14 May 2007

From LM_NET-

The site is called, "Trailfire".  To explain what it does, I'd like 

to refer back to something called a "Pathfinder".  A Pathfinder is 

usually a one page Library handout with suggested books,  articles 

and other resources on popular research topics.  If memory serves, 

this list has been the scene of one or more spirited discussions 

regarding the utility and validity of Pathfinders.

Think of Trailfire as the modern day equivalent of a Pathfinder.  

Using Trailfire, someone (such as a teacher, teacher-librarian, 

instructor, etc.) can locate a number of good websites on a 

particular topic, then tag each site. Trailfire will then build a 

website list. Each website tagged with Trailfire will have a 

navigation header at the top of each site making it easy from anyone 

following your trail, to simply click on a arrow to move to the next 

site, rather then having to return to the list.

Trailfire also allows a teacher to create "sticky notes" for each 

tagged website with notes, important information or comments.

Once a "Trail" is created the unique URL generated by Trailfire can 

be emailed to students or embedded with a course web page. The Trail 

will then  "lead" students through a series of websites that I wanted 

them to visit.

The ability to create a trail requires an account but accounts are 

free and easily obtained. It also requires the installation of a 

browser plug-in which is also free and available for Firefox and IE. 

Plugins for other browsers should be available soon.

Check it out at:

      http://trailfire.com

John Goldsmith

Fraser Valley Distance Education School

49520 Prairie Central Road,

Chilliwack, B.C.  V2P 6H3

Tel: (604) 794-7310, Loc 2459

Fax: (604) 795-8480

goldsmith@rainbow.fvrcs.gov.bc.ca

jdg@goodmedia.com