Are you choosing the right edtech piece for your class?

“One size fits all” typically devolves into one size fits none. Technology needs to have the capacity for customization by the instructor. But, when choosing an online platform or other technology for your courses, the selection process doesn’t have to be complicated.

I have narrowed down three steps you need to keep in mind while selecting a digital tool for class. These will help your kids have the ideal learning experience and save your struggles of getting lost in the diaspora of new edtech tools for 21st century classrooms.

Learning Outcome

Does the tool improve performance and achieve outcomes for all students? For example, presenting facts about the different layers of earth without any visual representation could be hard in a science class. If students are using interactive media to research on their curiosity questions and share out important information through a video, podcast, interactive presentation, infographic in class, this improves their literacy skills and brings a whole lot of engagement in class.

Equitable access

Make sure the tool you are using for class is accessible by every student. Often, we provide a task while forgetting some students may not have access to device, internet connectivity or that particular edtech tool does not operate on certain iPad/tablet features, which creates an unintentional homework gap. Hence, do your homework before selecting the tool.

Build an Artifact

It is always fun and fulfilling to watch your own creation – be it a simple 3D printed Colosseum for your history class or a fighter plane made from Lego in your robotics and engineering class! Try choosing technology that creates great student artifact and let the creative imagination of your student flow!