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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Boddle is an educational math game that targets students in kindergarten through sixth grade. It is tailored to meet student needs individually, providing practice and assessments that target specific areas while integrating gaming into math instruction. Boddle is a great supplemental tool to use during math instruction to provide differentiated instruction, assist in small group work, help in closing learning gaps, and enhance student engagement.

Why is Boddle Effective for Math Instruction?

As educators are in a current battle with the learning loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial to identify gaps in learning and provide supports to fill them. Math has taken a significant hit throughout the pandemic, in part due to the lack of in-person instruction and the ability for teachers to check and provide feedback in real time for students.

Boddle provides a Learning Gaps Report that helps identify skills that teachers need to focus on in their lessons which, in turn, makes the lessons more effective. This report can also assist teachers in forming small groups and targeting students that need more support. The report can also help teachers prepare for conferences and have data to show parents about students and their strengths and weaknesses.

Boddle is aligned to state standards, so it is a great tool to supplement in the math classroom. The main concern I hear teachers speak about is time: time to plan, teach, assess, differentiate, provide interventions, etc. With a program that can simplify the differentiation process, it is more likely that teachers will use it, and continue to use it, consistently. This will increase results and have a more positive impact on student achievement.

Ways to Enhance Math Instruction Using Boddle

Small-Group Rotations

Boddle is a great way to enhance small group work in your math classroom. It can be used as a reinforcement tool that will level the work for your students. With all the demands being placed on teachers, it is hard to find work each day that will meet each student’s individual needs, but with a program such as this one, it does the work for you and can target students’ specific learning needs. Boddle is also fun for the students, so it can be the math center they are looking forward to most when doing classroom activities.

Homework

Though homework is being somewhat phased out in different school districts, this can be effective if you keep students motivated about using the program. Students get out what they put into something, so keep your motivated students moving and challenged. This is a great way to keep pushing your students to be the best they can be and provide an effective means to keep the learning going on in any environment.

Remote Learning

As we have students working through quarantine and being sick with the COVID-19 virus, Boddle is a great way to keep students working at home engaged in math. As a teacher, you can give students assignments that provide targeted practice with customized questions. This allows teachers to take into account various situations students face and will help not overwhelm (or underwhelm) them with work which can help to address gaps in learning remotely.

Another great feature of Boddle is the ability to monitor students as they work in remote locations. It shows the students working, the skills being practiced, and the length of time students have worked on each question.

Increase Student Engagement

Many students enjoy video games, so Boddle is a great way to incorporate this into your math lessons. Not only is it a game, but it is also an assessment tool, collecting data as the students use the program. Finding ways to make learning fun can be challenging, and using gaming can be one way to meet that challenge. Keeping students actively interested in learning is a great way to meet their needs better. Students can relate games to real life, so it can feel like less of a chore completing the “fun” math assignments.

Technology Factor

Boddle is a great way to incorporate technology into your classroom. Although we have had quite an experience over the past year and a half with learning using technology, as we transition back into a more traditional learning model, and more “paper and pencil” in math students can look forward to learning through gaming using Boddle.

While the traditional methods can be used to teach whole group and guided instruction, Boddle can supplement and provide interventions, re-teach, and even enrich students on a Chromebook, iPad, etc. Students in grades kindergarten through sixth grade have grown up learning while using technology. As it is used actively in day-to-day activities, jobs, learning, etc., it is a great way to have students focus on being more prepared for the real world.

In all, it has been a wild ride since March 2020 for students, educators, and parents alike. The common goal pre-pandemic and during the pandemic is always to keep students learning, engaged, and motivated. Boddle is a great math program that is appealing to students, but it provides much information to the teachers about how to best meet students’ individual needs. Using it as a supplement to your math instruction can give students an extra push to be their best!

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Flipgrid is a web-based digital tool to help students connect in virtual classrooms and engage with content more deeply. It can also be used in face-to-face classrooms to increase collaboration. Students can record videos of their work, presentations, or projects to share with their peers. They are then able to post a video response in Flipgrid under originally posted videos.

Flipgrid can also be integrated into existing online school management systems such as Schoology, Canvas, or Google Classroom to supplement blending learning practices in school districts across the country. Teachers can post assignments using Flipgrid and ensure that all students have the opportunities to engage with content and their peers. This is especially helpful for those students who may be introverts and struggle with presentations or interacting with peers.

