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This website goes into depth about how TPACK is used in the classroom. It answers many helpful questions that teachers may have and shows pictures to explain what is going on more concisely. The website answers what components are in TPACK and how teachers can use them in the classroom.

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TPACK model explained with examples for the classroom

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The TPACK model is a framework to integrate technology into teaching. Learn practical TPACK examples you can use in the classroom.

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What is the TPACK Model?

www.youtube.com › watch

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Key Differences Between the TPACK and SAMR Tech Integration Frameworks

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Students and teachers can use this to create things for art projects, class projects, and graphic organizers. This allows creativity and collaboration for both the teacher and the students. Students can investigate this site to create graphic organizers that work best.

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An online platform that provides access to cultural artifacts and artworks from around the world. This allows students to explore around the world and look at different cultures that surround them. Students can use this for history projects and geography lessons, and it allows them to create a vast exploration of the different cultures that they may never get to experience in real life.

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Google Arts & Culture features content from over 2000 leading museums and archives who have partnered with the Google Cultural Institute to bring the world's treasures online.

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Google Earth is a free program that allows users to explore the Earth in 3D using satellite and aerial imagery. Google Earth allows students to explore the world, visualize concepts, and connect with diverse cultures and environments in a way that traditional methods often can't.

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Google’s Geo Tools aren’t just about geography. You can use them to trace Marco Polo’s journey through Asia, to explore the architecture of Barcelona, to measure how Alaska’s glaciers have receded, or to analyze the habitat of the Cameroon grassland frog. Geospatial thinking has transformed our perceptions of the World around us, and how we address issues such as climate change on and the protection of wildlife.

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Ways that AI helps teachers in the classroom.

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Ways that AI helps teachers in the classroom.

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This article talks about how AI can benefit teachers in the classroom as well as the students we teach. This article gives tips and tricks to use to show students how to use AI safely and appropriately.

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Jan 22, 2025

·

[[read-time]] min read

Senior Product Manager, Google Workspace for Education

Read AI-generated summary

Bullet points

Google AI is transforming education with tools for both educators and students.

NotebookLM helps you understand complex topics by summarizing and answering questions about your sources.

Gemini Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) brings AI-powered tools directly into your Learning Management System.

Gemini for Workspace helps you create videos, summarize content, and generate vocabulary lists.

Chromebook Plus features AI-powered tools like Help me write, Help me read, and Live Translate.

Summaries were generated by Google AI. Generative AI is experimental.

Basic explainer

Google is making AI tools for teachers and students. These tools can help with things like writing, learning, and even making videos. They're free to use and can be found in Google's apps like NotebookLM and Gemini. Google is also adding AI features to Chromebooks, making them even more helpful for learning.

Summaries were generated by Google AI. Generative AI is experimental.

Explore other styles:

Bullet points

Basic explainer

Editor's note: This week we're joining thousands of educators and students at BETT in London, Europe's biggest educational technology exhibition. Visit us at Booth SJ20, where you can check out new Chromebooks and features in Google Workspace for Education. Follow along on X and Facebook for the latest updates.

We believe AI should benefit everyone, which is why we make products like the Gemini app and NotebookLM free of charge for anyone to use. From drafting lesson plans to breaking down complex topics, educators and students are already using Google AI both in and out of the classroom. We also offer premium tools for educators, who have been some of the earliest adopters of generative AI.

As we head into 2025, here are 11 ways educators and students can use Google AI products to continue to transform teaching and learning.

Teach and learn with helpful AI tools free of charge

1. Understand anything with AI grounded in the information you trust using NotebookLM. Upload your sources - like research papers, education standards, lecture notes and course readings. Then, NotebookLM can answer questions and generate summaries, lesson plans, study guides, discussion questions and quizzes - all with in-line citations to ensure accuracy. Plus, learn on the go with Audio Overviews, which turns documents, slides, charts and more into engaging and interactive audio discussions led by two AI hosts to get you up to speed on any topic.

2. Bring Google AI directly into your Learning Management System (LMS). Gemini Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) incorporates AI-driven products powered by Gemini - like the Gemini app, NotebookLM, Learn About and Illuminate - directly into third-party LMS software, starting with Canvas by Instructure and Powerschool Schoology Learning.

3. Access trustworthy content and information in the Gemini app. When Gemini generates a response, you can use the double check feature to evaluate whether there's content across the web to substantiate its response. Gemini can also show you sources and related content within and below its response, including web sources with similar information and links for you to dig deeper.

4. Help teen students learn confidently and safely. The Gemini app experience for teen students has been designed to identify content that may be inappropriate to teen users and trigger policies and guardrails to help prevent inappropriate responses. It also contains a teen-friendly onboarding experience with an AI literacy video, endorsed by ConnectSafely and Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI), with tips on how to use generative AI responsibly.

Improve educator productivity and creativity with tools in your Gemini for Workspace subscription

5. Produce videos faster with Gemini in Google Vids. Vids provides easy video creation for teaching and learning. With Gemini in Vids, create your storyboard - complete with suggested scenes, a script, stock videos, background music and more - by providing Gemini with a simple prompt or content from Drive.

6. Get more done with Gemini in the side panel of your apps. Gemini can assist you with summarizing, analyzing and generating content by using insights gathered from your emails, documents and more - all right in the side panel of your apps, so you can stay in the flow of whatever you're doing. We've expanded language support to seven additional languages, making Gemini for Workspace accessible to over 1 billion people whose first language is now supported.

7. Generate tailored vocabulary lists with Gemini in Classroom. Educators can now create custom word lists with definitions, parts of speech, and examples relevant to defined grade levels and topics. Gemini in Classroom is available to all educators with Gemini for Workspace regardless of which primary Learning Management Systems they use.

8. Personalize your AI experience with Gems in Gemini Advanced. Gems are customized versions of the Gemini app that remember your prompting instructions for future chats. You can make Gems even more helpful by uploading sources to your prompting instructions - like a student's Individualized Education Program and some of their past assignments - to create an AI expert that can create personalized resources tailored for that student. You can also use Google's pre-made Gems, like Learning Coach, which uses LearnLM to provide step-by-step study guidance along with helpful practice activities like quizzes and games.

9. Accelerate learning and knowledge sharing with NotebookLM Plus. NotebookLM Plus is a premium version of NotebookLM with significantly higher limits to support classes and organizations of any size. With customizable settings, shareability and usage analytics, professors can provide their students with a notebook containing their course materials - textbooks, lectures, YouTube videos and more - to equip them with on-demand AI guidance. IT admins can also upload their knowledge base to create a help center that their institution can chat with.

Make learning more accessible with AI in Chromebooks

10. Use your Chromebook Plus to level up your teaching: Chromebook Plus is powerful enough for all that teachers do in a day, with Google AI built in. Help me write and Help me read can help you generate copy or understand text. You can generate images for video call backgrounds, use Live Translate to enable translated captions in more than 100 languages on media streams, or create AI-powered recordings with transcription with the new Recorder app. These features are all available now, along with admin controls for all generative AI features on Chromebook Plus, available to anyone 18 and older. Make sure to learn about Class tools (announced today!) to enhance classroom management of Chromebooks and engagement.

11. Search what you see while browsing with Google Lens in Chrome. Google Lens in Chrome makes it easy to search anything you see on your screen. Search within a video you're watching, a slide in a livestream or an image on a webpage. Google Lens will give you answers right there in your tab, and you can continue browsing with the new information you've found - like showing an item to your class or getting a definition to help understand the content.

To learn more about these updates, and all of the Google for Education announcements made at BETT, check out our product guide.

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11 ways Google AI can help educators and students in 2025

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See how educators and students can use no-cost AI tools, like the Gemini app and NotebookLM, as well as paid tools to improve teaching and learning.

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NotebookLM is an AI-powered research assistant that helps users organize and analyze their documents. By leveraging its ability to process and summarize information, educators can create engaging lesson plans, curate relevant resources, and support students in research and study.

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Google NotebookLM | AI Research Tool & Thinking Partner

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Meet NotebookLM, the AI research tool and thinking partner that can analyze your sources, turn complexity into clarity and transform your content.

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This is another link on how educators can use Notebook LM safely in the classroom.

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Meet Google NotebookLM: 10 things to know for educators

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PDFs. Long documents. Websites and articles. A lot of teaching and learning is focused on reading them ... synthesizing them ... remembering them…

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Google Sites is a free web-based platform that allows users to create and publish websites. Teachers can leverage Google Sites effectively for direct instruction by creating a centralized, interactive, and engaging online learning environment that houses course materials, resources, and interactive elements to support direct instruction strategies.

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Access Google Drive with a Google account (for personal use) or Google Workspace account (for business use).

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This website shows tips and tricks on how to use Google sites in the classroom for both the teacher and the students.

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G Suite

Google Sites has been around for a long time and a few years ago Google Sites got a major update. Since then many more user-friendly features have been added to this fantastic web page-creation tool.

In a past #Ditchbook Twitter chat educators shared their best tips for using Google sites in and out of the classroom along with tons of great tricks you might not have even heard about yet. Since then we have added even MORE tips, tricks and tutorials to get you started with Google Sites along with ways to help you and your students get the most out of Google Sites.

Getting started with Google Sites

If you haven't used Google Sites before then you're in for a treat. Google Sites are simple to create and allow you to easily drag and drop content from your Google Drive.

The Google for Education training center has loads of tips, tricks, lessons and more for helping you get started with Google tools. Check out the links to resources below.

Google Sites tutorials for students

Google's Applied Digital Skills curriculum provides tons of FREE instructional videos teach students to collaborate using digital skills. You can search their curriculum by audience, digital tool or topic.

Check out just some of the ready to use Google Sites lessons available for you to use with your class.

Google Sites templates
Google has some pre-designed templates for you to use. Here's how to find them: 1. Go to 2. In the upper right hand corner click on "template gallery" sites.google.com/new

Sites templates are organized by category.

Work

Enterprise

Small business

Personal

Education

Click on the template that you would like to use and start creating your Google Site!

Tech Like A PIRATE encourages teachers to provide those experiences by tapping into technology that grabs students' attention immediately and redefines learning. We dive into 7 ways to grab your students' attention with technology including resources you can use TOMORROW.

Using Google Sites in the classroom

1. Provide a whole unit with resources.

It can get messy to try to keep sharing resources with students during a whole unit of study. Packaging them in a site allows for easy updates and sharing of ideas.

2. Package your HyperDocs.

Google sites can be used to package large units like novel HyperDocs. All the links and resources they need to complete the work are all on the site. You can find 25 ready to use Novel HyperDocs for your class in this post.

3. Use Google Sites to supplement Google Classroom.

Use subpages in Google Sites to package content for your students. The website link can be added to an assignment in Google Classroom for students to easily reference during their work.

Check out The Google Classroom Quick-Start Guide + resources, tips and tricks! for all you need to get started using Google Classroom.

4. Teach students (and staff) about new tools or procedures.

Sites provides an easy way to house all of the tips and tutorials that users might want to reference while learning something new.

5. Get gamified with digital escape rooms.

Digital escape rooms are a fun way to introduce, practice or review content and a Google Site provides the perfect "room" for all of your clues and locks. Learn all about how to create a digital escape room for your students in this post.

Want to use digital escape rooms to spark your students' imagination?

Check out our Getting Started with Digital Escape Rooms onlinecourse !

For just $19 you'll get:
- Video tutorials to guide you in getting started

- PDF guides to help you plan

- LOTS of example escape room ideas you can use as inspiration

- 25 digital escape rooms with lock combinations and companion resources in a downloadable PDF

- A step-by-step companion website with templates to help you and your students create your own digital escape rooms

- A resource locker FILLED with BONUS resources

6. Give students access to school from home.

Posting material on a class website gives students the opportunity to access material from home. Also a big plus for parents trying to help their students! Visit our eLearning page has even MORE resources for teaching students remotely.

7. Have students create sites for classmates.

Creating a useful website is a valuable skill. Have students create their own website to share information with classmates or club members.

8. Show what you know with Google Sites.

Give students the option to create their own site to demonstrate their learning after a lesson or within a unit.

9. Make your site interactive with the embed feature.

You can use a URL or embed code to add to your website. Embedding an interactive Padlet allows your students to add content to the site and even comment on their classmate's work without being a contributor to the site.

10. Use a Google Form inside a site for easy access to a daily check in.

We want to connect with our students and know how they are doing every day. But it can be difficult to check-in with every student in every one of our classes. Embedding a Google Form inside of your site makes it simple and easy to get started connecting with all of your students. Find an example Google Form check-in template here.

Looking for even MORE G Suite resources?

Get our FREE ebook!
101 Ways to Ditch That Textbook with G Suite, tons of practical, creative ways to use Google tools in the classroom.

Tips and tricks for using Google Sites

11. Make a copy of a site.

The new Google Sites allows you to make a copy of a site. This is a useful feature if you want to share a site with someone to collaborate but don't want to lose your original site. Also great for making templates of site designs you use often.

12. Share pictures easily with image carousel.

Inside of your Google Site on the right hand menu select "Insert" then "Image Carousel" to upload and select the images you want to share. You can even resize the carousel frame to the size you want.

13. Use an incognito window to test your settings

If you are the owner of the site and the images and embedded resources it can be hard to know which ones are shared and which ones are still private. Checking your site in an incognito window allows you to see what your students or families will see.

14. Look more professional with the button tool.

A button can look so much better than a simple hyperlink. Try it on a new Google site by clicking on "Insert" then scroll down to find the button option. From there you can add a name for your button and a URL or site page to link to.

15. Show only the content you want by hiding.

If you want to create the content just for yourself or if you are planning to release it later you can hide a page from navigation so that others can't see it even when it's published. Go to "Pages" then use the three dots next to the page name to choose "Hide from navigation".

16. Add a favicon!

Make your site even more personalized by adding a favicon. Just click on the three dots in the top edit menu and choose "add favicon". You can add your own image or search for one to use.

A3 #ditchbook

I also like how you can add a logo to the site navigation bar and favicon to Google sites. It can really help give sites a personal and professional look.
- Sean Fahey (@SEANJFAHEY) November 15, 2019

17. Create a Google Slides template.

On episode 83 of the Google Teacher Tribe Podcast Joe Marquez shows us his hack for creating a template in Google Sites. Listen to the episode below!

18. Insert collapsible text boxes.

A brand new feature added to Google Sites now allows you to insert collapsible text boxes. Check out this Google Blog post to learn more about this awesome new feature!

Bonus! A Site full of Sites tips and tricks!

Check out this Google Sites tips and tricks presentation created by Raul Cortez. TONS of great stuff here!

