Posted by Site Administrator in Personal Learning
Jan 31st, 2010
By Pamelia Brown
If you don’t have time to head out to a museum, travel halfway around the world, or even take a course but still want to learn more about ancient history–not to worry. These great sites offer opportunities to college students at all levels to study and better understand these ancient cultures through videos, photos and much more.
General
These sites cover a range of ancient cultures.
- Ancient History Sourcebook: This site is absolutely full of useful resources on ancient cultures like Persia, Rome and Ancient Egypt.
- Exploring Ancient World Cultures: Get an introduction to ancient cultures from around the world using the summaries, photos and information found on this site.
- BBC Ancient History In-Depth: Check out this site for information on India, the Vikings, Romans, Greeks, Egyptians and much more.
- Ancient History: Use this site to look for even more resources to help you research or learn more about the world’s ancient civilizations.
- About.com: Ancient History: This site posts all kinds of information about different ancient historical events and figures from Attila the Hun to the Punic Wars.
- Best History Websites: Ancient/Biblical History: Through this site you’ll find links to ancient history sites on all kinds of subjects. Sites are rated, so you’ll know if what you’re getting is good or just so-so.
Greece
Use these sites to explore this classical civilization.
- Perseus Digital Library: Tufts University Library maintains this online collection of hundreds of works of Greek playwrights and philosophers.
- The Ancient City of Athens: This site contains a large number of photographs that document the archeological remains of the ancient city of Athens.
- The British Museum: Ancient Greece: The British Museum has an amazing collection of Greek artifacts, a good number of which you can see on this site. Visitors will also get a chance to learn about Greek culture like markets, festivals, daily life and more.
- The Greeks: Crucible of Civilization: The website for this PBS special offers a great timeline of Greek civilization as well as numerous informative links and stories.
- The Ancient Greek World: Visit this site to see an online version of the Greek art collected at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.
Rome
As a society that influenced much, and conquered most of Europe and parts of Africa and Asia, you undoubtedly know a little about Roman civilization, but these sites can help you learn even more.
- Online Encyclopedia of Roman Emperors: Through this site you can look up just about any Roman ruler and their family to learn about them as individuals and their place in history.
- Roman Law: Roman Law played a role in determining the legal systems we have today, and you can see a great record of it on this site.
- LacusCurtius: Into the Roman World: Here you’ll find a collection of Greek and Latin texts, helpful free books, and some beautiful photos of Roman ruins and artifacts.
- Illustrated History of the Roman Empire: This site is an absolute must for learning about the history of the Roman empire, as it offers not only good reading, but images that go alongside to help make explanations clearer.
- The Classics Page: On this page you’ll find news, information and even games all focused on the lives and culture of ancient Greeks and Romans.
- Forum Romanium: This site is home to a library of Roman literature, outlines of Roman history, and detailed information about the daily lives and medical knowledge of the Romans.
- From Jesus to Christ: The First Christians: Learn more about how the Roman empire fell and Christian civilization took over on this site.
Asia
Visit these sites to learn more about ancient Asian cultures like those of China and Japan.
- Ancient China: Through this site you can learn about ancient Chinese history, culture and philosophy.
- East Asian History Sourcebook: From religious traditions to Imperial rulers, this site offers a great selection of links to help you learn about China, Japan and Korea.
- Mysterious Mummies of China: This site is all about the Takla Makan mummies: where they came from, who they were, and the uses of mummification around the world.
- Timeline of Chinese Dynasties: Chinese culture has existed for several millennia and is divided into numerous dynasties that you can find ordered and explained on this site.
- Asian Studies Virtual Library: Learn more about the ancient and modern history of East and South Asian nations through the resources on this site.
- Ancient Japan: Read through this site to get a great overview of Japanese history.
India
Take a look back in time with these great ancient Indian history sites.
- BuddhaNet: Use this site to learn more about the origins and spread of Buddhism and the Buddha himself.
- The British Museum: Ancient India: This site offers lessons on the Buddha, geography, civilizations of the Indus Valley, writing and more.
- ILoveIndia.com Ancient India: Read through this site and click on the links to learn more about the religious history and the biggest empires in ancient India.
- South Asian History: Ancient India: Visit this site for links to information on all aspects of ancient Indian culture.
- The Hindu Universe: This site will help you to learn more about the history and origins of Hinduism.
Near East
These sites will let you learn more about the cradle of civilization–ancient Mesopotamia–and the people who called it home.
- ABZU: Here you will find a map of where to find open access data on the web all about ancient Near East and Mediterranean cultures.
- Cuneiform Digital Library: This site will help you learn more about one of the earliest written languages in the world–Cuneiform.
- Hittite Home Page: The links, information and photos on this page will help you learn more about the Near Eastern society of the Hittites.
- Ancient Near East and the Mediterranean World: The University of Chicago Library offers this interactive and informative collection of historical data on the Near East.
- Oriental Institute Virtual Museum: Explore the amazing collections of this museum on their fully-featured website.
- Art of the First Cities: You don’t have to visit the Met to appreciate their exhibits, as this online collection will let you see some of the most famous works from Mesopotamia.
Egypt
Take a look at these sites to find out more about the lives of the pharaohs and the people they ruled throughout the centuries.
- Duke Papyrus Archive: Look through ancient texts and drawings in this amazing digital collection housed at Duke University.
- Theban Mapping Project: This site is an excellent place to visit if you’re looking to learn about the Valley of the Kings and Egyptian burial practices.
- Egyptology Resources: Use this site to find even more resources and information about ancient Egyptian culture.
- Mark Millmore’s Ancient Egypt: From hieroglyphs to lists of kings and queens, this site offers a wealth of information on this ancient culture.
- Egypt’s Golden Empire: On the website of this PBS special, you’ll be able to learn about the height of Egyptian civilization during the New Kingdom.
Africa
These sites will help you learn more about some of the great civilizations who have called Africa home.
- Wonders of the African World: From the kingdoms of the Nile to the ancient city of Timbuktu, this site will help you explore ancient African cultures around the continent.
- Africa: South of the Sahara: Use this site to find all the information you could want on ancient African cultures.
- Pre-Colonial Africa: This About.com site will point you in the direction of some of the biggest ancient civilizations in Africa.
- Kingdoms of Medieval Sudan: Explore the history of this area of Western Africa from the earliest cultures to the later introduction of Islam on this site.
- NubiaNet: This site can help you learn about ancient cultures like the Kush, Kerma and the Mangbetu.
Americas
Through these resources, you can learn more about the ancient cultures of North and South America.
- The Sport of Life and Death: The Mesoamerican Ballgame: This site will help you learn about this game of life and death played by ancient Mayans.
- Ancient America: World of the American Indian: Use this site as a helpful starting point in learning about some of the biggest Native groups living in North America.
- Ancient America: This site offers information on the Inca, the Maya, the Aztecs and more.
- Civilizations in America: Here you’ll find information to study the culture of a variety of ancient American cultures.
- Cahokia Mounds: Visit this site to learn about one of the largest ancient cities ever built in North America.
Posted by Site Administrator in Personal Learning
Jan 20th, 2010
By Pamelia Brown
Ironically, one of the best places to learn about the past is with the technologies of the future, as web lectures abound from renowned lecturers and college campuses around the world. Here you’ll find 100 of these lectures that will help you indulge your history enthusiasm by learning about everything from the fall of the Berlin wall to ancient Egyptian history and just about anything in between.
World History
Explore the history of civilizations around the world through these lectures.
- Modern Civilization from 1750 – Present: In this series of lectures, you’ll hear from Professor Lynn Hunt on the rise of Western civilization.
- Atlantic Pirates in the Golden Age: Learn a little more about classic and infamous pirates like Blackbeard as well as a great deal about pirate culture and history in this lecture.
- Latin America: Two Hundred Years of Solitude: Ernesto Zedillo gives this lecture on the isolation of Latin America until recent years.
- Invisible History: Afghanistan’s Untold Story: This lecture will show you the true history of the country and explore the ways in which current foreign policy can handle its issues.
- Over the Edge: Magellan’s Terrifying Travels: Learn about one of the most epic and dangerous sea journeys ever undertaken in this lecture.
- Re-Membering Africa: This lecture will attempt to tell about African history from the African perspective, untainted by colonialist interests.
- Marco Polo: Silk Road to China: Through this lecture you’ll learn about the journey Marco Polo took to China using the silk trade routes.
