In the ever-evolving landscape of education, EdTech tools have played a pivotal role in ensuring that learning remains accessible and engaging, especially in remote schooling. As educators and students adapt to the challenges posed by virtual classrooms, the demand for effective EdTech solutions has surged.
In this article, let me help you explore the top 10 EdTech tools for remote schooling, summarizing their uses, features, costs, and the availability of trial versions.
Table of Contents
1. Google Workspace for Education
Website: Google Workspace for Education
Summary: Google Workspace for Education is a comprehensive suite of productivity tools designed to enhance collaboration and communication among educators and students. It includes Gmail, Google Docs, Google Meet, and more.
Features:
- Real-time collaboration on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations
- Seamless integration with Google Classroom
- Secure and easy-to-manage user accounts
- Educational pricing available
Cost: Free with limited features; pricing varies for premium editions.
Trial Version: A 14-day free Google Workspace for Education Plus trial is available.
2. Zoom Education
Website: Zoom Education
Summary: Zoom Education is a video conferencing platform that offers virtual classrooms, webinars, and collaboration features. It has gained popularity as a primary tool for remote learning.
Features:
- High-quality video and audio conferencing
- Screen sharing and interactive whiteboard
- Breakout rooms for group activities
- Integration with Learning Management Systems (LMS)
Cost: The basic version is free; pricing for Pro, Business, and Enterprise plans is available.
Trial Version: The Basic plan provides free access with limited features.
3. Microsoft Teams for Education
Website: Microsoft Teams for Education
Summary: Microsoft Teams for Education is part of the Microsoft 365 suite, offering a collaborative hub for educators and students. It integrates with Office apps, making it a versatile EdTech tool.
Features:
- Virtual classrooms with chat and video conferencing
- Integration with OneDrive for file sharing
- Assignments and grading features
- Access to Microsoft Office apps
Cost: Free for educational institutions; Microsoft 365 for Education pricing varies.
Trial Version: Educational institutions can use the free version with limited features.
4. Edmodo
Website: Edmodo
Summary: Edmodo is a learning management system (LMS) that connects teachers, students, and parents. It provides a secure platform for communication and collaboration.
Features:
- Assignment and grading tools
- Quizzes and polls for assessment
- Parent-teacher communication
- Library of educational resources
Cost: The basic version is free; Edmodo Premium pricing is available.
Trial Version: Edmodo offers a free basic version.
5. Padlet
Website: Padlet
Summary: Padlet is a virtual bulletin board that facilitates creativity and collaboration. It is beneficial for brainstorming, sharing ideas, and collecting feedback.
Features:
- Customizable digital boards
- Multimedia content embedding
- Real-time collaboration
- Templates for various purposes
Cost: Free with limited features; Padlet Backpack pricing for schools and districts.
Trial Version: Padlet offers a free version with basic features.
6. Kahoot!
Website: Kahoot!
Summary: Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform that makes learning fun and engaging. Educators can create quizzes, surveys, and challenges.
Features:
- Interactive quizzes and polls
- Learning games for all subjects
- Integration with video conferencing tools
- Detailed performance analytics
Cost: The basic version is free; Kahoot! Plus Pro pricing is available.
Trial Version: Kahoot! Offers a free basic version.
7. Nearpod
Website: Nearpod
Summary: Nearpod is an interactive teaching platform that engages students with interactive lessons, virtual reality experiences, and formative assessments.
Features:
- Ready-made lessons and resources
- Collaborative activities and virtual field trips
- Real-time student feedback
- Integration with Google Classroom
Cost: Free with limited features; Nearpod Gold pricing for enhanced features.
Trial Version: Nearpod offers a free version with basic features.
8. Seesaw
Website: Seesaw
Summary: Seesaw is a digital portfolio and parent communication tool that enables students to showcase their work and engage parents in learning.
Features:
- Student-driven digital portfolios
- Parent engagement and communication
- Creative tools for assignments
- Easy sharing with teachers
Cost: Free for teachers; Seesaw for Schools pricing available.
Trial Version: Seesaw offers a free version for teachers.
9. Screencastify
Website: Screencastify
Summary: Screencastify is a screen recording and video editing tool that allows educators to create instructional videos and tutorials.
Features:
- Record screen and webcam simultaneously
- Video editing and annotation tools
- Easy sharing via Google Drive and YouTube
- Integration with Google Workspace
Cost: Free with limited features; Screencastify Unlimited pricing available.
Trial Version: Screencastify offers a free basic version.
10. Canva for Education
Website: Canva for Education
Summary: Canva for Education is a versatile graphic design tool that empowers students and teachers to create visually engaging content for assignments and projects.
Features:
- User-friendly design templates
- Collaboration on design projects
- Access to a library of images and illustrations
- Easy sharing and exporting
Cost: Free for educational institutions; Canva Pro pricing is available.
Trial Version: Canva for Education is free for educational institutions.
EdTech Tool Feature Comparison
Here is a feature comparison table for the top 10 EdTech tools for remote schooling:
| Tool | Real-time Collaboration | Assessment Tool | Video Conference | Price | Trial Ver |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Workspace for Education | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | Free and premium editions | 14-day free trial of Google Workspace for Education Plus |
| Zoom Education | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | Free and paid plans | Basic version is free |
| Microsoft Teams for Education | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | Free for educational institutions | Free version with limited features |
| Edmodo | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | Free and premium editions | Free basic version |
| Padlet | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | Free and premium editions | Free version with basic features |
| Kahoot! | ✔️ | ✔️ |
