Embracing Video Games

Video games can be used as a powerful classroom tool as long as they are used to enhance your learning objectives. Be sure to select games that align with the subject matter you are teaching, and develop skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, etc. Use these interactive learning experiences to help students connect their virtual experiences and their real-life experiences. Utilizing video games in the classroom requires an open mind and a willingness to be innovative with strategies that are unlike your traditional teaching methods.

Video Games for Enhanced Learning 

Some games are designed with educational content in mind while other strategic or multi-player games help learners make decisions or develop social skills. Here are a few video games you can use in the classroom to engage students.

Minecraft Education 

Minecraft’s education edition transforms the traditional block-based game into an interactive learning platform that engages students through building projects and challenges. This edition of Minecraft enables teachers to incorporate it into all subject areas of their curriculum (math, science, history). Throughout this game, students will apply their critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they work collaboratively with others to navigate their way through the quests together.

Civilization VI

Civilization VI is a strategy-based game where students build a civilization from scratch. It requires students to have a basic understanding of geography and money because they will need to spend their money for the greater good of society – think military, urban development, and public goods. Throughout the game, students will be engaged in historical, cultural, and geopolitical concepts while developing a variety of skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving.  

Valiant Hearts: The Great War

Valiant Hearts: The Great War can be used in the classroom as a great teaching tool because it blends historical facts with engaging storytelling and challenging puzzles for students to complete. Set in World War I, students will navigate their way through this comic-book-style video game and gain a deeper understanding of historical and global conflicts. As an adventure game, it offers a unique way to develop student’s emotional intelligence and empathy by learning historical facts through an engaging and interactive learning experience.

DragonBox Series

The Dragonbox series, developed by the educational company Kahoot, is a video game series that teaches and reinforces math concepts. This collection of games uses interactive puzzles and challenges to teach mathematical concepts ranging from basic arithmetic to multiplication, algebra, and geometric elements. By engaging students in this interactive learning experience, students gain a deep understanding of math concepts while developing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Kerbal Space Program

Kerbal Space Program is a physics-based space simulation game that teaches students about aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics. As students design, manage, and launch their own space missions they are learning skills and concepts that encourage critical thinking and decision-making. Students must consider real-world challenges as they complete missions and apply mathematical concepts to calculate successful missions. Students also learn the importance of planning, adapting, and persevering while engaging in gameplay.

Implementing Video Games 

Using video games as a teaching tool in the classroom requires some planning to ensure an optimal learning experience. Here are a few steps to ensure an enriching learning experience.

Identify Your Objectives

Planning starts by selecting games that align with your objectives. What do you want your students to get out of this video game? Once you have a clear purpose, it will help you narrow down which type of game you want your students to play.

Select Games

Games should be aligned with your objectives and should be age-appropriate. Research games suitable for all skill levels within your specific age range. First, look for games that have been developed with educational outcomes in mind. These games usually have resources for teachers that will help fit into your curriculum. If you can’t find any, then remember other games can still provide a valuable learning experience. Just look for games in a specific genre or subject area where skills of strategy or other skills can be applied.

Plan, Prepare, and Integrate Resources

Like any lesson plan, plan how your game will fit into the curriculum. Will it introduce a new concept or review an old one? Once you know this you can then prepare your resources such as gathering technology, installing software, creating user accounts, or familiarizing yourself with the game. Finally, you will introduce the game to students and discuss your objectives and expected outcomes, so students understand the purpose of playing as well as the expectations you have set.

Integrating video games into the classroom is a forward-thinking approach that can appeal to student interests. By carefully selecting games and balancing them with traditional teaching methods, you can enhance your students’ learning experience and create a classroom environment where students are engaged and captivated by innovative teaching methods.

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There’s no denying that technology is a powerful tool to have in the classroom, however, despite the numerous benefits, more people are realizing the importance of taking a step back and unplugging from technology. Taking a tech break offers relief to both teachers and students as well as promotes a classroom environment that engages interaction and supports various learning styles.

How a Tech Break Can Be Beneficial

Tech breaks can have a significant impact on both students and teachers. Here are a few of the benefits.

Increases Focus and Attention

Numerous studies have examined the impact that screen time has had on a child’s attention and concentration and have found that excessive screen time is associated with attention problems such as distracted focus and reduced concentration. A tech break allows students to adjust their focus and become more engaged in learning with material that is not on a screen.

Promotes Social Skills

While tech tools offer ways to connect with others it doesn’t offer the face-to-face interaction that you get when you are in front of someone. These types of interactions are crucial for developing social skills like learning social cues that are needed to interact with other humans. By stepping away from technology and encouraging direct communication, students will learn the interpersonal skills that are essential for them to navigate through life.

Reduces Anxiety

Studies have shown that depression, anxiety, aggression, eye strain, and memory problems are just a few of the health concerns that technology is responsible for. Yet, we continue to pick up our smartphones and use our digital devices each day. By unplugging we can help calm our students’ minds. Tech breaks can help alleviate digital fatigue, stress levels, and our overall well-being.