- The Cold War and American Dominance in the Middle East: Learn what effect the Cold War had on the Middle East and the impact it is still having today through this lecture.
- Vladimir Putin and the Oligarchs: Professor Marshall Goldman explores some of the major changes that have happened in Russian leadership in the past few decades.
- Oracle Bones: A Journey Between China’s Past and Present: Check out this lecture for an examination of China that addresses history, archaeology, language, and contemporary culture.
- Americas Before Columbus: This lecture offers an opportunity to learn about the large-scale cities and advanced civilization that occupied the Americas before the European’s arrival.
- Japan’s Colonization of Korea: Many may be unfamiliar with this chapter in Asian history, but this lecture will help make it crystal clear.
- A Voyage, Long and Strange: In this lecture you’ll get an explanation about what happened in the Americas in the years between Columbus’ arrival and the landing of the Mayflower.
European History
Take a look and listen to these lectures to learn about the history of European nations.
- Nine Jews Who Fled Hitler and Changed the World: From novelists to nuclear scientists, this lecture chronicles nine Hungarian Jews who were lucky enough to escape the Nazis during WWII.
- European Civilization, 1648-1945: Listen to this series of lectures from Yale to get a great overview of European civilization until the end of WWII.
- France Since 1871: This series of lectures touches on social, economic and political changes that have occurred in France over the past century.
- The Fall of the Wall: 20 Years Later: Here you’ll find a recorded discussion on the impact of the fall of the wall and the changes that have happened since.
- Lives and Landscapes of the French Monarchy: Listen to this lecture to learn about Kings Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI and their growing interest in art and landscape design.
- Milestone of the Revolution: Katie Carroll and the IRA: Learn more about Katie Carroll, a woman murdered by the IRA, and the era of violence the incident ushered in.
- Fall of the Berlin Wall: This series of lectures will take you through this tumultuous period in history.
- Verneys: Love, War and Madness in 17th Century England: In this lecture you can learn more about this amazing family through their records and correspondence.
- After the Victorians: The Decline of Britain in the World: Historian A.N. Wilson explores British history from the death of Queen Victoria to the present day in this thoughtful lecture.
- Troublesome Young Men: The Rebels Who Helped Save England: Learn why the young men who battled to bring Churchill to power may have made all the difference in British history in this lecture.
- George III: A Life in Caricature: In this lecture you’ll learn more about one of England’s best known but least understood rulers.
- History of Paris: Learn how Paris went from being a crowded medieval city to one with sprawling boulevards and numerous cultural landmarks in this video series.
American History
These lectures will help you learn more about the history of the United States from the Revolutionary War to the tumultuous 60s.
- Nat Turner: A Troublesome Property: In this lecture you can learn more about the man and the slave rebellion of 1831.
- Abraham Lincoln’s Invention of Presidential War Powers: Check out this lecture to hear more about the creation of this important element of American politics.
- Race, Religion, and American Politics from Nat Turner to George W. Bush: This three-part series will take you through the early slave uprisings to modern day racial conflicts.
- The Civil War and Reconstruction Era, 1845-1877: In this series of lectures, you’ll hear about the history of the Civil War and the difficult years that followed.
- African American History: The Modern Freedom Struggle: Give this series of lectures a try to learn more about African American history and leaders.
- Boston’s Spectacle Island and It’s Native American Past: This lecture will teach you more about the Native American history of Spectacle Island, once inhabited by the Algonquin.
- French Ally in America’s War of Independence: Learn how French Colonel Armand Tuffin helped George Washington win some of the battles of the Revolutionary War.
- Slavery and the Making of America: This series will help you learn more about the history of slavery in the United States.
- Ken Burns on Thomas Jefferson: This link collects a series of lectures that will help you learn more about this amazing founding father.
- The Causes of the Great Depression: You can learn more about the reasons for the economic downturn of the 1930s in this informative lecture.
- 1963 March on Washington: Listen to this original broadcast on these historical marches through this link.
- Loyalists and the American War for Independence: In an interesting change of perspective, this lecture examines the War of Independence from the Loyalist point of view.
Art History
See and hear about some of the artwork that has reflected distinctive periods in history through these lectures.
- Shifting Meaning: African Art in the World: Learn about the ways in which African art has been interpreted at home and in the global community in this lecture.
- Thomas Gainsbourogh: The Substance of Style: In 18th century England, Gainsbourogh’s portraits were the height of fashion. You can learn more about his techniques and the history of the period in this lecture.
- Marie Antoinette: Patron of the Arts: In this lecture you’ll hear about Marie Antoinette’s love of the arts, especially fine porcelain.
- Art, Gender and Politics in Egypt: Queen Hapshetsut: Through this lecture you’ll learn more about the woman who was the first to take on the title of pharaoh and the art created around her.
- Raphael and the Art of Portraiture: Learn more about some of the Renaissance’s most important works in this lecture.
- Role of the Academy in American Art: The academy played a big role in the European art world but this lecture addresses the impact of such a structure on arts created in the Americas.
- In Search of Culture: The Birth of the Museum of Fine Arts: Check out this lecture for information on the origins and need for the Museum of Fine Art in Boston.
- Castiglione: The Art of Being a Renaissance Man: In this lecture you can get some pointers on what it takes to be a true Renaissance man and how Castiglione embodied and encouraged these characteristics.
- Time for Tea: Women as Patrons of the Decorative Arts 1690-1850: Here you can learn how the introduction of tea to the Western world sparked an interest in the decorative arts, primarily supported by women.
- Hudson River School of American Landscape Painting: This lecture will teach you about the history and techniques involved with this school of landscape painting.
- Sensational Scandals on the Eve of the French Revolution: In this lecture you’ll hear about how theater, opera, and painting exhibitions played up the scandals of the months leading up to revolution.
U.S. Presidents
These lectures will let you take a closer look at individual American presidents.
- Revisiting President John F. Kennedy and the 1960s: Take a look back at the 1960s to learn more about the culture and politics of the time and the president who defined the era.
- Revolutionary Characters: What Made the Founding Fathers Different: Learn what characteristics allowed the founding fathers to rebel and start a new nation with new rules.
- Rewriting the Founding: Theodore Roosevelt as Historian: Take a different look at Teddy Roosevelt in this compelling lecture.
- New Perspectives on Lincoln and His World: Here you’ll be able to learn more about this iconic president and his times.
- Presidency of Gerald Ford: Don’t know a thing about the presidency of Ford? Not to worry, this lecture will fill you in on the details.
- Jimmy Carter: Prophet from the Plains: While not a popular president in his time, Carter has gone on to make great strides in international relations. This lecture will help you learn more about his presidency and his persona.
- Nixon and Kissinger: Partners in Power: In this lecture you’ll hear about the battle between these two leaders to outdo each other and the friendship the two shared as well.
- Presidents at War: Take a look at this lecture to hear about the lasting legacies of wartime presidents.
- Presidency of LBJ: Hear from LBJ’s Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer in this lecture.
- The Clinton Tapes: Wrestling History with the President: In this lecture you’ll get a unique look into the White House, with excerpts from interviews done while Clinton was in office.
Ancient and Medieval History
Head back to the beginnings of civilization with these lectures.
- The City of Sardis: Approaches in Graphic Recording: In this lecture you’ll learn how new technologies are making it easier to take a new look at this ancient Roman city.
- Introduction to Ancient Greek History: Explore this series of lectures to learn more about this influential classical society.
- Roman Architecture: After listening to these lectures you’ll be able to pick out Roman-influenced architectural elements in your own city and understand the principles behind the construction of the monuments the Romans made.
- Eighth Wonder: The Library of Alexandria: This lecture explores the mythical Library and the wonders it was said to hold.
- Building Pharaoh’s Ship: This video series will let you see how the Ancient Egyptians went about building vessels for their Pharaohs.
- Alexander the Great: In this lecture you’ll see how this somewhat unusual man rose to power.
- The Dark Ages: Learn more about this period of European history when art and culture were said to stagnate.
- Ancient Olympics: Gods and Athletes: You’ll gain a new appreciation for the Olympics of today by learning about its historical origins in this lecture.
- What Mummies Tell Us: Take a look inside a mummy to learn about Egyptian burial practices, royalty and culture during that time.
- The Bible’s Buried Secrets: This NOVA special will explore some of the debated historical issues in the Bible.
- Medieval Judaism and Christianity: Daniel J. Lasker explains the nature of these two world religions during this somewhat uncouth period in history.
