Week 3: Tech Tools for Teachers

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I remember using Quizlet and other important self-study tools in high school. The flash-cards and self-check options really enabled me to prepare myself for exams. As a future teacher, I also recognize the benefits of this self-motivating and fun study system.
However, I found myself thinking about how these tools can help second language learners. The reality of virtual studying is that it often is only applicable to students with a certain level of English ability.
At the very least, the students using these tools all need to know how to decode. How do we help our younger learners using technology?
In my perusings of various articles discussing the integration of technology into the classroom, I came across a fascinating tool called Pear Deck. This tool can be easily incorporated into elementary school classrooms. In addition to the functions that Quizlet serves, Pear Deck allows for students to draw what they hear. This really creates an environment where the non-decoders can participate in classroom discussions. Pear Deck also has a function that allows for students to reflect on classroom climate - what their mood was and their feedback. The lessons can be prepared on Google Slides and shown in class, with these added interactive features.
Unfortunately, I discovered that using this tool may cost money. A lot of the wonderful features are premium features. Teachers, who are already limited in the budget may opt-out of using this type of tool. However, there is a 30-day trial wherein which all those interested can decide if it is worth the investment.
These are the features you can get for free, even after the 30-day trial period ends:  Design brilliant lessons with interactive questions, polls, quizzes, formative assessments, Work seamlessly with powerful classroom tools from Google and Microsoft, Ready-to-teach templates designed by educators, Support flexible work with Student Paced mode, and teach vocabulary with Flashcard Factory.

Follow the following link to learn more: https://www.peardeck.com/

I shall leave it to the readers' discretion to decide if this tool is really as wonderful as I think it is.

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