Why use Nearpod?

Have you ever felt as though you’re trying everything but no matter what you do the students are still left wanting more?  I think all educators feel this way at times which is why I wanted to briefly post about one of my favourite tools: “Nearpod”.

What is it? 

Nearpod is an educational platform which allows teachers to create and share interactive lessons.  It is dynamic and provides assessment in REAL TIME! It has truly altered my teaching practice and I encourage others to try it out.

How it Works? 

How Nearpod Works

Why use it? 

I recently had two guest teachers in my room while my class worked on a lesson utilizing Nearpod and what struck them was how fully immersed the students were into the content.  “They love this” and “I have to try this with my kids” were stated several times and for good reason.  What I like most about the program is that you are able to gather data throughout the lesson to ensure everyone is understanding key concepts.  This removes the mystique as to whether everyone is understanding.  You can see exactly who is and who isn’t grasping the material.

You also have the ability to take your class on virtual field trips anyone in the world.  They love this feature and it makes the learning experience tangible.  They can take the theory and witness the true application.  See below:

Nearpod FT

Educators also have the option whether to have the lessons be teacher directed or student paced.  Teacher directed lessons places the teacher in control of the pacing where as student paced lessons, the students work at their own speed.  Due to the built in assessments I have not found a striking difference between the two platforms.

Live Lesson

One of my favourite tools is that Nearpod allows you the ability to post content onto Google Classroom.  This way students can go back and review content if necessary.  You have the option to share the lessons via email, links, and embedding as well.  Google Classroom is by far my personal preference.

Google Classroom

Another strength of Nearpod is it’s functionality.  This application works on all platforms; Chromebooks, iPads, phones, you name it.  If you are limited in terms of technology this mitigates that dilemma.  The app is a free download and is available in both the Apple and Android web-store.  It is also web based and can be used from any computer.

Nearpod Overview

Google-Play-App-Store

One of the final greatest characteristics of this application is the variety of choice it offers.  There is something for everyone here, whether it be slides, videos, images, virtual field trips, drawings, memory games, built in quizzes, 3D illustrations, the sky is the limit.  You are only bound by your own creativity.  The navigation is easy and the enthusiasm is contagious.

Nearpod Activity

After reading this if you still aren’t sure whether this is for you maybe consider trying a sample lesson with your students and see what they think.  My students love it but it may not be for everyone.  The best part is that there are many lessons already developed and can be used by you right now.  I like to create my own content but that comes with time and comfort level.

I hope you enjoy and if you have any questions please contact me.

Here is the link: Nearpod

Thank you!