Getting Started With Math Web 2.0 Applications
With the increasing use of mobile technology in society in general, there is a growing need to intentionally use this technology with 21st century learners in our schools. (Jordan et al., 2016) While laptop and desktop computers continue to top the list of digital tools being used by teachers and students, they are now joined by cell phones and smartphones as a fairly common educational tool. Almost three-quarters of AP and NWP teachers (73%) say that they and/or their students use their mobile phones as a learning device in the classroom or to complete assignments. (Purcell, Heaps, Buchanan, & Friedrich, 2013) It is undeniable that mobile devices have become a constant presence in a high school classroom. While often viewed as a distraction, cell phones can be an effective tool for engaging students in learning. (Engle & Green, 2011) Many high school educators have learned to embrace them and use them productively and instructionally in the classroom.
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I've had the opportunity recently to explore and become proficient with several different Web 2.0 classroom tools. While all of these websites have help and "how-to" explanations, here are two short videos to help ease you into these innovative technologies. Please feel free to check out each of these sites, and if you have questions, you can also contact me using the contact form below. The tutorial videos I've provided are for Kahoot! and desmos.com.
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LESSONS
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ASSESSMENT
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REFERENCES
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What is Kahoot!
Kahoot! is a computer application quizzing game that students can play as a whole class. It is very exciting and engaging for students. Teachers can easily set up an account, make quizzes for either learning or review, and run them during class. It's very easy to get started, you can either write your own quizzes, or copy (and edit) quizzes that are made public from other teachers. There are millions to choose from. It would help to have an LCD projector, but all students need is a phone, tablet, or computer to be able to play along. On the right is a short tutorial video that I made to get you started using Kahoot! but for more detailed information, see the Kahoot! Website linked here. |
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What is Desmos?
Desmos started as an online graphing calculator, which was a great reference tool for any high school math student. Students could create an account, and save any problems that they graphed or worked on, to be able to come back a reference them later. I use it quite a bit in class. Recently, Desmos introduced their "Bundles" website with strategic curriculum, including engaging activities and competitive, collaborative games. Currently they have seven bundles including conics, exponential, functions, linear, linear systems, modeling, quadratic, and transformations. In addition to all these bundles, which get updated frequently, there are two categories called "most popular", and "latest" where Desmos creators and other contributors are constantly added new activities. I check weekly to see if there's something new and engaging that I can use with my students. I've created a short video here, but for more information, and to get yourself signed up, see the Desmos Website linked here. |
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