Diffen


 * = [[image:diffen.jpg]] ||
 * = Compare, contrast and find the difference between any two things! ||

What is Diffen? Diffen is a database that allows you to compare and contrast anything that is similar to each other. All you have to do is type in each of the items you would like to compare and contrast and it produces a chart indicating the differences. As you scroll down it provides more information in a format similar to Wikipedia. 



Pros and Cons
 * = Pros ||= Cons ||
 * = Easily accessible for all ||= Some searches can be non-educational ||
 * = Learning takes place outside of the classroom ||= Can be edited by anyone who is registered ||
 * = Provides links to other resources ||= Answers are limited ||

Educational Applications Diffen is a great tool for those educators that use higher order thinking skills by comparing and contrasting two like concepts. It provides thoughtful answers that can be used to study for tests and quizzes. An example is shown below from a search done for a biology class on cellular energy.



Recommendations As a teacher that uses comparing and contrasting as a mean of assessment this is a good tool to use in the classroom as long as one constantly monitors the information that the students will have access to. Explain to your students that some of the information can be changed by others so they must verify what they see with you in a discussion. Overall I would recommend using Diffen in your classroom.