Sara Terrell
Times have changed. A teacher standing before a group of children giving lessons from the blackboard is no longer the full definition of education. Technology has altered how educators teach, and today, the classroom description is quite fluid. However, effective communication is still at the heart of a successful classroom, regardless of its form.
Learning can become more interactive and enjoyable when students and teachers can easily share ideas, ask questions, and give feedback, motivating them to give their best efforts. This is why EdTech has made classroom communication easier than ever.
What is EdTech?
EdTech may not be a familiar concept if you graduated a few decades ago. It’s an abbreviation for education technology, referring to the hardware and software teachers and students use to improve learning and communication in the classroom.
10 Top EdTech Tools for Communication in the Classroom
Here are ten EdTech tools teachers can use to improve classroom communication.
1. Learning Management Systems
Learning Management Systems (LMS) are excellent teachers’ aids. They help teachers organize assignments, share resources, and communicate with students in one place. LMS also allow teachers to use interactive quizzes, multimedia content, and more to create more participative lessons. At the same time, they allow educators to personalize their students’ learning paths according to their progress and understanding.
Gradelink’s Student Information System (SIS) integrates directly with Google Classroom, which is one of the leading LMSs, and utilizing it makes it easier for schools to manage student information and streamline communication.
With an LMS, students can access class materials, submit assignments, and receive feedback without the hassle of juggling multiple platforms. These systems often include grade tracking, attendance monitoring, and built-in discussion forums, providing an all-in-one solution for teachers and students.
2. Classroom Messaging Apps
Busy classrooms work far better with smooth communication. Classroom messaging apps help teachers send announcements, homework reminders, and important updates to students and parents. These tools make sure no one misses out on key information.
Gradelink’s communication system covers every aspect of classroom communication, including SmartSend, a built-in email system, SmartSend Pro that includes message scheduling and history, and a Student/Parent Mobile App. Of course, communication is always more efficient if it’s in a home language, and Gradelink makes it easy to change the default language to English, Spanish, or Chinese, depending on preferences.
3. Behavior Management Tools
Communicating with parents regarding their children’s behavior is much easier with well-structured class management tools that include communication platforms.
Apps like ClassDojo and ParentSquare both focus on encouraging positive behavior. ClassDojo takes a fun approach, rewarding students for positive behavior with “ClassDojo Coins” and subtracting them for negative behavior. ParentSquare’s philosophy rests on the theory that positive feedback encourages better behavior. Teachers use the messaging app to send parents feedback on admirable actions or behavior they have shown.
Gradelink’s comprehensive SIS also has a feature to track behavior, discipline, and counseling. It allows administrators to track positive and negative actions, merits, demerits, and academic goals. Schools can allow parents to view their children’s disciplinary entries and receive email alerts when teachers or administrators make an entry.
4. Interactive Whiteboards
Interactive whiteboards, such as SMART Boards and Promethean ActivPanels, bring lessons to life using various technologies, including infrared touch, resistive or capacitive touch, or magnetic or ultrasonic pens. Teachers can write, draw, and display multimedia content while students solve problems or contribute ideas in real time. Some whiteboards also integrate with cloud storage, allowing teachers to save and share lessons digitally.
5. Gamified Learning Tools
When gamified, learning feels less like work and more like fun. Platforms like Kahoot!, Quizizz, and Classcraft turn quizzes and lessons into interactive games. While it feels like entertainment, these platforms keep students’ attention while reinforcing important information.
Gamification encourages participation, especially for students who are hesitant to speak up in class. Students are motivated by leaderboards, badges, points, and a sense of competition. These tools often include analytics and reporting features, which are brilliant for tracking student progress and identifying areas where they need extra support.
6. Online Discussion Forums
Discussion forums give students a space to share ideas, ask questions, and collaborate outside of class. Tools like Padlet, Google Classroom discussions, and Edmodo allow students to reflect on their lessons, respond to classmates, and build critical thinking skills.
These platforms also help shy or quieter students or those with speech or communication disorders participate in discussions at their own pace. Many forums include multimedia support, so students can upload videos, pictures, and documents to supplement their responses.
7. AI-Powered Feedback Tools
AI-powered tools make timely feedback easier. Platforms like Grammarly, Edmentum, and Turnitin’s Revision Assistant help teachers give students instant writing feedback so they can improve their work before submitting it. AI can also help grade quizzes and assignments, saving teachers a lot of time. However, a certain level of human feedback is also essential.
8. Digital Surveys and Polls
Quick check-ins can help teachers gauge student understanding and adjust lessons accordingly. Tools like Google Forms, Poll Everywhere, and Mentimeter allow educators to create polls and surveys in real-time.
Whether it’s a quick comprehension check or a way to gather student opinions, these tools encourage participation and allow everyone’s voice to be heard. Advanced features like word clouds, anonymous responses, and data export options make it easy to analyze results and help teachers refine their strategies.
9. Language Translation Tools
In multilingual classrooms, translation tools ensure every student can follow along. Google Translate, Microsoft Translator for Education, and SayHi help bridge language gaps by translating text and speech in real time. These tools can be a lifesaver to non-native speakers, making communication between students, teachers, and parents smoother.
Some translation apps integrate with learning platforms, seamlessly translating lesson materials and assignments.
10. Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR)
AR and VR take learning beyond the textbook. Platforms like Google Expedition, Nearpod VR, and Merge Cube let students explore historical landmarks, go on virtual field trips, and more.
Research indicates that when AR/VR is used in the classroom, students’ grades, retention, and comprehension improve. These immersive experiences improve understanding and spark curiosity, making lessons fun and memorable.
Clear Communication Creates Success
Strong communication is essential for a thriving classroom, and what better way to engage our tech-savvy youth than through EdTech tools? Technological developments are already second nature to most students, so using these EdTech tools is the logical way to keep them engaged and improve classroom communication.
By integrating tools like Gradelink’s SIS, which seamlessly connects with many other educational platforms, schools can have efficient and effective communication.
Sara Terrell is a versatile writer covering topics from education to business.