ISTE Live 23 Conference & Expo TDC Review

In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of education, technology has emerged as a pivotal game-changer, reshaping traditional teaching methodologies and transforming learning experiences. The role of Educational Technology (EdTech) has become increasingly significant in the modern classroom, paving the way for a more interactive, engaging, and personalized learning environment. One of the premier platforms that bring together educators, innovators, and enthusiasts from around the globe to explore and discuss these advancements is the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Live event.

ISTE Live 23, the latest iteration of this annual event, served as a global stage for showcasing the top EdTech innovations of the year. This year’s event took place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from June 25 to June 28, 2023. This article delves into the highlights of ISTE Live 23, focusing on the top EdTech tools that were showcased at the event, their unique features, and the potential impact they could have on modern education. From online curriculum platforms like Edmentum Courseware to digital creation tools like Buncee, interactive presentation software like Pear Deck, children's digital libraries like Epic!, and more, we'll explore how these innovative platforms are not only transforming the way educators teach but also revolutionizing how students learn.

Edmentum Courseware stands out as one of the top EdTech innovations showcased at ISTE Live 23. As an online curriculum platform, Edmentum Courseware offers a wide range of courses, spanning core subjects to electives, all designed to engage students with interactive, media-rich content. But what sets Edmentum Courseware apart in the crowded field of educational software?

Firstly, Edmentum Courseware is built with the goal of personalizing learning for every student. Recognizing that each student has unique learning needs and progresses at their own pace, the platform provides teachers with the tools to tailor instruction to individual students. This personalized approach to learning is a key theme in modern education and a significant factor in improving student engagement and outcomes.

Secondly, Edmentum Courseware is designed to be flexible and adaptable, accommodating various teaching methodologies and classroom structures. Whether it's for a traditional classroom setting, a blended learning model, or a fully virtual classroom, Edmentum Courseware can be adapted to fit the needs of the learning environment.

Finally, Edmentum Courseware emphasizes the importance of data in driving instruction. The platform provides real-time data and insights on student performance, allowing teachers to monitor progress, identify areas of struggle, and adjust instruction accordingly. This data-driven approach to teaching and learning is a key aspect of modern EdTech innovations, enabling more informed and effective instruction.

Another standout EdTech tool showcased at ISTE Live 23 is Buncee, a digital creation and communication tool that's making waves in the world of education. Buncee is designed to empower students and educators to create and share interactive content and visual representations of learning. But what makes Buncee a top choice among the plethora of digital creation tools available today?

Firstly, Buncee's user-friendly interface and robust suite of creative tools make it accessible to students and educators of all skill levels. Whether it's designing original content from scratch or remixing ready-made templates, Buncee provides a platform for users to express their creativity and demonstrate their understanding in a variety of ways. This versatility makes Buncee a valuable tool for fostering creativity and critical thinking skills in students.

Secondly, Buncee's emphasis on interactive learning sets it apart. With Buncee, students aren't just passive consumers of content; they're active creators. They can use Buncee's tools to create interactive presentations, digital stories, and multimedia projects that incorporate text, images, audio, and video. This interactive element not only makes learning more engaging for students but also allows them to demonstrate their understanding in a more meaningful and personalized way.

Thirdly, Buncee facilitates collaboration and communication in the classroom. Students can share their creations with their peers, providing opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and feedback. Teachers can also use Buncee to share educational resources, provide feedback on student work, and communicate with parents, making it a versatile tool for enhancing communication and collaboration in the learning environment.

Pear Deck, an interactive presentation tool, was another highlight of the EdTech showcased at ISTE Live 23. Designed to take classroom presentations to the next level, Pear Deck is transforming the way educators deliver instruction and engage students. But what sets Pear Deck apart in the realm of presentation software?

Firstly, Pear Deck is built with a focus on student engagement. Traditional presentations can often be a one-way street, with information flowing from the teacher to the students. However, Pear Deck flips this dynamic by allowing teachers to add interactive questions to their presentations. These can range from multiple-choice questions to draggable responses to free-text answers. This interactivity keeps students engaged throughout the presentation and allows teachers to check for understanding in real-time.

Secondly, Pear Deck promotes active learning. Instead of passively listening to a presentation, students participate in real-time, responding to questions, providing feedback, and engaging with the material. This active participation helps students better understand and retain the information being presented.

Thirdly, Pear Deck provides valuable insights for teachers. As students interact with the presentation, teachers can see their responses in real-time, allowing them to gauge student understanding and adjust their instruction accordingly. After the presentation, teachers can review student responses for a more detailed understanding of student comprehension.

Epic!, a digital library for kids 12 and under, was another standout at ISTE Live 23. With its mission to encourage a love of reading and self-directed learning, Epic! is transforming the way children engage with books and educational content. But what makes Epic! a unique tool in the realm of digital learning resources?

