How can Nearpod add Enthusiasm to Your Class

#Activelearning #Engagement #Meaningfullearning #Socialinteraction #Studentcentered 

Are you Readyyyyyyy? 👻

Today I will introduce a new tool, not just for English language teachers but for educators of all subjects. It’s suitable whether you teach in a school, university or any other institution. 👀

Introduction 💙

If you haven’t heard of Nearpod yet, it’s a really useful teaching tool. Nearpod lets you create interactive lessons that keep students engaged from start to finish. You can add quizzes, polls, videos, games, and even virtual field trips, all in one place. 

It's easy to set up: You can create your own slides or use ready-made ones, and students can join your lesson right from their devices. This means everyone's on the same page, and you can see their responses in real-time. 

It works whether you are teaching online or in person. You can guide students through a lesson live or let them work at their own pace. 

Furthermore, Nearpod helps you keep track of who's following along and who might need a bit more help.

If you are in Kuwait and want a fresh way to connect with your students, Nearpod is definitely worth a try!

So, are you excited to learn more about it? 💃

How to start with Nearpod ☝

First, you'll need an account. Just sign up for Nearpod using your Google account, Microsoft, or your email. 

After creating an account, you will be taken to a page where you can create lessons under "My Lessons." Simply click on the plus sign to start creating your own lesson. 

What I particularly appreciated was that the system asks for your permission when an update is available, allowing you to choose whether to upgrade to the new version or remain on your current version.

Nearpod Layout & Features: All You Need In One Place

Let’s explore everything you need to navigate with this amazing tool, starting from how it’s laid out to the cool tools you can use to keep your lessons interactive and fun.

1. Home Page 

• A central place where you see recent lessons and quick links.
• Makes it easy for you to start teaching and exploring.

2. My Library

• Stores all the lessons you have created or saved for quick access. 😍

3. Search by Topic or Standard

• Browse ready-made lessons by grade. subject, or topic. 
• Works really great for finding quick materials to use. 😆

4. Create a Lesson 

• Build your own lessons from scratch.
• Drag-and-drop tools such as quizzes and videos. 

5. Reports

• Check student responses and progress after each lesson.
• Helps you see who needs extra support. 👀

6. My Profile

• Here, you can check your lessons, live participation, and student-paced.

7. Account Settings

• Usually under your profile photo.
• Manage your profile, subscription, and preferences. 

Content and Features 

• Interactive Slides: Add quizzes, polls, or open-ended questions right inside your slides. so students stay active.
• Multimedia: you can add videos, images, or audio clips to your lesson.
• Feedback: you can see responses as they come in, making it easy to check who needs support.
• Collaborative Boards: you can let your learners share ideas and images to help them learn from each other. 
• Instant Chat Support: A help bubble at the bottom right connects you with the Nearpod team for quick answers.  

These amazing features help you to make your lesson more interactive and engaging. 👏

Target Audience: Kuwaiti English Teachers 

Nearpod fits perfectly into local and private schools in Kuwait. Teachers can create or customise lessons with local examples, making the content feel more relevant to students' lives. 

During class, you can ask your learners to join the lesson with a code on their devices, and the teacher can track progress in real-time; this works great for large groups. 😎😍

OH WAIT, DON'T GO ANYWHERE. I FORGOT TO TELL YOU SOMETHING! 👀

As you know, Kuwait's local schools have a weekly "free-choice" class where we can introduce any topic we like, including reading passages, writing lessons, or listening activities. I find this extra lesson is a perfect time to use Nearpod because it provides immediate feedback on which students need extra support and which ones are ready to move on. 

Incorporating Nearpod during this session adds variety, keeps students engaged, and ensures they get the additional practice they need. 

So, what do you think? Will it work in that extra session? I really want to read your thoughts and opinions in the comments! Please do not hesitate to share any extra ideas in the comments! 😚

What about using phones in the classroom? I know some of you might ask about that!👋

Using Phones with Nearpod 😁

• Nearpod has a mobile-friendly site and an app, so students can join lessons or view slides right from their phones. 
• Students can take polls, answer questions, and post on collaborative boards, no waiting around for a computer lab. 
• As soon as students submit answers on their phones, you see their progress. 

What if Phones Aren't Allowed?

• If your school has few laptops or tablets, students can still access Nearpod in groups.
• Run Nearpod on the teacher's device and project it so everyone can follow along. 
• Print key materials or screenshots if technology is not reliable. 

