Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom. It happens everywhere you go. From walking down the street to visiting different stores, there are plenty of opportunities to learn new things every day. When you look at things this way, it becomes clear that public spaces are great for learning about new things because they give people the chance to explore and discover new knowledge on their own. This is why interactive platform mapping is so important.
Types of virtual learning platforms & examples of each
Student and teacher communication platforms
Communication is key when it comes to ensuring students receive the education they deserve. Interactive video lectures help teachers and students communicate effectively in real time.
Education platforms encourage students to:
- Collaborate
- Communicate
- Share videos, photos and homework assignments
To help students learn, you can set up classes, distribute and collect homework assignments.
Plus, virtual platforms give parents the opportunity to take part and supervise their child’s progress from home.
1. FlipGrid
FlipGrid is a conversation-starter enabling students and teachers to share videos about a relevant subject. Starting guides and webinars are available to teach you and your students how to use this unique platform. Best of all, it’s free!
2. Zoom
Zoom became the #1 choice for meetings and webinars for its ease and functionality. Why not use this video conferencing tool for online classes, too?
Zoom requires the use of a passcode to take part in real-time video lectures. Not only does this provide a secure learning environment for kids, but it also allows for safe interactions between students and teachers.
3. Slack
Slack is an instant messaging tool that helps you and your students communicate instantly.
Teachers can set up channels geared toward separate topics, and Slack ensures data is secure so only teachers and students access lessons. Once you create a start hub, students can easily access everything they need for their studies.
4. Bloomz
Bloomz is a wonderful app that opens communication between parents and teachers. Easily line up parent-teacher conversations, receive class updates and track behavior with this user-friendly platform. Translation is available in over 100 languages to make learning accessible for everyone.
5. ClassDojo
Parents can join their kids in class through any device with this platform. ClassDojo gives students a way to receive praise for their skills, and parents have the option to share happy moments captured in classrooms.
6. Microsoft Teams
Classrooms are a true team environment when teachers and students can swap thoughts and ideas. Microsoft Teams makes it easy for you and your students to work together as you exchange videos, homework assignments and engage in chat conversations.
Game-based learning platforms
Game-based learning combines the fun of gaming with learning. Quizzes, badges and points systems coupled with classroom participation make for a joyful way for students to develop problem solving and critical thinking skills
We found four rewarding and helpful platforms to enhance your child’s love for learning through games.
1. Prodigy Math Game
Prodigy’s adaptive, game-based learning platform can help students fall in love with learning! Prodigy Math Game challenges students to complete questions, earn rewards and battle friends, all while answering curriculum-aligned questions.
Plus, your free teacher account gives you access to all of Prodigy’s teacher tools. Use them to:
- Align Prodigy with your classroom lessons
- Differentiate math instruction for every student
- Track student progress and deliver in-game assessments
Whether students are learning in the classroom or at home, Prodigy is a great way to keep them engaged as they build math skills.Sign up now
2. Kahoot!
Nothing gets kids more excited than a good classroom quiz (and a little healthy competition). Kahoot! was created to work with live video conferencing tools such as Zoom, Skype and Google Meet and blends educational games with fun questions to promote learning.
Kahoot! also encourages kids to create their own games and share with other students.
3. Gimkit
Gimkit Live unleashes clever educational content where students answer questions at their own pace. Each time they answer a question correctly, they receive in-game cash they can re-invest to buy upgrades and power-ups.
4. Quizlet
Quizlet uses flashcards and games to make learning more enjoyable. Study modes and sets are suited to each student’s learning style, which makes small accomplishments feel like victories.
Quizlet helps kids to learn a variety of subjects, including:
- Art
- Math
- Science
- Humanities
- Languages
Classroom management platforms
Classroom management platforms are timesaving tools that make learning run smoothly. These ingenious platforms help you time tasks, manage and improve students’ behavior and create a respectful and supportive environment.
You can also use these platforms to communicate with parents and enhance educational experiences at school or at home.