Conflict History
Explore the history of world conflicts through these lectures.
- Women and War in the Twentieth Century: This collection of lectures from Harvard explores the roles women have played during wartime.
- Conversation with WWII PT Boat Veterans: In this discussion you’ll hear from veterans who served on PT boats in the Solomon Islands at the same time as JFK.
- Tuskegee Airmen of WWII: Learn what a big role the work of these brave airmen played in ending racial segregation in the military.
- Someone Must Survive to Tell the World: Tosia Schneider explains the horrors she endured during the Nazi occupation of Poland and the promise she made to her mother.
- Baptized in Blood: Moral Reflections on the American Civil War: This lecture takes a look back at some of the complex moral issues that surrounded the Civil War.
- Ken Burns on the Civil War: This collection of lectures will help give you a well-rounded and informative picture of the history of the Civil War.
- Baker Street Spies in Wartime Washington: Take a look into the seedy and often deceitful world of the British spies working in Washington before, during and after WWII.
- D-Day to Berlin: Using never before seen home footage, this lecture will take you through the war from the vantage point of a soldier who was there.
- Vietnam War and the Presidency: Big names like Henry Kissinger and Alexander Haig participate in this discussion of the Vietnam War.
- Birth of the Modern Arms Race: This book recalls the history of the Cold War from the Oppenheimer trial to the era of McCarthyism.
Cultural History
In these lectures you will be able to learn more about cultural movements and more.
- Nonviolence: From Gandhi to Martin Luther King: This series of lectures will give you a thorough understanding of non-violence resistance movements.
- New Testament History and Literature: Check out this lecture to learn more about the history behind the New Testament.
- Cultural History of the Great Depression: With discussions of entertainment and contemporary culture, this lecture will show you what life was like during the Great Depression.
- Jews and Sufis: A Sacred Bridge: Here you can learn more about the relationship between these two Middle Eastern religious traditions.
- Native Americans: Living in Two Worlds: Learn more about the difficulties in reconciling two ways of viewing the world that many Native American groups have.
- Homosexuality and Civilization: This lecture will explore the acceptance or non-acceptance of homosexuality throughout history.
- Buttoned Up and Down: European Fashion in 1905: If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about Victorian fashion, this lecture is a great free way to do so.
- Piecing Together Our History: In this lecture you can learn more about Asian-Pacific culture in the United States.
- Alan Turing’s Contribution to World History: Give this lecture a try to gain more knowledge about the scientific contributions of this often misunderstood man.
- History 2D: Science, Magic and Religion: Here you can learn more about the role of these cultural factors in pushing history forward.
Miscellaneous
These lectures touch on a wide range of historical subject matter.
- Brown v. Board: Looking Back, Looking Forward: Take a look at the impact of this historical court case in this series of lectures from Harvard.
- History of Information: This lecture from Berkeley will help you explore the history of the recording, transmittal and storage of information.
- History of Psychology: From Freud to the modern day, this lecture will show you the history of studying how the mind works.
- History and Future of Nuclear Weapons: Nuclear weapons have played a big role in modern history and you can learn more about this and where the technology is headed in the coming years from this lecture.
- History of Jazz: Get a cultural education with this great lecture series on the history of Jazz.
- A Romp Through the History of Philosophy: From ancient Rome to Existentialism, this lecture will help you learn the big names in philosophy.
- Crack in the Edge of the World: The 1906 CA Earthquake: Through this lecture you can revisit this deadly natural disaster.
- Maps and History: Constructing Images of the Past: Learn from this lecture how maps can help you explore not only locations but cultural ideas and ways of seeing the world.
- First Theorists of History: This lecture will explain the work and ideas of some of the world’s first historians.
- Well-Behaved Women Rarely Make History: Check out this lecture for a funny look at some of the women who made names for themselves by defying cultural and social expectations.
- Chinese in America: A Narrative History: This lecture will help you understand the contributions of the Chinese to American history, and the ongoing lives of those who grew up here.
Posted by Site Administrator in Personal Learning
Jan 19th, 2010
The Internet is filled with plenty of awesome places for children and teens who are interested in books, and even a few places for those who need a little help in the motivation department. Whether you are studying to become a teacher, already work with children, are a parent, or a teen yourself, you will find the following sites are full of ways to embrace books and a love of reading, no matter what age the reader. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to enhance a child’s education while encouraging a love of reading with these fantastic book sites.
Reading Motivation for Children and Teens
If you know a child or teenager who needs a little encouragement or is struggling to learn to read, then check out these great sites.
- Book Adventure. Perfect for kids in grades K-8, this site lets readers create a list of books from 7,000 listed, then take quizzes and earn points for their progress.
- Bookwink. Bookwink posts three-minute videos each month about specific books in an attempt to spark interest in students in grades 3-8 to read. You can search their book list by subject, grade level, author, or title.
- Click. Designed specifically for Click Magazine subscribers, in addition to plenty of activities to promote reading and curiosity, this site also contains several lists of recommended books by age level that are worth checking out.
- Leading to Reading. Sponsored by RIF, this site is geared to preschoolers and the grown-ups who care for them.
- Read.gov. The Library of Congress hosts this site that has something for both younger and older readers, no matter what their interests. They even have a fun story project with contributions from a variety of popular authors.
- ReadKiddoRead.com. James Patterson started this site to encourage the love of reading in children. Find book recommendations, reading guides, fun quizzes, and more.
- Reading Rockets. This site is from the US Department of Education and is designed to help emergent and struggling readers.
Picture Books and Younger Reader Sites
These sites are designed specifically for younger readers.
- Fun with Spot. Parents, teachers, and young children who love Eric Hill’s Spot books will enjoy the activities at this site.
- Little Critter. This site is based on Mercer Mayer’s Little Critter books and includes plenty to keep younger readers busy.
- Maisy’s Fun Club. Read, play games, and color with the cast of characters from the popular Maisy books.
- Peter Rabbit. Children can enjoy the games, learn about the characters, and find activities while parents and teachers will find information about Peter Rabbit and his creator, Beatrix Potter.
- Book Pop. Children can follow along as stories are read by Stephen Cosgrove. Readers can control page turning, reading, and more to enhance their experience.
- Bedtime-Story. These classic stories include options to hear about the story or to have the story read aloud.
- Children’s Books Online. Scroll down and click on the "To the library" under the Rosetta cart to find a listing of antique books. Some can be read only and some come with audio.
- Clifford Interactive Storybooks. If you love this big red dog, then check out the storybooks here.
Elementary Reader Sites
As your readers become a little more confident in their abilities, they will appreciate these sites that celebrate great books and authors.
- Speakaboos. This awesome site brings fables, popular books, fairy tales, and more to life with celebrity readings, spot-on graphics, and upbeat music. Readers can follow along as they hear each story read.
- Official Berenstain Bears’ Website. Readers of the Berenstain Bears books will have plenty of fun on this site that includes plenty of activities to keep young readers busy.
- Kids@Random. Learn about new releases from Random House or click on one of the many mini-sites devoted to books and series such as Dr. Seuss, Junie B. Jones, Little Golden Books, and Magic Tree House.
- Curious George. This site offers downloadable goodies to have a "Curiosity Day" plus a ton of other fun activities to do online.
- Seussville. Who doesn’t love Dr. Seuss? Check out this fun site that celebrates Dr. Seuss’ books.
- Storyline Online. Members of the Screen Actors Guild introduce and read popular books while readers can follow along on the pages of the book.
- MrsP.com. Classic children’s literature is read aloud by actress Kathy Kinney, who is supported by an interactive Web site.
- Simon & Schuster Children’s Books. Find information about favorites such as Olivia and The Spiderwick Chronicles at this site.
Teen Reader Sites
These sites range from places to find book groups and reviews to sites aimed at specific teens such as those who like to write or teenaged guys.
- Guys Read. This amazing site is all about promoting literacy to boys and young men. Find a whole host of books that will appeal to boys, find positive male role models, and much more.
- Teens@Random. Like its counterpart for younger readers, this site offers glimpses at new releases as well as information about authors and books and even newsletters they can get.
- Borders Ink. If you have a Facebook account, then check out this site from Borders Books that is all about teen literature and graphic novels.
- readergirlz. Aimed specifically at older, female readers, girls will find book recommendations, thought-provoking questions about stories, book discussions, and more.
- Simon & Schuster Teens. Find out about new releases, read about your favorite authors, and even read excerpts on this site.