Why Nearpod Is Relevant to Language Learning

Nearpod helps students be more active in lessons. Rather than just listening to the teachers, they interact by answering questions and sharing ideas. 

Teachers can also see who needs help and who's ready for harder tasks, which is really useful if you have many students at different levels in your class. 

What approaches or research underpin the use of Nearpod? 

Research shows that Nearpod is a great tool that supports active learning and student-centered approaches. It allows educators to create interactive lessons that engage students through polls, open-ended questions, drawing, and games. It is a great tool to enhance your lessons and assignments (Geinnotta, 2022). 

Recommendations for Teachers

1. Introduce one or two interactive tasks each week to ease yourself and your learners into the routine.
2. Relate topics to students' real lives or cultures so they see the lesson's value. 
3. Use interesting topics that your learners really like and enjoy.
4. Mix visuals, brief writing prompts, and collaborative exercises to keep lessons fresh.
5. have a backup plan ready in case Wi-Fi fails. 
6. Ask your learners which activity you liked the most? and adjust based on their feedback. 

Now, let me tell you about Nearpod's advantages: 😍

• Students click, answer, and explore rather than just watching slides.
• Teachers see responses in real-time and know who might need extra help.
• Allows teachers to add videos, audio, or virtual trips so students do not get bored.
• Learners can share and exchange ideas and information on the digital board.
• Teachers can get a full report about student progress after the class.
• Nearpod features user-friendly navigation with a simple layout that's easy to navigate.

There are some disadvantages: 😌

• Unfortunately, you can do basic activities, but advanced tools (like more storage or special features) need a paid upgrade. 
• Subscription costs such as the Gold or Premium plans can be pricey, and not all schools or teachers can afford them. 
• Free users only get a small amount of space for lessons and videos. 
• You need a stable internet connection for both yourself and your lovely students. 
• I was really disappointed to see that extra features such as co-teaching, live annotation, and Google Slides add-ons are not available on the free plan. 

I've found a great video you can watch to see Nearpod in action. It's straightforward and shows Nearpod Setup, Content, Games & Activities, Launching a Session, and Student Reports. 

I have prepared this video to show you some amazing features of Nearpod

Summary 

Nearpod supports meaningful language practice through multi-step tasks and real-time interaction. By including these elements in your lesson, you can create a more engaging, interactive, and enjoyable environment. It also helps you quickly identify who is catching on and who might need extra support, allowing you to differentiate between low achievers and high achievers much faster and more easily than with traditional lessons. 

What do you think? 

Are you ready to give Nearpod a try, or do you have your own tools? Feel free to share your feedback or any extra tips in the comments below. 

I would love to hear your ideas. 👂💕

If you feel like you want to read more about how to use technology to enhance student-centered learning, you can read this: 

Geinnotta, H. N. (2022). Technology and student centered learning: Using digital tools to instruct student centered learning while meeting the needs of all students (Master’s capstone project). Hamline University. https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_cp/844  

Happy Teaching! 😃

Mashael 

Simple Show Makes Your Life Simple!

#emotional #cognitive #TBLT #Collaboration #Constructivist #motivation 

Tool: SimpleShow

Language Learning Approaches: Visual and verbal integration, Storytelling, Simplification, Activation of Prior Knowledge, Engagement and Motivation, Contextual Learning. 

Hello, lovely ladies and gentlemen! I hope you are all enjoying the beautiful sunshine today.💜

Today, I brought a new, wonderful tool for you, my sweet cupcakes. 💋

It will add a touch to your materials. 💦 

Calling all Kuwaiti teachers! Have you heard about SimpleShow yet??? 

Meet SimpleShow!

A super easy online tool that turns your text into engaging explainer videos with visuals, voiceovers, and animations. 😍

It helps you break down complicated ideas into short, easy-to-follow animations. These animations are perfect for teaching tricky grammar or new vocabulary in a fun way. 

Even if your school's technology options are limited, you can create your SimpleShow video at home and then just show it in class (online or offline). 

Students love the visual aspects, so it is a great way to increase engagement in the Kuwaiti classroom. 

No advanced skills are needed; just type in your text, and the platform does the rest for you!👀

Let me guide you into the first steps before we learn more about this amazing tool!

