Technology and UDL Repository

Socrative is an online response system that allows teachers to create quizzes for students to respond to from their own devices. The teacher can choose to write true/false, multiple choice, or graded short answer questions to include in the quizzes. The teacher instantly receives the results from the quiz and is able to monitor student understanding. Results can be displayed on the screen or viewed privately on the teacher's device. Teachers can share quizzes that they create with other teachers who have Socrative accounts as well. Socrative provides means for engaging students in a unique way in accordance with UDL principles. In a classroom, this tool could be used for an exit ticket. For example, after a lesson on the structure of plant cells, the teacher could end the class by having students answer questions on the material they learned. This way, the teacher can check the effectiveness of the lesson and whether or not there were any widespread misconceptions during the less...

Notability is a note-taking app which allows students to record notes in a variety of different ways. The app allows users to type, write with a stylus, or dictate notes through the device's microphone. There are also features which allow users to highlight what they have written and draw on their notes to create tables or organize text. Notability provides a system for users to file their notes into folders which can be color coded, named, and labeled with different icons based on the contents. The use of Notability can promote the principles of the Universal Design for Learning. UDL describes that students should be given a variety of options for expressing their understanding of topics. Notability itself provides options for students in the way they record information. Students can choose to type, write, or speak their notes, essays, or other assignments. For instance, a student could choose to use a stylus to draw out a graphic organizer demonstrating their knowledge of the d...

Kahoot is a tool with which to administer quizzes, surveys, and discussions. Users log in, type in the code for the game (created by the teacher) and join in answering multiple choice questions. Kahoot can be accessed by computer or tablet. Students are timed in their responses to the multiple choice questions. Kahoot is a great way to get students engaged in a lesson, in accordance with UDL principles. For example, a teacher could create a Kahoot with questions that review the previous lesson before moving on to the next. This way, students are engaged in the new lesson and they have the chance to access their background knowledge from previous lessons.

Piktochart is an online tool for creating infographics. Infographics are poster-like presentations to which students can add graphics, images, text, links, and videos to display information. These presentations give students a unique option for displaying their understanding of a topic. Students can compile what they know and design the infographic to suit their communication goals. Piktochart also provides templates for users to select from if they do not want to design their own. Piktochart would be a valuable addition to a classroom that incorporates the principles of UDL into its learning environment. Students could be offered Piktochart as an option for expressing their knowledge on different topics. In the classroom context, a student could choose to create an infographic through Piktochart to present information on a book they read or on a section from a chapter in their textbook. Piktochart could be used to create presentations for any subject area. Students could share their...

Brain Pop is an online tool which provides users with access to over a thousand animated videos about different topics. The topics ranged in subject matter, and cover Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, and other areas. These videos differ based on grade level. For example, videos on lower grade level topics have subtitles and display important content specific vocabulary words with their definitions while videos on higher level topics do not contain these aspects. Videos are accompanied by quizzes to test viewers' understandings of the topics covered. The use of Brain Pop in the classroom supports the UDL principle that students should be offered several different means of engagement in lessons. Showing a Brain Pop video can be an effective way for teachers to hook their students and obtain their attention before teaching them about a specific topic. For example, if a class was about to do a lesson on the properties of the sun, the teacher could show a Brain Pop lesson on the ...

Popplet is an online tool which allows users to create visual representations of ideas. Through this tool, students and teachers can create "mind maps" or graphic organizers to arrange their ideas on different topics. Students can collaborate and create Popplets together. Users can type text and insert different images or videos into the graphic organizers created. There is also a comment function so that students or teachers can comment on others' work in Popplet. The use of Popplet supports UDL principles in the classroom. For example, Popplet can be used by teachers to display information for students. The organization of information in Popplet provides a unique representation of content that will work better than a Powerpoint or bulleted notes. Students could also get the chance to present their own understanding of topics using Popplet. For example, Popplet would be a great tool for students to use to present information that could be presented in a bubble map, lik...

Quizlet is an online tool that allows students to create online set of flashcards. It provides different methods for quizzing users on the flashcard sets they created, including tests and games. The software provides visual and audio ways to interact with the information in the sets of flashcards. Users also get access to other sets of flashcards created by other users. Quizlet is available online or via app. The Quizlet website and app align with principles of Universal Design for Learning. Students can create sets of flashcards for vocabulary lists, spelling tests, and other study guide materials for tests and quizzes. Instead of regular flashcard studying, students can practice mastering the cards through various means such as multiple choice questions, fill-in-the-blank questions, and matching games. This promotes the UDL idea that students should be provided with options for expressing their understanding of content. It also provides students with an engaging experience by allow...

Storyjumper is an online tool that allows users to create digital picture books with images and audio. Users can publish their creations on the Storyjumper website and access books created by other users. This tool provides graphics and images to accompany text, along with audio capability so that users can add in their own voices. SWOT Analysis: Strengths: The strength of this tool is its capability to provide students with a unique way to express their understanding of different topics. Students create books with visual and audio aids that help them create an account of their knowledge on a topic. This tool is also flexible in its possibilities; users can create books on any topic for any subject.  Weaknesses: The format of the books in Storyjumper is somewhat rigid. Visually, the effect of Sotryjumper is no different from a Powerpoint or Google Slides presentation.  Opportunities: Storyjumper allows for users to create digital books on any topic. The in-cite su...

Edmodo is a social media platform created specifically for use within a classroom between a teacher, his or her students, and their parents. It can be used from grades K-12. Teachers create class pages and add their students to the pages. Once given access, students and parents can view assignments, work collaboratively, and send questions to the teacher from school or from home. Edmodo can be used in the classroom along with the principles of UDL in the learning environment. Teachers can use the tool to engage students in a multitude of ways. Different methods of engagement such as polls, games, videos, etc. can be posted on the class page for students to access. Students and teachers can share multiple different means of expression to demonstrate their learning and representation of content information, respectively. Links to presentations, websites, or blogs created by students can be shared with the teacher via Edmodo. While Edmodo does not expressively promote the principles o...

Smilebox is an online tool that allows users to create multimedia slideshow presentations. The slides can include photos and videos. Users can also attach music to set the tone of the presentation. The benefits of this tool lie in its capabilities to present pictures. Smilebox would be a great tool for students to use for presenting very visually centered presentations. For example, if students had to create diagrams or drawings to demonstrate their understanding of the parts of a plant, they could photograph their work and compile it in Smilebox. Then, they could share their Smilebox presentation with the class and present all of the pictures with short descriptions underneath. This tool could be utilized to provide visual aids during a lesson to provide variety of representation, thus increasing engagement for students learn best visually or are English-learning. This tool would not work well for presentations that are text heavy due to its focus on showcasing photos. This to...

On this blog, I will stockpile different technology tools that can be used to create an engaging and effective learning experience in the classroom environment. These tools are student friendly and enriching. I hope you find this blog helpful as you look to incorporate technology in your classroom!