Stimulates Creativity

When you’re unsure about something, it’s convenient to simply “Google” it for a quick answer. However, without technology, you’re compelled to engage in critical thinking. Unplugging from technology forces students to be creative and think outside of the box, encouraging them to come up with ideas without relying on technology. This not only boosts their imagination but also their problem-solving skills.

Helps with Present-Moment Awareness

Technology can be distracting, the constant notifications on your phone can force you to react immediately. Unplugging can help students live in the moment. One study from Greater Good Berkeley found that when students went on a media fast they reported feeling present-moment awareness. They also used words such as mindfulness, presence, and sensory awareness to describe their experience without technology, indicating their ability to engage in the moment they are in without the distraction of technology.

Ways to Unplug From Classroom Tech

Implementing strategies to disconnect from digital tools offers an enriching educational experience. Here are three ideas on how to foster more human interaction.

Implement Tech-Free Zones

Create designated spaces throughout your school where technology is off-limits. For example, a specific place in the library where students can unplug and use traditional research methods with books. Specific classrooms such as the art room or music room where students are required to partake in hands-on learning.

During lunchtime, students will be forced to interact with one another instead of being on their smartphones. By implementing tech-free zones, you are supporting a variety of different learning experiences that will help contribute to a balanced educational experience that students will hopefully see the value of.

Take Learning Outdoors

Whenever feasible, take learning outside of the classroom. Outdoor education steps beyond traditional teaching methods and creates educational opportunities where students are in nature or other spaces that are not the classroom. Outdoor educational experiences take students away from their screens and give them real-world experiences where they can develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Nature walks, and field trips to museums or businesses offer engaging experiences where students can gain knowledge and skills that will enrich their education beyond using technology.

Integrate Project-Based Learning

Project-Based Learning (PBL) entails students actively exploring real-world issues and challenges through hands-on learning and experiments. This learning approach fosters an interactive, collaborative experience that doesn’t have to rely on technology. Through teamwork and experimentation, students learn from one another while developing essential skills that will prepare them for their future.

Utilize Creative Arts

Implementing the use of more creative arts is another way to unplug from technology. You are taking them away from screentime by having students engage in painting, drawing, theater, music, drama, or any art form that will help them express themselves. Allow students to explore their creative interests and get a break from the constant stimulation of technology. Not only will they benefit from creativity, but the break will also contribute to their personal well-being as well as promote a healthy balance between digital devices and hands-on learning experiences.

Finding a Balanced Approach

Unplugging from technology offers many benefits such as increased focus, present-moment awareness, more face-to-face interaction, and a calm mind. However, it’s also important to understand the value that it brings to education. The key is to find a balanced approach. To do this you may need to set tech guidelines for students to follow to ensure digital tools are being used to enhance learning and not distract students from learning. You may also create a classroom atmosphere where students understand the value of using tech tools and other traditional educational experiences.

Taking a tech break and unplugging from classroom technology does not dismiss the use of digital devices; it simply demonstrates the need for balance. By integrating tech breaks and showing students the value of digital and non-digital learning experiences, you are fostering an educational setting that equips students for any challenges in their lives.

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Learning Management Systems

Google Classroom, Schoology, and Moodle are all learning management systems that offer a centralized hub for both students and teachers. This is a place to manage coursework, share resources, and participate in discussions. Many LMS’s offer productivity tools within their platforms. For example, Google Classroom which is a widely favored LMS tech tool, integrates other Google tools such as Google Meet, Docs, Gmail, etc. into their LMS platform.

This makes it easy for students and teachers to interact, collaborate, and gain access to information all in one place. This streamlined educational experience is a game-changer for teachers because of all the time they are saving having everything all in one place. Students love it too because of its user-friendly interface and simplified learning experience.

Assessment Tools

Several edtech tools are designed to help teachers evaluate students’ progress and performance. Kahoot is one of the most popular tools because it’s a game-based learning platform that engages students through interactive games. Teachers create a fun learning game or access one from the library then add videos, images, or diagrams to engage students further. Student’s answers are saved, and teachers can use this information to gain insight into student knowledge or to help plan future lessons.

Another favorite edtech assessment tool is Quizizz, which is similar to Kahoot. This tech tool turns quizzes into games, provides instant feedback to students in real time, and gives teachers a detailed report on individual students and the overall class performance. One of its standout features, besides real-time analytics, is how it accommodates diverse learning styles so students can work at their own pace.

Short-form Video Content

Attention spans today are much shorter than they used to be, which is why many educators are choosing short-form videos to help explain the content or illustrate ideas to cater to these short attention spans. Flip (formally Flipgrid) is one of the most popular video discussion platforms.

The way it works is that the teacher creates a discussion prompt by using short video clips, then students respond with their own short video about the given topic. It’s a beneficial tool for less sociable students, too, because they can share their thoughts privately without the stress of speaking in front of others.

Another widely used platform is Edpuzzle, which allows teachers to customize video clips with interactive elements like questions, quizzes, voice notes, and audio notes to help actively engage students. It also provides real-time feedback which is beneficial for both students and teachers. Furthermore, it offers detailed analytics on student performance, making it a great edtech assessment tool. Both edtech tools cater to short-from video content and greatly enhance students’ learning experience.

