[ELTWeekly Volume 8, Issue 14 | September 5, 2016 | ISSN 0975-3036]
Monica Burns says, “You’ve been there. Open a new device and make a quick visit to the App Store. A simple search turns into download wheels spinning for lots of different apps. With thousands of free (and paid) apps to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start.
During conferences and school visits, I’ve given plenty of presentations with titles like “30 Apps for Reading Teachers” or “15 Favorite Math Apps.” I find great value in sharing resources in this format because it can introduce teachers to a world of possibilities. Before I start sharing favorites, I say to teachers what I want to say to you now:
Listen. Wait. Choose.
As you choose apps to bring into your classroom this school year, listen to different options (or read about what’s out there). Next, take a deep breath andwait for a minute, using this pause to remind yourself about your goals for this school year. Then, choose just a few apps to get started with. Ask yourself, “What will I invest time in learning how to use? And what can I integrate thoughtfully into my instruction?”
Adding to Your Tool Belt
Whether you can see it or not, you’re already wearing a technology tool belt. Maybe you found this article on Twitter or Facebook”.