Why teachers should use them

The benefits of EdTech for growing literacy skills

As the summer of 2022 drew to a close, teachers in K-12 schools had to focus on how to transform learning for the 2022-2023 school year. They made lessons that they believed would engage and impact the learning experience. Teachers have designed these lessons to improve students’ skills in various subjects. In what ways can you improve skills? EdTech tools that enable personalized learning and have a gaming component are a way to help.

Best ways to use tech tools for literacy skills

Learning with technology helps with subjects like science and math. Another topic that you might not think of that technology helps with is reading. It may come as a surprise, but technology really comes in handy when teaching reading and literacy. Here are some of the best ways to use technology to teach and improve skills in this area:

1. Playing games

Game-based learning has become a popular way for students to learn. What can be more fun than games? Using games to teach develops reading skills and keeps students engaged. Vocabulary, spelling, and grammar games facilitate understanding of reading concepts. Playing games is a timely and fun way to improve students’ reading and literacy skills.

2. Have students work together

Another fun way to teach through EdTech is through student collaboration. This will kick start their critical thinking skills and also get them into society. Learning reading and literacy skills doesn’t have to be boring. Students can learn these skills while working together. They get the best of both worlds by learning and enjoying social interaction.

A teacher can have students work in literature circles digitally and then review what they have learned with each other [1]. Literature based on interests, genres and illustrations work well in literary circles. Books that students can relate to such as Jake Drake, know-it-all, are great for use in a literary circle. The student then uses EdTech tools and shares what they have learned with their classmates. Doing criticism and analysis is how it works. This teaching style is great for literacy learning and socialization. Try it if you haven’t already.

3. Short films

Watching short films is an option that a teacher can use and that is enjoyable for their students. Seeing visuals in a movie helps students with comprehension. Pixar Shorts serve this purpose [2]. Students watch a short film and guess what happens. Movies like these allow the student to think critically about the plot in the movie. A teacher can keep critical thinking going by asking questions to support student understanding.

4. Student writing

An option the teacher can use is to have the student read and then write and think about what they have read. They can use a learning management system to record their ideas. Afterwards, the teacher can ask the students questions about what they have learned. They can stimulate discussions to improve reading comprehension and literacy.

5. Reading and Literacy Apps

Last but not least, there is an option for teachers to teach reading and literacy through apps. Teachers develop these skills when they use apps to teach phonics, vocabulary, and spelling. The apps are easy to use and work well for student engagement. Some apps a teacher should consider are Whooo’s Reading, Lexia PowerUp Literacy, Curriculet, and the Microsoft Reading Tool.

The strategies and apps mentioned are great ways for teachers to teach their students about reading and literacy. But let’s not forget why students need to improve reading and literacy and why technology should be used.

Changes in teaching and the rise of EdTech

Education has changed so much since the days before the pandemic. EdTech has made a huge difference in how teachers teach and interact with their students. Teaching through technology has also changed the way students engage in learning. Today’s technological tools available for teaching make learning easier. The latest tools help students thrive in learning subjects through technology, including reading. These products also help teachers create engaging lessons. A teacher can learn more effective ways to teach their students through technology. EdTech makes it easier for teachers and improves their teaching experience as well as the learning experience for the student.

It is beneficial for the future of the students

In short, the use of technology enhances learning. When a teacher uses technology tools to teach reading and literacy, they will see how rewarding it is for students. Students gain skills that they can use in school and in life. Many employers require technological knowledge, and having technical skills is critical to future job success.