Qwiki is multimedia search tool/encyclopedia that creates an interactive, on-the-fly presentation of information. To utilize Qwiki, enter a topic in the search box and/or select a featured topic on the homepage and then watch as the query is answered with a dynamic collage of relevant content—images, video and text—woven together from a variety of sites including Wikipedia, Google, Fotopedia, and YouTube. The presentation is even accompanied by a computer generated voice narration (and subtitles if the user so desires)—a concept that truly transforms a traditional web search into a story about the chosen topic. Users will also see a selection of related entries below each Qwikithat can be utilized for continued learning.

Qwikis can be embedded into a wiki/web site or blog and/or shared via a variety of social networking sites. Check out the “Hunger Games” Qwiki I created.

And by the way… There’s an app for that! Visit iTunes to download a free copy of Qwiki for your iPad—a bonus if you use this device in your classroom!

Classroom Connection: 

Qwiki is built on the premise that information should be presented in an experience, or the presentation of information on any topic in an interactive, appealing way. With that said, Qwiki’s functionality, simplicity and speed from the time a topic is submitted to the time it takes to compile resources into a media rich story makes this tool an excellent choice for any classroom!

Not only can teachers create Qwikis to enhance standard curriculum content, but Qwiki could be a neat way for students to independently explore topics in a more engaging way than that offered by traditional textbooks.

Another suggestion: Do you have reluctant or struggling readers and/or ESL students? Allow them to read along with Qwiki about their favorite topic or subject.