1. Google Classroom
Google Classroom requires the use of a Gmail account to access Classrooms. This platform is fantastic for easy communication, teamwork and sharing homework files. Plus, you can even use Classroom to make a class website and store important resources or information for students.
2. Buncee
Buncee is a fun and simple tool that helps students and teachers create course materials, presentations and stories. The platform has over 2,000 templates that allow users to build charts and visual art creations.
Buncee is a multi-purpose, web-based tool for educational, business and personal applications.
3. EdModo
As a global learning management system (LMS), EdModo is a collaborative platform that connects teachers, students and parents.
Teachers like you can:
- Support students
- Distribute quizzes
- Share assignments
- Create posts and messages
Students have a greater chance of reaching their full potential thanks to EdModo’s organized class folders and built-in planner.
Parents may wish to create their own account so they can supervise their child’s progress.
4. Edulastic
As a valuable online education tool, Edulastic’s high standards help you administer assessments, help students and track their progress. Google Classroom synchronization is available free to use in combination with Edulastic. Students receive the best of both worlds: effective academic resources that are easy to use!
5. Eduplanet21
Eduplanet21 recently began allowing teachers and groups to receive a free subscription to use their platform. Developers also released a software module called “Lesson Planner,” which helps you to produce and alter lesson plans for remote learning.
The website has great resources for “10 Minute Tuesdays,” quick conversations with educators from around the world. Their webinars also offer valuable tips to help educators and students.
6. ClassMax
ClassMax’s online education tool shows teachers exactly how to set up the system, so no guessing required. You can create seating charts, monitor behavior and track student progress. It also eliminates the need to use paper, which is an environmental bonus!
Online-only virtual learning platforms
When the pandemic forced educators to change the way they deliver lessons, virtual learning platforms became the solution for administering tutorials and sending out learning materials.
There are countless platforms to make studies enjoyable while kids learn from the comfort and safety of their homes, and we found five excellent options for teachers and parents to choose from.
1. Skillshare
Skillshare’s vast library of over 20,000 classes earns top honors as one of the best online learning platforms. Courses consist of presentations lasting 20 minutes or less along with a class project.
Skillshare membership levels include:
- A two-month free trial.
- Free membership allowing access to 2,000 classes.
- Premium membership for $15 per month or $99 for a year. You receive access to 20,000+ classes.
Students learn new skills through online courses about productivity, business and creativity.
2. 3P Learning
3P is a blended software designed for mathematics and literacy. Incorporated gaming elements make learning more fun for students, and 3P’s Mathletics program provides activities that help students practice and advance their understanding of mathematics.
Math and literacy subjects are geared toward students ages 3 – 16.
3. Dialpad
Dialpad, a cloud-based phone system, allows educators to create an online campus and bring all their students together under one ‘roof’. Teachers can set up a virtual classroom in seconds, students easily stay connected from any device and all communications are secure thanks to encryption.
4. Docebo
Docebo is an amazing collaborative learning platform perfectly suited for student interaction. Kids can take part in active discussions as they would in a physical classroom with a flexible and easy-to-use system.
Course content distribution and management has never been so easy!
5. Habyts
Habyts’ platform lets teachers and parents take control over students’ screens to help kids stay motivated to complete their schoolwork.
Parents can have round-the-clock access to goals and rewards that help their kids remain focused. Use Habyts with your students’ parents to promote healthy learning even when they’re not in the classroom!
What about eLearning platforms for adults?
There are countless free and low-cost options available to adults who want to learn online. If you would like to upgrade your skills or sign up for professional development training programs, we’ve got you covered.
Below, you’ll find four of our top picks to help you achieve your educational goals.
1. Coursera
Coursera has several certificates, degree programs and general courses to give you the tools for success. Learn from top educational institutions and companies like Duke University, Stanford or Google.
Coursera’s affordable options include:
- Free courses
- Degree programs such as computer science and MBAs
- Professional certificates in social media or digital marketing
The impressive list of training programs is available to anyone seeking career advancement.
