Digital tools are becoming increasingly popular in education as they enhance learning and help students develop essential skills. Many educators are finding creative ways to incorporate these tools into their teaching to engage students and make learning more interactive. Here are some strategies used by five educators to effectively utilize digital tools in their classrooms.
McKenna Akane, a STEM teacher in Montana, uses Bee-Bots to engage students in hands-on, immersive learning experiences. These STEM kits provide opportunities for students to learn coding and robotics concepts in a fun and age-appropriate way.
Jon Oosterman from the Van Andel Institute for Education recommends Teachable Machine, a tool that allows users to train models to recognize images, sounds, or poses. This tool helps students understand artificial intelligence in a stress-free and accessible manner.
Brent Grahn, a math teacher in Minnesota, utilizes Geogebra, which offers graphing and analysis technology with pre-made activities. Geogebra provides visual representations and tools for various math concepts, making it easier for students to understand complex mathematical ideas.
Rita Mortenson, an educational technology coach in Wisconsin, uses Google Arts and Culture to provide students with over 1,600 experiments and immersive experiences. Students can explore artworks, cultural artifacts, and even create music using AI-generated vocals.
Lynn Thomas, a high school educator, created an Escape Room mission using Brightspace to gamify learning. By incorporating an around-the-world theme into the challenges, Thomas was able to engage students in problem-solving activities that required them to learn while having fun.
These educators’ strategies showcase the diverse ways in which digital tools can be used to enhance learning and engage students in meaningful educational experiences. By incorporating tools like Bee-Bots, Teachable Machine, Geogebra, Google Arts and Culture, and Brightspace, educators can create dynamic and interactive learning environments that cater to the needs and interests of their students.
Digital tools are not only beneficial for students but also provide educators with innovative ways to teach and assess learning outcomes. By exploring different tools and strategies, educators can continue to evolve their teaching practices and provide students with the skills they need to succeed in a digital world. If you are interested in learning more about digital tools in education, you can visit eSN’s Digital Learning hub for additional news and resources.
