Innovative ICT tools to boost student engagement in the classroom

Keeping students motivated and engaged in the classroom can be a significant challenge for teachers. However, integrating ICT tools such as apps and web platforms can make a transformative difference. These tools enable educators to communicate and transfer knowledge effectively while capturing their students' attention. In today’s educational landscape, mastering interactive learning methods is essential for offering students dynamic, non-traditional learning experiences that keep them engaged.

​The latest edition of the course “Integrating ICT and New Technologies into Teaching and Education” took place in Palermo from 10 to 16 November 2024.  This event brought together educators from across Europe, including Rugilė and Amanda from Alytus Drevinukas school-kindergarten Alytaus Vidzgirio mokykla in Lithuania; Ciaran from CIty of Dublin ETB Educational Service to Prisons in Ireland; Hanna and Lars from Sundlergymnasiet in Sweden; Manuela, Mihaela Aura and Ioana from Colegiul National de Informatica Spiru Haret in Romania; Benedikt, Pia, Anjin and Annika from Hildegardis-Schule in Germany; and lastly Milda and Vaida from Lietuvos kurčiųjų ir neprigirdinčiųjų ugdymo centras in Lithuania. 

During the course, participants explored a wide range of technological tools and how to integrate them into their teaching methods. They began with simple yet powerful tools for editing photos and videos, which are invaluable for creating multimedia content, introducing new topics, or summarising lessons. Teachers also learned how to encourage creativity by challenging students to produce their own visual and video projects. Video presentations, in particular, were highlighted as effective for capturing students’ attention and energising the learning environment.

Another key focus of the course was website creation. Participants were introduced to user-friendly drag-and-drop tools that enabled them to design and build functional websites for their schools. These skills empower educators to create customised online spaces for sharing resources, showcasing student work, or enhancing communication with parents.

With the shift to virtual lessons over the past two years, the course also addressed tools for online teaching. Participants explored applications designed to facilitate engaging virtual classes, such as interactive whiteboards and collaborative platforms. These tools were demonstrated as essential for maintaining student involvement and fostering teamwork in remote settings. Throughout the course, participants engaged in practical activities, including creating virtual quizzes, designing social media content, and organising graphics, posters, and collages. These exercises not only allowed them to practise their new skills but also inspired innovative ways to apply these tools in their classrooms. 

An important aspect of the program was the opportunity for participants to share experiences and learn from one another. The exchange of ideas enriched the learning process and provided valuable insights into diverse teaching practices. By the end of the course, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of interactive learning and a versatile toolkit to enhance their teaching methods. 

This approach to teaching has the potential to significantly boost students’ creativity, attention, and motivation, transforming education into a more engaging and enjoyable process.

To learn more about this course and its offerings, click here.