As a future educator, I aim to incorporate Scratch into my classroom since this platform helps build students’ interest in coding, cultivates self-directed learning and problem-solving skills. More importantly, Scratch allow students to explore both technology and the logic behind game design. This not only develops essential computational thinking skills in our increasingly digital world, but also encourages students to express their creativity in innovative ways. Teachers can also use Scratch to create educational games that solidify learning and specific concepts. Please refer to the Self-Directed Learning assignment to view the word structure game I designed for my Cycle 1 students.

One of the unique features of Khan Academy is its use of incentives. Students earn energy points by completing challenges, tasks, and participating in discussions. These points can be used to unlock avatars and backgrounds, which adds an element of motivation and engagement.

As a future educator, I would assign students to complete one Khan Academy lesson the night before class. This would give them a general idea of the topic we will be exploring the next day. Since the videos are relatively short—about 10 minutes for elementary-level content—and the accompanying check-in questions mainly assess recall, I believe this platform is best used as a preview or hook to introduce a lesson, rather than as the main form of instruction.

TumbleBooks Library offers a diverse collection of books for all elementary-age students, from preschool to Cycle 3. The library covers a variety of topics including STEM, non-fiction, to story books, which provides rich, curriculum-aligned content for all learners. I find this site especially useful because it brings flexibility to teaching by integrating technology into read-aloud sessions. The clear, on-screen text makes it easier for all students to follow along, even those sitting at the back of the classroom. The animations further enhance the experience by sparking students’ imagination. Additionally, the keyword search feature makes it easier to find age-appropriate and meaningful books by simply typing in relevant terms.

In addition to subject-specific resources, Curipod supports the development of literacy skills such as argumentative writing and offers practice opportunities in formats like short answers, multiple-choice questions, and long responses. It also incorporates daily routines, including sections focused on social-emotional learning.

Curipod is particularly useful during the preparation stage, where educators explore sample materials to help shape their final products into more comprehensive and engaging lessons.