Taking Google Sites beyond the classroom

19. House all of your professional resources in one place.

A Google Site is a great way to showcase the work you have done as a professional educator. Whether you're preparing to change positions or want to share your resources all in one place a Google Site provides a simple and free way to package it all. Here is an example professional development website from Karly Moura.

20. Take your sites skills out into the world!

That pre-school meet-up group, your son's swim team, a book club are all fantastic groups that might be looking for a way to easily share information and resources. Wow them with you Google Sites know-how and help your group get organized.

A4: Uses for Google Sites beyond the classroom ...
- Home base for clubs, activities, sports teams
- Create a parent portal with info, class photos, contact info
- Outreach from the front office with news, documents, info#DitchBook
- Matt Miller (@jmattmiller) November 15, 2019

10 things teachers need to know about Google Sites

And if you'd like to see them in motion, I've created a walkthrough video of all 10 (see below or click this link to see it on YouTube).

1. Click and drag content where you want it.

This is the biggest improvement of all with Google Sites. It was so clunky and difficult to get content where you wanted it on the page before. Now, all you need to do is click the item you want to add (text box, image, etc.) and then drag it around on the page.

2. Share to let others edit it with you.

There's a button next to the "Publish" button that lets you add what they call "editors." If you want a fellow teacher (or if students want others in their group) to edit the site, using this button lets you give others permission easily. Just add them with their email address - or even make an "Everyone with the link can edit" link you can share with others.

3. Predesigned themes.

The new Google Sites makes attractive design pretty easy with themes. These are prepackaged, ready-to-go website designs you can change with a click of the mouse. They're available at the top of the right-hand sidebar in the "Themes" tab.

4. Embed from Google.

Embedding is taking interactive elements from a website and putting them on your website. Google Sites makes it easy with three options: YouTube, Calendar and Map. Click one of those buttons to stick a live, dynamic (works on your site without going to another site) video, calendar or map on your site.

5. Display your site nicely on any device.

Google Sites features what web designers call "responsive design." That means it customizes your text, images and other elements to look good on any device - computer, tablet or smartphone. This will give you the confidence that if a student or parent views a site that it won't show up funky because they're viewing it on mobile. (More info on responsive design here.)

6. Add interactive Google files on your pages.

Want to add a slide presentation to your page where you can click through the slides? Or a document where you can scroll through the pages? A single click will do it, letting you pick a file from your Google Drive to stick on the page. This goes for Docs, Slides, Sheets, Forms and Charts. (If you want to use a Google Drawing, you can always save it as an image file (File > Download as > JPEG) and add it to your site as an image.)

7. No file cabinet page or sharing pages privately.

One gripe that many people have with the new Google Sites is that the cabinet page has disappeared. This page type created a page with a list of files on the site. In the new Google Sites (as of publication of this post), that's not available. (However, it's pretty easy to link to Docs, Slides, Sheets, Forms and Charts now - see No. 6 above - so that's not too bad.)

A second gripe is that you can't give custom permissions for pages and sites like you could with the old Google Sites. If that's a deal breaker for you, you can continue to use the old Google Sites for a while. (And maybe, by the time the old Google Sites disappears forever, they will have updated the new Google Sites with those features!)

8. Create project websites, not just projects.

When students create projects, we often don't give their hard work much of an audience. Usually it's just the class (or worse, just the teacher). If they create their work on a Google Site, they can showcase their hard work to a larger audience - anyone they share the link with to their website.

9. Create a parent portal.

This is an easy way to keep parents in the loop with what's happening in the classroom. Create a site with all the info parents want, like contact information, the calendar of assignments from Google Classroom, photos and video from class, and more. Make sure to update it regularly to give them a reason to keep coming back!

10. Create a video course/repository.

When students work on class activities, occasionally they need a refresher on certain topics they've learned before. (OK, more often than occasionally!) Consider creating a website with lots of embedded videos that cover these topics. If they need a reminder, you can easily say, "Go watch that quick video on the website." Plus, if parents are helping them, they might need a quick refresher - or a video can show them the specific way you're having students do the work (think math concepts that can be taught multiple ways by different teachers!).

For notifications of new Ditch That Textbook content and helpful links:

Are you looking for quality, meaningful professional learning that both equips and inspires teachers?

Matt provides in-person and virtual keynotes, workshops and breakout sessions that equip, inspire and encourage teachers to create change in their classrooms. Teachers leave with loads of resources. They participate. They laugh. They see tech use and teaching in a new light. Click the link below to contact us and learn how you can bring Matt to your school or district!

Ready to take your teaching skills -- and student learning -- to another level?

Check out our online courses. ALL under $50!

©2020 Ditch That Textbook by Matt Miller.

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20 Google Sites tips and tricks - Ditch That Textbook

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G Suite Google Sites has been around for a long time and a few years ago Google Sites got a major update. Since then many more user-friendly features have been added to this fantastic web page-creation tool.

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Google Forms is a free online tool that allows users to create surveys, quizzes, and other types of forms. Teachers can create a quiz in Google Forms and then import it to a tool like Quizalize to turn it into an interactive learning game that captures students' attention.

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Google Forms - create and analyze surveys, for free.

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25 ways for teachers to use Google forms in the classroom.

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G Suite

Everyone wants data. Schools want it to track student performance. Companies want it to learn about their customers.

We track data in our own personal lives (fitness data, banking data, even social media data).

Teachers and students have their own data gathering and tracking tool that's free and easy to learn - Google Forms.

Google Forms lets you create a survey with lots of different kinds of questions:

Short answer

Long answer

Multiple choice

Checkboxes

Drop-down menu

... and more. You can distribute these surveys to anyone - students, parents, even yourself - and track the data in the Google Forms app itself or in a spreadsheet.

Teachers have used Google Forms to do quizzes and assessments for a while. But that's not the only way it can make our lives easier and better!

Do More with Google Classroom

Teach better. Save time. Make a difference.

The short how-to tutorials on Google Classroom are EVERYWHERE. But how do we teach well with it? In this book, you'll find practical ideas to do great teaching with Google Classroom and thrive.

Here are 25 ways to use Google Forms in the classroom and in schools.

Procedural stuff

1. Opinion surveys - Want to get to know your students better or learn about their preferences? How about parents? Create a simple survey. Add a short answer question for the name, or if you want to keep it anonymous, leave it out.

2. Quick poll - A simple one-question Google Form makes getting the pulse of the classroom quick and easy. Closed-ended questions can be displayed as graphs immediately in with the "Responses" tab in the form.

3. Late work submission (with email notifications!) - When students use this form, they can provide assignment details and a link to any digital work to turn in. You can receive an email when they submit the late work form. In Forms, use the "Responses" tab and click the three dots menu button. Select "Get email notifications for new responses". It will automatically send an email to the account you used to create the form. Here's an example of a late work submission form you can use.

4. Sign-up sheets - Need students or parents to sign up to bring something to class, work the concession stand, etc.? Have them sign up in a Google Form! Want to eliminate a choice once someone has taken it (i.e. remove a time slot when it's been claimed)? Use the Choice Eliminator add-on to remove that choice after someone makes it (so nothing gets claimed twice!). Check out the Choice Eliminator page to see how it works.

5. Sign-out sheets - Ditch the sign-out sheet when students leave and return from the room (or when they check equipment in and out). Use a Google Form instead! Use the CheckItOut add-on. It uses multiple choice, list or checkboxes questions. When something is signed out, it moves to another question - the signed-out group. When it's signed back in, it's moved to the signed-in question. Create a "Name" short-answer question and you can see the paper trail of who checked equipment in and out and at what time in the spreadsheet of results. This YouTube video (less than two minutes!) makes using the CheckItOut add-on crystal clear. Click to view what the form would look like, or click to make a copy you can edit yourself.

6. Lesson plans - Want to quickly create detailed lesson plans with standards, learning objectives, activity descriptions and more? Add all the parts you want included in those lesson plans in a Google Form. (Add all of the individual standards as checkboxes.) Then view your own form and start filling in information. Use the Autocrat add-on to turn your responses in the Google Form into custom-created documents. You'll have a document with all of your lesson plan information for each day! These are great for turning in to administration, leaving for substitute teachers or filing away for next year. See the blog post I wrote with detailed step-by-step directions here!

7. Daily check-in - We want to connect with our students and know how they are doing every day. But it can be difficult to check-in with every student in every one of our classes. This daily check-in Google Form template created by Mari Venturino makes it simple and easy to get started connecting with all of your students.

8. Create a HyperDoc in Google Forms - Incorporate the lesson design that makes HyperDocs so effective in a Google form by including sections for students to learn or review the content, show what they know, share their thinking and apply their skills. You can even include links for students to explore once they have completed the task. Check out this blog post by Karly Moura that includes examples, creations tips, and a template to get started.

9. Customized email newsletters - Using a combination of Google Docs and Google Sheets (with an option to use Google Forms to input information), you can create personalized email newsletters with custom comments for every student. See the blog post I wrote with detailed step-by-step directions here!

Assessment

10. Autograded quizzes - If you create a quiz or other assessment with closed-ended questions, Google Forms will autograde it for you. Create your quiz and click the gear (settings) button. Choose the "Quizzes" tab and turn on "Make this a quiz". You have some options in that window. Then, go through your questions and select the correct answer (your answer key).

11. Quizzes with Flubaroo - Flubaroo is an add-on to Google Sheets that can create a detailed grading summary with student results from an assessment. When students complete a quiz/assessment in Google Forms, click the "Responses" tab and click the little green Sheets button. This will create a spreadsheet of results from the quiz/assessment. Open that sheet. Flubaroo's official user guide walks you through the steps of setting Flubaroo up to autograde your assessment. It creates a summary that shows average student grade, individual student grades (plus which questions each student got right or wrong), questions students struggled on, and more.

12. Exit ticket/bell ringer - Have students answer questions at the beginning or end of class with a Google Form. Add images, links, videos and more to the form to make it a richer multimedia experience. Then gather all of the student responses in a spreadsheet.

13. Quick grade log - To quickly mark a grade for simple assignments create a Google Form with every student's name. When I did this, I walked around the room and had the form loaded on my iPad. I put each student's scores into that form. Later, I pulled up the responses and transferred them to the grade book. Here's an example form of what that might look like that you can copy into your Drive!

14. Flipped classroom assessment - The flipped classroom comes in many different shapes and sizes, but many teachers have students watch a video and then answer some comprehension questions afterward. This is easily done in Google Forms. Create a form with a YouTube video (created by you or found on YouTube) and questions. Here's what a form like that would look like when students loaded it.

15. Rubrics - Create your rubric in a Google Form to make an easy place for you to assign grades and provide feedback to students. When you're done grading and writing feedback, use the Autocrat add-on to turn all that feedback into a document. Share that document with students (or parents too!). Here's what a rubric form could look like when you load it (click here). Here's the document generated with the feedback for students (click here).
16. Add math equations to Google Forms with EquatIO Chrome extension -

Teachers can use EquatIO to create math assignments and quizzes. Check out this video to learn more.

After adding the extension click the EquatIO icon next to any question or answer in the Form.

This will open the EquatIO toolbar at the bottom of your screen.

Students can respond right in the Google Form creating math expressions including equations and formulas.

Get the tools, the practical ideas, and the inspiration to transform the way you use technology in the classroom!

Lesson ideas and downloadable templates

A companion webpage full of FREE resources (click here to access NOW)

Brand new PIRATE engagement hooks

Encouragement and motivation to start

Learning and creating

17. Logs (for exercise, nutrition, reading, etc.) - If students need to submit information in logs to track progress over time, Google Forms can capture that information easily. Create a form with the student's name and all the information he/she needs to submit. Each time he/she submits, it's logged into a spreadsheet where students can review that data and submit it to you.

18. Choose Your Own Adventure stories - By using branching (the "go to section based on answer" choice in the three-dots menu in a multiple-choice question), you can create fun Choose Your Own Adventure Story-type activities. Create them for your students or let students create their own! Here's a math example from Mandi Tolen's class.

19. Sharing examples in professional development - Teachers can use Google Forms to share their learning, too! During professional development, direct teachers to a Google Form where they can share their ideas, reflections or experiences from the classroom. Provide a link to the spreadsheet of results to everyone in the group. That way, when everyone's done, each teacher can see everyone else's ideas all in one place!

20. Answer with an image - With younger students, the old version of Google Forms was tricky because almost everything used text. Now, you can ask questions AND provide answers with images! Teachers can cue students verbally and they can answer by choosing the correct picture. When creating the form, just click on the answer to edit it and click the image button at the right. Here's a VERY simple example of how to use images as an answer (click here).

21. Brainstorming with a word cloud - Provide a simple Google Form where students can reflect on what they've been learning, either with a sentence or a few individual words. When they finish, copy all of their responses from the spreadsheet and paste them into a word cloud generator like Wordle or Tagxedo. It will show the most common words larger in size than others, sorting the reflections of the class in a fun, visual form.

22. Personalized guidance via e-mail - Do your students (or teacher participants in professional development) need answers fine-tuned to their unique needs? Create a Google Form to let them choose the type of feedback they need, collecting their answers in a Google Sheet. Then, the Form Mule add-on can send them a custom e-mail response based on their answers. Basically, you write an email for every possible answer, and Form Mule sends it to them automatically when they submit the form. See more about Form Mule here.

23. Writer's conference schedule - If your students need to schedule a time to meet with you to discuss their writing, the Form Limiter add-on can help. Create a form in Google Forms and it will gather the data you'll need (name, class, time, etc.) in a Google Sheet. Form Limiter will stop accepting responses when specific Google Sheet spots are filled. No double-booking!

24. The Amazing Race, Google Style. This game is an intense mashup of Google Slides/Documents, Google Forms and Google Maps (optional). Students must complete several challenges provided by the instructor using Google Slides or Documents. Once the complete the first challenge in the slide presentation or document, they submit the link to the presentation/document in a Google Form. Once submitted, the link to the next challenge in the game is in a link on the confirmation page for the form. Clear as crystal, right? No? Check out this outstanding example by Michelle Green. Once you get it, this activity is super engaging.

25. Digital escape room locks - Use data validation to create a set of "locks" in a Google Form. This will make it so that the student MUST type in the correct answer in order to submit the form and "escape".

Check out this post for 30+ FREE digital escape rooms (plus tips and tools for creating your own) Want to try one out before you dive into using them with your students? This Ditch that Textbook themed digital escape room was created by Mandi Tolen and Karly Moura. Try and see if you can break free from Ditch That Textbook headquarters!

BONUS. Teach students how to make their own! - Show your students how to create their own Google Form and have them create one for their classmates. It's a fun way for students to show what they know and creating the incorrect and correct answers levels it up. Who knows, they might even stump you!