Fresh Ideas for Using Flipgrid

Flipgrid can be used for to present student projects, daily assignments, or research studies by posting videos of their presentations for peers to respond to.

Classroom Discussions

Flipgrid can also be used to host classroom discussions about historical and current events and to address students’ social-emotional needs. This approach can help educators and students better manage conversations with students regarding cultural sensitivity. However, it’s important also to ensure all instructional content is aligned to state standards and the school district’s curriculum to prevent unwanted controversy.

Formative Assessments

Flipgrid can also be used for formative assessments. The data allows teachers to gauge their students’ level of understanding of learning standards. Formative assessment data from Flipgrid can be used to determine the timeframes for reteaching and reassessments. The data can also be used to adjust instruction for students.

Integrating self and peer assessments with Flipgrid in content areas allows students to provide each other or themselves with feedback that promotes student ownership of learning. Students can then use the data to set goals to work towards their overall academic achievement, and teachers can formulate small group instruction sessions and host parent conferences to meet the needs of their students better.

Enhancing Instructional Delivery

Bartlett (2018) acknowledged that Flipgrid increases students’ connectedness in virtual classes by helping students feel more comfortable when engaging with peers in an online setting. Flipgrid can also increase accountable talk amongst students and allow teachers to collect observational data to inform instruction better. Content from Flipgrid can be used to design lessons that enhance students’ learning and expand their depth of knowledge of concepts. The use of Flipgrid can also enhance the language development of English language learners (ELLs). The more opportunities students have to speak and converse with peers, the better chances they have of performing well on district and state assessments regarding speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

At-risk and special education students would also benefit from using Flipgrid to help them articulate their thoughts and ideas, especially if they struggle with writing or have deficits in reading and responding to grade-level content. The use of technology as an accommodation would greatly benefit students needing scaffolded support from their teachers.

Flipgrid affords educators the ability to differentiate instruction for all students. Using the tool in small group instruction, learning stations, and working independently would be beneficial to students at various levels. Also, allowing students to work at their own pace would foster a sense of ownership and pride upon completing tasks.

Boosting Student Achievement

Flipgrid allows for student achievement to be enriched when students have the opportunity to learn in ways that deeply engage them during instruction (Alaniz & Wilson, 2019). Also, students’ communication and interpersonal skills improve when using interactive tools such as Flipgrid (Lee, 2020). Language skills are further developed, and students are more likely to feel comfortable with public speaking skills. Flipgrid may also boost students’ self-confidence and self-esteem regarding their academic content. Having self-efficacy and belief in one’s learning abilities directly impacts overall academic performance.

Maximizing Technology-Use

Most districts are already equipped with digital devices to support learning for primary and secondary students, but Flipgrid can be used to further inform students how to be good digital citizens.

Tablets, laptops, and desktops computers are useful tools when it comes to using an online platform like this. Some districts also have a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy. It is very important for school districts to share the technology specifications with parents before purchasing devices for their child at the beginning of the school year if this is the case.

Acceptable-use policies will need to be reviewed with students in advance before using Flipgrid. Establishing social and proper norms for posting videos will help teachers avoid possible bullying, peer conflict, etc. and be used to help teach kindness and empathy. Educators must ensure students are well informed of the appropriate use of Flipgrid and monitor submissions for age-appropriate content.

Educators have embraced the power of technology and continue to better prepare students for global competition using digital tools. Flipgrid is one of those tools that can foster deeper social connections, better understand grade level content, and challenge students to perform at higher levels. Looking ahead, one can’t help but wonder how technology will evolve into the 22nd century.

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To this day, I use this story as an example of how student choice can help students get involved. Fast forward to the 21st century, add some technology, and that is what a digital choice board can bring to a classroom.

What is a Digital Choice Board and What Benefits Does it Provide?

According to Dr. Catlin Tucker, the goal of digital choice boards is to allow students an opportunity to select the activities they will complete to practice a skill or demonstrate understanding. The differentiated side of this can be that you can give a range of assignments that have different rigor levels to them and the students can choose what level or levels they want to work at. Not to mention, the assignments can accommodate the different learning levels and learning styles in your classroom.