Artificial Intelligence

AI can be a powerful tech tool in the classroom and is gaining popularity by the day because of its ability to personalize students’ learning experiences. One notable AI edtech tool is ChatGPT, which says it’s “shaping the future of technology.” Educators are utilizing this tool to assist in the development of their lesson planning by helping to create or refine their plans to be tailored to each student’s specific needs and abilities.

Meanwhile, students use this tool to clarify topics or provide supplementary information. Additionally, the platform’s new ability to see, hear, and speak is helping students learn new information in an instant making it the most frequently used app.

Other AI tools that have gained popularity are Magicschool.AI, a well-liked lesson plan assistant, and Gradscope, a favored AI-assisted grading tool. Both of these edtech tools are making it easier for teachers to do their job so they can focus more on their students.

Collaboration Tools

Collaboration is an essential component in every classroom and can help empower students and deepen learning. One collaborative platform that should be added to your teacher toolkit is the widely favored Google Classroom. Google Classroom isn’t just one of the best learning management systems because of its centralized hub, it’s also highly popular because of its collaborative platform.

Some key collaborative features include the real-time sharing of documents, discussion boards where students can share thoughts and ask questions, announcements and notifications, collaborative grading, an integrated calendar, and parental involvement where parents receive updates.

Another reputable collaborative platform is Microsoft Education, specifically Microsoft Teams which is a central hub for communication and collaboration among teachers and students. This is where both students and teachers can communicate through chat or virtual meetings. Additionally, Microsoft Office applications are integrated (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) enabling multiple users to collaborate on the same document and work together on assignments in real-time. Both Google and Microsoft offer an interactive, collaborative work environment that makes it easy to communicate.

The integration of Edtech tools in the classroom has become an integral part of education. From learning management systems to collaborative tools to using artificial intelligence, today’s technology is constantly evolving and adapting to cater to the needs of both teachers and students. Embracing these new technologies opens up endless possibilities for future generations.  

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Be Aware of Privacy Concerns

Before you introduce the popular theatrical platform of TikTok into your classroom, you must first be aware of the privacy concerns. Speak with your students and go over the appropriate privacy settings for your specific age group. Make students aware of how to protect their data and share with them why it’s important as well. TikTok’s privacy options make it possible that outsiders are unable to see uploaded content or leave unsolicited messages or comments on videos that students share, just as long as they have it set to the right settings. To avoid any privacy pitfalls, it’s also wise to get permission from parents. While you can’t always prevent the misuse of social media, you can make students aware of privacy issues and what can happen if they break the rules.

5 Ways to Use TikTok in the Classroom

Here are a few ways to harness your students’ creativity and increase engagement in the classroom using TikTok.

To Explain Concepts

Imagine if students had unlimited access to a video version of the most important points of a lesson. Now, with the TikTok app, they can! When students are learning a concept in the classroom and trying to take notes, they can easily become distracted by what’s around them. However, when teachers use TikTok to create short videos to explain concepts or highlight key points of a lesson, students can watch them again and again without the distraction of trying to capture every word the teacher is saying while taking notes.

TikTok can also be used to help students explain the content they are learning. For example, students can compare and contrast concepts learned. First students are presented with a lesson; then they are instructed to take the information learned and create a TikTok comparing and contrasting the information. Students love it because they get to use TikTok in the classroom and the teacher loves it because they know the students are engaged while learning.

To Generate School Awareness

TikTok can be used schoolwide to generate school awareness and pique the interest of students and their peers. For example, you can set up a channel for your school district and allow your students to be “influencers” and produce videos that will help students in each surrounding school become aware of what’s going on in each school. You can help spur students’ creativity by encouraging students to create videos about upcoming sporting events, dances, or other school events. Or you can even challenge students to spread a message about what’s happening in the community or to partake in TikTok challenges where different schools in the district compete with one another.

To Showcase a Final Project

TikTok can be used like other applications to showcase a students’ final project. Instead of using other apps like iMovie or Google Docs, students can use TikTok to create a video of their project. If you search the hashtag #finalproject on TikTok, you’ll see over one million videos of students’ showcasing their projects.

Another way to showcase a final project is to use TikTok as the final project. Separate students into small groups and have students decide on what their TikTok video is going to be about. Make sure that each group’s topic and title is relevant to your requirements. Next, have students decide which roles the participants will play (characters, filming, writing the script, etc.). Then, instruct students to write a detailed, organized script of their video they can turn in, in addition to creating the actual video.

To Teach a Lesson

TikTok lesson plans are now gaining steam, especially with history educators because theatrical history videos on going viral on TikTok. Students are taking information learned in class and sharing the knowledge by creating theatrical 15-second clips. While the videos only show the key points of a concept, history teachers are thrilled that students are using their knowledge to share with their peers.

To create a TikTok lesson plan, it can look something like this: students would watch a short video or review information already learned, then watch relevant TikToks of the same concept. Next, students would create a video based on information learned.

For Student Activism

TikTok has allowed students access to speak up on issues that they feel passionate about, such as climate change, politics, school safety, inequality, and discrimination. Young people are changing the world and becoming part of a movement by simply creating and sharing short video clips of issues that matter to them. Classroom teachers can help empower their students by allowing them to speak up on the issues that are important by creating TikTok videos in the classroom. These videos can be shared within the classroom or school to help spread a positive message that is relevant to other young people their age.

