Online tools are different applications that I as a teacher will be using in the classroom. These are not to replace teaching but rather to enhance the learning of the students. Many of these require some practice but by the end of the school year these kids will be pros!
1. Google Earth
Google Earth is a geography tool that can take you anywhere around the world. I chose this because it is easy to navigate and can be used in whole group or individual work. One way I plan to use this by having my students find their dream vacation. I also plan to incorporate it into a math lesson using the coordinates it supplies. I also plan to use it as a history lesson by finding famous monuments all across the globe.
2. Starfall
Starfall is a gaming tool that allows for student engagement by playing games but also learning math and English. I chose this because it is interactive and students will be more encouraged to learn by playing the game. One way I want to use this in the classroom is by whole group. In this tool, they have an online library that I would be able to show on the screen with the students. Another way I would have them use this is during centers or as a tool to use when they are completed with all of their work. The last way I would use this is by using the songs provided about kindness as music helps students remember rules and morals.
3. Sketch.io
Sketch.io is a drawing tool that is easy to navigate for students and teachers. It allows easy JPEG download and has text, draw, and insert options. I chose this online tool because it has several options and allows free downloads. I would use this as a teacher to show easy math lessons by inserting objects or even drawing them out. I would also use this for student use by allowing them to draw out their work rather than writing it to support different learning styles. I could also use this by making Venn diagrams or KWL charts and using it as a whole group.
4. Grammarly
Grammarly is a writing tool that allows you to create documents that show where grammar can be enhanced and how to fix it. The account is free but there are upgrades you can get, although I stick to the free version. I chose this because it is quick, accurate, and helpful in the classroom. I would use this in class to show students why a sentence does not make sense. I would also use this in showing vocabulary words and spelling words to the students. It could also be used as a tool for me to help with grading for the little grammar mistakes I missed.
5. Bubbles
Bubbles is a video tool that allows microphone, video, and upload access. The account is free and it allows you to send a video directly to someone. I chose this based off of its navigation skills and that I had no troubles creating an account or figuring out how to use it. I would use this as a way to plan for lessons if I know I will be out. I would also use this as helpful tools for students to look back on if they were absent or just needed a refresher. I would finally use it by allowing students to participate in a group project using this tool.
6. Class Dojo
Class Dojo is a communication tool that allows for communication to parents and a reward system for students. I chose this tool because I have seen it used in previous classroom observations and how well it works! I would use this to communicate to parents about student behavior. I would also use it for student rewards as dojo points for their class. I would also use it to send out important reminders or classroom projects!
7. Kahoot
Kahoot is a quiz tool that engages students in the classroom and checks for classroom understanding. I chose this because it allows for students to have fun in the classroom. I have also used this in classrooms and I have never had any malfunctions with the tool. I would use this as a review or study guide that I would be able to do with students before a quiz or test. I could also use this as a get-to-know-the-teacher at the beginning of school. Another way I can use this is as a poll for a classroom party.
8. Flip
Flip is a video tool that allows for classroom collaboration. The teacher can make a code for students to join and it is completely free! Students upload videos and there are comment sections. I would compare it to a discussion board post but with videos. I chose this tool because it allows for classroom communication while being monitored. I would use this as an introduction tool for students. I would also use this for speech presentations if they were to be absent or even if we were closed for snow as an at home assignment. I could also use this if I was absent to explain what needs to be done for the day and classroom expectations.
9. Google Sheets
Google Sheets is a tool that allows for organization and spreadsheets. I would use this for attendance, grades, and even polls for the classroom!
10. Google Docs
Google Docs is a fun tool that is very student based. It saves automatically and allows sharing for group projects. I will definitely have my students use this for assignments or for from a teacher standpoint to create worksheets.
11. Word
Word is one of my favorite applications. You can add so much to the page and it allows for creative freedom. It also downloads easier so if students wanted to work offline they would be able to. I would introduce this to them along with google docs so that they are aware of the differences.
12. Canva
Canva is a fun website that allows for students to create flyers, documents, and collages. I would have students use this to show understanding of concepts but to also give them a break from writing and let them have some fun!
13.Adobe
From a teacher standpoint, this tool is very helpful when inserting images and videos to teach. I found it easier to make flyers on this for newsletters to send home for the parents!