Nearpod

“Nearpod is an instructional platform that merges formative assessment and dynamic media for collaborative learning experiences.” Nearpod is an excellent resource that engages students in real-life experiences. The benefits of Nearpod is that it promotes 21^st century learning, creativity, and communication. It also can be used across all content areas and increases student participation and achievement. Nearpod also improves students’ reading comprehension, focus, and independence.

               
                     10 Ways to Use Nearpod in the Classroom

One cool fact about Nearpod is that teachers can pull from a pool of already existing lesson plans. Teachers can search lessons based of subject, standard, or grade level. Once a subject is selected, the teacher can zero in on a specific area of focus for the lesson. Lessons are categorized into different lexile levels, which breaks down the steps that students are going to be doing throughout the lesson. Learning objectives are then provided so students can connect their learning to specific goals. These goals help the students target their learning and lexile level.

Nearpod is a great tool to use in the classroom because teachers can imbed outside resources, like Flocabulary and other Google programs. One of my favorite attributes Nearpod has to offer is virtual field trips. Students have the opportunity to use Nearpod as a gateway to new experiences that they originally would never get the opportunity to experience. Students can travel around the word while in the comfort of the classroom. There are over 400 lessons that broaden students’ outlook of the world in which we live. While on such field trips, the teacher can create missions and goals that line with the school standards. These goals foster independence and creativity.

                                      

Nearpod can be used as a formative assessment tool. I love how Nearpod allows students to express their learning in a way that suits their personality and learning style. Students have the choice to illustrate their answers, collaborate with peers, participate in polls, or answer with fill in the blank or open-ended quizzes.

The only downfall to Nearpod, is that in order to get the full experience, you must pay a large fee. Prices range from free-$350. However, I believe that if the school system works together, the fee would be worth the outcome because Nearpod enhances the education of all.