If you are a new user, you need to sign up first:

1. Click sign up.

2. Choose the method (Email, Google or Facebook). 

3. Activate your account and log in. 

4. Visit the Simpleshow website: Welcome to the Simpleshow 

5. Access the login page (click on the sign-in button).

6. Enter your email and details; you can log in using a Google account, just like I did or a Facebook account. 

Navigation 

I know some teachers will ask me if it is easy to navigate. So, to make that clear, Simpleshow is a clean and easy-to-use website that makes it simple to create explainer videos. Here's what makes it user-friendly: 
The top menu helps you quickly find what you need, like:

My videos               Enterprise             Pricing             Contact      

Clear Buttons: When you click on my videos, you will see big buttons like "Create a new video."

And guess what? It works on any device, whether you're using a computer, tablet, or phone. 

When I first entered this website, I felt like everything was set up to be simple and interesting, so you could focus on making great videos without any hassle!

Organization 

Simpleshow's website is well-organised, making it easy for users to find what they need. 

 Clear sections: this site is divided into key areas such as:

•  Home: a quick overview of what this site offers. 
•  Pricing: details on free and paid plans. 
•  Search and help features by using the search bar.
•  User dashboard: once logged in, you will get a personal dashboard to manage your videos easily. 
• Simple and clear layout: the website uses white space and clear headings. 

Target Audience 

Simpleshow is for anyone who wants to explain something in a simple, clear, and creative way!

• Teachers: they can use it to explain any part of the lesson in a simple way!
• Students: they can create creative video projects and much more!
• Schools and universities: for classroom and online use!
• Businesses: to explain a product in a smiley way.
• Anyone who wants to create content! 

Oh, English teachers, do not go away! Please come back. I want to tell you something! 

Do you know that you can use Simpleshow to make lessons fun and easy to understand? 

I will tell you how you can use it!

1. You can use it to teach grammar and language rules by making short videos that explain grammar, such as tenses or sentence structure. Also, you can use simple stories to help students remember the rules. 

2. You can definitely use it to explain the vocabulary by telling a story. Furthermore, you can use it to help your learners build vocabulary. For instance, you can include some vocabulary words about Kuwait's National Day. 

3. Writing and storytelling to help students learn to write essays, letters, or stories simply. For example, telling a story about how Kuwaiti people lived in the past. 

4. Practice Speaking and Pronunciation by recording scripts with clear pronunciation to help them speak more clearly by recording topics about Kuwaiti customs. 

5. Fun Assignments by asking them to make videos to show what they learned. 

6. Flipped Classroom by creating videos about your lesson and asking your learners to watch it at home. 

Wait, Don't go away! you can ask your learners to use Simpleshow in simple and fun ways! Here's how: 

1. Ask your students to pick a topic and turn it into a short explainer video using Simpleshow. 

2. Storytelling Assignments: Ask them to write a short story related to the lesson or dialogue and create a video. 

3. Divide students into small groups, and each group creates a video about a topic the class is studying. 

4. Encourage your learners to record their own voice in the video for speaking and pronunciation practice. For instance, ask two students from different countries to record a video with their own dialects. 

5. You can use it for project work by asking them to use Simpleshow to build a project at the end of each unit. 

I have recorded this video with my daughter, Kadi, to show you how to create an interesting video for young learners! 💜👀

This amazing video will help you to learn more about Simpleshow!

Advantages:

Here is what makes Simpleshow stand out:

• At the beginning, you will need to answer a few questions, and Simpleshow will generate a script for you. 
• You can record your voice, which can be used in the video. 
• You can add logos, colours, and images to match your lesson.
• It gives you the opportunity to make the videos more interactive with clickable elements. 
• It saves time, as making a video just takes a few minutes. 
• It's easy to use, even if you have never made a video before!
• Students can also use it to show what they have learned in a fun way. 
• It's free to use, but some features (like extra voices, special styles, or customisation) are only available with the paid version. 
• Teachers and students can use it for classroom collaboration. 
• Lots of education templates are available. 
• Audio Features such as AI-generated voices. 

Disadvantages 

Here is what makes Simpleshow a little bit difficult to use!

• Limited Free Versions: Unfortunately, some features, such as additional templates, voiceover options, and customisation capabilities, are not free; you have to pay for them.
• Audio Limitations: I noticed that the trial version lacks options for voice acting or uploading custom audio. 

Despite these drawbacks, Simpleshow remains a valuable tool for educators to create interactive and engaging content. 

Here are some real reviews about Simple Show from  https://www.capterra.com/p/153935/mysimpleshow/reviews/ 

I just want to add that using videos enhances students' engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes through emotional and cognitive connections. Videos also add a sense of creation and collaboration and inspire students by showcasing real-world success stories. 

Furthermore, SimpleShow supports Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) by allowing learners to create and script their own videos. 

