In browsing my usual tech related reading I came across these tips from Apple that appear very easy to follow with regard to searching for appropriate apps for use in the classroom. Here are the key points you will want to think about when searching for apps. Look for more on this in a summer workshop I will be offering in which we will talk about these points and explore apps practicing looking for them.
Engagement
To help evaluate an app’s engagement level, consider:
Engagement
To help evaluate an app’s engagement level, consider:
- Is the app inviting and does it give a good first impression?
- Is the app intuitive? • Is the app one that students will return to often?
- Does the app open up new ways to learn?
- How does it let students do things they haven’t been able to before?
- Does the subject matter appeal to the intended grade level? •
- Does the design appeal to the intended level?
- Does the app effectively communicate its subject matter?
- Does the app align to your learning goals for students?
- Does the app have a specific purpose and how does it achieve that?
- How does the app build on skills and guide the student?
- Are there relevant opportunities for feedback, assessment, and reflection?
- Does the app offer personalized or adaptive features that are based on a student’s skill level?
- Is the learning content in the app the right level for your students?
- Will students want to go back to the app often?
- How does the app build on skills?
- Are gaming principles used?
- Do the methods used to motivate align with your learning goals?
- Does the app provide a bridge from the classroom to the real world for expanded learning (for example, via GPS, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth)?
- Does the motivational potential exceed the potential for distraction?
- Does the app include a range of levels for a variety of users with differing skill levels?
- Does the app support multiple learning modalities?
- Does the app let users personalize the user interface?
- Does the app take advantage of features such as VoiceOver or closed captioning?
Go Formative
Go Formative is a tool that allows teachers to immediately give feedback and is for use in any grade, any subject, and with any device . Below is a flow chart of how it works. Click this link to explore more and give it a try. It looks like a fairly simple tool to implement.
Science Matters eBlast - not just for teachers of science
I am sharing the latest eBlasts for STEM teachers. There were a number of PD opportunities included in this eBlast. I would not say this is just for teachers of science and encourage all to check them out.
| eblast.03.08.17.pdf |
| eblast.03.01.17.pdf |
Critical Thinking
I am sharing this image of questions for critical thinking. As we continue to strive to have students thinking critically, here is a quick sheet of questions to consider. Found this at the Global Digital Citizen Foundation https://globaldigitalcitizen.org/critical-thinking-skills-cheatsheet-infographic
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