Today's tech snack can be found at the following url: http://web.seesaw.me/ .
What is it and how can I use it with my students?
Seesaw is a free web based portfolio creation tool. Seesaw can be used on any Internet enabled device- including smartphones and tablets. If you are using a tablet, you can download the free app from google play, the apple store, the kindle store, and the chrome store( though you can use it directly from the browser if you like. Easier with the app, though)
To begin using seesaw, you must first create a free account. Creating a free account only requires an active email address and a password that you create. Once you create an account, you can create a class and add as many students as you like. You can also have multiple classes.
Once you have added students, they can start using seesaw to add their own content. For younger students, they can scan a qr code generated by seesaw. Once they scan their qr code they will have the option to pick their name and add their own content. They can do so by adding a photo, video a drawing, uploading a file, link or note. For older students or if you are using a device that doesn't have a built in camera, you can create a five letter class code. Students would then enter that five letter class code instead of the qr code to add content for their portfolio.
Seesaw also has a nice blogging feature. With this feature, students can share some of their portfolio entries in a class blog. By sharing their work, students can then receive feedback and commentary about their work from their peers.
Students can use the blogging features to :
.•create classroom discussions
•learn digital citizenship
•practicing writing skills
•reflect on learning
Seesaw is easy to use and takes very little time to set up and use. Since everything is digital, there is no need to house bulky paper items of student work. Since there is no limit to the number of classes you can create, you can create multiple portfolio for multiple subjects. Since the tool is web-based it can be accessed 24/7, and since usernames/passwords are not required for students, it is a tool that can easily be used to create a flipped/blended learning environment for your students. For more ideas about how to use seesaw with your students, click here.
While a teacher account is free, if your school wants to have portfolio's travel with students throughout their school career, a paid account is required. To learn more about the paid features of seesaw, click here.
Delicious! Until we meet again at the café....