- Book Divas. This site is an online book club for young adult and college readers. Scroll down through the forum listing to find other fun stuff like contests and quizzes.
- Young Adult Fiction. Participate in online discussions about young adult fiction here.
- Teen Ink. Teens interested in writing and reading can submit works, read articles, enter contests, and more.
- Teenreads.com. Find out about series books, new releases, enter contests, read the blog, and more on this site.
Popular Book Series
These sites are devoted to specific book series. Discover a favorite in this list.
- Animorphs. Read about the books and the characters in them, play games, and more at this site.
- The Baby-sitter’s Club. Find out how this series got started, get real babysitting tips, and read about each of the books here.
- Little House Big Adventure. Fans of the Little House on the Prairie series will love this site that has tons of information and activities.
- Harry Potter. Write seven-word reviews, vote in polls, and get other bonuses like watching JK Rowling read and getting a peek at a new HP poster.
- The Online Adventures of Captain Underpants. There is plenty for both kids and adults alike on this site devoted to one of the favorite characters in school.
- The Rodent’s Gazette. Kids who enjoy reading about the adventures of Geronimo Stilton will love checking out this site.
- Bone. Participate in the message board discussing this graphic novel or browse around to read about the author, play games, and more.
- Trollz Reading Circle. Build your own Trollz Web page, talk about the books, and find plenty of other extras here.
- Junie B. Jones. Test your Junie B. knowledge with a quiz, download coloring pages and activity sheets, and much more.
- Lemony Snicket. Ignore the warning not to enter…unless you really don’t like this series.
- The Magic School Bus. Kids who like these books will find science kits, monthly experiments, and more fun with Ms. Frizzle and her class.
- Roald Dahl. Learn about Dahl’s books, get activities, and learn about the author himself at this site.
- Hans Christian Andersen. Learn about this famous Danish author and read his fairy tales and stories.
Online Social Book Sites
These sites offer a great place to organize and discuss books you’ve read or would like to read. Most of these sites have a minimum age of 13 and some require parental consent if you are under 18.
- Goodreads. Join a virtual book club, organize your books by shelves, and more when you join this network.
- Shelfari. Create a virtual bookshelf of the books you’ve read or want to read and connect with other readers over books.
- aNobii. Organize your books, make online book purchases, and even blog about your book with aNobii.
- Library Thing. Read reviews, catalog your books, and more when you sign up here.
- BookRabbit. You can upload photos of your real bookshelves, join in discussions with other members, and use with Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.
- ConnectViaBooks. This global community allows you to connect with members around the world and talk about books.
- weRead. This site features author-members, offers fun quizzes, and you can use it with your Facebook account.
- Noting:books. With a little twist on the book networking idea, this site lets you keep notes about the books you are reading, including the day your started and any thoughts you have as you read.
- ReadWhale. Tweet your thoughts about books when you join this site. You can also connect with other members, organize your books, and more.
- BookJetty. BookJetty lets you track books and find out if books are available in local libraries, in addition to the usual social networking.
Online Libraries
These sites provide an opportunity for kids to read online, free of charge.
- International Children’s Digital Library. Children around the world can access this awesome library. Register for free to have access to cool features such as bookmarking your page in a particular book and creating your own bookshelf.
- Project Gutenberg. This site offers over 30,000 free downloadable ebooks, many of which are also available as audiobooks.
- Read Print. Get over 8,000 free books online with authors such as Jane Austen, Mark Twain, and Beatrix Potter.
- Classic Reader. Browse through categories such as "Young Readers" or "Non-Fiction" or search by author or title to find a free online book here.
- Page by Page Books. Scroll through this alphabetical listing to find books like Anne of Green Gables and Cinderella.
- StoryPlace. This digital library has books organized by preschool and elementary, and is also available in Spanish.
Book Reviews
Find book reviews specifically for children’s and young adult’s literature in this listing.
- Inkless Tales Reviews You Can Use. Find book reviews categorized by reading level, picture books, poetry, and gift books.
- Building Rainbows. This site allows students to write and post book reviews. Take some time to see what others have written, too.
- Just One More Book. This is the site of the popular podcast by the same name. Currently, posts are slow as Andrea and Mark are focusing on getting Andrea through cancer treatment, but the books here are well worth making a visit to the site while they are on hiatus.
- Kidsreads.com. Read about series books, new releases, and more or sign up for newsletters, participate in polls, test your knowledge, and more.
- The Children’s Book Review. Get book reviews for early readers through teen readers here.
- Children’s Book Reviews. Education Oasis provides tons of book reviews on fiction, non-fiction, and even picture books.
Audio Books
Encourage listening skills or provide support to children with learning disabilities with these free audio books.
- The Story Home. Get original and classic children’s stories here where new stories are offered every two weeks.
- Storynory. Download free classic children’s literature, fairy tales, and original stories at this site.
- Light Up Your Brain Free Audio Stories for Kids. Not only can you hear these stories, but you can also follow along with the text provided for these stories that include classics mixed with original stories.
- Wired for Books Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Listen to this dramatic reading of this classic as performed by the Wired for Books players.
- LibriVox. Find plenty of free audio books including some of the classics such as Tom Sawyer and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
- Free Classic Audio Books. Treasure Island and Huckleberry Finn are just two of the classics you can listen to from this site.
Blogs about Children’s Literature
These blogs all focus on children’s literature and offer reviews, suggestions, and information on literacy.
- Kid’s Lit. The Menasha Public Library tells about new books, most of which are for younger readers.
- 5 Great Books. Each post provides five great books for beginning readers based on a theme.
- Booklights. Find information on picture books as well as other literacy-based information on this site by PBS Parents.
- Mo Willems Doodles. Mo Willems fans can stay on top of his work and even take a sneak peak at some of his newest projects.
- jama rattigan’s alphabet soup. What better combination than food and books–all for the younger set on this blog.
- Picture Book of the Day. Find out about great picture books and also get lessons on how to teach writing based on these books.
- Mermaids on Parade. The illustrations take center stage here.
- Painting Bunnies. If you want to learn more about writing and illustrating children’s books, learn from this professional.
- Three Silly Chicks. Discover silly and fun books just right for kids with the recommendations here.
- Saints and Spinners. Storytelling is the basis of this children’s book blog.
- The PlanetEsme Plan: The Best New Children’s Books from Esme’s Shelf. Find out which picture books and books for reading aloud Esme will choose when you read this blog.
- MotherReader. They say Mom always knows best. Find out what this mom recommends when it comes to children’s books.
Blogs about Young Adult Literature
From fantasy to adventure to poetry, these blogs are all about literature for teens and tweens.
- Finding Wonderland. See what these bloggers have to say about young adult literature here.
- The Longstockings. A collaborative blog, this one provides discussions on children’s and teen literature from several perspectives.
- The Story Siren. With a clear star rating system for separate elements of each book, this blog makes it easy to know what books you might like to read.
- Deaf Characters in Adolescent Literature. If you are interested in discovering deaf characters in young adult literature, then this is the right blog for you.
- Bookworm 4 Life. Written by a librarian, this blog features teen literature.
- Guys Lit Wire. This is a great blog for teenaged boys to find book recommendations and reviews.
- Tempting Persephone…. Find fantasy and alternate reality young adult literature here.
- GreenBeanTeenQueen. This librarian blogger offers reviews on teen and tween literature.
- Wands and Worlds. Learn about books focusing on fantasy and science fiction for young adults.
- In Search of Giants. Get reviews on tween, teen, and young adult literature here.
- bookshelves of doom. Young adult literature with a mix of fantasy is featured on this blog.
- The Book Cellar. See what this 16 year-old blogger has to say about the books she’s reading.
- Pop Culture Junkie. Read reviews on young adult literature at the Pop Culture Junkie’s blog.
- Bildungsroman. If you are looking for poetry as well as young adult literature, then check out this blog.
- Oz and Ends. Find out about fantasy literature and comics for teens and young adults.
Posted by Site Administrator in Personal Learning
Jul 19th, 2009
By Hannah Watson
Business students, whether they attend traditional or online universities, will take challenging classes in finance, management, leadership, and more. But there is so only so much you can learn inside the classroom. Twitter is a great way to broaden your business knowledge and connect with smart and experienced people in all different fields.