TikTok is certainly an entertaining and engaging app. By incorporating TikTok into your classroom, you can capture the TikTok excitement while still incorporating educational value.

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Google workspace is not only your email, your contact storage, your digital calendar, your documents/forms/slides/sheets, but it now includes a feature many teachers are turning to to aid in their instruction: Google Jamboard. Google Jamboard is helping teachers engage learners, more easily collaborate with other teachers, and make in-person or distance learning more interactive and exciting. What is Google Jamboard, what is it appropriate to use for during instruction, and how can educators use it in their classrooms?

What is Google Jamboard?

Many educators are familiar with digital whiteboards (think SMARTboard). Their interactive whiteboard features help make lessons more interactive and engaging. However, many teachers have yet to be introduced to the newest interactive whiteboard buzz, Google Jamboard.

Jamboard is a cloud-based digital whiteboard that was designed by Google several years ago. It features many of the components that other digital whiteboard users find so desirable: fun pens, image embedding, background changes, and the ability to design a lesson or display information for students that can then be manipulated and help to better engage the learner. Google Jamboard can be purchased with a 55” 4k touchscreen display that is then mounted to the wall or configured into a stand. Or, it can be used, free of charge, even without the physical jamboard. Did someone say free?

While similar to other older interactive whiteboards, Google Jamboard has features that haven’t been used with a digital whiteboard before. Because of its connection with the cloud, Jamboards are continuously being saved as users are working on them. With this, there is no fear of losing your lesson or student work if a fire drill erupts or your desktop crashes.

Additionally, teachers can share the link to the Jamboard they are displaying and students can login to it from their devices. With the shared link, students can now work simultaneously on one board (think independent work time, with a shared space and shared goal in mind). Jamboards are able to be downloaded as a PDF or image file. There is a simple but genius laser tool, which helps teachers direct students’ attention to key details on the board. Unfortunately there is no ability to embed videos just yet, but with the Google extension GIFY, you can pretty much cover your bases.

Last but certainly not least when it comes to stand out Google Jamboard features are the sticky notes. The sticky notes are one of the elements that teachers are using the most to make the Jamboard engaging for all learners. So how exactly can educators use Jamobard in their classrooms? Below are some basic ways followed by more specific lessons that incorporate this latest digital whiteboard.

What is Google Jamboard Appropriate For?

Google Jamboard is appropriate for many uses in the classroom. Teachers can display information on a screen (remember, one doesn’t need the actual Jamboard, a simple space to project or screen mirroring works just fine) for students to view. Teachers who are teaching in person may use the Jamboard to guide their lessons. They can prepare a board ahead of time and use it during their whole group instruction.

With the easy sharing features, teachers can collaborate on one Jamboard or easily share the board they’ve created with fellow educators. What is even more exciting about Jamboard, is that there are hundreds of Jamboard templates already made and available for anyone to make a copy of and use. From brainstorming boards to morning meeting games to math templates, there is no reason to reinvent the wheel if you don’t want to.

With the variety of ways educators are instructing this year, Google Jamboard has something for every model of learning, not just in person. By screen sharing during a Zoom meeting, teachers can more deeply engage students by using a Jamboard. Additionally, teachers can share the link in their Zoom chat and students can join the board, simply to view it or to collaborate on it.

With less work for teachers, a more engaging format for students, and with no price tag for educators with already strapped pockets, Google Jamboard is yet another Google tool moving to the top of educators’ toolboxes. Continue reading for more specific examples of how educators can use Jamboard in the classroom.

Ways to Use Google Jamboard in Your Class

Morning Greetings

When students walk (or sign) into their classroom, they are typically greeted with some type of morning message. Google Jamboard can make this more interactive. Share the link to the jamboard in the chat or send it to students ahead of time. Ask them to use the sticky notes to write one thing they did over the weekend. Use Google Image search to find an emotion of how you are feeling this morning. Or, for younger learners, pose a question on the screen and have students draw a check mark or smiley face for their answer (Do you like dogs or cats? Do you prefer summer or winter?). Or, just simply type your message on the Jamboard for only you to edit, but for students to see while you screen share. The most basic use during morning meetings can still be very exciting, especially if you use some GIFY images or a fun pen.

Brainstorming

For any sort of brainstorming activity, Jamboard is an incredibly interactive way to get all students participating. Have students use the sticky note feature to write down what they predict the story will be about. Make an interactive KWL chart and have students pick a category to add what they know, what they want to know, or what they’ve already learned. When sharing students’ predictions, don’t forget the laser tool helps you zone in on specific parts of the Jamboard. Because the Jamboards automatically save, you can refer back to them at the end of the book to see how many students predicted correctly.

Grammar

The English language is not known to be one of the easiest to learn. It can be nothing short of dry to teach and students can be less than enthusiastic to complete their work. With the help of Jamboard, students may perk up when you say it’s D.O.L time. Use the shapes as highlighters to point out different parts of sentences. You can set the fill color to transparent and make the border colors different to stand for different things. Students can then move them around to highlight the nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.

