Technology in the classroom-Infuse Learning and Edmodo shows a great, real life example of using technology based formative assessment tools successfully in the classroom. The teacher, Lileana Rios uses the example of Infuse Learning and Edmodo which is similar to other available tools such as Socrative. The teacher discusses how this technology has helped her to track her students’ progress and be provided with immediate feedback on their learning. She has discovered that this tool can be used at any grade level in various subjects. She discusses how her students want to answer the questions using technology because they enjoy using the technology. She discusses the importance of having various answering formats available beyond multiple choice and true/false. Through the tools students can draw pictures to explain their thinking.
She has found that the use of technology increases student engagement and allows them to respond more quickly which in turn gives her a quicker understanding of where her students are at in their knowledge. Not only has technology provided her with quicker feedback she has discovered that students who would not normally be engaged in their learning are sharing ideas, videos and thoughts related to the topic. This student is learning as well as helping to teach other students. She addresses the challenges of using technology for assessment at home using Edmodo. She has counteracted this challenge by allowing students who don’t have access to technology a one-week window to turn in assignment thereby providing them the opportunity to access technology through school or the public library on their own time. Using technology in this way has caused her students to take greater ownership of their learning.
The teacher makes the important point that the technology must be used meaningfully. Rios states, “Technology should not hinder the lesson, it is pointless if it is hindering the process of learning”. By teaching herself and her students how to use the technology it helps her and her students to be calm while using the technology and to therefore have a more meaningful learning experience. Above all it is important to not let the technology take over the classroom. Rios states, “Content is more important than technology.” Once again this video emphasizes a theme that I have discovered throughout my inquiry process, that technology is useless without good practice. This video raises important points about using technology for formative assessment. It addresses potential concerns and problems with using technology for assessment. This video provides insight into the importance of considering all aspects of using technology for assessment as well as the rewards of using technology for formative assessment.
Ledezma, Daniel. (2013, February 9). Technology in the classroom-Infuse Learning and Edmodo. Retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lz0hNJjFy-M