If you are one of these students and you’re serious about starting your own business one day, you’ll need first-hand advice from successful entrepreneurs. Twitter is a great resource for making contact and learning from CEOs, branding professionals and small business owners, so check out our list of 100 entrepreneurs you should follow and learn from on Twitter.
CEOs
These CEOs have made their dreams come true by starting companies like eBay, Digg, and more.
- @kevinrose: Kevin Rose is the founder of Digg who loves to share all kinds of life hacks, business tips and neat photos.
- @zappos: Zappos.com CEO Tony Hsieh also co-founded the site LinkExchange before selling it to Microsoft for $265 million.
- @ev: Evan Williams is the CEO of Twitter, so you’ll want to follow him for any first-hand tips and news.
- @pierre: Pierre Omidyar is the founder of eBay.
- @JasonCalacanis: Besides being the CEO of Mahalo, Jason Calacanis is also the founder of TechCrunch50 and Weblogs, Inc.
- @timoreilly: Follow the founder and CEO of O’Reilly media here.
- @jack: Jack Dorsey is the creator, chairman and co-founder of Twitter.
- @arrington: TechCrunch founder Michael Arrington tweets about tech news, media trends, and other stuff that can help your business stay current.
- @Padmasree: Get insightful business analyses that challenge the way you think about Internet, social media and business from Cisco’s CTO, @Padmasree.
- @mashable: Pete Cashmore is the dashing young CEO at Mashable who frequently tweets articles about business tools and tips.
- @jeremys: Jeremy Stoppelman is the co-founder and CEO of Yelp.
Branding and Marketing Experts
Get branding tips and marketing insights from these entrepreneurs.
- @randfish: This feed comes from the CEO of SEOmoz.
- @Schooley02: Jeremy Schooley is an Internet marketer and entrepreneur who reviews sites and shares business insights.
- @belasco: Learn online marketing and SEO tips from @belasco.
- @emad: Emad Fanous has done it all as the CTO of Citysearch, consultant and YellowBot.com founder.
- @doncampbell: Learn WordPress and SEO tips from Don Campbell’s feed and blog.
- @netgeek06: This Houston-based Internet geek is a search engine marketer, blogger and SEO consultant for small businesses.
- @MaryBowling: If you want to become a master at SEO and local search, follow Mary Bowling.
- @w2scott: Will Scott shares his knowledge about online branding, web tools and marketing.
- @sernovitz: Andy Sernovitz has marketed himself as the "word of mouth marketing guy."
Social Media Experts and Entrepreneurs
Social media is a powerful tool for small business owners. These entrepreneurs have either started social media sites or are known experts for online networking.
- @chrisbrogan: Learn how to use social media to help your business grow by following popular Tweeter Chris Brogan.
- @fredwilson: Fred Wilson is a venture capitalist and favorite Twitterer to follow because of his tips on effective social networking.
- @dsifry: David Sifry founded Technorati and other successful websites.
- @jowyang: Jeremiah Owyang has a strong employment history as a social media launcher and consultant for businesses.
- @eugenelee: Eugene Lee is the CEO of Socialtext who tweets about classical music and finding inspiration.
- @kelkelly: This Tweeter is a pro at social media, web marketing, PR and more.
- @davesnyder: David Snyder is the co-founder of Search and Social.
- @calbucci: @calbucci is the founder of social site Sampa.com.
- @sumaya: Sumaya Kazi is the senior social media manager at Sun Microsystems and was named one of "America’s Best Young Entrepreneurs" by BusinessWeek.
- @sebprovencher: Sebastien Provencher is the co-founder of Praized Media, which is used on Facebook and more.
Blogging, Media and Internet
Get tips on blogging and using the Internet to help your business or freelance career from these tweeters.
- @rjpittman: R.J. Pittman was the co-founder and CEO at Digital Courier Technologies and Groxis, Inc. Currently, he’s the director of project management at Google.
- @scottros: Scott Rosenberg is the co-founder of Salon and is a prominent blogger.
- @newscred: This feed comes from the young entrepreneur who co-founded NewsCred and who likes to tweet about new technology and social media opportunities.
- @GuyKawasaki: Guy Kawasaki is one of the preeminent experts on online branding, networking, and more.
- @r27: Rajesh Pancholi shares all kinds of links and tips for web design, online communication and marketing, and more.
- @rseanlindsay: Get web 2.0 tips, business strategies and more.
- @danielkehoe: Follow this feed for links to articles about startups, networking, and using technology for your business.
- @yummyman: Patrick Sexton tweets and blogs about Google tools and SEO tips.
- @mdjensen: Follow Michael D Jensen to learn about Twitter tools, online marketing, iPhone tools and more.
- @gsterling: Greg Sterling shares Internet industry news, local search tips, Nielsen findings, and other information of use to businesses with an online presence.
- @aaronwall: Follow the SEO Book magnate for useful tips on online networking etiquette and more.
- @problogger: Learn how to use Twitter and blogging to grow your business from Darren Rowse.
- @tamar: Tamar Weinberg is the community director for Mashable and manages her own projects, too.
- @TimboReid: Tim Reid has great Internet marketing ideas for small businesses.
Freelancers and Small Business
These tweeters have taken their hobbies and created successful careers in writing, design, and small business.
- @copyblogger: Brian Clark is the poster child for turning a freelance career into something successful.
- @dgugnani: Divya Gugnani is a venture capitalist turned entrepreneur and the founder of Behind the Burner.
- @justcreative: Jacob Cass is a successful freelancer with three websites and a graphic/logo design career.
- @davidmihm: David Mihm is a freelance web designer and SEO consultant.
- @JeanAnnVK: Jean Ann VanKrevelen is an author who has also successfully created several websites.
- @smallbiztrends: Anita Campbell is the CEO of a small business community and shares business blog posts, marketing news, and more.
- @farahato: Moe Farahat is an online freelancer and social media pro.
- @brutonnb: Here you’ll find a freelance writer and blogger with a large following.
- @absolutelytrue: Follow this entrepreneurial mom and freelancer who shares tips for web design, content development, and more.
- @imjustcreative: Graham Smith is a blogger, writer, and brand builder.
- @JenniferCrego: This freelancer is also a blogger and the director of business development for the site GiftTree.com.
- @G0: Follow this feed for web tool recommendations, social media tips, and more.
- @chrisspooner: Chris Spooner is a freelance graphic and web designer who shares tips and tutorials on his site and Twitter feed.
- @SabrinaAlexis: Sabrina Alexis is behind the popular fashion site A New Mode.
Authors and Speakers
Listen to the advice given by these entrepreneurs who are passionate about helping other ambitious individuals accomplish their goals.
- @shelisrael: Shel Israel has written books like Twitterville: How Businesses Can Survive in the New Global Neighborhoods.
- @mikeboland: Mike Boland is an analyst with The Kelsey Group who speaks about online marketing, search engine optimization, and more.
- @stevenbjohnson: Steven Johnson has written six books and is the creator of Outside.in.
- @donnafenn: Donna Fenn is the author of Wikinomics, Grown Up Digital and other books.
- @pamslim: Pamela Slim is the author of Escape from Cubicle Nation.
Startups and Venture Capitalists
Learn about business investing and startups here.
- JayNeely: Jay is a Boston-based entrepreneur who tweets about business marketing and startups.
- @LilDanny: Daniel McClintock is the CEO of Package Web Deals and a venture startup-capitalist.
- @onstartups: This feed is maintained by Dharmesh Shah, founder and CTO of Hubspot.
- @startupprincess: Kelly King Anderson helps women entrepreneurs grow their businesses.
- @AlexanderLaw: Alex Lawrence is a "serial entrepreneur" and venture capitalist.
- @frankidurbin: Franki Durbin is blogging, tweeting, and designing her way to becoming a venture capitalist.
- @DavidAnthony21: Follow vc and blogger David Anthony for book reviews, business analysis, and more.
- @bijan: Bijan Sabet is a Twitter board member and venture capitalist.
- @markpeterdavis: Follow IT venture capitalist Mark Peter Davis for business news, trends, small business tools, and more.
Finance and Wealth
Get tips on managing money and finding budget-friendly tools here.
- @StefanW: This feed is full of links to articles about starting a business, managing your money, using budget-friendly marketing techniques, and more.
- @DarrenLabrum: Darren Labrum is a lead developer for a start up and a business management student.
Strategy and Innovation
These tweeters share the tips that helped them develop cutting edge, effective business plans.
- @chrispund: Chris Pund is the founder of DormRoomBiz, a site for young entrepreneurs.
