then, the next time you come across a website that you like, simply copy the URL, come here and add it to your portal. This way no matter where you are when you surf the web, the bookmark will be waiting for you!

Justification: My reasoning for promoting this resource within the Constructivist umbrella ties in to a word I took a liking too during a recent course - Technology & Inquiry-based Learning. The word is scaffolding and it basically refers to the role of teachers building the basic framework from which students then build upon through a variety of tasks and activities. I have been aware of this resource for nearly 2 years and have been building it slowly. There is a learning curve in using it, but I have on occasion found it useful in keeping students focused on the task at hand and not lost in cyperspace. What I find very useful about this site is if someone is interested in a site I have students use and just a resource I find useful as an educator, I may not have the URL handy, but I do remember - PortaPortal. com and the Guest Access name - jpiette. Check it out and let me know what you think!