Trends in Educational Technology: Social Emotional Learning

SEL: Class Dojo

International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) published an article titled Hottest Topics in Edtech 2021. Among the 9 total topics was social-emotional learning (SEL) and cultural competence. This is the topic that I decided to take a deep-dive into. 

Image Source: BrainPOP

Image Source: Class Dojo

Although this list grouped SEL and cultural competence, I decided to split those larger themes apart and solely focus on SEL. Social Emotional Learning is more important than ever these days as classrooms are filled with students who are battling the many effects that Covid 19 had on their personal and academic lives. One platform that directly ties to SEL is Class Dojo.  

Class Dojo can be accessed through their app or website. Once teachers create an account and upload their class, there is so much to do! Teachers can use the points system as a positive reinforcement behavior system in their classrooms, connect co-teachers to collaborate with, communicate with families and share student progress, create digital portfolios for all the learners in their classroom, and collect data about student achievement and growth with the behaviors that were picked to monitor. In addition, Class Dojo provides direct instruction for SEL concepts that include growth mindset, perseverance, empathy, gratitude, mindfulness, respect, positive thinking, and more. Class Dojo also has a resource called Conundrums that allows students the opportunity to use critical thinking skills and learn how to talk respectfully with their peers while debating an age-appropriate topic. Learn more about Classroom Dojo by watching my video below:

Image Source: Class Dojo

Other Resources

Class Dojo is incredibly user-friendly. Teachers who are interested in learning more about Class Dojo can attend virtual professional development sessions or watch on-demand training videos on the Class Dojo website. If you ever need extra help, the Class Dojo help desk has a plethora of articles, videos, frequently asked questions, and quick start guides ready to help with anything that is needed. Class Dojo even has slides already made for parents to learn about how you are using Class Dojo in the classroom! 

If you are looking to start using Class Dojo in your classroom, you can introduce it to your students with this short introduction video. There are also many different classroom décor resources available to connect your students even more with this positive reinforcement behavior management system. 

You can also check out Edutopia's article that was published about the benefits of using Class Dojo.