Remember those teachers that gave you a rubric that clearly set how much work and depth was required to earn a 70 percent, 80 percent, etc.? Digital choice boards allow you to do the same thing.

Let’s use an assignment from the American Revolution for example: the students could be required to choose a general from each side of the war or an important battle from the list given to them. On the same board teachers could then give the student different ways to show what they learned through a quick vlog, an essay, or a poster.

Students can choose what they learn and how to show the teacher what they learned. Let your imagination run with what grade levels digital choice board can be appropriate for: elementary students could choose books from the library, solar system topics, math problems, etc. High school students could do projects from American History, different body systems, and more.

Creating a Digital Choice Board

Digital choice boards can be made in Google Slides, webpages, and with other digital technology means. The most common I found on the internet are with Google Slides. There are different choice board templates as well.

For example, take a Google Slide and imagine it divided up like a Jeopardy board. The top row could be the days of the week. Under each day of the week could be five or six different assignments with different values that in some way or another make sure the students discover important information on the people, culture, traditions, food, and geographic features for a country. Each square can be linked hyperlinked to an assignment to fill out, video, PDF, webpage, etc., which also brings technology into the classroom. All a student has to do is click their choice and be taken to where the teacher wants them to go.

Using a Digital Choice Board in Your Class

Consider the following when setting up a digital choice board for your class:

Make sure the goals and activities match the learning you want to see.

What activities will align to the goals and objectives you want your students to achieve?  How best can the students show you they learned the geographic traits of Rwanda or what are the most popular foods in Spain?

Include in student choices what your students can and can’t do.

How advanced are they with technology? What accommodations do your students need to be successful? What are the learning styles that predominate in your class? What technology do you have available for students to demonstrate learning on? Do you want them to give presentations, create their own quick lessons, Google slides, etc.? 

Think about depth.

What activities will you design that raise the rigor of the assignment?  How can they evaluate or debate something you want them to learn?  Can they create something that will demonstrate the objective you want them to learn?

What resources will be connected to the choice board? 

What websites or videos or information will teach what you want it to teach and be connected to each choice on the board?

There is a lot of front-end work for the teacher when designing a digital choice board. In the end, the teacher has set the table for students to learn the way they choose and demonstrate their learning in a way that allows them to have fun with what they learned.

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Grades are also categorized by major, minor, and other category assignments in many school districts. Whether schools mandate standards-based grading or the traditional grading approach, educators are always looking for ways to make the grading process functional and efficient. Teachers are already faced with obstacles related to COVID-19 pandemic mitigations, planning, parent conferences, the social-emotional needs of students, and new district mandates regarding instructional expectations for recovering students who may have experienced learning losses due to the pandemic.

Technology has afforded teachers with the opportunity to work smarter and not harder when it comes to grading despite challenges. Currently, computer and mobile applications are available to help teachers with the grading process. Some of the most common grading applications are:

• Socrative Teacher
• Google Classroom
• Numbers
• GradeBook Pro
• Think Wave Gradebook
• ZipGrade
• Groovy Grader
• Showbie
• Teacher Aide Pro
• iGrade
• QuickKey

The applications help teachers to better manage grading for students and are used as viable tools to focus on data driven instruction. With many technology applications, there are pros and cons that educators must consider when choosing which app would be conducive to the grading process.

Pros of using Grading Apps

The aforementioned apps allow teachers to grade work assignments, which can also sync with learning management systems. Data from the grading apps can also be exported for data analysis to help teachers make better informed instructional decisions to support students. Instant access to data also allows for quicker and more efficient feedback to students. Therefore, teachers do not have to spend daunting hours grading individual assignments when technology-based platforms can collect scores with automaticity if assignments are placed in learning management systems. Grading apps also empower students to track their progress, which gives them data to set learning goals in order to meet instructional targets.

Learning management systems such as Schoology, Canvas, and Google Classroom also have built in grading systems to help teachers track students’ progress along with instructional tools to help support blended learning. Learning management systems allow for students and parents to have access to grading, which promotes a proactive approach to student progress rather than reactive, especially when students are struggling academically. Parents, teachers, and students can all have access to grading patterns, which helps students to self-monitor progress.

Cons of Grading Apps

Educators must be tech savvy to use grading apps. However, the apps must also be user-friendly to make the process as easy as possible. There may also be technical challenges for students of poverty who may not have sufficient access to devices to access their assignments and grades. Connectivity issues may be challenging for students and teachers, because in some rural communities, internet service may be insufficient or nonexistent.

