New academic year, new challenges

We are increasingly immersed in the era of ICT in our classrooms. Proof of this is the use of tools ranging from the whiteboard, which is no longer a mystery for almost any teacher, to mobile devices, 3D projectors, document cameras, augmented reality, quick response systems, etc.

Tools help save the teacher in lesson planning and increase the student satisfaction.”

With the use of these technologies and methodologies it ensures teachers are prepared for the year ahead and new classes. These unique tools help save the teacher in lesson planning and increase the student satisfaction. Obviously, their incorporation and management require continuous learning and training by teachers and are greatly rewarded with outstanding results.

Our “digital native” students have a great capacity to assimilate knowledge through devices which act as motivating and teaching allies. The development of connectivity enables constant innovation in teaching and it is noteworthy that institutions are more and more committed to include the use of new technologies in their educational programs.

With the inclusion of  methodologies involving innovative elements based on the use of devices, we will increase the motivation and knowledge of our students. Currently, digital materials provided by publishers and content companies are powerful resources that allow teachers additional flexibility in teaching, time optimization and increased interaction and participation.

The standout digital publishers who are emerging in this crowded market offer high quality multi-media content at competitive prices. “

The standout digital publishers who are emerging in this crowded market offer high quality multi-media content at competitive prices. Moreover, these materials are created with extreme care by considering the educational needs of a changing market. This is the case of Elesapiens or Toovari.

The control of the classroom is also important. Today, we find applications allowing us to perform this task easily and instantly, such as iDoceo or ClassDojo, which serve to track the activity and progress of students and keep parents informed.

In addition, many of the most experienced teachers are becoming interested in creating their own material. The prominence of these teachers and creators is undeniable. They have made barriers collapse, including the geographical ones. It is no longer just about the motivation of the students but also about the teacher’s pride and how the satisfaction and recognition produced by a job well done and the consequent benefit created for the students motivate teachers nowadays.

In and out of the classroom, these dynamic content tools are boosting students’ motivation, participation, performance, achievement and learning experience. We can rely on tools such as Prezi, Popplet or Emaze.

Platforms like Edmodo, and its recent launch of Spotlight, facilitate the integration of our own teaching materials and enable learning at any time, from everywhere.”

That said, the use and implementation of these tools require a solid communication channel with students. Platforms like Edmodo, and its recent launch of Spotlight, facilitate the integration of our own teaching materials and enable learning at any time, from everywhere. Thus, students learn not only at school but also at home, from their personal devices.

Ibán de la Horra
Teacher and trainer