http://newsmap.jp/
The basics
Newsmap is basically a re-arranged news feed from Google “that visually reflects the constantly changing landscape of the Google News aggregator”. The site uses “A treemap visualization algorithm helps display the enormous amount of information gathered by the aggregator. Treemaps are traditionally space-constrained visualizations of information. Newsmap’s objective takes that goal a step further and provides a tool to divide information into quickly recognizable bands which, when presented together, reveal underlying patterns in news reporting across cultures and within news segments in constant change around the globe.”
So, put simply, Newsmap works to filter and arrange content, with options permitting users to narrow down their search and use of colours for categories of news. One example of a customised view, looking at Australian-only news stories about technology is:
Example of customised view in newsmap
What is intriguing
Newsmap is intriguing because it is one of the few really innovative attempts to rework the way we view and select from the welter of information available on the web.
Pedagogic Challenge
The challenge is to think of creative, engaging tasks that students must perform (most likely linked to assessable work) in which the use of a Web 2.0 application such as newsmap is inherent to the task and not just ‘bolted on’. Students rapidly find their own solution to problems and, if the application becomes part of the problem, then students will use alternative ways of achieving the final result. The challenge of Newsmap, too, is that it does not have collaborative or sharing capabilities
Why this tool is not ‘top 10′
Newsmap doesn’t have widespread application, nor does it really provide significant benefit over and above regular forms of searching: indeed we want students to develop sophisticated skills information searching so Newsmap might even get in the way of that. However, Newsmap does have its uses, for example in classes where regular access to up-to-date news is part of the study program (for example, classes on world affairs, or business environment). Ultimately, Newsmap is one of those Web 2.0 applications which look good, have some utility but which – until they are more thoroughly developed – are too superficial for real application in higher education.
Alternatives
Doodlebuzz is similar in its sources, but presents a different kind of interface.
