Common Sense Education has released their Top 20 EdTech Tools again this year:
Our editorial team published 180 reviews of educational tools this year. Behind each of these reviews is a rigorous evaluation and testing process that can take days to weeks. Along the way we look into the tool’s pedagogical approach and learning design, its fit for different classrooms and learners, and the way it challenges and delights students. In short, we have high standards, and that’s why we’re excited to share this list of the best edtech of 2019. These 11 tools are a unique bunch, ranging from small, artful apps to rock-solid, research-backed curricula. We think they’ve all got tons to offer your classroom, but we know you and your students are the ultimate judges.
There is something for everyone in K-12 this year! Click the “see full review” link to view the original review by the Common Sense Education team.
Best EdTech Award Winners
Nico & Nor Wonder Farm
Fun and engaging app will help basic plant growth concepts take root
Bottom line: There’s little doubt that this app will help students understand the basics of plant growth, especially if the included lessons are used.
DoodleMaths
Short, daily practice and positive language make success accessible
Bottom line: A good, adaptive program that can be used to support a growth mindset along with strong math skills.
Lalilo
K-2 literacy program offers comprehensive, adaptive activities
Bottom line: An easy-to-recommend tool thanks to its broad coverage of key skills and nice balance of student-driven and teacher-differentiated learning.
Tinybop Schools
Collection of STEM simulations that students will love to explore
Bottom line: Tinybop Schools offers meaningful scientific exploration to students, particularly when partnered with good teaching and discussion.
Sky Guide
Awesome astronomy app takes students on a journey through the universe
Bottom line: A quality, affordable way to bring true astronomy study to the classroom, even during the day, with a plethora of viewing options.
uHandy
Microscope attachment for mobile devices inspires field investigation
Bottom line: The use of stickers instead of slides helps students examine their world at the microscopic level with safety and convenience.
Race to Ratify
Great history game offers cool constitutional spin on persuasion
Bottom line: This super smart game will get students digging into and understanding the federalist and anti-federalist sides of the U.S. Constitution ratification debate.
East of the Rockies
AR experience offers moving insight into tragic history of internment
Bottom line: Culturally rich and emotionally moving, with purposeful opportunities for interactivity.
Youcubed
Research-backed resources that attack math myths head on
Bottom line: A fantastic resource for teachers working on changing attitudes toward math and teaching it in an innovate and engaging way.
Parlay
Comprehensive discussion platform develops critical-thinking skills
Bottom line: A great tool in any subject or topic for teachers looking to make discussion a central part of their classroom.
Model Diplomacy
Students become foreign policy experts in this real-world simulation
Bottom line: This impressive program has ready-to-use and expert-vetted content that’ll help advanced students engage meaningfully with foreign policy issues and processes.
Honorable Mentions
Root Coding
First-rate versatile robot for all ages
Bottom line: By encouraging artistic design and creative problem-solving, Root Coding fits right into your STEAM curriculum.
Screencast-O-Matic
Create and share high-quality screencasts without breaking the bank
Bottom line: A well-designed screen and video recorder that lets teachers and students focus on creating engaging content from the get-go.
KOOV
Robotics kit makes design possibilities virtually limitless
Bottom line: For schools with healthy budgets, KOOV helps kids design and code interactive robots with blocks, sensors, and imagination.
StoriumEdu
Collaborative writing game inspires purposeful storytelling
Bottom line: With some planning and customization, this unique card game can motivate thoughtful and sustained creative writing in your classroom.
Tayasui Sketches
Slick and satisfying illustration app on par with the competition
Bottom line: This tool, while a bit of an adjustment from pen and paper, gives students ample room to grow creatively.
Unity Learn
Complete game creation curriculum gives students real-world experience
Bottom line: For any computer science or game design/development course, Unity Learn is a fun and effective way to get students building games right away, with plenty of room for depth.
Annenberg Classroom
Civics website makes teaching the Constitution manageable, meaningful
Bottom line: Go for the videos, stay for the lessons: Annenberg Classroom saves teachers’ prep time when teaching the Constitution, current events, or other civics lessons.
Machine Learning for Kids
Authentic AI-powered projects make kids’ creations feel like magic
Bottom line: It takes a topic that would be difficult to teach in any practical way and makes it accessible for the classroom.
The 1619 Project
Striking resources can add depth, rigor to lessons on slavery’s legacy
Bottom line: These high-level materials will add depth and context to lessons about slavery, but they need scaffolding to connect with students.