For teachers, professional development regarding the use of grading apps can be expensive and many grading application programs may require technical support to ensure the apps work efficiently over time, especially when large amounts of data are collected and stored. It’s also important to ensure teachers and students are not spending extensive amounts of time navigating through the structures of the grading apps but using the apps to quickly collect and retrieve data to positively impact instruction and academic progress.

According to Livingston (2011), taking too many steps to navigate through grading apps may be challenging and discouraging for students. School leaders must make sure all schools have the necessary resources for technology to be used effectively.

Grading apps can be beneficial to help students meet their academic goals and helpful for teachers to better assess and monitor students’ performance. Despite challenges, school districts must ensure that grading apps are aligned with the vision for reporting and assessing students’ performance and that information is easily extractable and user-friendly, which would allow for teachers to make sound instructional decisions to better support students.

School districts have a plethora of grading applications on the market to choose from. It could be ideal to have teachers pilot a variety of grading applications and determine the pros and cons of each product before choosing which grading application would be of best use in a school district. Obtaining feedback from students and parents would be beneficial as well.

Grading applications are one of the best tools that educators can have to make more efficient use of time, so we can focus on the importance of educating our students and not spend countless hours on hand-grading assignments. Grading apps are a part of the new age of educational practices that will continuously be refined for years to come.

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What is the Arduino Science Journal?

The Arduino Science Journal, formerly the Google Science Journal, is a science lab that you can fit into your pocket! This is an application that you can download and use on your smartphone which allows you to gather data in the world around you while creating experiments and organizing observations. There are various ways to add observations into your experiment including text notes, sensor recordings, and photographs.

The accompanying Science Journal website online offers different “Getting Started” activities which help students to learn how to navigate the site and utilize the tools that are available on the app. This includes how to set up experiments, as well as how to add additional external sensors to increase the ability to collect different types of data. There are also four different learning modules offered on the website: light, motion, sound, and electricity.

Each of these modules includes various activities and lesson plans that teachers can use and target different grade levels and age groups. Another feature on the website is a glossary with various terms to help students further understand the lessons and activities. One common thread between all the resources on the website is that the Arduino Science Journal app is utilized in them all!

Which Students is Arduino Science Journal Appropriate For?

The Arduino Science Journal can be used for any age of students, but the target ages are 10 to 18. This age range is your upper elementary school students in fifth grade to your seniors in high school. This app is aligned with the NGSS, so it can be used to support learning in the science classroom. The app can be used to support learning in a variety of subject areas such as physics, math, chemistry, biology, and engineering design.

Over the past year and a half, students, as well as educators, have become more technologically savvy, so this app gives all students the ability to study science in more depth and in the real world, whether it be for their own experiments and inquiries or for class assignments. Although it is recommended for an older grade band, it can still be utilized at any age.

What are the Benefits of an Arduino Science Journal?

One of the major benefits is that you can collect data and record observations in real time. As teachers, we are constantly letting students know how lessons are applicable to the real world. What better way to do so than actually studying real life happenings. Exploration and inquiry are encouraged versus direct instruction. A teacher lecturing students about a topic is far less interesting than figuring it out through personal investigation.

Student choice is important in activities and there is much of that within the Arduino Science Journal. Students are in control of the data they collect, the sensors utilized, and the way to document observations. The app is very user friendly and it is also compatible with Chromebooks which makes it even easier to use in class.

The fact that this can fit right into your pocket and is easy to transport is another benefit of the app. Instead of having to trek outside with a big clipboard, pencil, and tools, it is all with you in your pocket, making it easier for students to explore and gather information and data.

Ways to Use the Arduino Science Journal in Class

The first thing that pops into mind is the scientific method; as teachers, the scientific method has been taught for many years, and it can get very boring for the students. You can spice up your instruction and science activities by incorporating the use of Arduino Science Journal into your plans as students can collect data and view results in real-time, and then extend their learning by analyzing the results. The scientific method is woven throughout science, so developing a strong understanding of it is important in helping students to succeed.

