I think digital learning can offer several benefits and can enhance the learning experience. Although as educators, we should not rely solely on technology when giving lessons, but it does seem to make some topics more interesting when we do use it. Technology can also be used to implement differentiated instruction and help personalize learning. It is up to educators to use technology at their disposal in the best way they see fit to optimize student learning.

Furthermore, it is my opinion that teachers need more digital resources, technology, and more training so that they can incorporate new technology in the classroom.  They may in turn teach students how to use technology more efficiently. It’s also important to teach digital literacy in today’s classroom so children can use technology to communicate and learn to research materials appropriately and safely. Many aspects of technology can benefit students who may need assistance due to any number of disabilities. For this reason and more, I think we should strive to make these tools more accessible in our classrooms.

Digital learning not only helps struggling students, but it also enriches education for all students, including gifted students. Digital learning tools allow students to express their creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. Teachers can use digital resources and technology in a variety of ways to help teach and obtain the information to meet the needs of their students. For example, I would incorporate digital learning tools in my classroom to help struggling students by using tutorials or instructional videos.  I would also utilize interactive presentations, create documents, use infographics, and integrate engaging educational games into my lesson plans. More specifically I would use products such as PowerPoint, Google Slides, Word, Kahoot! Whiteboard, Canva, and an LMS To help students find more educational resources in one place. Another aspect of digital learning that speaks to me is the option of using exciting devices such as virtual reality (VR) headsets, that way my students can explore new worlds without even leaving the classroom!

It is also my opinion that we should strive to learn something new every day which is why I am absolutely in favor of digital learning and using new technology tools to have a better learning experience in our classroom. Technology is always changing and I’m excited for what the future holds in store!

Hello Friends! What is one word that comes to mind when you think about gaming? If you thought about fun, you are probably not alone in giving that answer. This is one reason why teachers are using educational gamification and tactile technology to help incorporate several learning strategies in the classroom. Children are often eager to have fun and by playing these educational games, they can have fun while learning. In using this technology, teachers can ensure students learn about collaboration and critical thinking skills. Students can use the Think-pair-share strategy as you present a game or video and ask them to think about it and engage in collaboration afterwards.

Technology in Education

Many educators and students already use technology in school. You will probably find some form of electronic device, tablet, Chromebook, iPad, or desktop computer in each classroom, making it accessible to students. Children have (for the most part) learned how to navigate websites and regularly watch videos online. Technology and gaming are not just for having fun, they are also good resources for learning. Using tactile technology and assistive technology such as special keyboards, headphones, virtual headsets, etc. can be useful to integrate in a classroom full of children of different backgrounds and needs.

How Does Gaming Help Diverse Learners?

Gaming can teach students various lessons, problem-solving skills, and collaborative learning. It can also be engaging and motivating. There are many educational games out there to choose from made for different grade levels and learning styles. Some games even read aloud to the player with text-to-speech. These uses of technology and gaming can be beneficial to children with learning disabilities. English Language Learners will also benefit from the use of this technology and gaming because it is easier for them to understand visuals. Students can even get translations with some videos.  

Learning While Playing Games!

Let me give you two video game-based learning apps that I find appealing for elementary students and diverse learners.  The first is called Splash Learn, and it is a helpful resource for learning math and reading. It gives teachers and students the ability to personalize and scaffold learning. I like that it allows teachers to send reports to parents on student achievement or progress. Also, it is free for teachers, and their students may use it at home with a code.

Check This App Too!

Another great option for fun, educational, (elementary) games that parents, teachers, and students enjoy is abcmouse.com. It teaches many subjects; it is also easy to use and engaging!

Even though gaming is a fun way of having students engaged in a lesson, there are educators that do not like to use this technology. Some critics say that games can consume more time than necessary and take from instructional time. I say it is up to you to incorporate gaming and technology into your classroom and have students learn the desired curriculum. Let the games begin!

In our classroom we will use different resources to make learning fun and engaging. Have you heard of Bloom’s Taxonomy? I believe students will have a successful school year if we implement knowledge from the educational framework by Benjamin Bloom to build higher-order thinking. We will use many tools for optimizing our learning and create wonderful memories together! We will begin with foundational knowledge and work our way up to more complex thinking. One of the many resources we will use is digital media, or videos. Visual learners can benefit from having information presented in this format. For example, sometimes we will watch educational videos on You Tube to further research topics. Watch this video if you want to know more about Bloom’s Taxonomy.

Learn to Love Reading!

One of the many goals we will have in our class is to develop a love of reading and learning! Literacy skills are very important, and I would also encourage all parents to read to their children at home. Epic! is a great tool for readers to use every day without even stepping foot inside a library! Children can choose from a variety of books they are most interested in and in class we will do some fun activities based on what they enjoy reading. Learn more about Epic! by watching this short video!

Let the Games Begin!

Our class will have a great time doing creative activities such as solving puzzles, conducting Science experiments, and sometimes we’ll play Kahoot! Have you heard of it? If you have not you will likely hear all about from your child. Kahoot is also a way to check for comprehension of whatever subject was just covered and question things they do not know, but it is a game, so children just think they are having fun!

https://youtu.be/rZUew1wIQts

Learning can be Entertaining too!

We know children need to learn in a way that is entertaining too and that is where some awesome digital technology comes into play. Many children cannot just sit through lecture after lecture, so in our class, we will utilize Brain Pop Jr. This learning tool will help children learn new lessons on a variety of subjects in an engaging way. It will also help assess what they excel in or need help with.

There are many more great digital resources and tools to motivate students to achieve their goals, but I hope you find the ones I have named and will be using helpful.

References

Bloom’s Taxonomy: Why, How, & Top Examples. (2017, March 28). Bloom’s Taxonomy: Why, How, & Top Examples. YouTube. https://youtu.be/OOy3m02uEaE

Fuel Curiosity & Reading Confidence With Epic. (n.d.). Www.youtube.com. Retrieved February 28, 2024, from https://youtu.be/muYg-CmXk5U

How to play Kahoot! – tutorial video. (n.d.). Www.youtube.com. Retrieved February 26, 2024, from https://youtu.be/rZUew1wIQts

Welcome to BrainPOP Jr. | An Overview for Teachers. (n.d.). Www.youtube.com. Retrieved February 26, 2024, from https://youtu.be/xuZxtGqv0-w

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