Firstly, Epic! offers an extensive library of high-quality books, learning videos, quizzes, and more. With thousands of titles spanning a variety of genres and subjects, Epic! provides a wealth of resources to cater to the diverse interests and learning needs of children. This vast selection makes Epic! a valuable tool for promoting reading and literacy skills in children.

Secondly, Epic! is designed to be engaging and interactive. Children can read books, watch educational videos, take quizzes, and earn badges and rewards for their progress. This gamified approach not only makes learning fun but also motivates children to read and learn more.

Thirdly, Epic! supports personalized learning. The platform recommends books and content based on each child's reading level and interests, ensuring that children are engaged and challenged at their level. This personalized approach helps children develop a love of reading and learning at their own pace.

Flipgrid, a video discussion platform, was another key highlight at ISTE Live 23. Designed to amplify student voice and foster peer-to-peer learning, Flipgrid is revolutionizing the way students communicate and share their learning. But what makes Flipgrid a standout tool in the world of EdTech?

Firstly, Flipgrid empowers students to express their understanding and ideas in a format that's engaging and familiar. By allowing students to record and share short videos, Flipgrid caters to the digital native generation and encourages a more authentic expression of student voice. This emphasis on student voice helps to foster a more inclusive and student-centered learning environment.

Secondly, Flipgrid promotes active learning and engagement. Instead of passively consuming content, students are creators on Flipgrid. They can respond to prompts, ask questions, share their work, and engage in discussions, all through video. This active participation helps to deepen understanding and make learning more meaningful and engaging.

Thirdly, Flipgrid facilitates peer-to-peer learning. Students can view and respond to each other's videos, providing opportunities for peer feedback, collaboration, and social learning. This peer interaction not only enhances learning but also helps to build a supportive and collaborative learning community.

Nearpod, an interactive lesson delivery tool, was another standout at ISTE Live 23. Designed to transform classroom instruction and engage students, Nearpod is revolutionizing the way educators deliver lessons. But what sets Nearpod apart in the world of EdTech?

Firstly, Nearpod is built with a focus on student engagement. Traditional lessons can often be a one-way street, with information flowing from the teacher to the students. However, Nearpod flips this dynamic by allowing teachers to add interactive elements to their lessons. These can range from quizzes and polls to virtual field trips and simulations. This interactivity keeps students engaged throughout the lesson and allows teachers to check for understanding in real-time.

Secondly, Nearpod promotes active learning. Instead of passively listening to a lesson, students participate in real-time, responding to questions, providing feedback, and engaging with the material. This active participation helps students better understand and retain the information being taught.

Thirdly, Nearpod provides valuable insights for teachers. As students interact with the lesson, teachers can see their responses in real-time, allowing them to gauge student understanding and adjust their instruction accordingly. After the lesson, teachers can review student responses for a more detailed understanding of student comprehension.

Seesaw, a student-driven digital portfolio, was another key highlight at ISTE Live 23. Designed to empower students to create, reflect, share, and collaborate, Seesaw is transforming the way students demonstrate their learning and engage with their peers. But what makes Seesaw a standout tool in the world of EdTech?

Firstly, Seesaw provides a platform for students to document and share their learning in a variety of ways. Whether it's through photos, videos, drawings, text notes, or links, students can capture their learning process and demonstrate their understanding in a format that suits them best. This flexibility not only caters to different learning styles but also encourages creativity and critical thinking.

Secondly, Seesaw promotes reflection and ownership of learning. By creating a digital portfolio of their work, students can reflect on their progress over time, set goals, and take ownership of their learning. This reflective practice is crucial for developing metacognitive skills and fostering a growth mindset in students.

Thirdly, Seesaw facilitates communication and collaboration. Students can share their work with their peers, teachers, and families, providing opportunities for feedback and collaboration. Teachers can also use Seesaw to communicate learning objectives, provide feedback, and engage families in their child's learning.

Newsela, an instructional content platform, was another standout at ISTE Live 23. Designed to engage students in reading by providing accessible and relevant news articles, Newsela is transforming the way students interact with informational text. But what makes Newsela a standout tool in the world of EdTech?

Firstly, Newsela provides high-quality, engaging content that is leveled to support readers at various reading abilities. Each article on Newsela is available at multiple lexile levels, allowing students to access the same content at a level that is just right for them. This differentiation supports all readers, from struggling to advanced, and allows for individualized instruction.

Secondly, Newsela promotes critical thinking and literacy skills. By providing current, relevant articles across a variety of subjects, Newsela encourages students to engage with informational text, form opinions, and think critically about the world around them. Each article is accompanied by a quiz to check for understanding and promote deeper engagement with the text.

Thirdly, Newsela supports teachers with valuable data and insights. Teachers can track student progress, see how students are interacting with the text, and gain insights into student comprehension. This data can inform instruction and support differentiated learning.

WeVideo, a cloud-based video editing platform, was another key highlight at ISTE Live 23. Designed to empower students to express their creativity and enhance their digital literacy skills, WeVideo is transforming the way students create and share multimedia content. But what makes WeVideo a standout tool in the world of EdTech?