Another way to utilize the Arduino Science Journal is to simply enhance your lesson with it! Since this app is housed on your cell phone, you can bring it with you everywhere and use the app to store and collect observations instead of paper or pencil and be more like a “real scientist.” This allows students to be creative and explore the world around them.

A great way to use this app in class is to have students compare their results with one another. When students take ownership of their learning and investigation, it makes it more appealing to them to discuss findings and results with their peers. This type of collaboration is great in preparing students for the real world and group projects with classmates and even co-workers.

The possibilities are endless, and the more you delve into using the Arduino Science Journal, the more knowledge you can pass onto your students about it. This is a great way to supplement your science instruction and get students excited about learning. The past year and a half has been so difficult, and so many students are thirsty to learn.

As Jonah Lehrer stated, “Every brilliant experiment, like every great work of art, starts with an act of imagination.” The Arduino Science Journal allows students to embrace their imagination and put their theories and hypotheses to the test!

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What is SplashLearn and Why Use It?

SplashLearn’s makers had the vision of transforming K-12 learning by making their program fun and personalized for every child. By teaching skills that would prepare students for the 21st century, SplashLearn is transforming the way elementary school children in grades K-5 practice math and reading skills.

How it works is that teachers create an account (completely free for educators) that then generates a class code and passwords for students. When a student logs in (on an iPad, desktop, etc.), they find their icon and begin. The teacher can assign specific assignments that the students will find under, “From My Teacher.” Or, students can choose to practice various math facts. If they chose the math fact route, they can select from a menu of fact options. By choosing either addition, subtraction, multiplication or division, the students can then select the numbers they want involved in their equations as well as the number of questions. Users can also choose if they want their questions timed via elapsed time or count down.

One exciting feature for students is that for every question they answer they earn coins. These coins accumulate and allow students to later spend them in the digital store. Students can choose between the Jungle and the Aquarium. In the Jungle, children can earn cool animals like Giraffes, lions, elephants, etc. and then play with those animals in their jungle. Similarly with the Aquarium, children can earn cool splashes like crabs, angelfish, or squid and then play with those earned animals in their own personal aquarium. This K-5 program that is curriculum aligned keeps students engaged, curious, and confident whether they are using it during in-person or for remote learning.

Ways to Use SplashLearn in your Class

After hearing all the great features of SplashLearn, you may now be wondering how to implement it into your classroom. Here are several ideas to get you and your students started today.

Another Tool to Connect School and Home

Splashlearn is a great way to increase parent involvement in their child’s learning. Reports can be shared with parents so they are kept informed about students’ progress. Because SplashLearn can be used at home, parents can also familiarize themselves with the program as they assist their children.

Center Time

SplashLearn is a great tool to use in centers. Teachers can assign their students lessons that directly correlate with their current units. Once students finish their assignment, they can further review under the Math Facts tab. Watch how excited your students are as they earn more and more coins and spend them at the store!

Review for a Test

Another great way to check in on students’ understanding of the material is by using the built in assessment features. SplashLearn has both formative and summative assessments that can be used throughout your current units, as a review for a test, or as another way to showcase to parents students academic progress.

Homework

Not all technology tools allow for home access, but Splashlearn does! With another school year upon us and uncertainties about the pandemic, Splashlearn is a great tool to familiarize students with so you won’t run into any problems if their learning pivots to remote or in-person. This also makes SplashLearn great for assigning homework as well. Make it open ended by telling students to practice math facts for 20 minutes or read from their built in decodable readers. Or, assign students specific lessons that meet their current learning goals.

Educators are always  on the lookout for educational tools that get their learners excited and engaged, and that further their learning. Splashlearn does just that. A tool that supports both reading and math, teachers appreciate the ability to differentiate their instruction, provide continuous practice in math facts, and easily connect home and school. There are many ways to use SplashLearn in the classroom or at home. Check it out and watch students learning build and grow.

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Now that a large population of students has experienced an academic set back from the pandemic, it is imperative that educators provide them with the tools and resources needed to be successful. Adaptive technology can be implemented with fidelity to narrow achievement gaps and provide students with the support they need to mitigate the loss of further learning deficits.

What is Adaptive Learning Technology?

Adaptive learning technology helps students to process information and curriculum content with a variety of tools which also may include computer-based programs. Adaptive technology equipment may consist of the use of computers, iPads, tablets, and other devices that aid students in meeting their academic goals.