2. MOOC
MOOC stands for Massive Open Online Courses. An extension of EDx, you’ll find free and affordable online courses to transform your career in engineering, data science, computer science, business, management and humanities.
3. Udemy
Udemy is a fantastic, low-cost option where you can learn design, web development, marketing, music and countless other subjects. With over 155,000 online courses to choose from, you’ll spend hours honing new skills for work or play.
4. EDx
EDx boasts affordable degree programs taught by respected educational institutions like Harvard, Berkeley University and MIT. MicroBachelor and MicroMasters studies enable adults to fast track their career advancement and start less expensive Bachelor and Masters programs.
Adult eLearning platforms are a boon for those wishing to expand their education from the comfort of their home. During the pandemic, these platforms provide extraordinary value without a huge expense.
Is there a best virtual classroom platform?
Well… choosing the best virtual platform depends on several factors:
- What age group are you teaching?
- How many students do you have in your class?
- Do you need to set up tutoring spaces for kids who need extra help?
There are several things to consider before choosing a platform that is right for your students
One of the best ways to determine the right platform for you is to create a list of must-haves. Compare the list against each virtual platform’s features and benefits. From there, you’ll be able to settle on the best platform for your students.
Our digital world opens up a staggering number of virtual classrooms to choose from. Each platform has their own unique advantages. Like everything else, there are limitations to consider.
But what happens when virtual classrooms do not meet all student needs? It is important to point out several caveats associated with virtual classrooms:
- Teacher compensation and workload require restructuring
- Students may lose interest in completing homework assignments
- Educators should be mindful of how student data is collected and stored
- Students miss their friends and the social interaction they received at school
- Technological limitations may exist especially for kids from low-income families
- It is not always easy to prevent unwanted visitors from entering a virtual classroom
- Unstable enrollment as restrictions lift and students attend traditional classrooms vs. virtual learning
- Problems with internet access could prevent students from logging into classes and missing important lessons
- Other limitations include length of each session and the number of participants allowed to enter the virtual classroom (this isn’t an issue for paid versions of some platforms)
Before choosing a virtual classroom, consider the pros and cons of each platform and how they may influence your students’ learning experience.
There are several wonderful learning options available to educational institutions and teachers. A little research will help you arrive at the best decision for your students!
Virtual learning is changing education
For every state and school district, there are different opinions on the future of virtual learning. Some say it’s here to stay while others insist a physical classroom is the best way for kids to learn.
Here are a few key points to consider about the future of virtual classrooms:
- Online courses offer flexibility and accessibility for everyone with internet access
- Several platforms offer an extensive selection of programs and courses catered to different interests
- Most online learning resources are less expensive than traditional in-person classrooms and lecture halls, making virtual education more affordable
Although it’s hard to predict what online education will look like ten years from now, many online learning resources will be available in the near future. Online studies have become a great way to supplement traditional classroom learning.
Prodigy Math Game blends the adventure of an online game with curriculum-aligned math practice. As students explore the world of Prodigy through their wizard avatars, they’ll encounter skill-building math questions that help them earn rewards and level up.
With your free teacher account, you can align the questions students answer to your lesson plans, differentiate content and track student progress, even while students learn online. Get started today!
3P Learning
Create learning experiences that stick with blended learning tools for mathematics and literacy. Delivered from you to your learner, wherever they are.
Bloomz
With Bloomz, teachers and schools save time by having all the tools they need to communicate with today’s parents and students in one easy-to-use (and free) app.
Buncee
This online learning resources platform gives teachers the ability to create online lessons, boards for students to share their thoughts and work, and collaborative learning spaces. It provides teachers the ability to easily communicate with kids and parents, too.
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ClassDojo
The ClassDojo platform has a communication tool that makes it easy to stay in touch and track student progress too.
Deck.Toys
This platform helps teachers create and share online lessons using their easy tools. The ability to offer differentiated paths within the same lesson is a nice feature. (Note: Requires teachers and students to have Google or Microsoft accounts.)