For notifications of new Ditch That Textbook content and helpful links: Interested in having Matt present at your event or school? Contact him by e-mail! Is Matt presenting near you soon? Check out his upcoming live events!

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©2023 Ditch That Textbook by Matt Miller.

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25 practical ways to use Google Forms in class, school

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Google Forms give educators a powerful data collection tool. Check out these 25 ways to harness its power in school.Everyone wants data. Schools want it

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Google Slides is a free, web-based presentation tool that allows users to create, edit, and share presentations. Google Slides can be a powerful tool for teacher-directed instruction by creating engaging presentations, interactive lessons, and structured learning experiences.

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Ways that teachers can use slides in the classroom.

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The ULTIMATE Google Slides teacher resource

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Google Slides has so much potential for powerful technology integration in the classroom. Check out our resources for TONS of ideas and activities!

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Gimkit is a classroom game-show platform where students compete by answering questions on their electronic devicesGimkit is a great platform to enhance student interaction through engaging game-based learning. By utilizing various game modes and features, you can create a dynamic and collaborative learning environment where students actively participate and learn together.

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Gimkit is a game show for the classroom that requires knowledge, collaboration, and strategy to win. Get started for free!

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Pear Deck is an interactive tool that helps teachers engage students in learning through presentations. It's used to create formative assessments, provide real-time feedback, and encourage student participation. I can use Pear Deck to enhance teacher-directed instruction by creating interactive presentations that engage students, monitor their understanding in real time, and provide immediate feedback.

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Pear Deck is on a mission to help teachers create powerful learning moments for every student, every day - using the tools you already know and love.

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Curipod is an AI-powered tool that helps teachers create interactive lessons and activities for students. It allows teachers to create slide shows with text, images, polls, drawings, and more. Students can join the lessons on their own devices and interact by answering questions, drawing, and more. Teachers can leverage Curipod to create dynamic lessons, foster student participation, and personalize learning experiences, while students can actively engage with the content through various interactive elements.

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Generate lessons with AI

Plan and deliver interactive lessons on any topic - with help from AI

I am teacher of 15 years who, until recently, has delved no more deeply into tech in the classroom, and here I am encouraging colleagues to come on in and see Curipod in action and leading CPD sessions. To top it off, I'm spending my evenings playing on my iPad to see how many new lessons I can create, and what new features have been added that week. The time saved, and the improvement in my lesson materials, is tangible.
- Read the full case study with Aileen Wallace

Curious?

Join our online workshop to find out how Curipod can work for you and your students!

Book your spot

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Join the growing movement of teachers using Curipod to make interactive lessons filled with creativity, reflection and critical thinking

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How HyperDocs Can Transform Your Teaching.

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Listen to my interview with Lisa Highfill, Kelly Hilton, and Sarah Landis, authors of The HyperDoc Handbook ( transcript):

In many classrooms, a learning cycle looks something like this: First, we write plans for a series of lessons and a final assessment. We gather materials-handouts, websites, rubrics, video clips. Then we teach the lessons one at a time, to the whole class, at the same pace, distributing materials as needed. Finally, we end with a project, test, or other assessment.

It's a very teacher-directed model, which can limit learning in a number of ways:

Students don't feel much ownership for their own learning. Instead, they depend on the teacher to tell them when and how to learn the material.

Because so much of the teacher's time is spent in direct instruction, there's little opportunity to work one-on-one with students.

Because it's up to the teacher to adjust instruction for students with varied needs and levels of readiness, differentiation becomes one more thing to do.

ENTER THE HYPERDOC

A HyperDoc is a digital document-such as a Google Doc-where all components of a learning cycle have been pulled together into one central hub. Within a single document, students are provided with hyperlinks to all of the resources they need to complete that learning cycle. Here's an example.

In the above HyperDoc, all of the bolded words are linked to outside resources. The right-hand column is set aside for students to take notes and do other kinds of thinking and planning as they work through the lesson.

One of the earliest iterations of the this type of "hub" was the WebQuest, which guided students through a lesson using all online resources. Now that Google tools like Docs and Slides have become so prevalent, teachers are using these tools to create similar lessons, choosing and mixing resources that go well beyond simple web pages. Last year, we looked at something called a playlist, which teacher Tracy Enos used to organize her language arts lessons and differentiate instruction for her students.

This post contains Amazon Affiliate links; if you purchase from Amazon after going through these links, Cult of Pedagogy receives a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Meanwhile, teachers Lisa Highfill, Kelly Hilton, and Sarah Landis were doing similar work in their own classrooms. They coined the term "HyperDoc" to describe their version of this, and in 2016, they published The HyperDoc Handbook to teach others their method for creating these lessons.

The book explains how HyperDocs work, why they have such an impact on instruction, and their model for how teachers can design HyperDocs for high-quality instruction. In the podcast episode above, I interviewed all three about their work. Here I will blend their expertise with some of my own thoughts about this exciting format.

BENEFITS OF HYPERDOCS

Fewer lectures. Teachers have been told for decades that we need to do less lecturing, to step away from being the sage on the stage and become more of a guide on the side. "I feel so bad for teachers when they hear that," Highfill says, "because they're like, 'Well, what am I supposed to do? I need to get information into their heads.'" A HyperDoc offers a solution by taking care of the direct instruction part of a lesson and offering a lot more as well.

More face-to-face interaction. A good HyperDoc runs itself, allowing students to work through it without needing you to guide them through each step. "Although it seems odd that you're putting a student in front of a device," Landis notes, "really what it's doing is freeing you up to move around and have increased face time with the students."

Flexibility. If one part of your lesson isn't working, you can just change it in the HyperDoc and the change takes effect immediately; no need to re-copy all your materials. Similarly, if each student gets their own copy of a HyperDoc, the elements can be changed on each to meet individual students' needs.

Multimodal opportunities. Because it is digital, a HyperDoc allows us to include all kinds of multimedia. "Living in this digital age, we're able to expose kids to different types of media that allows each child to access the learning or the content or the information in a way that's visually or auditorily appealing to them," Landis says. "I might be visual, and I might first study an image, then watch a video, and then I'm finally ready to tackle that article my teacher really wants me to read."

They don't know that maybe their text ... is at a different reading level," says Hilton. "Or they're able to use Privacy. If students' HyperDocs have been customized for them, no one else needs to know. "Read&Write for Google and just put headphones in, and that's just a little agreement between you and that student."

MODELS FOR BUILDING HYPERDOCS

Because HyperDocs are such adaptable tools, teachers structure them in many different ways, and you should experiment until you find a structure that works for you. Here are some options to consider:

Playlist: This model, explained in this article, follows a step-by-step sequence of activities that consist of learning activities as well as check-ins with the teacher and housekeeping tasks like setting up accounts on websites.

Self-Paced Learning: Explored in this post by math teacher Natalie McCutchen, this system lays out a path of lessons for a whole unit, along with links to review materials, pre-tests, and practice questions. Students decide how much practice they need and determine when to take the assessment for each learning goal. If they grasp the material quickly, they can test and move on.

5E Model: This first stage of this model is to Engage student interest. Next, students Explore the topic, Explain what they have learned, and Extend their learning by applying it in new situations. The last stage Evaluates student learning.

HyperDoc Model: The HyperDoc Handbook authors have developed a model that has some components of the 5Es above, but with some additions and adjustments. This template explains all 7 stages. One important component of this model is the first step, Explore. Highfill explains the value of this stage: "Kids are exploring and coming up with ideas and answers about a concept on their own, and it's engaging them from the beginning, instead of passively listening to a teacher explain something." During this time, while students explore, the teacher is actively gathering information: "I listen to my students," Highfill says, "I'm studying them and hearing to what level are they understanding a concept. I have the ability to pull a small group. I can work with my language learners during that time. The whole time I'm doing formative assessment in the classroom, which will then really be my basis for the next part of the lesson."

Agenda: This model, borrowed from the kind of planning done at a typical Montessori school, provides each student with a planner listing out their assignments for the week. Students decide how they want to use their class time each day, but are expected to complete all goals by the end of the week. Although these are traditionally done on paper, they could easily be converted to a HyperDoc format.

OTHER USES FOR HYPERDOCS

Building an extended lesson or unit is one of the most instructionally robust ways to use HyperDocs, but they can also be used for:

substitute teacher plans

video or podcast playlists

learning centers or stations

student-made HyperDocs

parent resources

departmental-, team-or grade-level HyperDocs to gather and share resources among teachers

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

Start with a template.
Rather than build your first HyperDoc from scratch, you might find more success by starting with a pre-made template, like the ones available for free on HyperDocs.co. You could also start with a completely finished HyperDoc that someone else created for their own classroom and modify it for your own use.

Build in participation, collaboration, and multimedia.
One risk inherent in HyperDocs is that they could simply become online worksheets, replicating the kind of work students could just as easily do on paper. Take advantage of this medium by including ways for students to participate actively, collaborate with others, and learn from a variety of media: video, interactive posters like ThingLinks, podcasts, online flashcards, and so on.

Offer choice...
HyperDocs are designed to allow students to work at different speeds and navigate learning in a way that works best for them. So when you can, offer choices: Give students options for the kind and quantity of materials they need to learn the material, how they will practice and apply it, and how they will demonstrate their learning.

...but don't "kitchen sink" it.
If you stuff your HyperDoc with every possible resource on a topic ("everything but the kitchen sink"), you'll overwhelm students. Choose resources thoughtfully.

Give students HyperDocs training.
Even if your students have used HyperDocs in other classes, your design probably has its own unique qualities, so take the time to demonstrate how it should be used. And within the HyperDoc itself, provide clear directions for its use.

So if you create a HyperDoc," says Hilton, "in the header or footer, say Collaborate with other teachers.
You do not need to do this alone! Thousands of teachers are sharing and collaborating on the HyperDocs.co site and using the #hyperdocs hashtag on Twitter. And be sure to give credit to the person who created the original: " Created by, and maybe link to your Twitter handle or your email, for yourself, and then if you make a copy of someone's, we encourage you to give that person credit by saying Inspired by or Remixed HyperDoc originally created by, just because we want an inclusive, appreciative sharing community."

Don't feel like you have to create a HyperDoc for every lesson.
"That's not something that any teacher should feel pressured to do," says Landis, "and it's not really realistic. We don't want teachers doing any one thing all the time, because then it becomes redundant for our kids."

HyperDocs Resources: How to Learn More

Book: The HyperDocs Handbook

Website: HyperDocs.co: The online hub for Landis, Hilton, and Highfill's work on HyperDocs. It contains helpful blog posts and the Teachers Give Teachers system where participants share their own HyperDocs with one another. To browse and borrow other teachers' HyperDocs, all you need to do is register.
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Join our mailing list and get weekly tips, tools, and inspiration-in quick, bite-sized packages-all geared toward making your teaching more effective and fun. You'll get access to our members-only library of free downloads, including 20 Ways to Cut Your Grading Time in Half the e-booklet that has helped thousands of teachers save time on grading. Come on in!!

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How HyperDocs Can Transform Your Teaching

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HyperDocs make room for more interactive, personalized, and student-directed learning. Let's look at how they work.

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Edpuzzle is a free, web-based tool that helps teachers create interactive video lessons. Edpuzzle engages student learning by transforming passive video consumption into interactive and personalized learning experiences. By allowing teachers to embed questions, audio notes, and even their own voice into videos, Edpuzzle empowers students to actively participate in the learning process, fostering deeper understanding and engagement.

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Easily create beautiful interactive video lessons for your students you can integrate right into your LMS. Track students' progress with hassle-free analytics as you flip your classroom!

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Gamma AI is an artificial intelligence-powered tool that helps users create visually appealing presentations, documents, and webpages by providing a simple interface where users can input prompts to generate content, essentially allowing them to quickly craft polished presentations with minimal design effort, all through the use of AI technology; it's primarily known for its presentation creation capabilities where you can generate slides with just a text prompt or by uploading existing content. With Gamma, teachers can create dynamic, multimedia presentations, documents, and websites. It's like an updated PowerPoint, with more flexibility, smoother options for embedding media, and the ability to collaborate in real time with other users.

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Samples of HyperDocs for Every Subject.

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Time to go shopping for HyperDocs! Look closely at design elements, different packaging options, engagement strategies, and more. Imagine the potential and possibility of digital lesson design with HyperDocs!

Click on the image below to access HyperDocs in each content area.

Did we miss a subject area or topic that you want? Is there a problem with any of the HyperDocs linked here? Leave a comment here and let us know!

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Time to go shopping for HyperDocs! Look closely at design elements, different packaging options, engagement strategies, and more. Imagine the potential and possibility of digital lesson design with HyperDocs! Click on the image below to access HyperDocs in each content area. Did we miss a subject area or topic that you want?

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The Owl Teacher's article on the SAMR Model provides educators with a comprehensive understanding of integrating technology into their teaching practices. It explains the four levels of the model: Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition this offers practical examples for each stage. By applying this framework, I, as a teacher, can thoughtfully enhance and transform their lessons, leading to more engaging and effective learning experiences. This resource serves as a valuable guide for educators aiming to incorporate technology meaningfully into their classrooms.

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Incorporating technology has always been a part of our teaching, but now with distance learning and teaching digitally, we have to incorporate more than ever! Learn about the SAMR model and how it affects online learning and the technology you use in the online classroom!

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Three Classroom Examples of the SAMR Model 

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Three Classroom Examples of the SAMR Model 

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The article from Model Teaching discusses the SAMR model, a framework that helps educators integrate technology into their classrooms effectively. The SAMR model outlines four levels of technology integration: Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition, each representing a progressively transformative use of technology in learning activities. As a teacher, I can apply this model by starting with basic substitutions, such as using digital documents instead of paper, and gradually advancing to redefinition, where technology enables the creation of new, previously inconceivable learning experiences, like collaborating with students from other schools on joint projects.

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Incorporating Technology Into The Classroom - The SAMR Model

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Learn about the SAMR model of technology integration and how to implement technology at each SAMR level to improve instructional quality.

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Canva is an online graphic design tool that allows users to create presentations, posters, infographics, and other visual content with ease. In the classroom, I can use Canva to design engaging lesson materials, such as interactive slides and worksheets, while students can create visually appealing projects and reports. Canva offers templates and drag-and-drop features, making it accessible even for beginners with little design experience. Additionally, its collaboration tools allow students to work together on group assignments in real-time, enhancing creativity and teamwork.

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Canva is a free-to-use online graphic design tool. Use it to create social media posts, presentations, posters, videos, logos and more.

