A “Revisited” blog post indicates that I reread the original and used AI-assisted tools (e.g., Grammarly) to improve grammar and word choice.
First published on April 14, 2014.
Review of Edynco by Angela Wong
Things I like: Edynco is a multi-feature learning tool for educators. Created in Slovenia two years ago, this tool provides easy-to-use templates for creating learning maps. The software’s creators are quick to distinguish between mind maps, usually used for brainstorming and planning, and learning maps. Reminiscent of Prezi [which I, DS, find dazzlingly distracting]. Edynco’s setup is different because its learning maps allow for additional media, clarity, discussion, communication between educator and student, and numerous kinds of interaction. The blended learning style is intended to help anyone wanting to educate others. Overall, Edynco is well-thought-out with a beautiful design.
Areas in need of improvement. There are a few areas that still need improvement. Users will find quite a few spelling and grammatical errors throughout the website. ESL users, in particular, may suffer from these translation errors. Users unfamiliar with dynamic technologies may too quickly become overwhelmed. The learning map module should integrate a “snap to grid feature” (as illustrated on Microsoft, Adobe, and LucidPress software) for better UI. Lastly, the tutorial that automatically pops up whenever entering a learning map is slightly annoying, as it can be accessed anytime.
Despite these minor and relatively unimportant flaws, Edynco is incredibly sleek and promising. The user is not left wanting a “share” feature to post on social media. Edynco also has an export-to-computer feature that is inaccessible to non-subscribers. The interface is dynamic, responsive, and relatively easy to use. In addition to the learning map software, all users can access additional content, including micro-lectures, quizzes, videos, images, audio, and more- all of which can be seamlessly added to the user’s customizable learning map. The developers have left room for expansion to release even more educational tools and are to be praised for the present wonderful work-in-progress. Educators and students alike should be excited for this beta software to go live—and, in the interim, to try it and provide constructive feedback for improvement.
Here is an example of a learning map that Angela created using Eydynco: Angela’s model of Iranian Women in Film.
