App Review- Ashley Clark

 Standard- 

ISTE 1C- Students use technology to seek feedback that informs and improves their practice and to demonstrate their learning in a variety of ways.

1. Seesaw- 

This app is a great resource I have been using for years. I would describe it as a early elementary friendly google classroom. Teachers can create lessons or choose from thousands of lessons already uploaded by teachers. Students can use the microphone, video recorder, photo button, text entry and even a drawing tool to complete assignments. There is a app and a web version. The app does not cost for students but there are some additional content that teachers must purchase to have, (ex. More than 100 activities in your library and scheduling assignments to go out at a set time.) I use this with first grade and I think with training I would even say K-5 would really benefit from this. It is available on Apple, Google, and Kindle devices as well as on the web. This was my go to app last March when we went home due to COVID-19. It allowed me to listen to my kids read, check up on them, and see them continue to learn from home. 

2. Flipgrid

This app allows you to pose a question or thought and allows students to respond to it via video. The videos can range in length depending on the settings you allow. You can upload links for them to look at before they answer as well. It is a free app. I would say any age group would enjoy Flipgrid. I think it is especially user friendly for younger students because they can talk about it instead of having to type it out which they may struggle with. It is available on IOS and Android as well as on the web. 

3. Padlet

This app allows you to do many different things. Making a wall for commenters, a timeline, a stream and even a map. The basic account is free, but there is a monthly account for $8 with more features. I would use this in grades 2nd and up. Since there is so much typing involved first grade and below might have a hard time spelling things and typing on the computers. Padlet is available on IOS, Android, and on the web. I have used this in the past during undergraduate school. It has changed a lot since the last time I have used it. I did use the wall feature during a lesson in a 6th grade practicum and it went so smoothly. It allowed them to share their thoughts as well as read others in the class. 

My personal favorite is Seesaw. It allows students to show their knowledge in a multitude of different ways. Students who have trouble speaking might prefer typing and students who struggle with writing and getting words down correctly might prefer the microphone or video option. This app allows students and teachers to connect even if they are still virtual at home. It keeps everything in their journal which acts like a running record for teachers to look back on. Teachers can even leave comments and send back work that needs to be corrected. This was a blessing during a time when everything was so hectic. We still use it in the classroom just so that we can be prepared if that situation arises again and we have to go home.