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Classroom Strategies for Inquiry-Based Learning | UTAustinX on edX | Course About Video

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Mobile Guardian's Live Screen Views feature enables teachers to monitor students' device screens in real-time during digital classroom sessions. This functionality helps me as a educator ensure students remain focused on assigned tasks, minimizing distractions and reducing the likelihood of students falling behind. By identifying and addressing misunderstandings promptly, I as a teacher can provide timely assistance, enhancing overall academic performance. Additionally, the ability to observe student screens fosters increased engagement, as students are aware their activities are being monitored. Implementing such technology creates a more interactive and effective digital learning environment.

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Michael RosenthalForward Thinking EdTech Enthusiast with a Passion for Coffee

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View Student Screens in the Digital Classroom

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The features available to the digital classroom today for teachers are numerous and impressive! One of them is the ability to view student screens, live, while in class.

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GoLabz.eu is a platform that offers a collection of online laboratories, inquiry learning applications, and digital lessons for science education. Students can access virtual labs to conduct scientific experiments in an online environment, enhancing their understanding of various scientific concepts. They can also utilize interactive inquiry apps to engage in different phases of the inquiry learning process, such as hypothesis formulation and data analysis. Additionally, students can explore ready-to-use Inquiry Learning Spaces that integrate labs, apps, and other multimedia materials, providing structured learning experiences.

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© Next-Lab - Next Generation Stakeholders and Next Level Ecosystem for Collaborative Science Education with Online Labs. This website is part of a project that has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 731685.

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Helping children stay safe while searching the internet can be challenging. Fortunately, there are search engines designed exclusively for kids that can remove the risks of online information gathering.

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Exploring the Distinct Types of Learning with Examples for the Classroom

In our educational system today, teachers are well aware of the fact that individual students respond to specific types of learning. However, the challenge to be effective still remains for teachers who stand in front of a large classroom of diverse children. Most of these classes are too large to offer much individual instruction catered for each student.

It wasn't long ago when learning challenges such as autism, dyslexia, ADHD, and a myriad of other learning disabilities went undiagnosed or even considered. But even with added resources and understanding, individual teachers are expected to provide quality education on a multiple of subjects to a relatively mass audience.

Since every child is unique, we believe that if distinct types of learning are employed throughout school year, fewer children will be left behind. Teachers may notice that some children who were struggling have responded to a specific method. At the very least, changing things up from day to day will offer variety and make school more engaging for everyone.

The Distinct Types of Learning Styles

The predominate learning styles is laid out in the VARK system ( Visual | Auditory | Reading (and Writing) | K inesthetic). Let dig into these types first.

Visual Learning

A learning style in which information is best processed when presented visually. Individuals with a preference for visual learning often learn more effectively through images, charts, graphs, diagrams, and other visual aids. They may find it easier to understand and remember information when a visual format is used.

Examples of Visual Learning:

Mind Maps: Visual representations of information, concepts, or ideas, often created around a central theme or topic. They use branches, colors, and keywords to organize and illustrate relationships between different pieces of information. Similarly, flowcharts visually show the workflow from beginning to end of a process.

Infographics: Visual representations of data or information designed to present complex information quickly and clearly. They often use a combination of text, images, and icons to convey information in an easily digestible format. Visual learners benefit from infographics as they provide a visually engaging way to grasp and remember information.

Auditory Learning

A learning style in which individuals prefer to absorb information through listening. People with a strong auditory learning preference may learn more effectively through spoken words, discussions, and other auditory stimuli. They often benefit from explanations, lectures, and group discussions.

Examples of Auditory Learning:

Lectures and Oral Presentations: Auditory learners excel in environments where information is delivered verbally, such as lectures or oral presentations. They are likely to remember and understand concepts better when they hear them explained rather than reading them. Engaging speakers and dynamic presentations can be particularly effective for auditory learners.

Podcasts and Audiobooks: Auditory learners may find podcasts and audiobooks to be valuable tools for acquiring new information. Listening to spoken content allows them to absorb information through their sense of hearing. This form of learning is flexible, as it can be done while commuting, exercising, or performing other activities, making it convenient for auditory learners.

Reading/Writing

The Reading/Writing learning style in the VARK model refers to individuals who prefer to process information through written words. Learners with this preference often excel when they can read and write about a topic to understand and remember it effectively. They may prefer textbooks, written instructions, and notetaking as primary methods of learning.

Examples of the Reading and Writing learning style:

Text-Based Materials: Individuals with a preference for reading/writing often benefit from traditional text-based materials such as books, articles, and written instructions. They may find it easier to grasp information when presented in written form, allowing them to analyze and comprehend details through reading.

Note Taking and Summarizing: Reading/Writing learners often engage in notetaking as a strategy to reinforce their understanding of information. They may jot down key points, create outlines, or write summaries to process and remember what they've learned. This process of translating information into written form helps solidify their comprehension.

Kinesthetic Learning

Also known as tactile learning, the kinesthetic learning style where individuals prefer a hands-on approach to learning. Kinesthetic learners process information best through physical activities, movement, and direct manipulation of objects. They often learn by doing and benefit from actively engaging with the material.

Examples of Kinesthetic Learning:

Experiential Learning Activities: Kinesthetic learners thrive in activities that involve direct experiences and physical interactions. This can include science experiments, simulations, role-playing exercises, or field trips. By actively participating in these experiences, kinesthetic learners can better understand and retain information.

Hands-On Projects: Kinesthetic learners often excel in projects that require physical manipulation or construction. This could involve building models, conducting experiments, or creating something tangible related to the subject matter. For example, in a science class, kinesthetic learners might understand concepts better by physically assembling a model of a cell or conducting hands-on experiments to explore scientific principles.

Exploring Additional Learning Styles

A teacher need feel bound to teach according to one specific system of learning. Likewise, there are other additional factors to look at that can inhibit or strengthen their ability to learn. Beyond the primary types of learning, taking into account the styles of learning below can greatly enhance student engagement. Some of these relate to a child's personality type while others have more to do with a particular aptitude.

Social Learners (Linguistic)

Social learners thrive on interaction and collaboration with others as a primary means of acquiring and processing information. These individuals are most effective when they can engage in discussions, work in groups, and share ideas with peers. Social learning is often characterized by a preference for interpersonal communication and learning through social cues.

Example of Group Discussions and Collaborative Projects:

Social learners excel in group settings where they can actively participate in discussions and collaborative projects. For instance, in a classroom setting, a social learner might perform exceptionally well during group study sessions, where ideas are exchanged, different perspectives are considered, and the collective knowledge of the group is harnessed to deepen understanding. This collaborative approach helps social learners reinforce their learning through social interaction.

Solitary Learners

Also known as intrapersonal learners, solitary learners, prefer to work independently and often find solitary environments conducive to their learning process. These individuals are self-reflective and tend to be more introspective, thriving in settings where they can focus on individual tasks without external distractions.

Example of Independent Study and Self-Paced Learning:

Solitary learners are likely to excel in situations where they can study independently, such as through self-paced courses, individual research projects, or personal reading. For example, a solitary learner might prefer to read textbooks, conduct research alone, or work through course materials independently. This allows them to concentrate and learn effectively in a quieter and more self-directed environment.

Logical Learners (Analytical)

Also referred to as analytical learners, logical learners are individuals who excel in environments that require reasoning, analysis, and systematic thinking. They thrive when they can understand the underlying principles and relationships governing a subject. Logical learners prefer structure and logic in their learning materials.

Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Exercises:

Logical learners often excel in activities that involve problem-solving and critical thinking. For instance, in a STEM program they may perform well when presented with complex problems that require a logical and systematic approach to find solutions. Engaging in activities that challenge their analytical skills, such as puzzles, simulations, or experiments with a clear cause-and-effect relationship, can be particularly effective for logical learners.

Nature Learners

While learning styles like visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and others focus on sensory preferences, the concept of "nature learners" doesn't have a widely recognized definition in traditional educational psychology. However, if you're referring to individuals who have a strong affinity for learning in natural environments or through nature-related activities, I can provide an example:

Outdoor Education and Environmental Exploration:

Individuals who thrive as nature learners may benefit from educational experiences that take place outdoors. This could involve field trips to natural settings, environmental studies, or activities like gardening. For instance, a nature learner might better understand ecological concepts by actively participating in projects that involve observing and interacting with the natural world. This hands-on experience in nature enhances their learning process and allows them to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world observations.

Project-Based Learning

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is an instructional approach that can engage a variety of students regardless of their dominate learning style. PBL centers around students taking part in complex, real-world projects to deepen their understanding of a subject. Instead of traditional classroom methods, this method of learning emphasizes hands-on, collaborative, and inquiry-based learning.

Project-based learning is not just utilized in schools. It is a universal concept that any team can use in any organization.

Here is a video that explains Project-Based Learning in a non-school setting:

For students, class members typically work on projects in groups that require critical thinking, problem-solving, and the application of knowledge and skills. This frees up teachers to roam the classroom and provide individual attention where needed.

Benefits and Examples of Project-Based Learning:

Real-World Projects: Involve students in working on authentic, real-world projects that connect academic content to practical applications.

Inquiry and Investigation: Have students engage in inquiry and investigation. Encourage the asking of questions and exploring topics in-depth to develop a deeper understanding.

Hands-On Activities: Emphasize hands-on, experiential learning, and allow students to actively participate in the learning process on a set project or exercise.

Collaboration: Put students to work in collaborative groups on a project. This promotes teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Critical Thinking: Encourage critical thinking and problem-solving by having students analyze information, make decisions, and solve complex problems.

Autonomy and Ownership: Provide students with a sense of autonomy and ownership over their learning. Teamwork on a task will give them greater sense of responsibility for their education.

Reflection: Include opportunities for students to reflect on their learning process, identify challenges, and consider how to improve their work.

Presentations and Exhibitions: Have students work together with the end goal being the presentation or exhibitions of their projects to an audience. The presentation could 50% of their mark to promote communication skills as a team.

Continuous Learning: Check in with group projects to assist with students who are encountering challenges. Encourage them revise their work to refine their understanding throughout the project.

Summing Up the Distinct Types of Learning

All the elements explored here have hopefully served to collectively contribute to the effectiveness of teaching students to be the best they can be. Just as 'one shoe does not fit all', that does not mean kids shouldn't be exposed to various learning styles. At the very least, variety is the spice of life and will help hold a student's attention throughout the school year. Furthermore, in a classroom setting, employing various learning styles ensure all students are given equal opportunity to learn in a way that suits them.

Additionally, a pre-existing strength in one area does not mean a child cannot effectively expand their horizons and benefit from several types of methods. Children will face a myriad of challenges in their lifetime. Exposure to classroom lectures, individual teaching, and group settings will equipment them to better respond and develop live long learning in their relationships, career, and whatever they set their minds too.

Kid-Approved Ear Care: The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Little Ears in Top Shape

When it comes to the health of our family members, especially the youngest ones among us, there is nothing more important than making sure their ears are in top shape. As parents, no matter how great a job we do try to keep our kids safe and healthy, little ears can sometimes be easily forgotten about...until something goes wrong.

The good news is that ear care for your children doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming; with a few simple tips and tricks, you can quickly learn the best ways to make sure your kid's ears stay nice and clean without being overly invasive!

Through this ultimate guide on kid-approved ear care practices, you'll find out everything you need to know when it comes to keeping those cute little lobes healthy - from prevention methods and education on infections down to different home remedies if any issues arise. So, let's get started now - after all - your child's safety should always come first!

Choosing the Right Hearing Aid

Choosing the right hearing aid for your child is a decision that can greatly affect their quality of life. It's important to consider a few factors when making this decision, such as the type and severity of their hearing loss, the child's age, and lifestyle, as well as personal preferences. A consultation with an audiologist can greatly assist in finding the best hearing aid options available. From traditional behind-the-ear models to discrete in-the-ear styles, the cost of hearing aids varies, and there are a variety of hearing aids available that can accommodate your child's unique needs and ensure they can communicate effectively in any setting. By taking the time to research and test different models, you can make an informed decision and provide your child with the best-fit hearing aid.

Identifying an Ear Infection

Ear infections can be extremely uncomfortable and painful. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection and age of the individual. However, some common signs include ear pain, fever, drainage from the ear, difficulty hearing, and irritability in children. If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical help.

Ignoring the symptoms can lead to more serious complications, such as hearing loss or ruptured eardrum. Your healthcare provider can examine your ears and determine the cause of the infection. Treatment may include antibiotics or other medications to alleviate symptoms and prevent the infection from worsening. Remember, early detection and treatment are key when it comes to ear infections.

Create an Ear Care Routine for Kids

Proper hygiene is essential for maintaining good health, and ear care is a crucial part of it that we tend to overlook. Children, in particular, need to have a regular ear care routine to prevent infections or wax build-up. However, as parents, we understand that convincing your little ones to clean their ears can be challenging. So, we have put together some tips to make ear cleaning a regular part of your child's grooming routine. By incorporating these simple practices, you can help your young ones form healthy habits that will benefit them in the long run. So, let's dive in and make ear care easier for both you and your child!

Treating Common Ear Problems

Our ears are essential for experiencing the sounds of the world around us, but even the smallest ear problems can be a major annoyance. Fortunately, many common ear issues can be treated easily with at-home remedies. If you're dealing with minor infections, wax build-up, or other common ear ailments, there are plenty of natural solutions that can help relieve discomfort and promote healing.

From oil drops to warm compresses, explore some of the top home remedies for treating common ear problems. With a little bit of knowledge and a few simple ingredients, you can keep your ears healthy and hearing clearly.

Best Practices for Maintaining Healthy Ears

As parents, we want our children to be healthy in all aspects of their lives, and one area that can sometimes be overlooked is the health of their ears. It's important to establish good habits early on so that little ears stay clean and healthy. One key practice is to avoid sticking anything smaller than your elbow into your child's ear! This can push earwax further into the ear canal, potentially causing damage or hearing loss.

Instead, gently clean the outer ear with a washcloth and avoid using cotton swabs. Additionally, be mindful of noise levels in your child's environment as excessive noise can damage hearing. By following these best practices and establishing healthy habits, we can help keep little ears in tip-top shape!

Prepping Kids for a Professional Cleaning Visit

Whether it's a routine check-up or for a specific concern, getting your child's ears checked at the doctor's office can be a nerve-racking experience for both kids and parents. As a parent, it's important to make sure your child feels comfortable and prepared for the visit. One way to ease their worries is by explaining the process beforehand and answering any questions they may have.

Consider practicing at home by using a toy doctor's kit to give your child a sense of what to expect. Also, be sure to bring along some distractions like a book or a favorite toy to keep them occupied during the exam. Remember, the more informed and at ease your child feels, the smoother and more successful the visit will be.

With all this information, it's clear that there's a lot more to ear care and health than many families realize. This is why it's so important for parents and guardians to be informed about best practices when it comes to ear care - understanding warning signs, proper maintenance tips, professional visits, and the right hearing aid if needed. Implementing a consistent ear-cleaning routine can go a long way in helping keep your child's hearing safe.

