What's the Best Tool for the Task?

Screen Shot 2013-12-17 at 1.42.28 PMIncluded in the Digital Tips Advent Calendar and part of the Effective Technology Integration category

“Technology is just a tool. In terms of getting the kids working together and motivating them, the teacher is the most important.” – Bill Gates

Teachers often have great projects and activities they want to enhance by adding a technology component. Often, the problem is determining which tools will be the most effective in meeting our needs. These are important questions to consider when integrating technology:

  • Do my students have access to the tool when they leave my classroom?
  • Can the technology support how students will have to turn in the assignment? Can the bandwidth support multiple uploads or will students turn in the project with a flash drive?
  • Is the technology free and user-friendly?
  • Does the technology support various learning styles?
  • How long will my students need to learn how to use the tool and can I afford the time to teach them how to use the tool?
  • Will I be able to embed?
  • What are the privacy settings and can I adjust them to match my needs?
  • Is the tool safe for students to explore aside from my guidance?
  • Do students have to register or can I make them accounts?
  • What are the age restrictions?

In addition to these questions, you can find various tools for different types of tasks by visiting the various sites below. I, also, recommend creating a digital sandbox for your learners so they can choose between a few of the tools you love!

Challenge:

Find the right tool for your task.

31 Days of Digital Tech Integration Tips

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