EdPuzzle and Blendspace

EdPuzzle is a program that allows teachers to share uninterrupted videos, such as ad-free YouTube videos, with students. One plus side to EdPuzzle is that quizzes can be added so that students can focus on comprehension of the content before proceeding onto the rest of the video. Teachers can also crop videos, add voiceovers, and add audio pauses to the chosen video or clip. Through EdPuzzle, teachers can also assign tasks and due dates to students. Students can view their assignments, and teachers can monitor progress, such as what percentage of the video was watched and how well the students did on the quizzes. Research shows that students simply watching videos is ineffective. Active learning must be incorporated in order for students to retain the information. The following video shows an example of an EdPuzzle assignment:

Blendspace allows teachers to create lessons and deliver a “flipped classroom” approach. Much like Google Classroom, assignments are available for students to work on at their own pace, and they can be accessed at school or at home. On Blendspace, students can chat and ask questions during lessons. Quizzes provide students with immediate feedback to enhance their learning experience. Teachers can directly embed their own links into Blendspace, as well as purchase resources directly on the site. The following picture is a screenshot of sample Blendspace assignments:

Both EdPuzzle and Blendspace are free programs that promote 21^st century learning and the flipped classroom approach. Students are in charge of their own learning, so teachers and students can make the most out of their class time. Students are also held accountable since both programs allow teachers to progress monitor. Both EdPuzzle and Blendspace are compatible with one another, as well as with Google Classroom. Students can access the programs at anytime from their own device. The lessons are only shared between the student and the teacher. Teachers can make their own videos and lessons, and instruction can be differentiated on both programs to tailor to each students individual needs or to the needs of the entire class.

I like how both of these programs offer the flipped classroom approach. After students complete their assignments, whether at home or during small group time, the teacher can lead class discussions, facilitate hands-on activities, or pull students that need further intervention. There is so much that goes into teaching little minds-- time should not be a factor that limits student learning.