Younger students can highlight specific letters they are using (“Find all the A’s” or “Find all the vowels”). Teachers can also take a picture of a text (a passage or part of an article). They can then have students annotate it by dragging the shapes over key parts they want to acknowledge. If this is a bit too much to digest at your first take with Jamboard, there is still the simple highlighter tool that can get the same point across.

Math

Jamboards are a great compliment to math instruction as well. If students are learning about data, you can take a class survey. Convert that survey into a chart. Have students insert their own Google images to show their answers, or build their chart simultaneously in a small group. Split the students up onto different pages of the Jamboard as they work together to design their chart. Or, create multiple Jamboards and share those different links with each small group. Come back together as a whole class and share your teacher screen as a way to showcase student work.

Another way to use Google Jamboard during math is with story problems. Have students highlight the key words they need to pay attention to (e.g. in all, altogether, fewer). Have a student volunteer to answer a question, and all students can watch them work through the problem while they use the whiteboard pens. Additionally, using the Jamboard to practice patterns is a fun and exciting way for younger students to engage in a new way too. And for older students? What can be more fun than creating a growing or repeating pattern using GIFs?

Since the beginning of Google, more and more ways are being created to make living and learning easier. Google Jamboard is one of those ways. Jamboard helps teachers engage their learners, it gives educators a way to more easily collaborate together, and it makes in-person and distance learning more interactive. Like many Google tools, once you start using Jamboard, you may just never stop.

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This is a very broad question and covers many aspects of education; however, let’s start with this frame of mind: what can we use in the classroom and with students that will make teaching and learning easier for the student and at times more convenient for the teacher? I would say anything that accomplishes this goal is assistive technology.

Assistive technology is also often defined as any item, equipment, or product system obtained off the shelf or modified or customized that can be used to maintain, increase, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

I would go a step further and add “and help any student.” Although much the discussion with assistive technology will focus on special education, all students can benefit from many of these tools.

Types of Assistive Technology

As you would expect from the definition of assistive technology, the types of assistive technology is broad also and range from very high tech devices to simpler technology. Below we will look at some more specific details, but assistive technology runs the gamut from seat cushions to stress balls, from audio players to timers, reading guides to graphic organizers.

If you follow the example in the evolution of technology that the pencil at one point was groundbreaking technology, then at one point the pencil was a groundbreaking assistive technology.

Assistive Technology for Modern Learning Environments

Let’s take a look at different examples of assistive technology and how they can be used in the modern learning environment.

Audio Players and Recorders

This is a home run in many different aspects but primarily in special education. This one is not rocket science, but think of the students with visual impairments and how we can level the educational playing field for these students.

For our 504 students and special education students who need oral administration of tests, a teacher can record their tests and play them back. I believe one added benefit of this is hearing the same vocabulary, tone, and pacing from a teacher on the test that they heard when it was first discussed with them.

Beyond that, for all students, if a teacher records their lectures and lessons and then places them on their website, Google Classroom, or canvas for all students to access later, they are just making homework or studying easier for all students.

This year, there are two teachers on my campus that are using the microphone and speakers through their projector in their classroom so that students can hear them better through their mask.

Writing Supports

Another home run in the special education department is in the area of writing support. First, voice-to-text and text-to-speech software has come a long way and is still getting better and better, just ask Siri. Much like audio players and recorders, there is a large number of students who can now participate that could not before with this technology.

Many of the speech recognition softwares are compatible with smartphones and tablets so students are not tied to a computer but can move around the classroom and school with this technology. The school I was at last year had a student who used his iPad to communicate what he wanted to do and where he wanted to go.

Word prediction software can help students think through what they are writing and help with their spelling and grammar at times. Not to mention the software we use every day in word processing that helps us with our spelling and grammar. My senior English teacher would be amazed at my spelling now…thanks to assistive technology.

Finally, here is a low tech writing support: graphic organizers. Take a writing utensil and a blank sheet of paper and a student can be taught how to organize their thoughts before they write. There are so many different ways this can be used from outlining to bubble maps, etc. There is software out there that can pre-design these for students and then add their content to the organizers. In the state where I am a principal, Texas, some students who qualify can use blank graphic organizers on their standardized tests.

Items that can Help Focus

Since the definition is so broad for assistive technology, I wanted to touch on this aspect of it. There are students that need help focusing on what is happening in class.

In my research for the article, timers came up often as an example for assistive technology. There are many ways this works. A teacher can use a timer to help manage the classroom not only from a classroom management standpoint but also as a pacing tool.

Stress balls or items that can be held in students’ hands while they work or listen was another item that came up. One of my earliest professional developments was on “How to Handle the Hard-to-Handle Student”. They talked extensively about ADHD and ADD students and how often if they just can fidget with something in their hand while working or listening, their focus goes up exponentially. From experience I have seen this work; it certainly assisted me in teaching, the student in learning, and then the entire class overall.

The Bottom Line…

There are many forms of assistive technology out there, high tech vs. low tech, ones that focus more on special needs and others that focus on convenience. What matters in the end is whether or not you achieve the desired outcome with the assistive technology. Is the student learning and growing with what you are using? If the answer is no, move on to the next possible answer and find something that works.