- @RickM: Rick Meyers founded TalentZoo.com and shares his opinions on successful business ideas and trends.
- @FranchiseKing: Joel Libava is a marketing and business consultant.
- @smallbiztweets: Alex Bellinger’s small business podcast is full of information for entrepreneurs.
- @whatworks: Business.com’s Daniel Kehrer is an entrepreneur, columnist, business owner, author and more who’s passionate about helping businesses and entrepreneurs become successful.
- @brianmoran: Brian Moran of Small Business Edge shares tips for growing your business with the Internet.
- @deanjones: Dean Jones is a small business consultant full of helpful tips.
- @deniseoberry: Denise O’Berry of justforsmallbusiness.com tweets here.
- @ducttape: John Jantsch of the famous Duct Tape Marketing blog tweets marketing and branding secrets.
- @DIYMarketers: Learn DIY marketing and business tips from Ivana Taylor.
- @DotSauce: Mark Fulton tweets and blogs about social media, web design, web tools, SEO and innovation.
Celebrity Entrepreneurs
These entrepreneurs have created lucrative careers for themselves.
- @Oprah: Oprah is the queen of personal branding and creating business opportunities.
- @MarthaStewart: You can learn more than just yummy recipes from @MarthaStewart.
- @algore: Since being U.S. Vice President, Al Gore has created his own career path.
- @BobVilacom: Bob Vila is a TV host, author and head of the DIY site BobVila.com.
- @cesarmillan: Follow The Dog Whisperer and entrepreneur Cesar Millan here.
- @KimKardashian: Love her or hate, her, Kim Kardashian is quite an entrepreneur and branding expert.
- @lancearmstrong: Lance Armstrong’s feed is full of inspiration, branding tips, and more.
- @iamdiddy: No industry is off limits to P.Diddy.
- @stevewozniak: One of the original computer and tech entrepreneurs, Steve Wozniak tweets about the iPhone, Linux and more.
- @drdrew: Dr. Drew has become a hugely successful, highly marketable sex and love expert.
- @jamie_oliver: Chef Jamie Oliver is a branding god.
- @JessicaSimpson: Jessica Simpson is an entertainer, as well as a shoe and clothing designer.
- @JoyVBehar: Joy Behar is a TV host, comedian and author.
- @LaurenConrad: Reality TV star Lauren Conrad is also a fashion designer and author.
- @PerezHilton: Perez Hilton started his own, uber-successful celebrity blog.
Posted by Site Administrator in Personal Learning
Jun 1st, 2009
Although most people think of Twitter as a tool for communication, networking, and marketing, it’s also a great resource for education as well. By following professors and other educators, you can get learning straight from the source without even having to step into a classroom. Here, we’ll take a look at 100 of the most valuable professors active on Twitter today.
Business
Follow these professors to get a business education.
- @Nouriel: Nouriel Roubini is a professor at Stern School, NYU, and a Chairman of RGE Monitor, as well as a web entrepreneur.
- @WayneMarr: This professor of Business Administration is also the cofounder of SSRN.
- @HenryAlzamora: Check out professor Henry Alzamora to learn about Internet entrepreneurship and advertising.
- @SCMProfessor: If you’re interested in supply chain management, be sure to check out @SCMProfessor.
- @hlovins: @hlovins is a professor of sustainable management.
- @CRA1G: Craig Froehle offers his take as a business professor and healthcare operations researcher.
- @CookingStrategy: Michael Rouse is a strategy professor interested in social enterprise, communities of passion, and born globals working to better the world.
- @doctorius: Matthew Gilbert offers something for almost everyone as a professor of business, communication, English, and IT.
- @cathymartin: Cathy Martin is an HR consultant specializing in human capital.
- @SashaStrauss: Sasha Strauss offers knowledge as a brand strategist, professor, and business owner.
- @BelugaBoyd: If you want to learn about sustainable entrepreneurship and green technology, check out what Boyd Cohen has to say.
- @jefftrexler: Follow Jeff Trexler to learn about social enterprise.
Marketing
You can learn about marketing, on Twitter and off, through these professors.
- @Debbas: This professor of marketing is a social media expert and founder of promotional items and printing.
- @vargas1: Lauren Vargas offers her knowledge as a public relations and marketing communication professor.
- @ejyoung67: You can learn about Internet marketing, social media, and more from associate professor of marketing Elaine Young.
- @harishbnair: This professor is a marketing evangelist.
- @allenweiss: Allen Weiss is the CEO and founder of MarketingProfs.
- @stylexplorers: @stylexplorers offers information on marketing, advertising, and social media.
- @flahertb: @flahertb is a marketing professor at James Madison University.
- @carol_phillips: This millenial marketing enthusiast works as a marketing professor at University of Notre Dame and specializes in online market research.
- @Schengber: @Schengber is interested in community marketing and management.
- @CapitolB: Barbara Saylor is a PR professor and connoisseur of the lush and lovely.
- @dmhoro: @dmhoro focuses on successful personal branding.
- @gHarsha: @gHarsha is interested in new media consumption and advertising.
Finance
Follow these professors to learn about finance and economics.
- @PaulKrugman: Check out @PaulKrugman to learn from a professor of Economics and International Affairs, as well as a New York Times columnist.
- @ProfCarol: Carol Dickson-Carr is a part-time economics professor, Six Sigma green belt, productivity coach, and more.
Technology
These professors offer knowledge in technology and beyond.
- @courosa: Alec Couros is a professor of educational technology and media.
- @hmason: Hilary Mason is a computer science professor, data scientist, and a web geek.
- @gallaugher: @gallaugher is a professor of information systems and publisher of The Week in Geek.
- @CindyRoyal: Check out Cindy Royal’s tweets to learn from a professor of web design and multimedia.
- @lavasusan: This Hawaiian professor is interested in all things tech.
- @nancito: Nancy Morales is a tech professor and educational IT adviser that’s enthusiastic about web 2.0.
- @m_scott: Learn about technology from this professor and director of instructional technology.
- @lemire: Check out @lemire to learn about computer science, elearning, and more.
- @ciberesfera: Ines Amaral is interested in cyberculture, social networks, web 2.0, virtual worlds, and cyberjournalism.
- @billgx: Check out Bill Genereux to learn from a computer/digital media professor.
Communications & Media
Twitter is one of the fastest growing and popular forms of new media, so it has naturally attracted an impressive amount of communications, media, and PR professors.
- @robertstevenson: Follow Robert Stevenson to get an education in mass communications.
- @jenleereeves: This new media enthusiast is an associate professor in the Missouri School of Journalism.
- @GreensladeR: Roy Greenslade offers his take as a professor of journalism, freelance journalist, and media commentator.
- @drgilpin: Check out @drgilpin to learn about communication and PR.
- @RadioCarla: @RadioCarla is a communication professor, Disney travel agent, and former radio geek.
- @mattmansfield: Matt Mansfield is a Medill journalism professor and the president of the Society for News Design.
- @christiebrkt: Christie Ann Barakat offers knowledge in mass communication, social psychology, and social media.
- @chutry: Chuck Tryon is a professor of film and media studies as well as a movie geek.
- @garyschwitzer: Gary Schwitzer is an associate professor of journalism and publisher of HealthNewsReview.org.
- @therefore: You can learn about emerging media from professor Dean Terry.
- @theaudioprof: Rob Potter’s tweets will teach you about mass communication and cognitive science.
- @DBallardReisch: You can learn about strategic communication from @DBallardReisch.
- @penningink: @penningink is a PR professor and consultant.
- @dquack: @dquack is a PR professor and strategic communications advisor.
- @billhandy: You can learn about public relations, communication strategy, and more from Bill Handy.
- @Hermida: This digital news pioneer is also a professor of integrated journalism at the University of British Columbia.
- @davidmsilver: Learn about media studies from David M. Silver.
- @agranado: On Antonio Granado’s Twitter feed, you’ll learn all about journalism.
- @rmack: Rebecca MacKinnon offers her view as a new media professor, journalist, and blogger.
- @BarbaraNixon: Barbara Nixon is a public relations and communication proessor as well as a PhD candidate.
- @raquelrecuero: Racquel Recuero spends her time as a professor and researcher of social networks, virtual communities, and social media.
Science & Math
If you’re interested in math and science, be sure to check out these Twittering professors.
- @MarcusduSautoy: Marcus offers knowledge as a Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science and a professor of mathematics.