Final Thoughts

I have really, really, really enjoyed working on it, and I wish all the features were for free!😓

It is a great tool for teachers and students who want to make learning more fun and easy to understand. It really helps to turn ideas into short, simple videos. It is a helpful way to bring creativity into your classroom. 💅

If you have any comments, please don't hesitate to write them down! I will be more than happy to interact with you guys! 💕

Happy Teaching! 👄

Mashael 

Why FrameVR is a Game-Changer for Teachers

Kuwaiti Teachers, Are You Ready???👀💪

 Ready! Steady! Goooooo!!!! 💣

Teaching in a virtual or hybrid classroom can be challenging. Whether you are teaching online or using technology in a traditional classroom, students often get distracted or disengaged. Staring at screens for too long is not ideal for anyone. That is why FrameVR comes in. This fantastic platform transforms your classroom into an interactive, 3D virtual space, whether students are in the classroom or at home. They can move around, explore, and actively engage with the lesson. 

Do you know what is the best part? No COMPLICATED setup or downloads. Just share a link, and your students are ready to go! 😎

How FrameVR Makes Learning More Engaging! 😍

When I tried FrameVR during the ICT module, I felt like I was in a physical classroom, even when you are teaching online. Imagine students exploring a virtual campus during English class. It's an exciting way to make lessons interactive and engaging, whether your class is remote or in-person with gadgets. 👏

Your learners will explore, interact, and participate. Just imagine using FrameVR for:

• Going to the beach. 😎
• A school. 👭
• A storytelling room. 💭🙈
• Visiting a campus. 😁

FrameVR is not just about cool visuals. It increases student motivation. Ryan and Deci's (2000) Self-Determination Theory (SDT) emphasizes that autonomy, competence, and relatedness are crucial for gaining actual knowledge and are essential to intrinsic motivation. Let me explain to you in detail how this wonderful tool can boost and increase your learner's motivation intrinsically and extrinsically. 

1. Autonomy - Giving Students Control

•  Your learners will be able to explore at their own pace.
•  Choose their favourite avatar, which is also interesting for me. 😆
•  While using the app, users can navigate through different zones, which is an interesting part of adolescence. 😁

2. Competence - Using a Funny Way to Build Skills 😃

• Help learners to practice skills in low-pressure, game-like settings.
• Encourage them to work together to solve an issue. 

3. Relatedness - Creating a Sense of Community 👯

• Learners can talk, interact, and work in teams like in real life.
• Making learning social. 
• Shared workspaces. 

Steps for Teachers to Get Started!

1. Create an Account & Set Up a Frame

• Go to https://learn.framevr.io/ and sign up for free.
• Click "Add New Frame" and choose a virtual space.

2. Customize Your Classroom

• Add images, videos, PDFs, and 3D objects. 
• Adjust settings for voice, chat, and movement controls.

3. Invite your learners by copying the link and sending it to them, and they will join instantly; no downloads are needed!

4. Guide Your Students

• Start with a quick tour to show them how to move and interact. 
• Encourage them to find a hidden object.
• Ask them to use the chat to help each other. 

Do not forget to follow the Tutorial guide before you start!😉 

I have created my own tutorial for further explanation and guidance. 💓

How Kuwaiti Teachers Can Use FramVR

You can use FramVR to create virtual spaces where students practice English in realistic scenarios, such as navigating a local market or a Kuwaiti landmark.

But if your school have limited VR gear, you could plan small-group sessions in a computer lab, as all Kuwaiti schools are built with computer labs. 😃

It is a fun way to increase engagement and build your students' confidence in using English.

I am planning to use it with my daughter at home and include some Kuwaiti cultural stuff because she's missing Kuwait. 💔

Advanteges of Using FrameVR: 

1.  Easy to Use: No need to download anything!
2. Interactive & Engaging: students can move around, explore, and chat with each other.
3. Works Online & In-person: Use FramVR in class or online.
4. Supports group work: Building rooms to collaborate in teams.
5. Adding Objects: Teachers can add different objects, such as videos, PDFs, and 3D objects. 
6. Prioritize creativity: learners can solve problems by engaging in activities like guessing objects.
7. Flexible for All Subjects: great for Science, English, History and more.

Disadvantages of Using FramVR:

1. Needs the Internet.
2. Some teachers and students might need time to get used to the virtual space.
3. Some students facing financial difficulties may not be able to afford new, modern gadgets, and older computers may be too slow to run FramVR effectively.
4. Unfortunately, like some other tools, some features may only be available with a paid plan.
5. Some students might be distracted by the tool and stop focusing on the main lesson. 
6. Young learners need supervision and time customisation while they are working on this tool. 

