Today’s tech snack can be found at the following url: https://getkahoot.com/
What is it?
Kahoot is a free game based classroom response system that allows you to gather feedback from students through any Internet-connected device including tablets, laptops and smart phones.
So, let us get into the nitty gritty, shall we? In a nutshell, kahoot allows you to create game based activities such as discussions, quizzes and polls for your students. These game based activities provide real-time results and data in a fun and engaging manner for your students. This tool is intended to be used with a device that is connected to an lcd projector.
Students do not need an account to access the activity. They simply need to go to their web browser on their personal device( laptops, tablets, smart phones, etc) , go to the url kahoot.it and type in the pin number they are given. The pin number gives the students access to the game questions. **There is no limit on the number of students who can access the activity at one time, but someone needs to be the one who launches the game. (game master.) The game master (teacher or student leading activity) can be launched from any device. Once a game is launched, the site will wait for at least one person to access the activity through his/her device. Once at least one person has accessed the game, then the game can begin. An account is needed to launch activities. **
Creating an account on kahoot is simple and free. You can create your kahoot(activity) by simply following the directions on the screen after you log in. Kahoot uses a simple click and drag interface. In addition to text, you can also add videos and pictures to your kahoots. When you create a kahoot, you have the option to keep the kahoot private or public. ***Note: any student can play a kahoot whether it is private or public if they have the pin number for the specific game. If you make a kahoot public that means that other teachers can access it, duplicate it and then edit it to meet their content needs. ***
Kahoot is an easy tool that can be used to engage and motivate your students. Now, let me clarify something, the creators of this tool state that it is a great tool to use for blended learning. Please understand something, using this tool as an interactive way to engage students is a wonderful use of technology and is definitely a great way to integrate technology into your classroom. However, using the tool in the classroom as a way to engage your students is not blended learning. In order for it to be considered a blended learning activity, students must have some control over the: time, pace, or path of learning while using this tool.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apbkkC5qDek
For more ideas check out the following link:
http://blog.getkahoot.com/tagged/stories
Ah, a tech snack that is great for technology integration and blended learning! Now that’s what I call an appetizer with the works! Until we meet again at the café!