What are the most effective online learning platforms for professionals in the education sector? (2024)

To me, social media platforms like LinkedIn, FB, Twitter, etc. have been the most impactful, unconventional learning platforms. My reasoning is that these connect you to PD and networking with master teachers, which leads to the ultimate translational learning for your students. #Impact #FurtherTogether.

In my experience, given the resources available in our district, Canvas Mastery Paths checks every box for personalized learning. Creators develop different paths based on learner responses and effectively tailoring the lesson specifically to each differentiated need. The process can be tedious, but so worth it for a successful outcome.

One key benefit of personalized learning platforms for K-12 students is the ability to learn at their own pace and skill level. For example, a student struggling with fractions can receive extra practice and support, while an advanced student can quickly move ahead to more challenging concepts, preventing boredom or frustration.

We used to call this “App Smashing” because combining more than one engaging tool was all the rage. Now? I believe it to be the expectation. Learners need various forms of interaction for engagement and comprehension. Embedding a video, including a voice recording, an interactive forum or even a video submission can be valuable for students’ multiple intelligences. Student driven responses create endless opportunities for learners to showcase their knowledge!

Interactive content platforms for K-12 students can make learning more engaging and interactive. For example, a platform like Nearpod allows teachers to create interactive lessons with multimedia elements, formative assessments, and collaborative activities, fostering active learning and student participation.

Indeed quality instructions are non negotiable. These days one's knowledge of content and pedagogy doesn't make one an expect. For online instructions, teacher quality is also defined by one's ability to navigate modern technology that support online instructions.

Some of the most inspiring and energizing are so memorable because of the expert advice, and outstanding delivery, shared with other professionals seeking professional development. My top two favorites are edX and LinkedIn Learning (truly! I do not work for them!). Both platforms present relevant and knowledgeable educators who deliver their content with personality and professionalism. My favorite aspect of these two platforms (and most other high-quality online learning forums) is that I can pick my own educational experience by searching for a topic that works for me.

Expert instructors can provide valuable professional development and training for teachers. For example, platforms like BetterLesson offer expert-led workshops and a library of instructional strategies, helping teachers enhance their teaching methods, stay up-to-date with best practices, and improve student outcomes.

I’ll be honest. I initially dreaded discussion forums in grad school. I would contribute my thoughts, check the box and move on. But wow! did my perspective change once I engaged and interacted with my fellow learners. The forum fostered a community of professional networking and generated innovative ideas through feedback. It became an essential piece of the learning process to me and now I deeply value the responses from others. I often think about how this practice could be integrated more in the elementary classroom.

The EdTech world is constantly evolving. As an instructional specialist, I am transparent with my teachers that it is almost impossible to be ahead of EVERY trend. However, through collaborative efforts and regular connections- we can lean into more and more ideas because of the combined knowledge we have. Staying aware and flexibly ready to shift at any moment is pivotal to online learning success.

Flexibility is a non-negotiable for online learning. While consistency is key for providing thorough and quality instruction, learner feedback + data trends should regularly alter your delivery. I believe flexibility is a key factor in remaining consistent and reliable. Read that again. Tech savvy educators must be willing to shift their processes to adapt to learner needs, by enhancing delivery motivated by data trends and feedback.

Look to learn about tools and gain skills that can help your students learn more while you teach less. The less time you have to teach, the more time you have to focus on student success.