- @ghoberg: Learn about environmental and natural resource policy from @ghoberg.
Liberal Arts
Here we have a great collection of English, Anthropology, and other liberal arts professors.
- @wealthsource: Read Steve Laycock’s tweets to learn about philosophy.
- @monasaves: Anna Chris is an English professor, writer, editor, and social media apprentice.
- @captain_primate: @captain_primate shares knowledge as a professor of cultural heritage informatics and learning.
- @shona2412: Gargi Nath is a professor of English in India.
- @alew: Alan A. Lew is a professor of geography and tourism at Northern Arizona University.
- @lisbet: You can learn about media, graphic design, anthropology, and cultural studies from @lisbet.
- @mjvalente: Maria Joao Valente is an archaeologist and professor.
- @alicejrobison: This assistant professor of English studies the literacy practices in social media, particularly video games.
- @billwolff: Check out @billwolff to learn about writing arts, new media, web design, information architecture, and tech writing.
- @ethicsblogger: Chris MacDonald is a philosophy professor who blogs about business ethics and biotech.
- @roomynaqvy: Check out Roomy Naqvy to find an English professor, translator, blogger, and investor.
- @doctorandree: This English professor is also a Fulbright winner.
Law & Politics
Get a look into politics and legal matters through these professors.
- @shaunjamison: Shaun Jamison is a law professor, attorney, coach, speaker, and more.
- @drdigipol: Learn from a digiral political strategist in Alan Rosenblatt.
- @thejimjams: If you’re interested in media law, be sure to check out James Hirsen.
- @stevemeltzer: Steve Meltzer offers an education in business, privacy, and nonprofit law.
- @HHRadio: Check out @HHRadio to learn from a law professor and radio broadcaster.
- @TradeSecretLaw: Scott Gibson is an adjunct professor of law, business lawyer, counselor, and adviser.
- @kohenari: Follow @kohenari to learn about political theory.
- @BKPundit: Read what Dwight Alvis has to say to learn from a professor of political science.
- @jmilles: Jim Milles works as a law professor in Buffalo, New York.
Theology
These professors practice and teach theology.
- @LigonDuncan: This professor of theology is also a Presbyterian minister.
- @Drpoulette: Dennis Poulette offers his knowledge as a youth ministry professor.
Education
These Twittering professors focus on education and elearning.
- @jonbecker: You can learn about technology and leadership in education from professor of educational leadership John Becker.
- @wgraziadel: Visit Bill Graziadei to learn more about eLearning.
- @candyschwartz: Learn about library information science from Candy Schwartz.
- @retro_man: @retro_man is an eLearning and instructional design evangelist.
- @zeitz: If you’re interested in instructional technology, be sure to check out Leigh Zeitz.
- @chrispenny: Chris Penny offers his knowledge as an educational technology professor.
- @DougCovey: This nonprofit education provider and adjunct professor believes all kids are capable of success.
- @bridener: Barbara Ridener offers her knowledge as a math education professor.
Psychology
These professors can help you learn more about the way the mind works.
- @toddkashdan: Todd Kasdhdan is a psychology professor and positive psychology researcher.
- @KevinLBurke: Kevin L. Burke, PhD works as a sport psychology college professor and business consultant.
- @madure: If you want to learn about behavioral science and law, be sure to check out professor Lakshman Madurasinghe.
Medicine
From these professors, you’ll learn about medicine, health, and more.
- @DoctorRobin: This professor specializes as an integrative physician and compassionate healer.
- @DrAmorWellness: Amor Santiago works as a university professor in public health and prevention.
Arts
Follow these professors to get an arts education on Twitter.
- @MontyCraigMusic: Monty Craig is a professor of jazz guitar at Clemson University and professional bandleader.
- @metromediaqueen: Tricia Thomas is a Photoshop professor and a student of the arts.
- @mikejjohnson: Check out Michael Johnson to learn from a professor at Berklee College of Music.
- @ryanseslow: Ryan Seslow is a prolific artist and professor of art.
- @drkent: Dr. Kent Guvstavson is a professor and PhD classical composer.
Posted by Site Administrator in Personal Learning
May 31st, 2009
By Meredith Walker
Researchers say you don’t have to be born with creativity flowing from your fingertips, but that you can nurture and grow your creativity. To start with, try opening yourself up to new ideas or learning about something you aren’t already familiar. The following blogs provide a great opportunity for you to see how others put their creativity to work and allow yourself to think in a new direction. Take a look at amazing craft and DIY projects, ways to organize and decorate your living space, read about literature, art, foreign cultures and travel, education, and ways to change your outlook on life with the blogs below.
Crafting Blogs
Whether you are a crafter or not, you can certainly appreciate the talent and creativity evident in these blogs.
- Average Jane Crafter. With a love of all things crafty, but especially those involving stitchery, Average Jane Crafter shares projects, information about other crafty folks, and much more with her readers.
- Vickie Howell. Knitting and crocheting are the focus on this blog written by the star of the popular show, Knitty Gritty, still seen in reruns on DIY Network.
- back and forth project. This craft project that grew from two friends sending a project between them to complete it together has evolved into a book in the works for publication.
- Diary of a Crafty Chica. From duct-tape handbags to seashell sandals, learn to make gorgeous crafty goods at this blog.
- Wise Craft. Yarn arts, sewing, children’s projects, and even cooking show up in this craft blog.
- Urban Debris. The ultimate in recycling, the craft projects here focus on reusing to create fun, beautiful new items.
- Angry Chicken. Sewing and homemade cards are the topics most frequented on this blog, while other subjects such as literature and family often join the fray.
- Creature Comforts. Get inspired with all the unique crafts presented on this blog, including cuckoo clock boutonnieres and apples made out of paperbacks.
- The Crochet Dude. Guys can get into the crafting act too. Check out what The Crochet Dude is creating on this blog.
- pommes frites. Check out Kristen’s creative projects as well as plenty of fun crafts from Etsy that she finds and shares on her blog.
DIY Blogs
If you like to make things yourself or are just interested in how others do so, then check out these blogs.
- Instructables Community Blog. Find out how to make the world’s largest pinata or test your Instructables knowledge with a quiz on this blog that will surely get your creativity flowing.
- Make: Blog. From the popular Make Magazine, their blog will help you learn how to make some seriously cool stuff.
- Gizmodo. Learn about the latest creative tech gadgets or find fun technology news and deals here.
- Hacked Gadgets. Learn to make creative tech gadgets such as an LCD display controlled by your computer or a pole-climbing robot.
- DIY City Blog. Independent artists with a DIY flair share their ideas that range from hand-made jewelry to knitted goodies.
- DIY Audio Projects. From vacuum tubes to subwoofers, this blog will help you build your own audio projects.
- Hacks Blog. Make a cake in a coffee mug, a Linux-controlled power switch, and much more with the information found on this blog.
- The Automata/Automaton Blog. If you are interested in making or collecting automata or mechanical toys, this blog will provide you with plenty of creative inspiration.
- DIY Woodworking, Home Improvement, and Art Projects. From building a guitar to installing a toilet, learn how to do it all with the information on this blog.
Blogs for Creativity in Your Living Space
If you need inspiration for a change in your home, then take a look at the decorating and decluttering ideas in these blogs.
- PadStyle. Those who love the sleek look of modern furniture will enjoy the inspiration found in this blog.
- Apartment Therapy.This blog offers stylish and useful ways to transform your small space into a showplace.
- Unclutterer. Become inspired to unclutter your space and keep it looking beautiful with the posts here that will help you learn what to do.
- Eva Designs. From funky wallpapers to fun playrooms to vintage appliances, this blog offers creative solutions for your decorating doldrums.
- Remodelista. With a focus on simple, uncluttered living space, this blog offers suggestions as well as places to purchase items to keep your living space beautifully simple and functional.
- Everlasting Designs. This blog helps readers to simplify and declutter their living space.
- Creative Organizing Blog. Get tips for creative ways to organize your space, suggestions for books to help organize your life, and more on this blog.
- Design*Sponge. Get lots of ideas for your decorating at this blog that includes before and afters, podcasts, and more.
Literature Blogs
A great way to open yourself up to new ideas is through reading. These blogs will point you in the right direction for great books or to learn about writing and writers.
- Blogging the Canon. This 40-something blogger shares his experiences of reading the classics he didn’t earlier in life.
- Trashionista. Find out about books and movies inspired by books at this blog.
