After spending time learning more about the company Padlet I feel it could be a very impactful resource in the classroom. I wish I had known about this software while teaching virtually through the pandemic. Padlet would have been a great way to interact with my class and facilitate class discussion while not together in person. 

What sets Padlet apart is how user friendly it us, and how easily young learners are able to use it. With their drag and drop intuitive design those without extensive computer knowledge are able to utilize the app. There are other similar companies out there, however most are geared towards adults and project management for the office. Padlet has a more playful feel and is programmed to look exciting and fun with colourful backgrounds, the ability to attach gifs to your post, Padlet is made to engage young learners. 

For my own use I would have to stick with the free version of Padlet, limiting how many boards I would be able to create. I am quite certain my school would not have a few thousand dollars in the budget every year to spend on teacher accounts. Leaving me to purchase one on my own, $70 is not outrageous to spend on this software per year for an account that would allow you to create 20 boards. However, as an elementary school teacher I am not sure I would need up to 20 different boards to use with my class all at once. If I were teaching older students, multiple classes, or saw significant value in each student having their own board then it would make more sense to purchase the Gold or Platinum package. There is still a lot of value in using Padlet in the classroom, explaining why so many teachers were upset in 2018 when they switched from a completely free platform to subscription based. 

Check out Padlet!