How Educators Can Use FrameVR in Different Environments:  

Teachers can use this fantastic tool in various environments by incorporating virtual field trips to historical sites, such as museums or scientific centres. 

In university settings, they can enhance lectures using 3D models and animations to explain concepts. 

In colleges, they can use it for beauty, such as salons or hairstyles. 

A real review from Linkedin:👀 You can see she mentioned that she opted for #FrameVR because it is super easy to use and has artificial intelligence features. 💣

If you're interested in learning more about Self-Determination Theory by Richard M. Ryan and Edward L. Deci, you can read this: 

Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78. 

Thank you, lovely teachers, for reading my blog 👄

I hope you like it. If you have any comments or questions, please place them down. 👂💓💜

Happy Teaching!💣

Say What?! Helping Your Students Nail Pronunciation with YouGlish

 

#YouGlish

#Languagelearning

Product: YouGlish - Pronunciation Learning Tool

Language Learning Approaches: Communicative language teaching (CLT), Behavioural learning, Authentic Materials, Contextual Learning, Visual Learning, and Self-Paced Learning. 

Language teachers worldwide continually search for innovative tools to make their lessons more engaging and effective. Whether teaching English in Oman, French in Kuwait, or Spanish in Saudia Arabia, many educators find that pronunciation can be one of the most challenging aspects for students to master. This is where YouGlish comes in. It is a free, user-friendly platform that helps learners hear words and phrases used naturally in context. YouGlish draws from millions of videos, primarily from YouTube, providing students access to authentic pronunciation examples across various accents and contexts.

Exposing our learners to various English language forms is crucial because, in the future, they may study or work in different countries where they need to communicate in English.

In this blog, I will discuss how teachers in Kuwait can use YouGlish to enhance language learning in their classrooms. 

How Kuwaiti Teachers Can Use YouGlish?

• Kuwait teachers can use YouGlish clips to let students hear a variety of English accents and real-life expressions. In class, students watch a short segment and then practice pronunciation by repeating phrases. 
• Most Kuwaiti classrooms have internet access, so it is practical to use YouGlish for listening tasks. 
• Teachers can use it to explain and practice pronunciation of certain phrases related to Kuwaiti topics. 

Now let's talk about the pros of using Youglish in the classroom

1. Authentic Pronunciation in Context:

Students don't just hear isolated words. They hear them in full sentences, improving their understanding of usage and context. 

2. Multiple Accents and Languages: 

Teachers can expose students to various accents (American, British, Australian, etc.) and languages, which is essential for global comprehension. It is also a great tool for people who are interested in learning different accents like me. 

3. Ease of Use:

YouGlish requires no installation. Just type a word or phrase, hit "Say it," and you're ready to go.

4. Playback Options: 

Students can slow down audio, replay segments, and skip to different examples, making it ideal for learners at all levels. 

5. Real-Life Examples:

You can watch different types of real videos, such as TED talks, interviews, and conversations, offering diverse contexts that textbooks often lack. 

6. Helpful tools for teachers:

YouGlish is an excellent supplement to traditional listening exercises and can be used for homework assignments.

7. Transcription:

Students hear and see the transcription under the video, which is useful, especially for students with hearing issues. Look at the photo below: 

Now let's talk about the Cons of YouGlish

1. Dependence on Internet Connectivity:

To access this tool, you need an internet connection, which may be difficult for some teachers. 

2. Inappropriate Content:

I noticed that some of the content was taken from YouTube, and some videos were unsuitable for classroom use. Teachers should check the videos first. 

3. Explanations:

It does not provide detailed grammatical or vocabulary explanations. 

4. Limited control:

You are not able to choose which videos you like. 

5. Annotuing Commercials:

Free use of YouGlish includes ads, which can interrupt a lesson's flow and distract students. 

Using YouGlish Without Internet: 

If you find the internet a problem in your class, do not worry; here are some ideas!

1. Download Videos: save clips for offline use.💋

2. Print Transcripts: ask your learners to read them.💪

3. Assign YouGlish for homework. 💁

How can YouGlish motivate your students:

1. Students listen to real conversations, not just robot voices.

2. They get used to different voices and ways of speaking.

3. Watching videos makes learning exciting.

I really recommend watching this video, it will guide you on how to use YouGlish to improve your English Pronounciation step by step - for FREE! 

