Digital media project
Critical Media product
PODCAST
Class Dojo vs Google Classroom
Our final project for our Media, Technology and Education class was to put together a Podcast where we were given the opportunity to explore the TPACK Model and two technologies. The two technological platforms were Class Dojo and Google Classroom. Class Dojo is a type of school communication platform. It can be used by teachers, students and their families to keep everyone in the loop. It allows for message exchanges, assignment of work and much more. It helps parents understand what is going on at school through the virtual demonstration of their child’s day and the work they are doing. The platform is also known for its “Dojo Points” which is in place to promote positive reinforcement. Google Classroom is a free platform developed by Google, its purpose is to help teachers and students have everything in the same place. Using google classroom you could assign and submit homework; you could post documents such as class notes and submit grades. Google Classroom has also been beneficial to use during the pandemic because of its Google Meet extension where students would log in during remote learning.
TPACK Model
TPACK which stands for (technological pedagogical content knowledge) is a model that helps educators evaluate their knowledge to consider how to properly integrate it in the classroom. The model features three different types of knowledge; technological, pedagogical and content. It helps teachers think about their knowledge to be able to better teach their students and engage them with technology that will be beneficial for them. It seeks to enhance a child’s learning experience. An essential tool for educators.
General overview
The conclusion we reached was the following; they both have their advantages and both bring a lot to the table. Perhaps a better way at looking at the platforms and comparing them would be by a given age group. It seems more age appropriate and fitting to use Class Dojo for elementary education and Google Classroom for high school education. Opinions may differ, this is just our personal conclusion we reached in our final project.
Furthermore our conclusion on the TPACK model was that we thought it was extremely beneficial for educators to work with. It really helps one establish how a piece of technology should be integrated and used within a classroom environment.