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Why Screen Time is Important in the Classroom

It’s important to understand the difference between “screen time” spent playing video games and scrolling TikTok and “educational screen time” where students are learning. When screen time is used for educational purposes, it can positively impact a child’s development and can enhance their learning as long as it’s not excessive, says an updated 2023 review on the Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Child Development.

How much technology you use in the classroom should depend upon the age of the students and the purpose of the screen use. Screen time can have many benefits and help learners complete tasks they may have not been able to if not using technology, such as the ability to adapt to students’ individual needs and learning styles. It also can provide an engaging learning experience that captures student’s attention, which can lead to an increase in understanding and retention. In addition, screen time exposes students to technology they may need in their future careers. Becoming familiar with these digital tools now will only help prepare them for their future.

Rules About Screen Time Usage in the Classroom

There’s no denying that students are using their smartphones in the classroom, even if it’s against school policy. According to research conducted by Common Sense Media students on average use their smartphones for 43 minutes a day during school hours and pick up their phones about 72-500 times per day. In addition to the permitted screen time allocated in the classroom, incorporating this may result in an excessive amount of screen exposure.

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, too much screen time can cause sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, attention issues, and obesity. With this increase in screen time, it’s necessary to establish rules and guidelines for students to adhere to while in the classroom. Here are a few ideas on how to guide students on appropriate screen time usage in the classroom.

• Distinguish between active and passive screen time. Active screen time involves educational engagement, leading to positive effects, whereas passive screen time revolves around entertainment, potentially resulting in adverse effects.
• Clearly communicate your expectations about technology to help foster a positive learning environment.
• Implement time limits to prevent overexposure to screens.
• Only use technology as a tool to enhance instruction, not to replace instruction.
• Educate students about responsible choices with their screen time to help them develop self-regulation skills.

Alternative Teaching Styles that Do Not Use Technology

Technology can be a powerful and valuable tool to use in the classroom. However, there are alternative teaching methods that do not rely on technology. Here are a few teaching styles that emphasize hands-on learning, collaboration, or creative expression.

Cooperative Learning

Cooperative learning is a structured teaching strategy where students work together in a group and participate equally to complete a task. This alternative teaching style fosters teamwork, communication, and social skills without relying on technology. Educators like using this teaching method because it tends to boost student motivation and participation.

Project-Based Learning

Project-based learning or PBL is a student-centered, teacher-facilitated learning method where students work on a project over an extended time. It involves students actively engaging in a complex and authentic real-world problem or challenge. This approach builds 21st-century skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving skills without heavily relying on technology.

Montessori Method

The Montessori method is a self-directed hands-on approach to learning where students are encouraged to work at their own pace. Learning practical life skills and understanding different cultures are integral to this method of learning. Social development is also a fundamental aspect of this approach as well as the freedom for students to choose their own activities.

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning can serve as an alternative to using technology in the classroom because instead of using digital tools, this approach relies on hands-on learning and as well as using real-world experiences. Through active participation, collaboration, and personalized learning, students cultivate a love for learning without the need for screens.

Traditional Teaching Methods

Traditional methods that have been employed for decades, such as lectures, class discussions, group activities, non-digital games, chalkboard instruction, using textbooks or novels, role-playing, and using visual aids, continue to be an effective way to convey information and deepen understanding of concepts.

While technology can provide students with engaging and meaningful learning experiences, educators need to be in the know about screen time. It’s essential to be conscious about your media choices to ensure you’re using screen time purposefully and only to enhance student learning, not replace it. By establishing guidelines for your students and yourself to follow when using digital tools, you can make screen time a positive learning experience for students.

Educational Resources for Both School and Home

Here are a few resources to help reinforce screen time balance at both school and home.

Digital Learning Contract

Students can sign a digital learning agreement to pledge to be a responsible and respectful digital learner. Here are a few contracts from Common Sense Media.

• Digital Learning Pledge for Grades K-5
• Digital Learning Pledge for Grades 6-12
• Digital Learning Pledge for Home

Resources for Educators

• Digital Citizenship Curriculum
• Free multimedia curriculum materials from The Media Education Lab
• Screen Time & Activity Finding the Balance
• Children and Screens: Interdisciplinary research and essential information on digital media and child development

Resources for Parents

• Create a Family Media Plan
• Screen time guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics
• Screen Free Parenting
• Beyond Screen Time: Help Your Kids Build Healthy Media Use Habits

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Extend Your Learning Through Educational Hashtags

Teachers are lifelong learners, and a simple way to extend your learning is through hashtags. Hashtags are an easy way to find relevant information related to education. You can search for posts, people, places, and even tags (general or specific information). When you search a hashtag, pictures that have been tagged with that specific topic will come up under your search bar. For example, a popular hashtag among teachers is #teachersofinstagram. Whether you are looking for classroom lesson plan ideas or just want to see photos of seating arrangements for your classroom, you can find it by simply searching the hashtag. Here are a few more popular hashtags teachers love:

• #classroomorganization
• #instagramteachers
• #classroomideas
• #classroommanagement
• #teacherinspiration
• #teacherspayteachers

Share Student Work

Another effective way teachers can use Instagram is to share their ideas. That amazing lesson plan on mammals that you came up can be shared with the world with just a tap of your finger. Now teachers from across the world can see your amazing ideas and use them too.