Recommendations:

So, how can you use YouGlish in your classroom?😃

There are many fun and simple ways to make it part of your teaching routine.

First, pull it up during a lesson when students cannot pronounce a tricky word. Just type it and hit play! They will hear what real people say in everyday situations, such as cooking shows where they can learn how to pronounce words and how to cook at the same time. 😂

Second, use it for warm-up activity. For example, pick a few new vocabulary words from your lesson, play some examples, and let students mimic what they hear. I believe it is a great way to get them to speak without the pressure of being perfect. 

Third, you can use it for homework by asking students to look up difficult words and bring back their favourite pronunciation examples to share with the class. 

Last but not least, you can benefit from the variety of accents in YouGlish by asking your learners, "which accent was easiest to understand?" "Which one sounded the coolest?"

It is all about making language learning interactive and fun, especially if you teach Teenagers. 👀😎

I found this article about students' perceptions of implementing YouGlish in learning English pronunciation at the English department at Goole Schooler. I think it is very useful to read because it provides insights into the effectiveness of YouGlish as a tool for teaching English pronunciation.

 By understanding students' positive perceptions and experiences with YouGlish, teachers can consider incorporating it into their teaching methods to enhance pronunciation learning. 

Student’s Perceptions on the Implementation of Youglish in Learning English Pronunciation at the English Department  

Many approaches underpin the use of YouGlish, such as Authentic Contextual Learning, Interactive and Visual Learning, and Self-Paced Learning. 

I really recommend you guys to read the article to find out more and check the references list for more knowledge about using technology in your classroom. 

I have an idea for you all: why not encourage your learners to film themselves and share the videos on any social network you use with them? Would this help enhance their confidence as they listen to each other's videos? It could also be a useful way to practice vocabulary words. A short video to practice vocabulary like this one is possible.

Final Recommandations 👽

I recommend teachers use it in their classes. Many studies prove that YouGlish can help learners progress in their oral skills, especially in terms of word usage, by providing a meaningful context that helps them comprehend how oral English is used in real life.

Visit YouGlish and let the pronunciation adventure begin! 

Happy teaching! And remember, it's okay to laugh at the tricky words. Language learning should be fun! 👄

If you have any questions about YouGlish, Please do not hesitate to ask me in the comments. 💖😄

Using MindMeister for Learning and Collaboration in the Classroom

Tool: MindMeister

Language Learning Approaches: Collaborative, Visual Learning, Constructivist Learning Theory. 

 Hello, My Lovely Colleagues 💗

👀What is MindMeister?

MindMeister is an online tool that helps people create mind maps and visual diagrams that organise ideas and connect them in a structured way. It achieves this by allowing users to add and connect nodes representing individual ideas in a virtual workspace. It is great for brainstorming, planning, and working on projects together in real time.

My Experience Using MindMeister

Last Friday, February 7th, my friends and I used Mindmeister to collaborate on a project about Learning Technology in the ELT Classroom. We invited each other via email and worked on the same mind map simultaneously. 

Here's what we found helpful

We could brainstorm ideas together without any confusion.
It helped us visualise our thoughts instead of just writing them in a list.
Everyone had a chance to contribute their ideas.
We could add links, images, and notes to make our mind map more detailed.



Here's an example of what we created:

How I will use MindMeister in My Future Classroom

After trying it out, I see a lot of potential for using MindMeister with my students.

Here's how I plan to use it:

1. Brainstorming for Writing Activities

Before students start a writing task, they can work in small groups using MindMeister to generate ideas.

Example:

Topic: "The Future of Transportation"
Activity: Students create a mind map to brainstorm different types of future transportation, their advantages and disadvantages, and how they might impact the world.
Goals: This will help them organise their ideas before writing their essays.

2. Speaking and Discussion Activities

Students can use MindMeister to prepare for discussions.
Example:

Topic: "Should Schools Ban Mobile Phones?"
Activity: Students list arguments for and against banning phones in school, then use their mind map to guide a class debate.
Goals: This helps them structure their thoughts before speaking.

3. Reading Comprehension

Students can create mind maps to summarise a story or article.
Example:
Text: "A short story or article."
Activity: Students use a mind map to identify the main ideas, characters, and key points.
Goals: This encourages active reading and helps them break down complex texts.

 
4. Vocabulary Building

Instead of just memorising words, students can create word maps to learn vocabulary in a fun way.
Example:
Theme: "Weather"
Activity: Students create a mind map with categories like "Types of Plants."
Goals: This makes vocabulary learning more interactive and memorable.

