Technology has revolutionized the way educators approach teaching and the right ed tech tools can make a significant impact on student engagement and behavior, as well as teacher efficiency. Leveraging user-friendly ed tech platforms can help create an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.
4 Ed Tech Tools to Know
Below are four powerful ed tech tools — Canva, Notability, Remind, and Padlet—and how they can elevate classroom practices.
1. Canva: Save Time with Ready-Made Templates
Canva is a versatile design tool that creates engaging visual content. Whether it’s worksheets, flashcards, or presentations, Canva offers easy-to-use templates that save time. For collaborative projects, Canva’s shared workspace allows students to work together on infographics or graphic organizers. Additionally, its accessibility features, like high-contrast designs and large fonts, ensure that all learners can benefit.
How to Use Canva in the Classroom:
Create a timeline template for a history lesson
Design visually appealing infographics to summarize complex topics
Develop graphic organizers to help students categorize information
2. Notability: Annotate and Provide Quick Feedback
Notability is a game-changer for both teachers and students, offering tools to annotate PDFs, worksheets, or student work. It doubles as a digital whiteboard for interactive lessons, and its voice comment feature allows teachers to provide detailed, personalized feedback. By incorporating images and videos, educators can turn traditional assignments into dynamic, multimedia learning experiences.
How to Use Notability in the Classroom:
Annotate reading passages to highlight key points during a lesson
Record voice feedback on student essays to guide revisions
Create digital notes that students can access as study guides
3. Remind: Strengthen Communication with Parents
Remind connects teachers, students, and parents through text messages. From sending homework reminders to sharing important updates, Remind ensures everyone stays on the same page. The ability to text groups without sharing personal phone numbers adds a layer of convenience and security.
How to Use Remind in the Classroom:
Send weekly homework updates to students and parents
Share links to resources or announcements about upcoming events
Facilitate quick check-ins or provide motivational messages
4. Padlet: A Collaborative Digital Bulletin Board
Padlet offers a space where students can post images, videos, and links, fostering collaboration and creativity. Teachers can use Padlet to scaffold learning with guiding questions or prompts, creating a safe space for students to share their thoughts and ideas.
How to Use Padlet in the Classroom:
Set up a KWL (Know, Want to Know, Learned) board for new topics
Use it as a virtual exit ticket to assess student understanding
Create individual boards for students to track their learning journey
Integrating Ed Tech Tools
By integrating these ed tech tools, teachers can enhance classroom engagement, support diverse learning needs, and simplify their workflow. Start small, experiment with one platform, and remember, these tools can never replace your instruction.
We’ve included this Done-For-You PD: Tech Tools in the Classroom in this month’s subscription, or you can grab it on my TPE store.
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