A Critical Engagement with Three Digital Learning Tools
"New technologies can make learning interactive, engaging, collaborative, and linked to the world outside of the classroom" (Wiske, 2004, p. 47). With that said, introducing technology into the classroom can be a daunting endeavor. What if you choose the wrong tool? What if it doesn't perform in the way that you thought it would? What if your students see that you aren't "tech savvy"?
These are all valid concerns, but with some research and discovery, you can reduce your risks and enter the world of digital integration with minimal stress and a plethora of potential. It is my hope that this website will help you on your journey.
Purpose
The purpose of this website is to fulfill the requirements for EDU 5188- Integration of Technology in Education. More importantly however, is that this website can be used to help you, as an educator, determine whether or not any of these three digital tools can assist you with integration of technology into your classroom or practice. There are thousands of tools available, many very good, and many not so much. The tools examined herein are merely a drop in the bucket; but not a bad place to start. Below are three very brief descriptions of the tools under review. Please click on the banner links on the HOME page for a comprehensive analysis of each tool.
Alice is an amazing and established toolset created at Carnegie Mellon University that facilitates the creation of animations, 3D games, simulations, and narratives. In addition to the software, the website provides an abundance of resources including: How Tos, Lessons, Exercises & Projects, Textbooks, Curriculum examples, an Audio Library, as well as Downloads & Swag.
Gibbly is a game-based website that assists educators with the creation of lessons, quizzes, and assessment products. Additionally, it helps educators monitor their students' progress and facilitates the alignment of learning materials with established curriculum standards. Additionally, the website provides additional resources such as premade quizzes and lessons on a variety of subjects ranging from basic spelling to Python programming.
Younet is a web-based AI platform that supports educators in the personalization of their own AI agents. This allows educators to "train" AI agents on specific topics, content, and style. These AI models can then be shared with the learner, thus providing tailor-made insights, recommendations, study materials and other resources. Additionally, the AI model can assist the educator in grading, feedback, insights, and classroom control.