- Nick Hornby. This popular British writer blogs about politics, writing, and life.
- Blog of a Bookslut. This blog is serious about literature–it just doesn’t take itself too seriously.
- Lovereading Blog. In addition to new releases and reviews, this blog offers a fun option of downloading the opening parts of certain books.
- 3000 Books. Reading an average of 50 books a year, this blogger shares reviews of all those books as she goes.
- Dave Gorman. This entertaining blog touches on everything from IT problems to art.
- Bookwormom. Find a wide variety of information from reviews to lists to off-topic posts about current events here.
- So Many Books. This reader shares what she’s reading as well as a bit about books and reading in general.
- Bookish. The books reviewed here are worth checking out, so refer to this blog to find out what you should read the next time you need a new book.
- The Gospel According to Marc. Marc Acito writes about everything from food to his career to inspiration on his blog.
- Bookfoolery and Babble. From fiction to non-fiction, the book reviews on this blog are so inspiring that you want to add them all to your reading list.
Art Blogs
These blogs offer a range of beauty and creativity in the fields of music, photography, fine art, and the world of art.
- Sound and Mind. Learn how the brain processes music at this blog about music cognition.
- The Feminist Spectator. Written by a professor at Princeton, this blog provides analyses of film, theater, and other performances with an emphasis on the feminist presence and how it relates to society.
- Conscientious. Find contemporary fine-art photography on this blog with information about the photographers as well as reviews of photography books and magazines.
- One Photo a Day. Get a new photo every day on this photo blog. You can browse through the past days to see more inspirational photos.
- Every Photo Tells a Story. Check out the images posted here each day for an assortment of photos and pictures.
- Portrait of Words. Discover plenty of writing prompts as well as a monthly photo prompt competition where writers are invited to view a set of photographs and challenged to create a story around them.
- Graphic Arts. This blog from Princeton shows photos of recent acquisitions in the Graphic Arts Division as well as the history behind each piece.
- Art News Blog. Get the latest news in the world of art from this blog.
- Art Knowledge News. With updates about exhibits as well as information about art, artists, museums, and more, this blog will keep you abreast with news in art world.
- New Art. The posts in this blog profile art by a variety of new artists as well as some of the background of the artist and pieces.
- Art Esprit. This curator and gallery owner posts about fine art and crafts that she finds interesting.
- art.blogging.la. With a focus on the art circles of Los Angeles, this blog is an interesting read if you are interested in art.
- Edward_Winkleman. Part gossip column and part art news, this blog will enlighten you on the art world in New York.
- The Intrepid Art Collector. Keep updated with information about the world of art, art books, and museum reviews.
- Modern Art Notes. Modern and contemporary art are the focus of this blog where you can learn about art from this well-respected blogger.
Blogs about Foreign Cultures
Not everyone can or likes to travel, but with these blogs, you never have to leave your chair to learn about Africa, Japan, India, Great Britain, Latin America, and more.
- halftribe. Learn about African culture from this blog that shares the written word, art, literature, and more.
- SAYMAMA. This Nigerian blogger includes cultural events, poetry, fashion, and politics in her blog.
- Poefrika. Find a quote and poem of the day, poetry, and prose among these African-inspired writings.
- Adventures of Mr. Behi. Based in the Netherlands, this Iranian man blogs about his experiences of travel and meeting others.
- shioyama. Available in both English and Japanese, this blog focuses on media, translation, and technology in Japan.
- solanasaurus. This Danish-Puerto Rican journalist shares her experiences as she lives and works in New York.
- Inba’s Corner. The beautiful posts on this blog offer the perspective of a modern woman in India.
- thebillblog. This British journalist focuses specifically on digital culture in his blog.
- El Oso. This blog provides a Latin American perspective and is also available in Spanish.
- Within/Without. From Bangladesh but currently living in London, Neha Viswanathan shares her experiences of life across both cultures.
Travel Blogs
These blogs offer yet another opportunity to learn about the world without leaving home and are written by experienced travelers who share their adventures.
- Vagabonding. Rolf Potts writes about places he’s visited, offers travel tips, writes about his experience with travelers, and more.
- Cheapest Destinations. This blog features ways to inspire your creativity while learning to travel inexpensively.
- Killing Batteries. This freelance travel writer shares his travel and writing experiences on his blog.
- Gadling. This blog provides travel and photography tips.
- Wonderlust and Lipstick. Women who travel will enjoy this blog that includes plenty of tips to ensure your travel goes smoothly.
- The Travel Blog by TravelPod. Get information on destinations, world news that affects travel, and more on this travel blog.
- Parisian Spring. This travel writer with a love of the French and their country offers great suggestions for your travel experiences.
- Collazo Projects. Written by a couple who share a passion for travel and culture, this blog shares their insight, especially with their experience among Latin American communities.
- Go Green Travel Green. If you want to be inspired by green travel and tourism, then check out this blog.
- What a Trip. Find out about budget travel opportunities, learn how to pack appropriately, get destination information, and more from the posts on this travel blog.
- Nile Guide. The Nile Guide team goes out into the world and brings it all back for you with stories, travel tips, and photos from around the world.
Education Blogs
The following blogs include information about education, e-learning, or topics of interest at institutes of higher learning.
- Lessig. Stanford Law School professor Lawrence Lessig writes this popular blog which typically includes topics from politics to technology to copyright issues.
- Mudd Manuscript Library Blog. Not only can you learn about upcoming exhibits at this Princeton Library, but you can also learn quite a bit about the pieces and their part in history as well.
- Thoughts from BFE. The technology director from the only fully online high school program in the US blogs about technology and online learning.
- Inspiration for Education. The news articles and interviews here offer uplifting stories that revolve around education.
- Michelle’s Online Learning Freakout Party Zone. Get tips and resources to enhance your online learning environment with this blog.
- Virtual High School Meanderings. This blog looks at the many issues of education, but with a focus on high-school online learning.
- The Becker-Posner Blog. Each post at this popular blog includes the view of these two well-respected law professors providing their own view on a specific topic.
- My State of Flux. Find resources, reflections, and information about online learning in this blog.
- e-Learning Evangelist. This veteran online educator has plenty to share in this blog.
- Teaching and Developing Online. This blog offers lots of advice and links to resources to enhance the online learning environment.
- California Dreamin’. Learn about course development, conferences on distance education, and much more with this blog.
Blogs for Creative Professionals
If you make your living being creative, then check out these blogs to help inspire you when you need a new perspective.
- LifeClever. This blog for designers focuses on creativity and productivity both at work and in life.
- Presentation Zen. From technology to creativity, the tips here are invaluable if you make presentations.
- eirikso.com. Learn about Eirik Solheim’s less-is-more approach approach to photography and marketing in his blog.
- 43 Folders. This blog is devoted to helping spark creativity while increasing productivity at work.
- A List Apart. Web designers can find plenty of advice and inspiration for creating beautiful and effective websites with this blog.
- LifeDev. Devoted to empowering and inspiring creative types, topics include taking care of your body to boost your brain power and ways to boost creativity.
- David Seah. The insightful posts on this blog offer new ways for creatives to think about goals, productivity, and more.
- Escape from Cubical Nation. For those creatives trying to break out on their own, this blog offers inspirational tips and advice to help make the switch to a more productive and liberating work experience.
Blogs for Embracing Life
Sometimes a new perspective on life is all you need to find your creativity and motivation. These blogs will inspire you to look at your life in a whole new way.
- The Happiness Project. This blog is Gretchen Rubin’s experiment to find the best ways of attaining happiness and is truly inspirational.
- Illuminated Mind. Find your energy and inspiration from the posts at this blog that focus on following dreams, letting go of unnecessary baggage, and more.
- Zen Habits. The inspirational posts at this blog will help you learn to live more simply, yet more fully, while embracing all aspects of life, including family, work, and personal time.
- On Simplicity. Learn ways to simplify your life, both physically and mentally, and make the most of your time.
- Stepcase Lifehack. The posts here focus on topics such as money, technology, work, and productivity.
- How to Change the World. Guy Kawasaki writes this blog that will inspire entrepreneurs with topics such as the value of neatness, making the most of collaborative environments, and increasing the value of learning.
- Lifehacker. With an emphasis on the high tech, this blog offers tons of suggestions for enhancing both work and life.
- Delightful Work. This blog suggests ways to free up time, express yourself, put your vision into practice, and more as you move from employee to entrepreneur.