SoundCloud

SoundCloud (http://soundcloud.com/) is a free, web-based audio tool that allows users to publicly or privately share recorded or uploaded audio content. SoundCloud provides data on number of plays and profile views and can be pushed to various social networks like Twitter and Facebook. Instructors could record and distribute podcast lectures through SoundCloud, and students could themselves develop audio content to share with teachers and classmates. Free accounts require sign-up but provide 120 minutes of storage. SoundCloud is also available on the iPad, the iPhone, and Android devices.

Wunderlist

Wunderlist (https://www.wunderlist.com/) is a free application that allows users to create and share to-do lists, manage projects, and stay organized. Instructors could develop and distribute a checklist of tasks and due dates for students, and students could use Wunderlist to keep on top of their assignments and homework. Wunderlist is available on the web and on PC, Mac, Droid, iPhone, and iPad, and it can be synced across all devices.

Evernote

Evernote (http://www.evernote.com/) is a free, cross-platform and web-based organizational application (similar to Microsoft OneNote) that allows users to conveniently save notes, photos, and links to webpages. Notes can be arranged into searchable folders, can be shared with colleagues for collaboration, and are accessible virtually anywhere via an internet connection. Instructors could invite students to share research and assignments via Evernote, and students could use Evernote to catalog notes or work on group projects. Evernote is available on almost any machine or device—PCs, Macs, iPhones, iPads, Droids, etc. Here is a sample screenshot of Evernote:

Pinterest

Pinterest (http://pinterest.com) is a web-based bulletin board that allows users to pin images from the web to a virtual canvas, which can then be shared or embedded and commented upon by other subscribers. Students could use Pinterest for research compilation or for creating study aids, and instructors could provide additional course content to students by asking them to “follow” a class Pinterest board. Users need just click on “Request an Invite” for a free account (beware of the waiting list delay) or be invited by another account holder. Available for the iPhone and iPad.

Penultimate

Penultimate is a handwriting and sketching app for the iPad. Users can draw words or images with their fingers or a stylus, choose colors and line thickness, and share their creations with others via email. Instructors and students could use Penultimate for taking notes in the field, solving equations in mathematics, or sketching ideas in art. Current price is $1.99.

BlogPress

BlogPress is an iOS app that allows users to post to and manage their blogs from an iPad or iPhone. Most mainstream blog platforms are supported, including Blogger, Wordpress, and Tumblr. Current pricing is $2.99. Students and instructors could produce and share writing on-the-go via their mobile devices.