 

My lovely teachers in Kuwait, DO NOT worry! 

Kuwaiti teachers can integrate MindMaster in English writing classes by having students brainstorm essay topics related to local culture and traditions (e.g., Kuwaiti traditions or historical events such as pear diving, camel riding, desert camping, Eid celebration, and the national day of Kuwait). 

For some schools with reliable internet and computer labs, teachers can guide learners through collaborative mind-mapping activities to make language learning more engaging and interactive. 

Evaluation of MindMeister: Strengths and Weaknesses

After using MindMeister, I took time to evaluate it. Here's my honest opinion:
Pros and Cons of MindMeister

😎Pros: 

• Easy to use and visually appealing.
• Great for teamwork and collaboration. 
• It can be used for different subjects and activities.
• Works on any device with an internet connection.

😅Cons:

• The free version has a limit of three mind maps.
• Needs internet access to work.
• Some students might take time to get used to it.

As you can see in the picture, it is free if you want to get started with mind mapping only, but if you want more features, such as Unlimited mind maps, attachments, Printing mind maps, and much more, you have to Upgrade. 

I have recorded a video to explain how to use MindMeister.

Let me explain to you some easy ways to use MindMeister in class:

1. Show a quick demo, start with simple tasks, and do not forget to ask students to work in groups.

2. Make it simple by using ready-made templates.

3. Give step-by-step instructions (especially for young learners)

4. Set a time limit or let students add ideas at home. 

What approaches to language learning underpin MindMeister? 

Mind mapping supports constructivist learning theory by enabling students to add and combine new information with existing knowledge to foster deep understanding. Furthermore, MindMeister is underpinned by collaborative and visual learning approaches. MindMeister facilitates brainstorming, project planning, problem-solving and note-taking by enabling students to create, share, and work collaboratively on online mindmaps. Visual learning by providing visual diagrams. 

Final Thoughts

I really enjoyed using MindMeister; it is a great educational tool. It helps students think creatively, organise their ideas, and work together in a way that traditional note-taking does not allow. While the free version has some limitations, it is still a valuable tool for brainstorming, writing, and discussion activities.

I look forward to using it with my students! 

💁 I highly recommend that teachers try MindMeister in their classrooms. MindMeister makes learning more engaging and interactive, whether you are teaching writing, reading comprehension, or critical thinking. It also encourages collaboration, helping students share and develop their ideas effectively.

😀Tips for teachers: 

Start with a simple brainstorming activity to introduce students to MindMeister. Once they get comfortable, you can use it for group projects, vocabulary mapping, or debate planning. 

😁What about you? Are you thinking of using this tool with your learners in the future?

Write in the comments! I would love to hear your thoughts. 

If you want to give it a try, here's a direct link to MindMeister 

What is Duolingo, and Can it Help Our Students Learn Languages?

 #GrammarTranslation #Behaviorist 

Hi, lovely teachers 💙

Before writing my third blog, I want to thank the teachers who contributed to my previous posts. They really helped me generate more ideas and encouraged me to move on.

Today, I want to talk about Duolingo.

What is Duolingo?

Duolingo is a popular language-learning app and website. It promises to help students learn languages through fun, game-like lessons where they can practice vocabulary, grammar, listening, and even speaking. Students earn points and rewards as they complete lessons, which keeps them motivated. The app is free, but some features, like removing ads and accessing more advanced content, require a paid Super Duolingo subscription. 

How Can Kuwaiti Teachers Use Duolingo?

My lovely teacher, you can use Duolingo to discuss Kuwaiti cultural points in class by asking students to choose the correct answer. For Example, Why Kuwaitis used to build ships in the past?

Using Duolingo in Kuwaiti Classroom 

Most students have smartphones/tablets, and the internet is available, so do not worry about that.😎
 

But is it really as effective as people say? 👀 Let's examine what it does well, what it doesn't, and whether it's worth using with our students. 

What Does Duolingo Do Well? (Advantages)

1. It is Fun & Motivating 

Duolingo turns language learning into a game with points, badges, and streaks (how many days in a row you have practised). Some students love the feeling of "levelling up," which keeps them engaged and feel that they want to achieve the end of the game.

2. Easy to use

The app is simple and works on smartphones, tablets, or computers. Students can learn anywhere, even during short breaks at home. It also encourages users to create a profile to save changes.

3. Short, Manageable Lessons

Each lesson only takes 5-10 minutes, which makes it easy to fit into busy schedules. This is perfect for busy mothers and students who want to practice without feeling pressured.