Connect with Other Educators

Another great benefit of using Instagram is the ability to connect with other educators. Connecting with other teachers is a great way to get new ideas, and it doesn’t hurt to meet a few new people as well. Many teachers of Instagram have connected with complete strangers who also share the same passion for teaching as they do. Others have found lifelong friendships with teachers who teach the same subject or same grade.

To find some educators that you can connect with, all you have to do is search the people or tags section of Instagram. For example, if you teach 6th grade and want to connect to other teachers in that grade, then all you have to do is go under the search option and type in “6th grade teacher.” You should also edit your profile so that others can find you. You can do this by adding what grade level you teach and any other relevant information about yourself in your profile bio. When you do this, it makes it easier for teachers who share the same interests as you to find you.

Access Teacher Resources

One of the most effective ways you can use Instagram is to create a collection of your favorite teacher resources that you find on Instagram. All you have to do is save your favorite photos, and you can create a collection and name it anything that you want. For example, you can have a collection of “teaching tips” photos or “organization” photos, and so on.

Instagram is a great resource for teachers, because it allows you to not only meet and connect with other people just like you, but it can help you find teaching ideas right from the comfort of your own home. You are essentially getting free professional development with the ability to collaborate and share with others.

Teach Students About Themes, Books, and Poetry

Teaching the concept of “themes” to students can be tricky. One way to get students engaged is to have them analyze the accounts of famous people, places, or businesses for “themes.” One industry that does a great job of constructing marketing “themes” is retail, such as clothing brands. Have students compare two recognizable brands, such as TJ Maxx and Gucci, and have them discuss the differences in the “story” each brand is telling. While both brands are selling the same thing—clothes—they tell very different stories.

Another great way to utilize Instagram in the classroom is to have students explore poetry and books through the platform. There are many “Instapoetry” accounts that have bite-sized poems students can analyze. They can ever try their own hand at writing “instapoetry” and compare their work with their peers. Instagram is also a great place for “book talk.” You can use Instagram to book talk using images or short videos for a digital twist. Try a fun assignment with your students where they create their own “book talk” post and share with their classmates each time they complete a novel.

Instagram can be a fantastic resource for teachers. From networking to resource sharing to classroom strategies and activities, the possibilities are endless. All you have to do is get creative!

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Educators are witnessing firsthand the benefits of technology in the classroom and recognize the importance of developing these technological skills in students because they have become so essential for their future careers.

The impact that technology has had on today’s schools has been quite significant. This widespread adoption of technology has completely changed how teachers teach and students learn. Teachers are learning how to adapt to emerging technologies while students are using advanced technology to enhance their learning experience. By embracing and integrating technology in the classroom, we are setting our students up for a successful life beyond the school environment.

Technology Enhances Classroom Engagement

Using technology can make learning more enjoyable. A 2023 study discovered that technology not only makes learning more fun and engaging for students, but also encourages them to invest more effort in their studies as time goes on. Even subjects that students deem challenging or boring can become more interesting with virtual lessons, through a video, or when using a tablet. Using this approach can also help students learn complex concepts more enjoyably.

Technology Prepares Students for the Digital World

Integrating and using technology in the classroom will help prepare students for the digital future. It has become essential to master 21st-century skills to be successful in this day and age. Jobs that may not have had a digital component in the past are more likely to have one now. Education goes beyond memorizing facts and vocabulary words, it’s about solving complex problems and being able to collaborate with others in the workforce. Incorporating educational technology into the classroom will help prepare students to thrive in an ever-evolving world filled with obstacles and challenges. This approach will ensure that students are equipped with the skills necessary to face these challenges and navigate their way through college and their future careers.

Technology Helps Personalize Learning Experiences

One of the many benefits of using technology in the classroom is its ability to support personalized learning. Many platforms and applications accommodate different learning styles and abilities, making it easy for students to work at their own pace on a level that is unique to their needs. It also enables educators the ability to tailor their lessons to meet the diverse needs of all of their students. This approach is great for teachers because it gives them the time to work individually with students who may be struggling. Utilizing technology in this way ensures that all students have the opportunity to thrive and succeed. It also helps to foster a learning environment that builds student confidence.

Technology Connects with Students

Technology occupies an important role in students’ daily lives, influencing just about everything they do outside of the classroom. By integrating technology, teachers are changing the way they used to teach, such as moving away from lectures and rote memorization and moving on to interactive approaches such as using Smartboards and laptops. This shift in utilizing technology aligns more with students inclinations as well as equips them with the tools they need to succeed in the 21^st century.

Technology Increases Access to Information

The internet has expanded accessible resources for both teachers and students, making it increasingly easy to find information on virtually any subject. With just a few clicks, anyone can increase their knowledge or stimulate their curiosity on any topic. This easy access to information encourages students to become self-directed learners. It also allows teachers to use a variety of multimedia resources to tailor their lessons and accommodate different learning styles. This access to information can help to enhance student learning as well as deliver a more engaging learning experience for students.

