Seesaw is a free app or website that is a student driven portfolio. I began implementing it in my classroom last year when I decided to try out a student created blog. And it has been a game changer! You could say it is like Facebook for kids. There is a classroom feed that shows students what each other has posted. They can like and comment on their classmates’ posts. The options for liking and commenting can be turned off but all posts and comments must be approved by you.
My school has adopted it across all grades and purchased the school edition which means the students’ portfolios will go with them from year to year.
- Document student work and learning
- Open communication with families
- Provides families with an insight to their student’s day
- Develops 21st Century Skills
- Creates a student led blog
- Gives students an authentic audience
Students:
They are able to upload pictures, videos, notes, drawings, files, and links. These items allow students to document their learning.
Teachers:
Originally I wanted my students to solely use Seesaw to create a student led blog. But once we started using it, I quickly realized it would be a valuable tool. I am able to quickly assess student learning. I have students upload all of their final products, create drawings with a voice recording to demonstrate how they solved a math problem, write weekly book reviews to add to the class blog, and complete assigned activities.
Parents:
Families become deeply involved in their students’ learning. They receive immediate updates regarding their child’s portfolio. Each student can have up to ten family members connected to their account. Family members can leave encouraging comments.
Seesaw is VERY user friendly. They have made the set up process as easy as possible. There are many resources available to help you implement the app in your classroom. Click HERE to learn more about getting started with Seesaw.
Stay tuned for more details about how I integrate Seesaw in my classroom.