Ear health is something that should not be taken lightly, and you must be prepared with proper knowledge and resources. Hearing impairments can also lead to issues with speech and your child's overall education. \ If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional - they can help you determine the best course of action for keeping your little one safe and healthy. So, what are you waiting for? Get informed today so that your children can have healthy ears tomorrow!

Why Keeping Games Consoles Secure Should be a Priority

The rise in video games cannot be understated. What was once a public novelty has now evolved into a quintessential part of most homes, with children and teenagers firmly accustomed to the idea of playing video games. Unlike age ratings like for films and content, there is no official or recommended age for using games consoles

With online gaming becoming vastly popular, it's never been more important for parents to decide if their child can safely use one. This guide is here to explain why ensuring your child's gaming system should always be secure, and why overlooking that aspect could present some serious concerns.

Gaming and Consoles are Mainstays of 2024

Recent surveys show that most children aged 7 to 18 (68%) own a games console, with a further 9% having access to one, which is quite telling of the situation many parents and educators find themselves in. At least 53% of US households report owning at least one gaming console, with 26% claiming a 'next-generation' model. Not only are video games and consoles firmly ingrained in how kids interact with each other and form social connections, but they also shape their experiences.

As our culture has grown increasingly digitally connected in recent years, it's no surprise that video gaming consoles have become 'must-haves' for today's youth. With many kids in elementary school playing video games semi-regularly, it's become a solid necessity to not feel isolated from their peers.

Multiplayer capabilities and a host of new releases making the rounds each year also make consoles highly coveted. Not only that, but the advancements in tech also make gaming more enticing, with keen gamers seeking new consoles and exclusive games to immerse themselves in. Therefore, it's fair to say that consoles and gaming are here to stay, so parents and caretakers must ensure safe usage, rather than restrict access.

Security Concerns of Video Gaming

Amid all the discourse surrounding video games and their influence on children's behavior, it cannot be denied that they can, if moderated and monitored appropriately, can have educational and social benefits. However, one thing that remains constant is the level of risk that lies with such proficient online gaming. Consoles introduce risks, ranging from interconnectivity with strangers in online, often 'lawless' chatrooms and forums, to a plethora of other cyber security risks and privacy breaches.

Providers and network administrators have their part to play in ensuring the robustness of their infrastructure. They can use mechanisms like vulnerability patching and penetration testing for weaknesses, although each user has to exercise vigilance. Console developers, meanwhile, are often tasked with rigorously securing networks and infrastructure, yet bad actors can still slip through the cracks. Sony recently suffered a series of hacks and security breaches which compromised user data, thus emphasizing the need for bolstering defenses.

Risks and Threats Associated with Gaming Devices

Games consoles introduce a range of potential cyber risks which can be concerning for parents. These include but are not limited to the following:

Personal data collection - Like all internet-connected devices, consoles and games can collect and transmit large amounts of user data. From usernames and passwords to usage data and communications, this information needs safeguarding with precision to prevent it from being used fraudulently or maliciously.

Device takeovers - Unwarranted hacks can give attackers full control over the console and any other connected devices. Remote hackers can compromise a device and expose users to unauthorized or inappropriate content.

Account takeovers - Attackers with stolen login credentials can access user accounts, steal personal information, make fraudulent purchases with saved payment cards, exploit associated email accounts, and much more.

Communication platforms - Instant messaging, and voice chat features can expose vulnerable children to bullying and harassment. If not supervised, kids can become victims of exploitative cyberbullying and social engineering attacks.

Malware risks - Viruses, spyware, and other malware can 'brick' games and consoles or render them inaccessible. These can often materialize innocuously without arousing suspicion from users.

Network risks - Gaming on public Wi-Fi networks - or those with poor, weak network security - leaves consoles vulnerable to eavesdropping and MitM (man-in-the-middle) cyber attacks.

This year alone we have seen the aforementioned attacks on the PlayStation Network, as well as a large-scale data leak on the Xbox servers. As these are two of the industry's most recognizable brands, it only proves that as consoles grow in popularity, they can become more appealing targets for cybercriminals. Therefore, personal safety and security is essential.

Securing Gaming Devices and Accounts

While there are undoubtedly risks when using gaming consoles, they are, fundamentally, no different than those that exist when using the Internet. This type of technology is increasingly available and beneficial, so the steps that parents can take to minimize threats bear many similarities to moderating children's Internet usage and access.

As a baseline level, consider implementing these controls to keep your kids safer when using online game consoles.

Use Strong Passwords and MFA

Establishing strong, unique passwords - using undecipherable, random strings of letters, numbers, symbols and capitalizations - will make initial barriers harder to break. Avoid using birthdays, pet names, or other easy-to-guess information in passwords.

Keep this data safe and bolster it by allowing multi-factor authentication (MFA) to validate login attempts. It might seem overly protective, but this will prevent usernames and passwords from being compromised.

Limit Personal Info

When setting up accounts, make sure that only essential information is provided. Consider leaving phone numbers, locations, school names, and other identifiable information fields blank, and restricting the access that third-party applications have to this data. Consider also masking real names on user profiles to avoid being targeted or identified.

Monitor Friends and Chats

If your child interacts with friends online, there's a good chance that, over time, they may encounter mutual friends and broaden their friendship circle online. However, listen carefully to what they say. Take a fervent interest in what they talk about and the interactions they mention in conversation.

If they seem 'off' or dissociate, it could indicate that they are interacting with someone anonymous who is worrying or stressing them. Cyberbullies and predators lurk in gaming comms channels, so pay close attention. If necessary, step in and enable parental controls and enhance privacy settings.

Patch Networks and Consoles

Ensure your home Wi-Fi uses modern WPA2 or WPA3 encryption protocols and a long, complicated pre-shared key (password). If relevant, consider installing a separate VPN to offer more robust, controlled connections.

Keep firmware updated on the console itself as well as routers and other network devices, applying all new security patches and revisions when prompted.

Disable remote administration capabilities and UPnP on routers, and, where possible, connect consoles to routers using ethernet cables. This stabilizes the connection between the console and the Internet.

Beware of Social Engineering

Kids may instinctively try to keep their gaming activities secret from parents, particularly if they find it to be an immersive escape from daily life. However, it's important to bridge that gap where possible and educate them - not forcefully but, rather, openly - on attempts to manipulate them.

Teach them ways to identify attempts to steal login credentials or sensitive data, and emphasize that divulging this could pose a security risk. Phishing emails, notifications, and links can be dangerous, so they should take time to assess their legitimacy before clicking them.

It will help exponentially if your child feels comfortable maintaining autonomy when using their console but flagging up any suspicions to you with confidence, at which point you can intervene without reprimanding them.

While no gaming console security is foolproof, combining the security steps outlined above will significantly reduce the attack surface. Parents must manage and monitor console usage carefully but not to the point where it becomes disruptive or invasive to their child's enjoyment. Stay alert for new threats and make cyber safety an ongoing conversation with your young gamer(s), as they should feel empowered to enjoy the gaming experience without becoming desensitized to it because of security concerns.

If your kids want to find their own solutions to any challenging parts of the games they are playing, you can support them to navigate the web safely by using Safe Search Kids. Using Safe Search Kids means that you don't have to worry about your kids stumbling upon content that isn't appropriate for them.

15 Heartfelt and Affordable Gifts for Mum-to-Be

Welcoming a new life into the world is exciting, especially for expectant mothers. It's a period filled with anticipation, joy, and, of course, a bit of anxiety. During this time, celebrating a mum-to-be with thoughtful gifts can add a sparkle to her journey.

But here's the thing - these gifts don't have to break the bank. In this guide, we'll explore some heartfelt yet affordable gift ideas, perfect for showing love and support without stretching your wallet.

Why Affordable Gifts Matter for Mum-to-Be

In an age where the cost of living and raising a child is ever-increasing, being budget-conscious is more critical than ever. But let's not confuse affordable with less meaningful. The value of a gift lies in its thoughtfulness, not its price tag. Cheap presents can be practical and emotionally gratifying, offering a way to show care without financial strain. Considering the expenses awaiting new parents, a budget-friendly gift can be a considerate choice.

The Joy of Gifting: What Expectant Moms Appreciate

What do expectant moms cherish the most? It's the thought and love put into a gift. These soon-to-be mothers are embarking on one of life's most beautiful journeys, and a gift that acknowledges their emotional and physical needs during this time can be significant. Whether it offers relaxation, celebrates the upcoming arrival, or makes their day-to-day a bit easier, the sentiment behind the gift truly counts. So, when considering gifts for mum to be, remember that love and care matter most.

Thoughtful and Affordable Gifts for Mum-to-Be

Personalised Gifts

Personalised Baby Name Keychain: More than just a keychain, it's a daily reminder of the new life about to be welcomed. This charming gift can accompany her everywhere as a token of the joyous future.

Customised Photo Frame: Ideal for those first sonogram images or newborn pictures, this frame becomes a cherished family heirloom, capturing a moment in time that's forever precious.

Handmade Greeting Card: Crafted with care, a handmade card can express sentiments that store-bought ones cannot. It's a unique way to convey your excitement and best wishes for her journey into motherhood.

Self-Care and Relaxation

Scented Candles: These candles don't just light up a room; they offer a serene ambience, perfect for moments of reflection and calm amid a busy prenatal period.

Herbal Tea Assortment: Carefully selected for safety and comfort during pregnancy, these teas provide a comforting and warm ritual that can soothe both body and mind.

DIY Bath Salts Kit: A DIY kit isn't just a gift; it's an experience. Mixing her bath salts adds a personal touch to her relaxation routine, making it all the more special.

Practical Baby Essentials

Baby Bibs: These aren't just practical; they come in various fun designs and colours, adding a bit of joy to everyday baby care.

Baby Socks: Keeping those tiny toes warm is crucial, and with an array of cute patterns, they're a delightful addition to any baby's wardrobe.

Baby Washcloths: Gentle on the baby's skin and indispensable during bath time, these washcloths are a must-have for any new parent, blending functionality with comfort.

Books for Parenting and Pregnancy

Pregnancy Journal: This journal offers a space to document thoughts, feelings, and experiences, creating a priceless memoir of her pregnancy journey.

Parenting Advice Book: Packed with practical advice, these books are a great resource, offering reassurance and guidance through the early stages of parenthood.

Children's Bedtime Storybook: It's more than just a book; it's the beginning of many nights of bedtime stories, fostering a love for reading and bonding time between parent and child.

Homemade Treats

Hand-baked Cookies or Muffins: These treats, made from the heart, are a sweet gesture of care and provide a comforting, home-cooked taste that's hard to beat.

Fruit Basket: A basket of fresh, hand-picked fruits looks beautiful and offers a healthy snack full of vitamins and nutrients.

Homemade Pregnancy-safe Face Mask: Using natural ingredients, this face mask is a thoughtful way to encourage her to take some time for herself, ensuring it's safe and soothing for her skin during pregnancy.

Where to Find Budget-Friendly Mum-to-Be Gifts

Image by gpointstudio on Freepik

There are several places where you can find these gems. Online marketplaces often offer personalised items at low costs. Local thrift stores or second-hand shops are treasure troves for unique finds. For crafty people, DIY and crafting stores are your go-to materials to make your gifts. And remember community groups and online forums, where you can often find gently used items perfect for gifting.

Tips for Selecting the Perfect Affordable Gift

When choosing an affordable gift for a mom-to-be, consider her style, needs, and allergies to make it meaningful and suitable. Please pay attention to skincare or edible items to ensure her comfort.

Your relationship with the expectant mother matters. For close bonds, go for customised or sentimental gifts; opt for universally appealing and practical items for more formal relationships. Balancing these factors enhances the gift's value.

Creative Presentation Ideas

The presentation of your gift can elevate its perceived value and show the care you've put into it:

DIY Gift Wrapping: Personalise your gift with handmade wrapping paper or decorate a plain gift box with drawings, stickers, or ribbons. This adds a unique touch and shows the extra effort you've put into the gift.

Gift Baskets: Assemble a themed gift basket with small items. For instance, a self-care basket with herbal teas, scented candles, and a homemade face mask can be charming and helpful.

Handwritten Note: Including a handwritten note with your gift adds a deeply personal touch. It's a chance to express your excitement and well-wishes for her journey into motherhood, making the gift even more memorable.

You're All Set!

Celebrating a mum-to-be with thoughtful, affordable gifts is a beautiful way to share the joy and anticipation of the new arrival. Each gift idea we've explored offers a blend of practicality, sentiment, and care, proving that it's not about how much you spend but the thoughtfulness you put into the gift.

Now, it's your turn to spread the joy. Take these ideas, find the perfect gift that resonates with the expectant mother in your life, and tell her how much she appreciates it. Whether it's a handmade card, a personalised keepsake, or a soothing self-care item, your gift will surely bring a smile and warmth to her heart.

Remember, the best gifts come from the heart, not the wallet. So make a mum-to-be's day special, and enjoy the happiness of giving.

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Safe Search Kids | Filtering Enhanced by Google for Safer Search

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The Kids' Search Engine that ensures Google safe search in school and at home on all devices. We filter the internet and provide educational resources.

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Padlet is a cloud-based platform that allows users to create virtual boards for organizing and sharing content.

Students can use Padlet to collaborate on projects by posting text, images, videos, and links to a shared board. They can participate in brainstorming sessions, contribute to group discussions, and provide peer feedback in real-time. Additionally, Padlet serves as a platform for students to showcase their work, enabling them to share their accomplishments with classmates and receive constructive feedback.

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Inquiry-based Learning Tools are the topic of our blog post today!

Inquiry-based learning-where curiosity meets exploration, and the journey is just as enriching as the destination. I can't count the number of times my own classroom lit up with the excitement of discovery, or how many deep dives I've personally taken in educational research, guided solely by questions begging for answers. But hey, anyone who's navigated these waters knows it's not just about the quest; it's also about the toolkit you assemble along the way.

So, why are we talking tools today? Because the right resources can amplify your research, streamline your workflow, and open doors you didn't even know existed. Whether you're a teacher fueling the fire of curiosity in your classroom, or a student turned amateur detective on the hunt for insights, the tools you use can make or break your inquiry-based learning experience.

From digital curation platforms that make sense of the Internet's sprawling landscape to concept mapping tools that give form to your most abstract thoughts, we're diving deep into the tech that can turn your inquiries into revelations. And trust me, I've been through the trenches with these tools-tested them in real classrooms and applied them to concrete research projects-so what you're getting here are not just recommendations, but field-tested game changers.

