Using Edmodo
Social Studies, Sample Activity
UDL Networks: Where does it fit?
Recognition Network: students can see, touch, and interact with the app. The format is easy-to-use and clean. The "feed" is a central feature, running right down the middle of the page.
Strategic Network: students can use the app to access the class calendar and plan out their week's schedule. They can also set notifications setting to self-monitor and stay up-to-date with readings and assignments.
Note: If the classroom is outfitted with iPads or similar tablet computers, Edmodo can be accessed on a free app.
Textbook Reading
Sample Discussion Board questions might include:
- Based on the chapter, what comparisons can you make between Han China and Imperial Rome? In addition to your own posting, comment on at least two other students' replies.
- Make a UNIQUE observation about a social or political characteristic of the Ming Dynasty. First observation in the feed gets counted!
Edmodo Discussion Board
Students can all comment and react to each other's posts. The teacher can participate as well -- asking questions and providing feedback.
Students can also access the Discussion Board on the Edmodo App. This app in free and can be download on the iPhone or Android.
Poll
A sample poll question might be:
- In your opinion, what SPICE characteristic was most significant in motivating Spain to explore the Americas? (Social, Political, Interaction with the Environment, Cultural, Economic)
How Does This Activity Score?
UDL Guidelines Covered
Note: Examples from use of Edmodo are provided below, where needed.
1. Provide options for perception
1.1 Offer ways of customizing the display of information
Students can view information in their Backpack, on the Feed, on the Calendar.
1.3 Offer alternatives for visual information
Assignments are displayed on a calendar; feed assignments can contain links to videos and images.
2. Provide options for language, mathematical expressions, and symbols
2.5 Illustrate through multiple media
3. Provide options for comprehension
3.3 Guide information processing, visualization, and manipulation
4. Provide options for physical action
4.1 Vary the methods for response and navigation
Interaction using technology with a social media format.
5. Provide options for expression and communication
5.1 Use multiple media for communication
Edmodo facilitates communication student-to-student and teacher-to-student.
6. Provide options for executive functions
6.1 Guide appropriate goal setting
Edmodo calendar and reminders
6.2 Support planning and strategy development
Daily mention of the Edmodo calendar in class, allowing students to verbally articulate upcoming assignments and expectations.
6.3 Facilitate managing information and resources
Students Backpack and Folders
6.4 Enhance capacity for monitoring progress
Teacher can view activity log, identifying which students are accessing Edmodo and when.
8. Provide options for sustaining effort and persistence
8.1 Heighten salience of goals and objectives
8.3 Foster collaboration and community
9. Provide options for self-regulation
9.1 Promote expectations and beliefs that optimize motivation
How Could This Activity Be Improved?
One obvious improvement to this exercise would be to allow students to post responses verbally using audio or video (for example, using VoiceThread). This kind of modification would be especially helpful for students who verbally process better than they do through writing.