Technology in the Virtual Classroom

The shift from in-person schooling to virtual has not been easy one for all of us.  This is uncharted territory for students and teachers everywhere.  It is very common now for schools to teach using either a hybrid method or all online delivery method.  Throughout this semester, we have been exposed to many different forms of technology to utilize in our future classrooms.  Some of the websites, tools, and apps we have used are:

- Google Meet (video chatting)

- Zoom (video chatting)

- Piktochart (graphic design website for posters, infographics, etc.)

- Canva (another graphic design tool)

- Animoto (used for making and editing informational videos)

- Screencastify (can be used for teaching remotely)

- Google Classroom (an organized way to post assignments, submit assignments, join Google Meet sessions)

- Google Slides (make PowerPoint presentations to teach a lesson, explain a concept, etc.)

- Google Docs (write documents, complete assignments)

- Jamboard (brainstorm idea as a class on this virtual “bulletin board”)

- Bitmoji (a fun way to add details to a presentation)

- Pear Deck (an add-on to Google Slides)

All of these applications and websites have greatly impacted the way I learned how to teach this semester. I think some applications are easier to use than others, but most would be easy and fun additions to my class as a future educator.  

As a future teacher, I have realized this semester how important it is to learn and teach effectively for home.  These online tools can be used to ease and support learning whether it be in the classroom or remotely.