If you’ve made it a goal for yourself to start integrating technology into your classroom this year, but aren’t sure where to start, we’re here to help. Read on for tips and resources that will help you on your way to becoming a tech-savvy teacher in 2015!
Supplement lessons with videos
One of the easiest ways to bring tech into your classroom is by showing students video clips to help your lessons come to life and offer a new way for students to engage with the material. Search free video-sharing sites like YouTube and Vimeo for clips related to the topic you’re teaching.
Resources:
Teaching With YouTube: 197 Digital Channels For Learning
10 YouTube Channels That Will Make You Smarter
Incorporate websites and apps into small-group activities
There are tons of great educational games and programs available online (including IXL, of course!), and these can be a fun way to let students practice the skills they’ve learned in class. Try splitting your class into groups and having them rotate between stations to work with a different program at each.
Resources:
Graphite.org (Reviews and ratings of educational websites, games and apps, by Common Sense Media)
MindShift Guide to Digital Games and Learning (published by KQED, an NPR and PBS affiliate)
Set up a classroom website to stay connected with students and parents
Free tools like Edmodo and Schoology allow you to easily set up a Facebook-like website for your classroom. Use these sites to manage your class – give out and grade assignments, post updates and start discussions, and create small groups for projects. You can also use your site to keep parents up-to-date on their child’s activities and performance.
Resources:
8 learning management system options for K-12 classrooms
The Best LMS iPad Solutions for K12 Students and Teachers
Use social media to gather ideas and advice
Pinterest is a fun way to find lesson plans and activity ideas, or even share some of your own! Try browsing the education category to get started. Use your Twitter account to connect with other educators – a great way to do so is by participating in education focused Twitter chats.
Resources:
The Teacher’s Guide To Pinterest
A Refreshingly Simple Guide To Twitter For Teachers