Inquiry-based Learning Tools

There is a wide range of web tools students and teachers can use to boost their inquiry based learning. The collection below features some of my favourite picks. Check them out and share with us your feedback:

1. Digital Curation Tools

The internet is basically an endless sea of resources, right? But navigating through this sea can be a real puzzle when it comes to inquiry-based learning. What you need is a good compass and map-or, in 21st-century lingo, some wicked curation tools.

Now, why is curation crucial? Well, in my years both in the classroom and in research, I've found that effective curation not only helps you hoard all kinds of digital goodies-think videos, articles, pictures, you name it-but it also gives you the keys to your own mini-library that you can pop open anytime, anywhere.

What amps up these tools even more is their ability to turn curation into a team sport. Yep, many come loaded with features for collaboration. So whether you're sharing a killer TED Talk video or a research paper with your peers, you're all on the same digital page, literally and metaphorically.

Some tools I swear by are Instapaper for its read-later simplicity, Flipboard for how it lets me create my own personalized magazines, and Padlet because it's like a digital bulletin board where the sky's the limit. And if you're looking for more options, don't just take my word for it. The digital curation tools list has some excellent recommendations based on solid research and reviews.

2. Free eBooks and Audiobooks

If inquiry-based learning had a best friend, it would be this dynamic duo. You're on a quest for knowledge, right? So, what's better than a library you can carry in your pocket?

I've been in education for a long time, and let me tell you, the digital age has turned the tables in favor of lifelong learners. Remember when research meant hours in a dusty library? Those days are long gone. Now, you've got a smorgasbord of eBooks and audiobooks at your fingertips, 24/7, feeding your insatiable appetite for understanding.

For those moments when you're multi-tasking-say, driving or doing household chores- audiobooks are your MVP. They turn mundane moments into mini-lecture halls. On the other hand, eBooks are perfect when you want to deep-dive into a topic. You can highlight, annotate, and do all sorts of academic acrobatics right on the screen.

Now, where do you find these resources without breaking the bank? Internet Archive and LibriVox are solid choices for a mix of classics and rare finds. Project Gutenberg is a goldmine for public domain texts, and I find Open Library fascinating because it's like a Wiki for book lovers-you can even borrow digital copies!

If you're craving more, there's a killer list called places to access free eBooks and audiobooks online. Trust me, it's well-researched and super handy for anyone in the educational sphere.

3. Video Annotation Tools

If pictures are worth a thousand words, then annotated videos must be worth a novel. When you're waist-deep in an inquiry-based learning project, creating explanatory videos isn't just an option; it's an opportunity to bring your findings to life.

Remember the days of chalk and talk? Oh, how things have changed. Now, we're in an era where you can not only show but also tell in an engaging manner, with neat little annotations that make your arguments pop. Whether you're a teacher looking to bring some flair to a lesson, or a student on the brink of a breakthrough, video annotations can make your message more compelling.

Now let's talk tools, shall we? Kapwing is a go-to for its user-friendly interface, which lets you slap on text, subtitles, and graphics like a pro. WeVideo is great when you want to add some cinematic flair; think music, transitions, and a dash of drama. Veed's pretty handy if you're in a hurry-it's quick, no-fuss, and gets the job done. Flexclip, though, is a jack-of-all-trades; you can annotate, edit, and even add in some slick animation.

There's a well-crafted guide out there called " video annotation tools " and let me tell you, it's an eye-opener. Check it out to learn more about these and other tools.

4. Presentation tools

Let's face it, no matter how groundbreaking your research is, if you can't convey it well, you're leaving impact on the table. Presentations can be the bridge between your findings and your audience, making complicated topics digestible, even relatable.

Remember overhead projectors and transparencies? We've come a long way since then, haven't we? Nowadays, you don't need to be a design guru to put together a slick presentation; the tools out there are seriously leveling the playing field. Having used a slew of these both in the classroom and in conferences, I can tell you they're game-changers.

Google Slides is like that reliable friend who's always there when you need them-simple, straightforward, and you can even collaborate in real-time. PowerPoint, ah, the old stalwart, has seriously upped its game with a host of new features that can bring a dash of pizzazz to your slides. Haiku Deck? Think of it as the minimalist artist of the group-ideal when you want your message, not the bells and whistles, to take center stage. And then there's Flipsnack, which allows you to turn your presentations into interactive digital books. How cool is that?

If you're keen on exploring more options, there's an informative list dubbed presentation making tools for teachers and students. It's chock-full of bona fide, educator-tested recommendations.

5. Concept Mapping Tools

Concept Mapping Tools are where the magic really happens in inquiry-based learning. We're talking about painting a full-blown mural of your thoughts, ideas, and research findings. Having used these tools extensively, both in teaching and educational research, I can vouch for how they serve as an idea playground where you can jump from one concept to another, making connections that you didn't even realize existed.

If inquiry-based learning is a journey, then concept maps are your roadmap. These visual organizers let you unravel complex concepts like a pro. Want to compare and contrast ideas? Map it out. Need to lay down a procedural pathway for a solution? Sketch those steps in a flowchart. Concept maps become your visual diary where theories, ideas, and a-ha moments coalesce into something meaningful.

Alright, time to get to the brass tacks-the tools! MindMeister has been a staple in my toolbox for its ease of use and intuitive design. You can virtually brainstorm with teammates and share your maps effortlessly. Miro is your tool if you're into sprawling, limitless canvases that can fit every nuance of your project. Lucidspark offers real-time collaboration with voting and commenting features, making it a democratic space for collective brainstorming. MindMup is your straightforward, no-frills option that makes mapping quick and easy.

There's a killer guide floating around called concept mapping tools for teachers and students and I must say, it's a must-read. This resource goes beyond mere listings; it gives you the inside scoop on what makes each tool special.

6. Research Tools

Inquiry-based learning is research in its most interactive form. You're not just passively absorbing information; you're an active participant in the learning process. In my years both in the classroom and in research circles, the distinction between "learning" and "doing research" has increasingly blurred, especially in the digital age.

For example, in one of my educational research projects, we were able to pull in various academic search engines like Google Scholar and JSTOR to gather peer-reviewed articles and literature. Trust me, if you're diving deep into a specific subject, you'll want these platforms in your toolbox. They're like your academic personal shoppers, pulling up the best and most relevant materials for your research.

Let's not forget the other unsung heroes in the research landscape- citation generators and reference managers. These tools might not sound glamorous, but they are lifesavers. No more manual formatting of citations, only to discover you missed a comma somewhere! Tools like Zotero and Mendeley can automate this cumbersome process, allowing you to focus on what matters-the content of your research.

If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options, fear not. There's a comprehensive guide out there aptly named " Best Research Tools for Teachers and Students. " This resource is a trove of top-notch, thoroughly vetted tools and platforms to aid your inquiry-based learning journey.

Final thoughts

As we wrap up this post about inquiry-based learning, it's hard not to feel a sense of awe for the sheer volume and variety of resources available today. I mean, think back to the years when a library card and a set of encyclopedias were your primary research companions. How times have changed! Today's tech tools don't just make research easier; they make it richer, more interactive, and accessible to anyone with a question and an internet connection.

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Best Inquiry-based Learning Tools - Educators Technology

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Inquiry-based Learning Tools are the topic of our blog post today! Inquiry-based learning-where curiosity meets exploration, and the journey is just as enriching as the destination. I can't count the number of times my own classroom lit up with the excitement of discovery, or how many deep dives I've personally taken in educational research, guided...

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Teacher essentials - Canva Design School

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6 Reasons You Should Be Doing Story Telling.

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6 Reasons You Should Be Doing Story Telling.

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Why You Should Bring Podcasts Into Your Classroom | Cult of Pedagogy

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Book Creator is a digital tool that allows students and teachers to create interactive eBooks with text, images, audio, and video. In your classroom, you can use it for student storytelling, digital portfolios, collaborative class books, or even multimedia research projects. It encourages creativity, enhances digital literacy, and supports differentiated instruction across various subjects.

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StoryJumper is an online platform that allows students to create, illustrate, and publish their own digital and printed storybooks. In my classroom, I can use it to enhance literacy skills by having students write and illustrate their own stories, collaborate on group projects, or even turn lessons into engaging books. It also supports creativity and engagement by offering a user-friendly interface with customizable templates, voice recording options, and the ability to share or print books.

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Electric Zine Maker is a playful, easy-to-use digital tool for creating and printing zines, allowing users to design pages with drawing tools, text, and collage elements. In the classroom, students can use it for creative projects like storytelling, reflective journals, or visual essays, promoting self-expression and digital literacy. By printing and folding their zines, students engage in a hands-on learning experience that enhances writing, art, and communication skills.

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StoryBird is a creative writing platform that allows students to create visual stories using a vast library of curated artwork. In my classroom, I can use it to inspire students to write poems, picture books, and long-form stories while improving their literacy skills. It also offers collaborative storytelling, teacher-assigned projects, and feedback tools to enhance student engagement and learning.

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A Free Video Maker is an online or software-based tool that allows users to create, edit, and customize videos without cost. In the classroom, I can use it to enhance lessons by creating engaging educational videos, student presentations, or project-based assignments. It also encourages creativity and collaboration, as students can work together to produce videos that demonstrate their understanding of a topic.

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Powtoon is a cloud-based animation and video creation tool that allows users to make engaging presentations and explainer videos with pre-made templates, characters, and animations. In the classroom, I can use Powtoon to create interactive lessons, summarize complex topics, or assign students to make their own animated projects to demonstrate learning. Its easy-to-use interface makes it a great tool for enhancing student engagement and creativity across various subjects.

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Toontastic is a creative storytelling app by Google that allows students to draw, animate, and narrate their own cartoons. In the classroom, I can use it to enhance literacy by having students create digital stories, summarize books, or illustrate historical events. It also fosters collaboration and critical thinking as students plan narratives, design characters, and bring their ideas to life through animation.

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Online Voice Recorder - Record Voice from the Microphone

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Quill.org is a free, online, nonprofit resource that helps students improve their writing and grammar skills. I can use Quill.org in the classroom as a way to provide personalized learning paths based on individual student needs and immediate feedback on writing. It allows teachers to tailor activities to different learning levels, enabling students to take ownership of their writing development and progress at their own pace.

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Premium subscriptions for schools and districts interested in priority technical support, additional reporting, and support from Quill’s professional learning team--plus an option for individual teachers

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Classroom Management Tools & Resources - Google for Education

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Get started with Google Classroom, a central hub for tools and resources designed to help educators manage classrooms and enrich learning experiences.

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ClassDojo helps teachers, parents, and students build amazing classroom communities.

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It's simple to get started!

Simply send an email to sarah@mobymax.com, with the following information for each teacher that you would like to include in the school or district pilot:

Teacher full name

Teacher email address

School name

That's it! We'll do all the work to get your teachers started with MobyMax.

If you have any questions, please give us a call at 888-793-8331.

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MobyMax Math finds and fixes missing math skills that are essential for math comprehension. Students working at least 20 hours in Moby Math show a 1.4 grade level increase on average. Moby Math is a comprehensive math curriculum for kindergarten to 8th grade.

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https://www.weareteachers.com/best-virtual-field-trips/ provides a list of the best virtual field trips, offering students opportunities to explore museums, historical sites, and nature from anywhere. In the classroom, students can use these virtual experiences to supplement their learning, engage in interactive activities, and connect lessons to real-world locations. Teachers can incorporate these field trips into lesson plans to spark curiosity, encourage discussion, and enhance understanding of various subjects.

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Experiential Learning » Center for Teaching & Learning | Boston University

Review Kolb's Cycle of Learning Theory for Experiential Learning

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Introduction to Experiential Learning

Review this infographic and the information following to better understand the experiential learning approach.This website provides visually engaging infographics that explain educational concepts, such as experiential learning, clearly and concisely. I can use this resource in my classroom to introduce complex ideas through visual summaries, making it easier for students to understand and retain information. Additionally, the infographics can serve as discussion starters, allowing students to analyze and apply concepts in real-world contexts.

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Assessment is at the heart of our teaching practice. We use backward planning and start with the end in mind. We ask ourselves questions like, "what do we want our students to know?" and "what will our students be able to do?" Because assessment is so important, it's no surprise that there are a ton of tech tools for assessment. Trying to find what you're looking for is time-consuming! That's why we've picked the ten best tech tools for student assessment, keeping your goals in mind.

Goal: I want to find out what my students learned

I wish we could read students' minds, but since we can't, we use exit tickets. If you rely on this best practice to plan your next instructional move, you have a lot of options. I love Google or Microsoft Forms. They are easy to use, and you can create multiple choice or short answer questions for students to complete. All the data is there for you.

Learn more:

Goal: I want to hear from my students and watch them share what they've learned

Flipgrid is a social media-style video discussion platform great for generating class discussion around topics, videos, or links posted to the class grid. Students can video record their responses to share with the teacher or class. It's a great tool for supporting your students to make their thinking visible.

Learn More:

Goal: I want to do a quick check in during my lesson

Mentimeter lets you add polls, word clouds, Q&As, and more to presentations and create an interactive experience for students, who can vote on/respond to questions and engage with the presentation in real time. This made our list because there's so much variety in the types of formative assessments you can give in real time.

Learn More:

Goal: I want to see my students' thought process and their answer

Jamboard is a digital whiteboard that is compatible with the GSuite services. It's a game changer for emphasizing the process of learning over the product. Math teachers love how students solve and explain their solution. If you don't use Google, Padlet is our runner up.

Learn More:

Goal: I want to listen to my students' read to assess fluency

Students read aloud and answer questions on their device (almost any device works). Within 24 hours, you get a running record with scores for accuracy, fluency, and comprehension. A free basic account includes 10 reading assessments/month.

Learn More:

Goal: I want to include checks for understanding as my students learn

EdPuzzle is a video editor that allows both teachers and students to add voice-overs, comments, resources, and quizzes to existing or self-created online videos. Best part? All the students' answers are gathered for you so you can quickly assess.

Learn More:

Goal: I want to put checks for understanding in my slides

Pear Deck is an interactive presentation and lesson delivery tool. Students use their devices to follow along with the teacher's slideshow on a classroom screen. Throughout, teachers can pause at points where they've added interactive questions and collect real-time data about student understanding.

Goal: I want my students to give each other feedback

Once you set up your assignment, pick a feedback rubric (or create your own), and select your assignment. Your students take it from there. They submit work, review each others', and then act on the feedback. Best part? There's a teacher overview where you can see it all.

Learn More:

Goal: I want to give a quiz or test

There are a lot of options with this tool. You can include multiple choice, true/false, and short answer questions. I love how you see students' results in real time, and you can add explanations if students get a question wrong. Students can get instant feedback, or you can make the quiz self-paced or lead it yourself. My favorite feature: Space Race, a group quiz where students "race" to cross the finish line.

