How to Use Nearpod: An effective technology tool for the classroom

Please watch my video lesson on what is Nearpod, how to use it, and why it is effective in the classroom!

Here is my assessment and reflection on this technology tool:

According to Roblyer & Hughes (2019), the RAT Matrix best helps teachers assess a technology tool (p. 66). The technology tool chosen to assess is Nearpod.

Nearpod serves as a great Replacement for standard note taking and formative assessments. Students can follow the teacher’s PowerPoint on their own screens, take screen recordings if they have a learning disability or language barrier, and can participate in real-time quizzes or games that the teacher creates. The program, Nearpod, also provides accountability such as recording students’ names and involvement with the activities. Therefore, students must be paying attention in order to receive credit for their participation or formative assessment.

Nearpod also functions as a technology tool that Amplifies the lesson and its goals. As described in the textbook, Nearpod tries “to make what exists more efficient and effective without disturbing the basic organizational features” (Roblyer & Hughes, 2019, p. 66). This program allows you to input previously created PowerPoint slides and images. It collects student participation and generates reports for grading and progress tracking. Overall, the tool is effective and efficient.

While Nearpod exclusively may not provide Transformation every single lesson, I do believe it possesses the potential to transform a lesson for at least one student. The program engages multiple learning styles and is structured uniquely in that it combines the teacher’s presentation and quizzes into an interactive format for the student. I believe Nearpod possesses the potential to “’do{ing} better things’ (p.1269) by completely rethinking how learning and instruction may occur with technologies” (Roblyer & Hughes, 2019, p. 66).

References

Roblyer & Hughes. (2019). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Pearson.