Resources

List of Integrated EdTech

All the edtech listed below is web-based and free to access in the context of these design thinking modules.

Canva: A tool for creating a variety of visuals (e.g., infographics, storyboards, brochures, posters, presentations, etc.) that uses a drop-and-drag functionality combined with the ability to upload images. When complete, users can download their visual or access a unique URL that can be used for sharing it. (Note, not all the content on Canva is free, and users need to be aware of any costs when adding pre-made content to their visual.)

Direct Poll: This tool allows users to create polls that contain one or more questions and share them via a link with other users. As users register their vote, this tool automatically updates the results in the real time, and it provides a direct link to those updated results.

EdPuzzle: A platform that allows instructors to “rip” an online video from another platform (e.g., YouTube, Vimeo, etc.) or locate a video within the EdPuzzle collection. Next, instructors can trim the video as well as add questions, notes, and voiceovers to it. They can then assign the videos for students to watch by creating a class and making the video an assignment. As students complete the video assignment, EdPuzzle will gather analytics about their engagement.

FlipGrid: A video-based discussion forum, these modules used FlipGrid as a tool for schema activation. In each module’s opening, students are asked to share their understanding of the module’s topic. By sharing their understanding, it provides a foundation for adding and/or refining knowledge related to the topic.

Google Docs: A software program that allows users to create documents that are shareable and editable, depending on the settings option. This program lends itself to crowdsourcing and sharing information, such as annotated bibliographies and prototype testing procedures.

Google Slides: A presentation software program that is used for digital gallery walks, which requires instructors to create the instructions, template, and model for students. Instructors can also use the “speaker notes” section to provide feedback for students or have students provide feedback to each other.

Hypthes.is: A tool for annotating websites, users must first register with Hypothes.is. They can then copy a website’s URL and input into Hypothes.is. A new URL will be generated that has “https://via.hypothes.is/” before the original website’s URL. Users will then be able to annotate text on the newly generated URL by highlighting the text, choose annotate, and then adding their thoughts about the text! (Note, users must be registered with Hypothes.is to access this functionality.)

Note.ly: A digital cork board that allows users to add sticky notes and images to the board. Once registered and logged into their account, Note.ly will generate a unique link for sharing the board.

Padlet: A digital cork board that allows instructors to customize it as well as post directions to it before sharing it with students via a unique URL or over email. Students can click the “+” on the bottom, which allows them to post their entry. Padlet provides students with an easy-to-use tool for posting learning artifacts related to specific topics.

PersonaGenerator: A tool for creating profile of individuals that can be representative of specific populations. Instructors need to contextualize this tool, so it is used appropriately regarding its representation of different populations. For design thinking, this tool allows students to make “barebones” personas that can be downloaded or shared via a link.

Piktochart: A tool for creating infographics! Pre-made templates combined with the an easy-to-use interface for uploading images, customizing text, and organizing content, Piktochart is a flexible tool that can be used for creating a variety of visuals to document learning, and the visuals can be shared via a link.

Svoter: A digital tool designed for annotating images, users must upload an image into this website. Next, they will be able to annotate the image by adding content (e.g., text, shapes, symbols, etc.). When ready, users can download their annotated text or access it via a unique link.

TUZZit: With the foundation of a collaborative whiteboard, this tool provides templates, called methodologies, that users can customize and share. To use TUZZit, users will first need to click the “Try Free Version” and then select their methodology. Next, they can add content. When ready, instructors need to click “Save” button, name the board, and share the URL to their students.

YouTube: Owned by Google, YouTube is the internet’s largest collection of videos. Users can search for videos by topic, keyword, and more. Plus, using YouTube’s functionalities, users can comment on videos, up or down vote videos, save videos to channels, and upload their own videos/