Technology in the Classroom

In today's society, technology is of ever growing importance. Technology can be overwhelming, intimidating and difficult to understand. As educators we must understand how to utilize technology both for our own benefit and for the benefit of our students. We must know enough about technology to use it ourselves in the classroom without embarrassing ourselves (hopefully) and we must also be able to teach students necessary skills for the classroom.

Here are some apps that I find helpful in the classroom:

Student Learning

Chicken Coop Fraction Games is an app that helps kids master fractions with the help of a hilarious chicken partner. Students are often intimidated by fractions but this app allows them practice in a fun, low stakes environment. With this app, fractions become fun, not scary. See it here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/chicken-coop-fraction-games/id484561886?mt=8

Math/ Language Arts IXL is a great website to use at all levels. The website contains sample problems for both language arts and math. Within each subject, there are smaller categories such as division, multiplication, etc. All the content on the website is directly tied with common core standards. The layout of the website makes it very easy for students to focus on skills they need more help with. The website does however require a subscription to access the full contents, It also tracks student progress on different concepts. Take a look: http://www.ixl.com/

History Line is an app made to help deepen student learning regarding U.S. history. In the game between 1-6 players  are presented with historical events and are asked to place them in chronological order. See it here:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/history-line/id393452083?mt=8

Classroom Management

TeacherKit is a great app that is available for apple products. It is designed to help teachers manage time and activities.Through the apps, teachers can create seating charts, record attendance and track student behavior. The app also features a grade book component to help you track student learning. The app is free but you can pay for additional components. Check it out here:
https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/teacherkit/id389584618?mt=8

Common Core State Standards App is great for new teachers. While common core standards are readily available online the app allows you to easily access all the standards on your phone. I use this app all the time when planning lessons. Check it out here:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/common-core-%20standards/id439424555?mt=8