Inspiration has arrived this afternoon via friend and colleague Mark Moran who Tweeted about his newly minted Vook on marathon running.  What is Vook?

“A vook is a new innovation in reading that blends a well-written book, high-quality video and the power of the Internet into a single, complete story. You can read your book, watch videos that enhance the story and connect with authors and your friends through social media all on one screen, without switching between platforms.

Vooks are available in two formats: As a web-based application you can read on your computer and an application for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad for reading on the go. With the web-based application you don’t have to download programs or install software. Just open your favorite browser and start reading and watching in an exciting new way. You can also download and install the mobile applications through the Apple iTunes store and sync them with your Apple mobile device.”

Consider the possibilities for the social construction of reading and writing if we helped students create their own vooks!  Whether they created an application for a computer or the iPhone/iPod/iPad, think how this type of mashed up reading/writing/thinking/sharing oriented learning experience might transform student thinking!  My initial reaction to Vook is that it could be an interesting rendition of a digital research paper or a fantastic stand alone multigenre element. I’ll be brainstorming with teachers this summer ways we might incorporate this kind of content creation into a unit of inquiry for the upcoming school year.  Take a look at this video from Vook and let the idea bubbling begin!