9 Ways to Incorporate EdTech Tools in the Classroom

You have probably heard of a lot of EdTech platforms that can be used in the classroom. Whether it is for young or adult learners, interactive quizzes, educational games online, and other similar platforms can be used for a variety of ways and purposes. In this article, let’s talk about 9 different ways to incorporate EdTech tools in the classroom.

I. Digital Escape Room

Create a virtual escape room using platforms such as Google Jamboard. Apart from being a digital whiteboard for collaboration and interaction, Jamboard can also be a good platform for creating puzzles. These puzzles can be answered individually or as a group. Have multiple puzzles with varying difficulty levels and watch your learners immerse themselves in this fun and interactive activity. Other platforms that can be used include Google Sites or even the breakout rooms available in virtual meeting platforms.

If you are interested in learning how to create puzzles using Jamboard, check out this video tutorial by Swasti Nadia, an ESL teacher. 

II. Virtual Reality Field Trips

Virtual Reality is one of the best educational technologies available for both teachers and trainers. Create virtual reality field trips using tools like Google Expeditions and take your learners to different famous landmarks and historical places around the world. Apart from this, VR platforms can also be used in teaching language. Take ImmerseMe as an example. It is a virtual reality tool that takes learners to different real-life scenarios to practice their language skills. Whether you want to learn German, Spanish, or Mandarin Chinese, ImmerseMe is a platform you should explore. This is just yet another way to incorporate EdTech tools in the classroom.

Explore virtual reality (VR) field trips using tools like Google Expeditions. Take your students on virtual tours to historical sites, museums, or even outer space without leaving the classroom.

III. Digital Storytelling with Book Creator

Foster collaboration between learners, teachers, and/or trainers by trying digital storytelling in the classroom. Book Creator is a platform that allows users to create digital stories, and add images, audio, and videos to create an interactive and engaging book for learners of different ages. If you are wondering what digital storytelling is, check out these examples here.

IV. Collaborative Mind Mapping with MindMeister

Foster collaborative brainstorming and organization of ideas with MindMeister. MindMeister makes brainstorming even more engaging. Students can collectively create mind maps related to the lesson, promoting teamwork and critical thinking. Make sure to explore the platform first and guide your learners in using this before facilitating any activity. 

V. Interactive Whiteboard Activities with Pear Deck

From presentations to conversations, Pear Deck revolutionizes the way teachers and trainers present their topics. Through Pear Deck, learners can engage in real-time by drawing and responding to questions. Another advantage of using this tool is its accessibility. Pear Deck can easily be integrated with Google Slides making it easier for teachers and trainers to create engaging presentations.

VI. Augmented Reality for Interactive Learning

Apart from virtual reality, augmented reality platforms can also be used for educational purposes. Take PhotoMath as an example. PhotoMath provides learners with a step-by-step guide to solving Math problems perfect for learners studying for an exam or those struggling to understand the correct solutions to Math problems. 

Another tool that can be used in the classroom is SkyView. Stargaze in a fun way with the use of technology. SkyView allows users to explore the different stars, constellations, and more simply through their mobile phones.

VII. Digital Scavenger Hunt

Design fun ways to engage your learners in any subject by facilitating a digital scavenger hunt. Utilize QR codes, mobile phones or tablets. Guide the students in following the clues and completing the challenges by scanning the QR codes. This is one cost-effective way of incorporating technology in the classroom. 

VIII. Podcasting Projects

What is a better way to engage learners and at the same time, encourage them to improve their interpersonal and storytelling skills than having a podcast project for the class? Have students create educational podcasts using platforms like Anchor. This encourages research, scriptwriting, and presentation skills while making learning enjoyable.

IX. Coding Challenges with Scratch or Code.org

Take your classes to the next level by conducting coding challenges for your learners. Introduce coding in a playful way with platforms like Scratch or Code.org. Students can create interactive stories, games, or animations while learning valuable coding skills.

In conclusion, incorporating EdTech tools into the classroom creates lots of interesting possibilities in addition to improving the quality of learning. Various approaches to learning can be addressed by educators and trainers through a variety of ways, such as collaborative storytelling offered by platforms like Book Creator or immersive adventures offered by virtual reality field excursions. Adopting Pear Deck and MindMeister as tools promotes critical thinking and real-time interaction, while introducing coding challenges in an entertaining way ignites creativity and curiosity. These 9 ways to incorporate EdTech tools in the classroom enable instructors and students to design engaging, dynamic, and fun learning environments as we navigate the digital realm of educational technology. Without a doubt, the smooth integration of technology into education will shape its future and present countless chances for learning and development.