Okay, let’s just admit it, as parents and teachers alike, we’re all just a little uneasy about distance learning during this on-going pandemic. Lately we find ourselves with more questions than answers, but let’s not forget one very important thing—learning is continuous, and it doesn’t need to stop outside the classroom.
Bringing it online
Online learning continuums are a natural pivot in a crisis situation. But, for some schools, this might present a formidable challenge, especially if technology isn’t already in place. In a rush, faculty members might be tempted to utilize whatever platform they’re comfortable with, but it might not always be the best option, which can lead to issues for both teachers and students. That’s why it’s important to select tools that not only have the best educational experience for your students, but also help you easily assign, track and assess your students in a way that adheres to your current curriculum.
So, if you’re wondering, where on earth do I find a tool like that? Read on. We’re about to show you two platforms that just might change your game.
Knowledgehook
If you’re looking for an overall cool way to teach math both inside the classroom and out, you definitely need to check out Knowledgehook. It’s totally new, totally fresh, and totally awesome. In a nutshell, Knowledgehook is an Instructional Guidance System (IGS) that uses fun activities and interactive questions to aid teachers in moving students to deeper conceptual understandings of math. By exploring different pathways to solving problems through interactive activities such as Gameshows™ and Missions™, students are able to work both independently and collaboratively, and the tool is so much fun students just might forget they’re actually learning at all (but don’t worry, they still are). On top of all that, Knowledgehook also offers a comprehensive assessment tool that helps identify student struggles so you can easily determine which students are struggling and which are excelling. And, if that wasn’t enough to pique your interest, here’s the best part—Knowledgehook for Teachers is 100% free. Yes, you read that right. It’s free, and it’s not just free for now, it’s free forever, and you can keep using it for free as long as you’d like. Sure, there are premium and multiple license packages available with Knowledgehook that offer even more data-driven assessment tools and professional learning opportunities, but if you’re looking to get up and running quickly, or just want to test the waters, check it out now—it’s worth it.
STEMfuse STEM:IT Solutions
Like Knowledgehook, STEMfuse is totally revolutionizing the landscape of online learning. Founded in 2009 with the simple goal of promoting and improving STEM education, STEMfuse offers high-quality, easily taught curriculum that’s engaging, inspiring and affordable. And, also like Knowledgehook, it’s fun too.
Created with the philosophy that STEM is more than just content, but a way of thinking and doing, the STEMfuse STEM:IT curriculum features activities that challenge students to use STEM skills to solve real-world problems. Tied to core subjects, these topic-driven challenges include coding game activities, 3D modeling projects, robotics activities, and so much more. Plus, as an added bonus, many of the cross-curricular activities also incorporate STEAM. Split into three offerings of elementary, middle school, and high school, STEM:IT Solutions are definitely all-encompassing and cover everything from business, english language arts, fine arts, health, math, science, social studies, and more. You name it, STEMfuse STEM:IT Solutions most likely covers it—and students will love it.
So, as you’re working through distance learning struggles, don’t forget to stop every once in a while and take a breath. This is a tough time, but you’ll get through it. And, when your students are excelling from all the cool new stuff they’re learning through new digital tools, don’t forget to give yourself a high five, you definitely deserve it.
