Teachers can leave a lasting impression by integrating the latest educational technology tools into their classrooms. The range of trendy tech options is vast, making it challenging to navigate. Here are five educational tools that enhance student learning, foster digital curiosity, and transform learning experiences.
Bulb
Bulb is a versatile digital portfolio platform enabling students to effectively curate, share, and showcase their work. It organizes content into shareable pages where teachers and parents can offer feedback. Students personalize their pages with themed folders, exemplified by Kaiden’s Star Wars-themed interface.
His bio and interests are prominently displayed, showcasing his academic journey from kindergarten memories to current achievements in math and other subjects. Bulb supports uploads of various formats like worksheets, videos, and presentations, fostering a comprehensive display of student accomplishments. Educators benefit from a free version accessible across devices, making it ideal for students from elementary school onwards.
Edpuzzle
Edpuzzle revolutionizes video-based learning by addressing common issues like intrusive ads and limited student interaction opportunities. This app empowers teachers to select and customize online videos to align with specific lesson objectives. Integrated features allow educators to embed questions strategically, prompting students to pause and engage actively with the content.
Edpuzzle also monitors student viewing times to ensure comprehensive learning engagement without skipping. Furthermore, teachers can enhance clarity by adding voiceovers where necessary. Available for free to educators and compatible across devices, Edpuzzle significantly enhances the educational video experience.
Google Tour Creator
Google Tour Creator empowers students to craft immersive virtual tours using images from Google Street View or personal photos. The tool offers versatile applications, whether as a writing extension, part of a research project, or for extracurricular activities. For instance, students researching Rome could compile images of landmarks like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain into a virtual tour of the city.
Alternatively, they could create a tour of their school using self-captured 360-degree photos, aiding new students and staff to navigate the campus. These tours, accessible on iPads, desktops, and Google Cardboard, provide an engaging educational experience across various devices.
classroom
ClassroomQ streamlines seeking help in the classroom, offering a user-friendly interface for teachers and students. Teachers establish a class code that students use to join, enabling them to request assistance by clicking the “Assistance Needed” button. This action queues students in an orderly manner, displaying their position in line alongside others.
Teachers can efficiently manage and address student queries in the order received, ensuring a smooth flow of classroom interaction without disruptions to ongoing lessons or fellow learners. Developed by and for educators, ClassroomQ is a free platform to foster proactive help-seeking behaviors among students who may be hesitant to ask for assistance.
GooseChase
Looking to spice up your classroom activities? GooseChase combines the thrill of traditional scavenger hunts with cutting-edge technology, delivering a unique learning experience. Teachers create hunts using the Game Manager on the site, designing missions that students complete by submitting photos, videos, text responses, or check-ins.
It’s versatile for pretests, reviews, or establishing classroom procedures. Picture students filming themselves demonstrating effective questioning techniques or capturing where class missions are posted. GooseChase boosts student engagement with endless possibilities, making it a must-try educational game.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the top EdTech tools of 2019?
In 2019, some of the most acclaimed EdTech tools included Bulb for digital portfolios, Edpuzzle for interactive video learning, Google Tour Creator for virtual tours, ClassroomQ for organized student assistance, and GooseChase for interactive scavenger hunts.
How do these tools benefit students?
These tools enhance student engagement and learning by providing interactive and personalized learning experiences. They facilitate creativity, collaboration, and effective communication among students and teachers.
Are these tools accessible and integrated into the classroom?
Yes, these tools are designed with educators in mind. They offer user-friendly interfaces, comprehensive support resources, and the ability to seamlessly integrate into various educational settings and curricula.
Are these tools accessible for different grade levels?
Absolutely. These tools cater to various grade levels, from elementary to higher education, accommodating diverse learning needs and styles.
Are these tools cost-effective for educators?
Many of these tools offer free versions or affordable pricing plans for educators, making them accessible options for enhancing classroom learning without significant financial investment.
Can these tools be used on different devices?
These tools are compatible with multiple devices, such as desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for students and teachers.
Conclusion
Navigating the vast array of ed tech tools in 2019 can be daunting. However, prioritizing impactful options such as Bulb, Edpuzzle, Google Tour Creator, ClassroomQ, and GooseChase ensures students are engaged and benefit from enhanced learning experiences.