Firstly, WeVideo provides a user-friendly platform for students to create high-quality videos. With a wide range of editing tools and features, WeVideo allows students to express their creativity and bring their ideas to life in a digital format. Whether it's creating a video presentation, a digital story, or a multimedia project, WeVideo provides the tools and flexibility for students to create impactful content.

Secondly, WeVideo promotes digital literacy skills. In today's digital age, it's crucial for students to be not just consumers of digital content, but creators as well. By creating their own videos, students develop a range of digital literacy skills, including media creation, digital communication, and online collaboration.

Thirdly, WeVideo facilitates collaboration and sharing. Students can collaborate on video projects, share their creations with their peers, and receive feedback. Teachers can also use WeVideo to create instructional videos, provide feedback, and showcase student work.

Kahoot, a game-based learning platform, was another standout at ISTE Live 23. Designed to make learning fun and engaging, Kahoot is transforming the way educators assess understanding and review material. But what makes Kahoot a standout tool in the world of EdTech?

Firstly, Kahoot takes a unique approach to assessment and review by turning it into a game. Teachers can create quizzes, discussions, and surveys that students participate in through their own devices. This game-based approach not only makes learning fun but also encourages active participation and engagement from all students.

Secondly, Kahoot promotes competition and collaboration. Students can compete against each other for the top spot on the leaderboard, fostering a healthy sense of competition. Alternatively, students can work together in team mode, promoting collaboration and teamwork.

Thirdly, Kahoot provides instant feedback. As students answer questions, they receive immediate feedback on their responses. This allows students to learn from their mistakes and teachers to gauge understanding in real-time.

Padlet, a digital canvas for creating and collaborating, was another key highlight at ISTE Live 23. Designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and communication, Padlet is transforming the way students and teachers interact and share ideas. But what makes Padlet a standout tool in the world of EdTech?

Firstly, Padlet provides a flexible and user-friendly platform for creating a variety of content. Whether it's a brainstorming board, a multimedia presentation, or a collaborative project, Padlet provides the tools and flexibility for students and teachers to create and share in a way that suits their needs. This flexibility not only caters to different learning styles but also encourages creativity and critical thinking.

Secondly, Padlet promotes collaboration and communication. Students can work together on a shared Padlet, adding their ideas, responding to others, and providing feedback. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of community, enhances learning, and develops key communication skills.

Thirdly, Padlet supports organization and curation of content. Students can use Padlet to organize their ideas, curate resources, and showcase their work. Teachers can use Padlet to share resources, collect student work, and facilitate discussions.

Edpuzzle, an interactive video lesson platform, was another standout at ISTE Live 23. Designed to make video lessons more engaging and effective, Edpuzzle is transforming the way teachers deliver content and assess understanding. But what makes Edpuzzle a standout tool in the world of EdTech?

Firstly, Edpuzzle allows teachers to create interactive video lessons. Teachers can take any video, trim it to the sections they need, and add questions, voiceovers, and notes. This interactivity turns passive video watching into an active learning experience, helping students to engage more deeply with the content.

Secondly, Edpuzzle promotes self-paced learning. Students can watch the video lessons at their own pace, pausing to think about the questions and rewatching sections if needed. This self-paced approach caters to individual learning needs and allows students to take ownership of their learning.

Thirdly, Edpuzzle provides valuable insights for teachers. As students interact with the video lessons, teachers can track their progress and see how they are understanding the content. This data can inform instruction, provide insights into student comprehension, and support differentiated learning.

In the final section, we'll summarize the importance of these EdTech tools and share thoughts on the future of EdTech.

The ISTE Live 23 conference showcased a plethora of EdTech tools, each with its unique features and benefits. From Buncee's creative platform to Pear Deck's interactive presentations, from Epic!'s vast digital library to Flipgrid's video discussion platform, from Nearpod's engaging lessons to Seesaw's digital portfolios, from WeVideo's video editing capabilities to Newsela's leveled reading content, from Kahoot's game-based learning to Padlet's digital canvas, and finally, from Edpuzzle's interactive video lessons - each tool has a significant role in shaping the future of education.

These tools are not just about integrating technology into the classroom; they are about transforming the way we teach and learn. They promote student engagement, foster creativity, facilitate collaboration, and personalize learning. They empower students to take ownership of their learning, express their ideas, and connect with the world around them. They provide teachers with valuable insights, streamline instruction, and open up new possibilities for teaching and learning.

As we look to the future of EdTech, it's clear that these tools will continue to play a crucial role. The shift towards more student-centered, active, and personalized learning is likely to continue, and these tools will be instrumental in facilitating this shift. We can expect to see further advancements in EdTech, with more innovative tools and features designed to enhance teaching and learning.

In conclusion, the EdTech tools showcased at ISTE Live 23 represent the cutting edge of educational technology. They are transforming education, empowering teachers, and inspiring students. As we navigate the future of education, these tools will undoubtedly be at the forefront, guiding us towards a more engaging, inclusive, and effective learning experience.