Dialpad
Build a connected campus! Hundreds of education providers have started using Dialpad for not only video conferencing but also as a phone system to keep campuses, students, and staff connected. Keep students engaged while using enterprise-level security to ensure privacy protection and security standards.
EdModo
Send messages, share class materials, and make learning accessible anywhere. Save yourself time by bringing all your classroom tools together. EdModo also offers resources for helping you understand how to make distance learning work for your students.
EdPuzzle
Create interactive online lessons using a video clip of your choice. This tool provides accountability and tracking for student progress, too.
Edulastic
Edulastic is an online K-12 tool that allows teachers to make their own assessments and assignments or choose from over 35,000 pre-made assessments.
Eduplanet
Teachers can access a collection of learning paths from some of the most well-known thought leaders in education. Topics cover Understanding by Design Habits of Mind, Social Emotional Learning, Cultural and Linguistic Diversity, Personalized Learning, and Growth Mindset.
Explain Everything Whiteboard
Create interactive lessons and collaborative spaces for your virtual classroom with these real-time tools.
FlipGrid
Students and teachers can record short videos to document and share their learning. Consider it social media for learning, and a great way to stay in touch!
Genially
Genially offers interactive visual communication tools to create presentations, interactive images, infographics, and more. Many of their premium templates and resources are now available for free, for everyone.
Google Classroom
Many teachers already use this as one of the top virtual learning platforms for their classrooms. There is a lot to explore here, but most of it is easy to use, so don’t be afraid to dive in! Once you’ve started, make sure to check out resources for Google Meet, Google Slides, and check out these Google Slides Templates.
Habyts
Teachers can control student screens during remote instruction while keeping students focused, accountable, and motivated at home. Habyts allows parents 24/7 visibility of screen time and school-assigned tasks, targets, goals, and rewards.
Hapara
Get the most out of Google Classroom and other Google tools with this platform. They offer webinars and other resources to help teachers create and manage the best virtual classrooms.
Kahoot!
Engage students with their distance learning features, play in class, and dive into game reports to assess learning. Create your own Kahoots! or choose from 40+ million existing games. Check out our favorite ways for teachers to use Kahoot!
Kapwing
A collaborative online image and video editor with a cloud storage workspace. Teachers can make video lessons to send to students for remote learning. Students can work together on a group project. Classrooms can share multimedia projects with each other.
ManagedMethods
ManagedMethods is an easy, affordable platform developed for school district IT teams to manage data security risks and detect student safety signals in the cloud.
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft has a wealth of products, but Teams is great for education! Build collaborative classrooms, connect in professional learning communities, and connect with colleagues. Conduct individual and group chats, store files, and even make calls through the platform. Plus your virtual classroom stays secure.
Parlay
It’s hard to hold class discussions with no class, right? That’s where this site comes in. Create your own topic, or ask their team to create a custom discussion prompt just for your class.
Pronto
A communications hub that connects people via chat and video.
Seesaw
Create a learning loop between students, teachers, and families. Students show their learning, teachers gain insights, and families stay engaged. You’ll also find intuitive tools like draw+record, collage, video, and more.
Slack
With all of your resources and communication in one place, Slack can keep students engaged and connected when everyone’s remote.
start.me
Enables teachers to create an easy start hub for their classroom. This start hub makes it easy for students to access all their educational resources and tools.
StudyBee
A grading and student feedback system that extends Google Classroom functionality, with the ability to link assignments to custom or standardized educational objectives from the US.
Sutori
A collaborative presentation tool used for all grade levels that works perfectly for the remote classroom.
Webex
Companies across the world use Webex to keep their teams in contact remotely. They offer lots of tools that are ideal for taking your classes online.
Wooclap
A free tool to help maintain interactivity and effective pedagogy. Their goal is to capture the attention of students to improve their learning whether they’re in the classroom or at home taking an online course
Conclusion
As a student, there are essentially countless websites out there with information just waiting to be read. However, most of these sites are not really built with students or young people in mind, which makes them rather difficult to navigate due to the amount of content.