Mathematics & Social Networking

Mathematics and social networking for students is sometimes a difficult task.  For example, most student need to see work along with an explanation to fully understand how to solve a problem, especially in Pre-Calculus.  At this high level of mathematics, it is hard to communicate equations, graphs, and concepts we use the graphing calculator for.  Voice Thread makes these problems so much easier, while allowing students to collaborate.
 At the end of the year I create a review project for my class to complete in groups.  Each group is normally responsible for creating a Photostory review of one unit that they are assigned along with a 6 question quiz.  The groups present their Photostory before the final exam and hands out their quiz for their classmates to complete.  I post their answer key, but we run out of time for collaboration.
I decided to change the assignment to allow students to collaborate by integrating the social networking tool of Voice Thread.  Voice Thread is a wonderful site that gives users free accounts and the ability to set privacy settings, create class groups, and set comment moderation's.  I thought this was perfect for meeting all of the CIPA laws.  The best option is the ability for students to speak about the problem and show work by either drawing or texting a comment.  The teacher approves all comments and has the ability to detect anything he or she deems inappropriate.
Most of the other social networking sites out there are not as easy to use.  I learned how to upload content, which unfortunately does not support Photostory, so I had to change my Photostory example into a Powerpoint.  The site allowed me to upload word documents, but any equation I created using Equation Editor I had to recreate using superscripts or the underline tool to create a fraction.  It was a little more time consuming, but not too difficult.
Not only did I learn what the best material was to upload, but I learned how to set privacy settings, customize a class group, embed the video thread or link the video thread.  I also learned how to comment using either the web cam, microphone, texting, or doodling.  I did use my cell phone to upload a few comments, but after a few cell phone trials you have to pay for that service.  Everything else is free.  I did restrict my students from not using the web cam option, because my district prohibits any pictures of students.
To view the review activity along with a rubric, see below.  Feel free to use and make changes to fit your own classroom.