Video: iPads, Google Classroom, Padlet, and the evolving classrooms of D218

So many teachers in District 218 have creatively and effectively integrated iPads into their freshman classes.

This video, and it's important to remember that students only received iPads two months ago, shows how Shepard High School teacher Laura Friesema uses Padlet, Google Classroom, and a Splashboard all in
one period.

Aside from the highly interactive environment, something else jumps off the screen: Students do not raise their hands to answer a question.

Instead, Mrs. Friesema calls on them; students must prepare for this eventuality.

Research shows that when teachers allow students to choose whether or not to participate, they are (quote from educational researcher Dylan Wiliam) “making the achievement gap worse because those who are participating are getting smarter, while those avoiding engagement are forgoing the opportunities to increase their ability.”