Computer-based response programs can also be classified as adaptive technology and are designed to track student performance and growth over time.  Many commercial vendors may partner with school communities to provide academic programming consisting of adaptive technology.

Additional tools along with computer-based programs for student use may include the use of timers, reading guides, calculators, speech-to-text and text-to-speech features, graphic organizers, animated text, overlays, etc. Computer programs may be independently used when exploring new instructional content or completing assignments. It is imperative for educators to be trained to use adaptive technology efficiently and effectively to ensure they are able to close learning gaps for students.

How Do Students Benefit from Adaptive Technology?

Adaptive technology helps students read, hear, and comprehend literacy and numeracy concepts. Visual and audio supports may help students gain a deeper knowledge of the concepts in which they can then apply knowledge in new situations. Providing students with adaptive technology to better guide their understanding of concepts helps students to set academic goals that are attainable. Concepts and skills are scaffolded so that students may learn at their pace.

Additional features of adaptive technology may be used to help students process and understand content. The aforementioned tools of computers, tablets, and iPads with technology features and computer-based tracking programs allow students to learn at their own pace without the pressure of keeping up with their peers. With the additional assistance, many students can perform beyond their expectations and meet or exceed learning standards beyond their peers.

Ways to Utilize Adaptive Learning Tech for Student Success

Adaptive learning technology can be used to guide students during classroom instruction, interventions, and for tutorials and homework. During classroom instruction, students may access computer-based programs to reinforce skills they need additional assistance with or explore new content as a preview before receiving direct instruction from their teacher.

Adaptive technology can also include computer-based intervention programs that target specific skills that students may not have mastered and may also align with priority grade-level learning standards. In the computer-based programs, students practice specific targeted skills and can complete more complex skills as they meet mastery of the initially assigned content. Skills may be assigned by the teacher after an initial pre-assessment or computer programs may automatically assign students skills based on the outcomes of their preassessments.

Teachers may also assign homework using adaptive computer-based programs to ensure students are able to practice and retain information over periods of time. The differentiated assignments and progress monitoring allows students to make steady gains while learning content. According to Guido (2016), differentiated learning platforms can increase learning outcomes for students.

Students become more independent and in control of their learning when they have adequate support, understanding, and guidance from their teachers and are able to interpret the data produced by adaptive technology via computer-based programs. It is also important to increase response times to better utilize adaptive learning technology for students (Mettler, Massey, & Kellman, 2011). When data is reviewed, analyzed, and shared in a timely manner, students can set realistic and attainable goals.

Planning for Obstacles of Adaptive Technology

Ultimately, it is also important to anticipate the challenges of using adaptive technology. Johanes and Lagerstrom (2017) stresses to anticipate and avoid the pitfalls of adaptive learning when planning instruction for students. Adaptive technology should not replace instruction but supplement the initial delivery of content provided by the classroom teacher. Overall, additional support and adequate technology resources must be provided to at-risk students.

The data from the computer-based programs should be used to guide instruction, provide targeted interventions, and not to place students in isolated categories. Last, but not least, student data must be securely stored and protected to ensure unnecessary labels are not placed on students.

Students and teachers need adequate training to effectively use adaptive technology and the tools needed to explore content. They may also need training on prerequisite skills if they are not accustomed to many features with computer hardware, software, or programming databases. Anticipating for obstacles and implementing systems is key to ensure students and teachers have a strong foundation for successfully using adaptive technology.

Ultimately adaptive learning technology is a beneficial tool to promote student achievement, close learning gaps, and a great way to progress monitor students. When students perform at higher levels, they are afforded realistic opportunities to access post-secondary education and career options. With adequate resources and adaptive technology tools and programs, all students can have access to an equitable educational experience and will be afforded the opportunity to become productive, life-long learners.

References
Guido, M. (2016). The ultimate guide to adaptive learning technology.

Johanes, P., & Lagerstrom, L. (2017, June), Adaptive learning: The premise, promise, and pitfalls Paper presented at 2017 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Columbus, Ohio. 10.18260/1-2–27538

Mettler, E., Massy, C. M. & Kellman, P. J. (2011, July 20-23, 2011). Improving adaptive learning technology through the use of response times [Paper presentation]. Grantee Submission, Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the Cognitive Science Society 33^rd, Boston, MA, United States

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