Learn More:

Goal: I want grading to take less time

No matter what grade and subject you teach, grading takes time that we don't have. Enter Floop. This tool is a cloud-based website where students get annotated feedback from you and their classmates. Using any internet-connected device, students upload images of an assignment to the platform, and you put markers in places where you want feedback. Students are able to see and respond to comments, creating a feedback loop.

Learn More:

Goal: I want one tool that does different types of assessment

Spiral is a free suite of four apps. Use Quickfire to give a formative assessment in real time and hear from all of your students. Discuss makes your slides more interactive for students. Team Up supports student collaboration, and Clip turns public-facing videos into a live chat with questions and quizzes.

Learn More:

Plus, check out 50 Free Seesaw Activities and Resources For Every Kind of Classroom

Want more articles like this? Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you can get our latest picks.

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The 10 Best Tech Tools for Student Assessment

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Assessment is at the heart of our teaching practice. We use backward planning and start with the end in mind. We ask ourselves questions like, "what do we want our students to know?" and "what will our students be able to do?"

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Blooket is an educational game-based learning platform where teachers can create quizzes and students can play games to review content. It allows me to engage students through various game modes that are both fun and interactive, enhancing retention of knowledge. To use it in my classroom, I can create a set of questions, select a game mode, and have students join using a code to participate in the game.

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Search and discover new sets from a large collection created by users.

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Classkick is an interactive platform that allows teachers to create assignments where students can respond, collaborate, and receive real-time feedback. It enables teachers to monitor student progress and provide individual support while students work on assignments independently or in groups. I can use it in my classroom, to create an assignment, share the link with students, and use the live feedback feature to guide them as they complete the task.

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Helping Teachers Be Awesome See all your students working and give high-quality feedback–from anywhere. Sign Up (Free!)

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Peergrade is an online platform that allows students to give and receive feedback on each other's work based on customizable rubrics. It promotes peer assessment, collaboration, and critical thinking skills, helping students engage with the material and improve their work. In the classroom, I can use Peergrade to assign peer reviews, track student progress, and facilitate constructive feedback on assignments like essays, projects, or presentations.

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Peergrade - engaging student peer review

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Peergrade is an online platform to facilitate peer feedback sessions with students

Get started

The teacher sets up an assignment

You start by setting up your assignment. You pick a feedback rubric from our library or create your own, select an assignment template and you're ready to get started.

Students submit their work

Students submit their work to your assignment. They can submit anything - text, files, videos, links and even Google docs!

Students review each other

Your students give each other anonymous feedback through your rubric.

Students engage with their feedback

Students receive feedback from their peers, they react, discuss and engage with their feedback.

The teacher has a complete overview

You get the complete overview of everything that is happening in the assignment.

Built on academic research

Peergrade is not just a tool that can provide you with insights into your students' performance and save you time. It also creates a much better learning experience for your students. Don't believe us? There's a bunch of studies that actually proves that it can increase learning up to 30%!

Used by thousands of schools and universities

Get Started

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Peergrade - engaging student peer review

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Learn by giving feedback! Peergrade is a free online platform to facilitate peer feedback sessions with students.

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10 Video project ideas for (almost any class):

1. Create a personal narrative

Everyone has a story, and when we share our own experiences, they can be a motivating factor for others -- and help us reflect on our lives and choices. Narratives can be about students themselves, a fictional character or historical person. A few easy ways to record these include:

Check out 24 ways to create great classroom video with Screencastify for more ideas!

2. Record interviews (in person or virtually)

The people around us and around the world are living history. Their experiences, information, and advice is a treasure trove waiting to be mined. Use a video response tool like Flipgrid ( flipgrid.com) to record interviews. They could be in-person interviews where both parties sit next to each other in the camera's frame. Or, they could be virtual interviews, where someone far away records responses to questions in a Flipgrid video (just share the link with them to record a video). They can be serious, silly ... even fictional. The sky's the limit!

Check out Catch the Flipgrid Fever! 30+ ways to use Flipgrid with your class for more resources.

3. Create a whiteboard animation

Set up something with a camera so it won't move (on a tripod or otherwise). Aim it at a whiteboard or chalkboard. Record and start drawing. Use video editing tools to speed it up to four times its normal speed and add a voiceover (and music?). Here's a great blog post with the basics on how to create these videos. Below is a whiteboard animation I created to illustrate a conference session I presented (my cropping was not the best!).

4. Present slides with a screencast recording

People communicate big, important ideas like this all the time using webinars. The slides let you present an idea step by step using uncluttered slides with a simple sentence (or single word!) or an image. Instead of presenting multiple bullet points on a single slide, break each point out into its own slide. Screencast recording tools like Screencastify, Screencast-o-Matic and others can handle these videos easily!

5. Record a stop-motion animation in Google Slides

If you're recording your screen, the first thing that comes to mind for many people is to record presentation slides. (See the idea above.) Let's go beyond that and think of other useful websites and apps that you could record instead. For instance, create a stop-motion animation using Google Slides (click here for a step-by-step tutorial). It's easy: create a slide, duplicate it, move something, duplicate the new slide, move something, etc. Repeat over and over. When you're done, record it using a tool like like Screencastify or Screencast-o-Matic. Record your voice with a microphone so you can narrate what's happening!

Check out Learning in motion: EASY stop-motion animation with Google Slides to learn how!

6. Make a video tour of a significant location

If students visit a place -- on a field trip, on vacation or any time -- they can share their learning experience with others by recording video of it and narrating as they go. (If they're at a museum or other such place, asking permission first is probably a good idea!) If they can't visit it, creating a video slideshow with Animoto or in a screencast would work, too.

A virtual walking tour is an option, too. Use Google Maps Street View to view one of these fantastic locations virtually (or anywhere else). Record it (including the microphone for your voice) while you play tour guide and read some facts about the location from a script or extemporaneously!

Check out Google Maps walking tours with Street View and Screencastify for more information.

7. Take your video projects anywhere with green screen

Green screen apps let students superimpose themselves over an image or video background. This makes it look like they're almost anywhere in the world (or beyond!) in these videos. Inexpensive apps like Green Screen by Do Ink can make it happen. (Here's a video that shows how it works.) You don't need a fancy green screen to stand in front of, either. A green painted wall, a green fabric background or even a green disposable tablecloth can work!

8. Create GIF examples of classroom content

GIFs are the moving image files. They're kind of like silent video that's treated like a picture file. By using a free GIF maker, students can create videos of anything class related and place it on a class website or share simply. Teachers can also make short animations to use for demonstrations. Here's a post by Kim Snodgrass on the Dave Burgess blog about creating GIFs and how they can be used in class.

9. Record video self assessment

Students don't have to get all their assessment and feedback from the teacher. When they do it themselves, it empowers them to be lifelong learners. Recording a video and posting it to Seesaw gives students a place for that self assessment.

Check out 20 Seesaw ideas with Chromebooks for K-12 classes for more information.

10. Make video with an app

Lots of apps (on the web or for mobile devices) are built to create fun videos that can demonstrate learning! Here are some examples:

Create book reports, step-by-step videos and more using Adobe Spark Video. Check out this guest post by Claudio Zavala showing how it works and what you can do with it.

Telestory is a mobile app that helps you create flashy videos with fun overlays. Create and record a TV show, make music videos, use night vision effects and more in your videos. Then save the video to your camera roll.

Chatterpix is a mobile app that brings an inanimate object or photo to life! Show the app where the mouth is in the photo and record some audio. It'll make the mouth move along with your voice!

Triller is a mobile app that lets you record fun music videos. Find a song that fits with what you're learning and record several video takes that show what you've learned. Triller splices a music video together that looks pretty slick! (Note: There's no language filter for songs, so you might want to make these videos with students instead of turning them loose on the app.)

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20 video project ideas to engage students

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Videos are engaging. They can be a powerful tool to draw students in and connect them to content in innovative ways. Here are 20 video project ideas for your class.

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Tiki Toki is an online timeline maker. I can use this in my classroom in groups or individually to have the class collaborate on different slides of a timeline. Students can present their portion/slide of the timeline at the end.

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Tiki-Toki Timeline Maker: Beautiful web-based timeline software

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Create beautiful interactive timelines that you can share on the web. The perfect timeline maker for company history timelines and school projects.

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Parlay is an AI-powered instructional platform that helps teachers facilitate meaningful, measurable, and inclusive class discussions. Join over a million teachers and students. Start using Parlay for free in your class today.

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Formative gives you the teaching tools to engage, instruct, and assess

of US school districts have teachers who use Formative

student responses leading to insights and learning moments

Why do teachers and school leaders love Formative so much?

As a Teacher, I will be able to...

Transform a PDF or Google Doc into an auto-graded quiz

Present slides with built-in questions for a paced lesson

Enhance a reading passage with questions

Activate student agency and metacognition using Strikethroughs

Add a YouTube video with timestamped questions
Learn More

Unleash student creativity with audio and video responses
Learn More

Give feedback to students faster than ever
Learn More

We're an official launch partner for the new Google Classroom add-on!
Learn More

As a School Leader, I will be able to...

Share data among PLCs

Give Admin access to a team of teachers in Formative. This setting will allow teachers to collectively see all shared data.

Integrate with SSO and SIS providers

Formative connects directly with SIS providers for nightly syncs of student data. Formative can also run reports on any demographic or other data that the SIS shares.

Learn More

Trusted by schools and districts around the world

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Formative helps teachers unlock additional superpowers, improve student engagement and accelerate learning. Start seeing real-time student responses today.

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Artificial intelligence is growing by leaps and bounds. It's no longer science fiction anymore!

Lots of AI tools can serve as our own personal assistants -- answering questions, helping us write text, create images, speak more effectively, and more.

Time has always been a barrier in the classroom. Most teachers would agree that they would be able to do more -- including the things that are most important -- if they had more time.

Teachers can find AI tools that are ready to help them out right now. Lots of them are free or have "freemium" plans with limited free options.

Below is a description of AI and how you can start using it to support your work in class.

What is artificial intelligence?

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the ability of a computer or machine to perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence, such as learning, problem-solving, decision-making, and more. There are several different approaches to building AI systems, including machine learning, where a system is trained on a dataset and can improve its performance over time, and rule-based systems, where the system follows a set of predetermined rules to make decisions.

AI can be applied to a wide range of areas, including natural language processing, image and video recognition, robotics, and more. The goal of AI research is to create systems that can perform tasks at least as well as, or ideally better than, humans. AI has the potential to revolutionize many industries and transform the way we live and work, but it also raises important ethical and social questions.

30 AI tools for the classroom

We have gathered 30 of our favorite AI tools for the classroom below. You can scroll down and check them all out or jump to any category of tools by clicking on the icon below.
Note: Pricing is accurate as of our most recent update in November 2023.

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Artificial intelligence is growing by leaps and bounds. It's no longer science fiction anymore! Lots of AI tools can serve as our own personal

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Generative AI assistance for any writing challenge Try It for Free ⟶

Instantly generate clear, compelling writing while maintaining your unique voice.

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Works Where You Do

Get suggestions from Grammarly while you write in desktop applications and sites across the web-as you move between apps, social media, documents, messages, and emails.

Beyond Grammar and Spelling

From grammar and spelling to style and tone, Grammarly's suggestions are comprehensive, helping you communicate effectively and as you intend.

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Brilliant Writing Awaits

Discover the power of confident communication with Grammarly Free.

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Millions trust Grammarly's AI writing assistance to communicate with confidence and make writing faster and more delightful. Getting started is simple - download the app today.

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Free online platform developed by MIT where students can learn coding by creating interactive stories, games, and animations using a visual block-based language. In the classroom, I can use Scratch to teach problem-solving, creativity, and computational thinking across subjects like math, science, and language arts. Students can collaborate on projects, share their work online, and explore others’ creations for inspiration.

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Scratch is a free programming language and online community where you can create your own interactive stories, games, and animations.

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​The Shapes 3D – Geometry Learning app is an educational tool designed to help students explore and understand three-dimensional geometric shapes. It offers a range of features that make it suitable for classroom use, especially in teaching geometry concepts.

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‎Discover a fascinating world of 3D shapes like prisms, pyramids, solids of revolution and Platonic solids. Start from the simplest and gradually explore the most complex ones. Build solids from scratch with a new Nets Creator mode and discover hundreds of unique net combinations. Shapes use the po…

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Over 5,000 Award-Winning Lessons

Tynker empowers over 100 million students and serves over 150,000 schools worldwide.

Mod Minecraft

Make your own skins and experience basic Minecraft modding with Tynker.

Learn Python

Learn to code browser-based games using Python, pen drawing and Turtle graphics.

Explore AI

In this exciting elective course, you'll explore artificial intelligence and machine learning - with JavaScript.

Empower the Next Generation with Tynker -
Unleash Creativity and Innovation in Kids Everywhere

Approved by Educators.
Loved by Kids

Story Based Lessons

Kids learn with block-based coding before transitioning to text-based languages like JavaScript and Python.

Built-in Tutorials

Tynker's interactive lessons break down coding fundamentals as they solve fun puzzles.

Interactive Assessments

Quick practice quizzes and assessment tests evaluate's a child's comprehension of subjects taught.

Explore Curriculum

Why Should Kids
Learn to Code with Tynker?

Because technology is so integrated into virtually every aspect of our lives, learning about it is more important than ever. Our coding platform makes it convenient and fun for kids and teens to gain knowledge that will serve them well throughout their lives. You can count on our trusted methods to help them develop and grow their capabilities with computers.

Tynker isn't just for schools and coding camps, though. Parents who value STEM education and want their children to know how to code should know that our kids programming platform can be used at home, too. Tynker offers a range of coding for kids solutions with icon-coding for pre-readers, block-based coding, and advanced courses in Python, JavaScript, data science, art, and image processing. There are quarterly, yearly and lifetime plans which include access for up to 3 children, and our online classes for all ages are an excellent way for them to gain the supplemental STEM skills needed for their future.

Trusted by Leading Brands

Our methods for learning to code all are provided within a safe, moderated community that is built around encouraging students to gain confidence in their abilities and do so without fear of failure.

Frequently asked questions

Is coding good for kids?

We're living during a high-tech revolution, witnessing life-changing advancements in medicine, environmental conservation, and much more. At the core of all these amazing projects and discoveries is CODE. Code can be the thing that differentiates your child from peers and allows them to stand out as an asset for companies when they are looking for employment. The children who learn to code today will become the creators of the technology tomorrow. Learning how to code can help children make a major contribution to the world that they live in and make a lasting impact.