4. Suitable for Beginners 

Duolingo is beneficial for students starting a new language. It helps them build a basic vocabulary and understanding of common phrases.

5. Immediate Feedback

The app tells students right away if their answers are correct or incorrect so they can learn from their mistakes as they go.

What Duolingo Does not Do Well (Disadvantages)

1. Repetitive Content 

Many users (including students in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia) have complained that Duolingo repeats the exact words and phrases too often. Instead of moving forward, students may feel stuck practising the same basic vocabulary. 

2. Limited Grammar Explanations

Duolingo teaches phrases but does not always explain why grammar works a certain way. Students can remember sentences without understanding their structure, which can be a problem when they try to create their own sentences. 

3. Not Enough for Advanced Learners 

While Duolingo is great for beginners, it does not offer enough depth for advanced students. Once students reach an intermediate level, they may get rid of the app. 

4. Overemphasis on Translation

Many Duolingo lessons focus on translating sentences instead of teaching real conversation skills. This means some students may struggle to hold a conversation in the target language, even if they can translate phrases correctly. 

5. Unhelpful or Funny sentences

One issue with Duolingo is that many of its questions can be too easy to guess because of how the multiple-choice answers are designed. For example, as shown in the picture, only one answer is realistic, while the other two are strange or silly (like "a quiet type of bird" or "a long, difficult trip"). This makes it easy for students to choose the correct answer without understanding the taught word or concept. Instead of challenging learners to use their brains and think critically, they can sometimes rely on eliminating the obviously wrong answers. In my opinion, over time, this can reduce the effectiveness of the learning process, especially for students who guess their way through lessons without fully learning. 

6. Not Completly Free

While Duolingo's basic version is free, it has ads. Students must pay Super Duolingo to access more advanced features and an ad-free experience. This can be a drawback if they want full access without interruptions. 

I recommend watching this video because he explains all the pros and cons of Duolingo:

Honest Feedback from Social Media

Many users in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have shared their experiences with Duolingo on platforms like Instagram. Some joke that learning English exclusively through Duolingo can lead to awkward or incorrect speech. One video even shows someone struggling to speak basic English with a humorous comment: "This happens when you rely on Duolingo." While funny, this also highlights a real issue: students need more than just the app to become fluent. 

How Can Teachers Use Duolingo Effectively? 

1. Pair Duolingo with Other Learning Methods

Duolingo should supplement classroom learning, not replace it. You can use it to practice vocabulary or listening at home, but I advise you to teach grammar and conversation in class.

2. Assign it as Extra Homework

Duolingo is perfect for students to use outside of school. Assign short lessons and check their progress in class. This way, students get extra practice without needing class time. 

3. Focus on Vocabulary

Let students use Duolingo to build their vocabulary, then reinforce those words through speaking and writing activities in class. 

4. Discuss Mistakes Together 

Encourage your learners to bring any confusing sentences or mistakes they encounter in Duolingo to class. This way, you can explain grammar rules and correct misunderstandings. 

Here is my video explaining how to use Duolingo. 💙😎

What approaches to language learning underpin the use of Duolingo?

Duolingo is underpinned by Grammar-translation and behaviourist approaches to language learning:

1. Grammar-Translation Approach: Duolingo employs a structured curriculum with lessons and activities centred on vocabulary and sentence structure drills.

2. Behaviorist Approach: Duolingo motivates learners through features such as spaced repetition, feedback, and gamification (reward systems). 
 

If you are interested in the approaches and you feel like you want to read more about them, just click this link:

Zhao, Dan, Jablonkai, Reka R. and Sandoval-Hernandez, Andres. "Enhancing willingness to communicate in English among Chinese students in the UK: the impact of MALL with Duolingo and HelloTalk" Journal of China Computer-Assisted Language Learning, vol. 4, no. 1, 2024, pp. 42-73. https://doi.org/10.1515/jccall-2023-0027

Final Thoughts: Is Duolingo Worth It?

Duolingo is a fun and helpful tool, especially for beginners who want extra practice. But it does have limits. Students won't become fluent using Duolingo alone, 😑 mainly if they rely only on the translation exercise. Teachers can use it as extra support, but mixing it with lessons focusing on speaking grammar and real-life conversations is essential. 

So, the question now. Have you tried using Duolingo with your students? I would love to know how it worked for you and if you faced any challenges! 😘💙

Here is a quick link to Duolingo https://www.duolingo.com/learn 

Please let me know in the comments! 👄

Happy teaching, 

Mashael