This document makes a case for unblocking and adding Nearpod to the rotation of learning tools used at a school. It describes Nearpod as an interactive website and app that allows teachers to create engaging, gamified lessons using tools like Google Slides and YouTube. Nearpod lessons can be used both in class and virtually, supporting diverse learners. Its features like polls, quizzes, and collaboration boards encourage student engagement and provide feedback to teachers on student understanding in support of ISTE standards.

1. Why Nearpod?
This is an appeal to have Nearpod unblocked and added to our rotation
for student learning.

2. What is Nearpod?
 It is an interactive website and app-based digital tool
 Teachers create slide-based learning resources, gamification of information to make learning
more engaging and fun.
 It works well with lots of pre-existing tools, such as Google Slides, Microsoft PowerPoint, and
YouTube.
 Nearpod is a must-have learning tool that combines multimedia learning with digital
assessments.
 It can be used in class and beyond.
 It is considered a hybrid tool so it works very well if students are having to learn virtually or in
class.

3. Educational benefits of using Nearpod
 Changes the way instruction is done. It is interactive, which encourages engagement.
 Shifts from lecture, to individual or group work and provides an opportunity to engage in
meaningful discussion.
 Works in real time by giving instant feedback and monitors student understanding and progress.
 Teachers can determine where reteaching needs to apply using the poll questions and multiple
choice quizzes
 Collaboration boards allow students to work together and share multiple perspectives that can be
useful in the lesson.

4. What ISTE standard does it support?
 1.1 Empowered Learner
 Students leverage technology to take an active role in choosing, achieving and
demonstrating competency in their learning goals, informed by the learning
sciences.

5. How does it support diverse learners?
 Students can be assigned tasks at varying levels.
 Students can work at their own pace.
 Collaboration boards help diverse learners think more freely, they receive constructive feedback
from their peers.
 Diverse learners are able to engage in questioning techniques with their peers and have an
increased opportunity to respond.

6. References:
 Nearpod review for teachers. Common Sense Education. (n.d.).
https://www.commonsense.org/education/reviews/nearpod
 Perez, J. E. (2017, January). Nearpod. Journal of the Medical Library
Association : JMLA.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5234442/
 Edwards, L. (2023, February 9). What is nearpod and how does it work? best
tips and tricks. TechLearningMagazine. https://www.techlearning.com/how-
to/what-is-nearpod-and-how-does-it-work