Technology Boosts Collaboration Among Students

Integrating technology into the classroom can create an engaging learning environment that enhances collaboration among students. Educational platforms such as Google Classroom allow students to work together in real-time through shared documents and discussion forums. Students can work together virtually and share ideas or give and receive feedback. Applications such as Flip allow students to interact in a fun and engaging way by recording and sharing short videos. This helps to spark conversation among students in a fun way and is a great tool for less sociable students who don’t feel comfortable interacting with their peers in person. Using technology as a collaborative tool can help enrich students’ learning experience and prepare them with the interpersonal and technical skills they need to succeed in the future.

Technology Helps Students Connect with the Wider World

Technology allows students to connect with the global community. Through video conferencing, digital group projects, and online forums and chats, students can learn from others from across the globe, unlike in a traditional classroom setting. These global connections allow students to see other perspectives, understand different cultures, and learn to communicate with others. This way of learning can be a very enriching experience and prepare students to work with others from all over the world in the future.

Technology changes by the minute, and as educators, it’s critical to keep up with the times in order to best prepare our students for the constant shift in technology. Although integrating technology into the classroom has its benefits, it’s important to note that traditional learning processes are just as essential. Take time to understand every aspect of educational technology that you will incorporate into your classroom. By doing so, you will find that technology can have a profound impact on students’ learning experiences.

*Updated in February 2024

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Virtual Reality

I would count this one as having some of the greatest impact in the classroom once it can be implemented in a sound financial way. Remember, this educator of 19 years believes nothing can replace true hands-on teaching, but virtual reality has got to be the next best option out there, especially for many of our students who never have been more than 20 miles from their home.

Imagine a class of 25 students having their different virtual reality glasses on. Now take this class through a museum in Cairo so that they could learn about the ancient Egyptians. Next let’s take an elementary class on a journey from Mars, through the asteroid belt, and then look at Jupiter’s red spot. Then let’s finish with our Anatomy class and the virtual dissection of an eye or practice open heart surgery.

The places that virtual reality can take students and give them essentially a hands-on experience are really endless and basically held back by programs that have not yet been developed and the economic crossroads of affordability and accessibility.

LCD Video Boards

Let’s take the most powerful smartboard you can think of and double and triple its capability. Some of the latest LCD video boards do all the amazing things smart boards can do; show your screen, be written on, act like a touch screen, save what you write on the board, etc. But with LCD video boards take the power of your television and combine that with your smartboard.

Right now this technology runs higher than most smartboards, but once this price point comes down some as the technology develops, the interactive options with students will increase.

Many threads on this topic discuss that video boards are more versatile in that once the projector and smart board are set, so are the teaching patterns. The video board is mobile and the front of the room can be anywhere. The video displays are much better and the combination of video and presentations is much smoother on the video boards.

This is a great example of how one technology is improving and becoming more versatile in the classroom. Versatility is something all teachers love!

Flipped Classroom

Yes, this is more of an instructional strategy, but it involves using technology as the delivery method for the class. So let’s take a quick break from the actual technology and talk instructional delivery.

In the past few years, I have had many teachers talk about this, but the frontloading process sometimes scares some teachers away. A flipped classroom is where the teacher has prepared the lesson to be viewed, watched, or studied outside the classroom, and when students come the next day or to the next class, they come ready for questions or clarifications that need to be made on the work done previously.

As an administrator for nine years now, I believe this had to be done at the right time of the year, with the right teacher, and with the right students…then it can expand.

Imagine for a minute students the night before watching the video on how to do an assignment from the unit on algebraic expressions, then they practice with a couple of problems at home. The next day the teacher can check their work, help them through mistakes that took place, and then prepare them for the next lesson and what they will study next.

The class is flipped to the students doing the work more and the teacher is more a facilitator of learning. The teacher has to do a lot of legwork to make the lesson understandable remotely and then they can refine that work in the classroom. This is a great example of how technology and instruction can work very well together.

Student Response Systems

I would consider this as emerging because the technology systems to use them in the classroom are not widespread, but most campuses I am familiar with have a set or two available.

Students can sit at their desk and instantly answer questions the teacher has prepared. Picture a teacher doing a review with multiple choice answers. Then the teacher can instantly see how answers are correct or incorrect and know whether or not the students understand the concept or not. This is a great assessment tool made easier with technology.

At my school, cell phones are not allowed out at all; however, if you are at a place that allows them out for instructional purposes, there are ways to do this with cell phones.

Other forms of this using computers for student responses are on a website like Kahoot, where students join a game and the teacher can see the entire class results instantly. Student response systems usually allow the teacher to see more individual responses as well, but the instant assessment factor works in both situations.

Flexible Displays

This one kind of blew my mind! Picture a tablet that is so thin and flexible that a student can fold it up or roll it up and still write on it and save their notes.

Beyond the ability to save their notes, I am not sure what all the benefits are for this; I guess that is why it is considered an emerging technology, but I would say this fits in the ‘wow, how cool is that’ category!

Remember, in the end with technology, it is a tool for instruction. If a person does not know how to use a hammer properly, the hammer will be an ineffective tool. Thus is the same for technology when it comes to instruction. Teachers still have to know how to effectively leverage the technology to get the maximum learning possible for their students.

Where technology and instruction merge seamlessly, amazing things can happen in the classroom, and who knows where that intersection will occur next.

*Updated April 2021

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