October 2023 - Instructional Technology Newsletter

A Basket Full of EdTech Tricks

When it comes to EdTech, there's a lot out there. Here are a few tricks you can use to make your lessons spooky good.

Interactive Learning Platform: Utilize interactive learning platforms and Learning Management Systems (LMS). At MSD of Boone Township, we have access to Google Classroom, which allows for a multitude of ways to help make learning interactive. Classroom allows you to post assignments, quizzes, and resources, making it easier for students to access and submit work. Classroom also enables communication and collaboration among students and provides a centralized hub for class materials.

Flipped Classroom Techniques: Flip your classroom by creating video lessons or multimedia content that students can review before class. This allows for more interactive and engaging in-class activities, discussions, and problem-solving. Tools like Edpuzzle, Screencast-O-Matic, or even YouTube can help you create and share educational videos.

Gamification: Incorporate elements of gamification to make learning more fun and engaging. Platforms like Kahoot, Quizlet, and Classcraft allow you to create quizzes, flashcards, and game-based activities. Gamification can motivate students, foster competition, and enhance their understanding of the material.

Adaptive Learning Software: Integrate adaptive learning software like Khan Academy, Duolingo, or DreamBox into your teaching. These platforms personalize the learning experience for each student by adjusting content based on their progress and areas of need. This helps students work at their own pace and receive targeted support.

Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR): Explore AR and VR tools to create immersive learning experiences. Platforms like Google Expeditions, Nearpod, or Oculus VR can transport students to virtual environments, historical settings, or scientific simulations. These technologies can make complex subjects more accessible and memorable.

Remember that the key to successful EdTech integration is proper training and support for both teachers and students. Start with one or two tools that align with your teaching objectives, and gradually incorporate more as you become more comfortable with them. Also, be mindful of students' access to technology to ensure equity in education.

A Basket Full of EdTech Treats

Teachers can benefit from a wide range of EdTech tools to enhance their teaching and engage students more effectively. Here are five EdTech treats to try in your classroom:

Google Workspace for Education: There's a lot more to Google than Classroom. Google Workspace offers a suite of free productivity tools like Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms.

Kahoot!: Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform that allows teachers to create and share interactive quizzes and surveys. It's an engaging way to review and reinforce classroom content, and it offers a fun and competitive element that students often enjoy.

Edpuzzle: Edpuzzle allows teachers to make any video their lesson. They can crop, add voiceovers, and embed questions within videos to track student understanding. It's a great tool for flipping the classroom or creating interactive video lessons.

Nearpod: Nearpod is an interactive presentation platform that enables teachers to create engaging lessons with embedded quizzes, polls, and other interactive elements. Teachers can use it to monitor and enhance student participation and understanding during presentations.

Seesaw: Seesaw is an excellent tool for younger students and for remote learning. It's a digital portfolio platform where students can showcase their work, and teachers can provide feedback and assessment. It's a powerful way to involve parents in their children's learning as well.

Remember, the effectiveness of these tools depends on the specific needs and preferences of both you the teachers and your students. It's essential to choose EdTech solutions that align with the curriculum and your students' short and long term needs.