As kids and teens learn to code, they also build essential skills like critical thinking, logic, and problem-solving. They learn to logically sequence events, create playable games, tell good stories, and model real situations. They also learn computational thinking by developing algorithmic and design thinking abilities. Coding for kids has become an essential element of a child's education and an excellent way to express their creativity and imagination.

How do I start my child coding?

Coding, otherwise known as programming, is a creative activity for all children. Your child might not care about writing data processing algorithms, but they might enjoy creating games, programming music, designing websites, or just playing with code. Learning to code is for everyone; you don't have to be good at math or a "techie" to learn how to code. Kids as young as five can learn to code and pick it up faster than most adults.

When your kids are starting, pick a program like MIT's Scratch or Tynker Junior app. The visual style of these programs makes it easy for young children to learn to code. Scratch and Tynker have a graphical interface that works. Drag-and-drop code blocks snap together. Pieces of code that don\'t make computational sense won't fit together, making syntax errors impossible.

Older children can learn to code with Python by building games, art, music, and more. Some programs like Tynker offer a placement test to set your child on the right track for their age and experience level.

What age is best to introduce coding to kids?

Every child learns at their own pace. They can learn different subjects at varying rates and ways. Experts believe that children should learn coding at an early age. According to MIT, the best age for kids to start learning coding languages such as Scratch Jr or Tynker Jr is from 5 to 7. Many programs allow your children to progress at their own pace or hire an instructor to help them move along.

With Tynker, a placement test will place your child on the correct path based on age and skill level, and Tynker supports children up to age 18 with real-world text languages like Python and JavaScript. Children progress to more difficult coding courses with the support of interactive tutorials and video instructions at their own pace.

Which is the best coding for kids program?

With so many great services available, learning to code has never been easier! For example, Scratch and Tynker provide innovative visual coding languages that make coding fun. Coding is a great way to broaden your child's worldview and develop their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Here are a few coding for kids options to review:

Game-based learning -Game-based platforms such as Tynker and the challenges on Code.org motivate kids to use code to complete game levels.

Independent learning with Scratch -Scratch from MIT is a great way of getting started with code. Although they don't have courses, there's a vibrant community to learn from.

Online courses-Enroll in a Python or JavaScript course on Codecademy or Tynker or learn to code with Processing on Khan Academy. Tynker offers advanced courses like Processing 1, using p5.js to introduce the foundational concepts of art and computer science.

Build an app-Learn to build your own iOS app using Swift. Install the Swift Playgrounds app by Apple.

Use a book-Learn by following along with books like Mission Python, Super Scratch Programming Adventure, or Coding with Minecraft. Tynker has a series of super-informative coding activity books, including Code These Games, Code These Minecraft Mods, and Code This Art.

Why is coding needed?

Coding is the method of giving a computer instructions to perform a specific task. You may also hear coding referred to as software programming or computer programming. These instructions are communicated using a language that computers can understand, like visual blocks, JavaScript and Python.

Coding for kids lays the groundwork for our world's technology, from microprocessors in everyday items like refrigerators and water heaters to sophisticated programs that run our cars and buildings. Learning to code is a great opportunity for children of all ages to develop their problem-solving and critical thinking skills, while building the necessary focus and organization to see projects through to completion.

Coding usually begins with drag-and-drop visual programming in which children connect blocks together to make programs. Visual programming teaches the fundamental concepts without typing or syntax by placing the focus on the logic behind the code. Once they've learned the basics, children can transition to real-world programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and C.

From online coding courses and games to offline learning, from in-person coding instruction to live online tutoring, there are endless coding resources available. The best coding platforms and programs like Scratch, Code.org and Tynker give children of all ages and experience levels the ability to code while making the process fun and engaging.

Why should we use Tynker coding for kids?

Tynker is the world's number one coding platform for children ages 5 to 18 for a reason-it works! Tynker powers the creativity of over 100 million students and serves thousands of schools and educators worldwide.

Tynker's award-winning, gamified courses and coding for kids activities encourage kids to complete projects as they have fun, allowing them to progress from novices to experts using languages like Python. Tynker's interactive lessons have built-in tutorials for all ages and skill levels. Our highly-rated mobile app (4.7 stars) lets students take Tynker on the go. Learning how to code with Tynker unlocks and empowers children's creativity, teaching them life-long skills they can use today and into the future.

How do I teach my 7 year old code?

Learning to code is for everyone; you don't have to be good at math or a "techie" to learn how to code. Kids as young as five can learn to code and pick it up faster than most adults. Tynker Junior is a fun, interactive way to spark your kid's interest in coding. Kids (ages 5-7) learn coding basics by connecting picture blocks to move their characters. Tynker's immersive game-like coding courses and interactive lessons with built-in tutorials are perfect for beginners 5+ through experts 18+.

What options are there for coding for teens?

Code.org has a year-long course in Computer Science Principles that introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world.

Tynker has coding for kids courses that align with subject standards like CCSS-ELA, CCSS-Math, NGSS and CS standards such as CSTA, ISTE, CA CS, UK National Curriculum, and several state-level standards like TEKS.

Tynker is recognized by College Board as an endorsed curriculum provider for AP Computer Science Principles and AP Computer Science A.

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Coding For Kids, Kids Online Coding Classes & Games | Tynker

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Tynker makes it fun and easy to learn computer programming. Get started today with Tynker's easy-to-learn, visual programming course designed for young learners in 4th through 8th grades.

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​HelloHistory.ai is an AI-powered platform that allows students to engage in realistic conversations with over 400 historical figures, such as Cleopatra, Einstein, and Buddha. It offers personalized interactions tailored to students' interests, enhancing their understanding of history through immersive dialogue. In the classroom, I can utilize HelloHistory.ai to facilitate interactive discussions, enabling students to explore historical events and figures in depth. The platform supports critical thinking by encouraging students to ask questions and debate with historical personalities, fostering a deeper comprehension of historical contexts. Additionally, HelloHistory.ai provides access to primary source documents and multimedia resources, enriching the learning experience.​

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Hello History - Chat with AI Generated Historical Figures

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With the help of modern AI & machine learning, we’ve brought historical figures back to life. Now is your chance to ask the questions you’ve always wanted to ask.

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ChatGPT and Beyond: How to Handle AI in Schools | Common Sense Education

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Here’s what educators can do as this technology evolves.

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What is AI Literacy? | Teaching AI Literacy to Students

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Get started teaching AI Literacy to middle school students with these free resources and downloadable lesson plans for teachers.

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It is an online tool that gives each student a personal digital whiteboard while allowing the teacher to view all boards in real time. I can use it in my classroom to check for understanding, conduct quick assessments, or facilitate interactive lessons—students write or draw answers that you can instantly see. It's great for math problems, spelling practice, or brainstorming, and requires no student accounts to get started.

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About

About Us

Whiteboard.fi is created by Sebastian Laxell and Jaakko Virtanen, and is run by Digital Teaching Tools Finland Ltd - a Kahoot! company. We have experience in teaching and IT-management - so we know the struggle in finding good digital tools.

Certificates

FERPA Certified

COPPA Safe Harbor

California Student Privacy Certified

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Whiteboard.fi - Free online whiteboard for teachers and classrooms

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Whiteboard.fi is an instant formative assessment tool for your classroom, providing you with live feedback and immediate overview over your students.

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It is a free resource offering a selection of BrainPOP and BrainPOP Jr. animated movies and learning activities designed to support classroom instruction. It provides a 30-day sneak peek of selected content, allowing educators to explore various topics across subjects such as science, math, and social studies.​

In my classroom, I can use BrainPOP Discover to introduce new concepts, reinforce lessons, or spark discussions by showing relevant videos and engaging students with accompanying activities. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, with content suitable for students in grades K-8.

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BrainPOP’s award-winning platform supports K-8+ curriculum needs while creating memorable learning experiences that deliver real impact.

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It is an interactive video platform that allows educators to enhance videos with embedded questions, discussions, and other interactive elements to engage students actively. In my classroom, I can use PlayPosit to create "bulbs"—interactive video lessons that include multiple-choice questions, open-ended responses, and reflective pauses, enabling real-time assessment of student understanding. The platform integrates with various Learning Management Systems and video hosts, providing seamless workflow and actionable analytics to track student progress and inform instruction.

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PlayPosit | Interactive Video Learning Objects

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With over 5 million learners and counting, PlayPosit offers a variety of options for interaction customization, premade templates, playback control, LMS LTI integration, and more. Instructors and instructional designers can build lessons as they envision them while expanding the traditional and onli

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EdWordle is a tool for editing "word clouds" based on the Wordle. The initial word cloud can be generated from the input text or read from an existing one. You can re-font, re-colore, resize, move, rotate, add and delete words to create custom visualizations.
EdWordle's main benefit is that it allows a neighborhood-preserving editing process, which keeps words at predictable and close locations during and after the editing process. Like Wordle, the images you create with Wordle are yours to use however you like. You can save them to your own desktop to use as you wish.

Create Now "

Some examples created by others and you can further edit them:

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EdWordle is a tool for editing "word clouds" based on the Wordle. The initial word cloud can be generated from the input text or read from an existing one. You can re-font, re-colore, resize, move, rotate, add and delete words to create custom visualizations.

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IXL is an online learning platform that offers personalized practice in subjects like math, language arts, and more. For 3rd grade students, it provides interactive exercises that are tailored to their learning level, helping them master specific skills through practice and immediate feedback. As the teacher and the parents can track progress, set goals, and review detailed reports to support the student's growth in various subjects.

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The exact skills you need

Planning a lesson or prepping for an exam?
We've custom-built IXL skills to reinforce each topic within your:

State standards

Virginia Standards of Learning (2016)

Textbooks

See skills that match every chapter of 80+ popular textbooks

Assessments

Use IXL for the NWEA MAP, ACT, SAT, and more

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IXL | Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

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IXL is the world's most popular subscription-based learning site for K-12. Used by over 15 million students, IXL provides personalized learning in more than 10,000 topics, covering math, language arts, science, social studies, and Spanish. Interactive questions, awards, and certificates keep kids motivated as they master skills.

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Seesaw | Elementary Learning Experience Platform

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Elementary Learning Experience Platform | Seesaw

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Seesaw is a Learning Experience Platform with 25M+ users, enhancing elementary education, engagement, and school culture while improving academic success.

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Classkick is an interactive platform that enables teachers to create digital assignments and provide real-time feedback, enhancing student engagement and learning. For 3rd-grade students, Classkick offers a variety of tools such as drawing, typing, voice recording, and drag-and-drop activities, allowing them to demonstrate their understanding in diverse ways. Teachers can monitor student progress live, offer immediate assistance, and facilitate peer support, fostering an interactive and supportive learning environment

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Helping Teachers Be Awesome See all your students working and give high-quality feedback–from anywhere. Sign Up (Free!)

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It is a tool that allows educators to create detailed, standards-based rubrics for student assessments. These rubrics break down learning targets into smaller, manageable steps, helping both teachers and students understand the progression toward mastery. For 3rd-grade students, this tool can be used to develop age-appropriate rubrics for subjects like math and language arts, facilitating clear expectations and self-assessment opportunities.

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Standards-based learning is a big transition. Start by breaking down state standards or CCSS into teachable concepts. Write learning targets as 'I can ...' statements. Define rubrics and skill progressions. Help students understand goals and feedback. Build a solid foundation for future activities.

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This website helps students improve their writing and grammar skills through interactive activities. Third-grade students can use it to practice sentence structure, punctuation, and grammar with fun, personalized exercises. Teachers can assign tasks, track progress, and provide feedback to support student learning in the classroom.

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Set up your classroom, without IT

You can quickly and easily set up your classroom in Quill by inputting student names or providing students with a unique code. If you use Google Classroom or Clever, you can automatically set up your classroom with one click.

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Quill.org | Interactive Writing and Grammar

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Quill provides free writing and grammar activities for middle and high school students.

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Khan Academy is an educational platform offering interactive lessons, videos, and exercises across various subjects like math, science, and language arts. 3rd-grade students can use it in my classroom to have students practice skills at their own pace, complete assignments, and watch engaging videos to reinforce concepts. As a teacher, I can assign specific lessons, track progress, and provide individualized support based on students’ needs.

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A required part of this site couldn’t load. This may be due to a browser extension, network issues, or browser settings. Please check your connection, disable any ad blockers, or try using a different browser.

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Practice addition, place value, multiplication, fractions and algebraic reasoning with our popular math games.

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Learn to Type | Type Better | Type Faster - Typing.com

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World's most popular free typing program! Typing.com's K-12 typing curriculum features touch typing, digital citizenship, coding lessons, and games.

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Find out how strong your vocabulary is and learn new words at Vocabulary.com.

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Vocabulary.com helps you learn new words, play games that improve your vocabulary, and explore language.

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Skip to content

Writing and grammar curriculum designed for today's classrooms

NoRedInk simplifies the process of building strong writers and critical thinkers in Grades 3-12. Our writing platform facilitates effective instruction by helping teachers engage students through modeling, scaffolding, practice, and feedback.

New! NoRedInk now has ELA resources for Grades 3-5

Designed specifically for young learners, our new adaptive skills exercises, engaging writing activities, and standards-aligned diagnostics enable elementary teachers to:

Create more moments of genuine learning

Help students develop strong writing habits

Gather data-driven insights into student growth

Learn more

What do educators think about NoRedInk?

NoRedInk has completely transformed the way I teach grammar and writing in my class. Students start each concept at their own level and learn at their own pace, and because of this type of delivery, my students not only learn grammar, they master it.

Jo Rohde, Teacher, North Dallas High School

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An end-to-end learning platform

Skill-building exercises let students restructure sentences, edit and mark up text, manipulate multi-paragraph passages, and more.

Take student writing to the next level with NoRedInk Premium

Premium gives schools full access to NoRedInk's writing curriculum and guided composition tools.

A wider variety of content

Exercises for 1,000+ skills, 100s of texts, prompts, and lessons, and guided practice for 10+ writing genres.

Deeper reporting insights

Standards- and assessment-based progress reports at the teacher, school, and district level.

Comprehensive support

Flexible professional development and seamless integrations with tools like Canvas, Clever, and Schoology.

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Unlock Every Writer's Potential | NoRedInk

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NoRedInk offers authentic assessments, adaptive practice, personalized content, and actionable data to improve your students' writing and grammar skills!

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The cloud-based KidCitizen Editor empowers educators to create their own episodes and share them with students. Using the KidCitizen Editor, educators can create activities using primary source photographs that are especially relevant to their students and community. The KidCitizen Editor runs on the cloud-based Muzzy Lane Author platform.

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Using Our Resources: Get Started - iCivics

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We recommend exploring our planning and integration tools, resource types, and teaching ideas to find everything you need to inspire your students.