ClassDojo: Basic features
In this post we will delve in the basic features of this application.
As a general rule, the platform is very visual and the the colours and design is user friendly.
Some generic features are a timer, an attendance, and a random selector. It also alllows the teacher to see the student view.
Creating a Class.
The app provides with a demo class to start tryings its options safely. Once you are familiar with the virtual environment, one can start by creating a class with the option "add a class". Every new class is required to determine its own name and the grade. The icon for the class can be also personalised.
Adding new students.
The second step is adding students. A name and last name is required. I used only the Initial of the last name to make more cozy for the final clients: John Doe will be John D.
The programs asks you create the skills, but I will explain it under the next heading.
Then the application offers you to send invites to all students and parents. This process creates two separate codes. A cool features is that the codes can be downloaded in different languages. One code is for the parents that can be used to monitor their son/daughter progress in class. The other code allow the students to access individually and monitor their progress in class. At any moment, the teacher can check how many students and parents are connected, and individual messages can be sent.
Creating new skills.
There two type of feed-back skills: positive and needs work. One can personalise the skills for every class created. What is interesting is that the skills are improved by one point incrementally. The students may have the possibility to gain several points in one class. The teacher can also set awards based on the points obtained weekly or monthly. Examples of positive skills can be:"On time", "Helping others", "Participating", "Teamwork", "Work hard", etc.
Examples of needs work skills can be: "Disrespectful", "Tardy", "Disturbing others", "No teamwork", "Off task", etc.
Checking progress.
One of the highlights of ClassDojo is the option to check at any given moment the historic of skills for any student or class. The application provides you with a nice graphic of bars. The students can also check their progress, spot weaknesses and strengths in their performance and improve their behaviour.
To access this features, just click "View reports" in top right hand corner, and the following screen will appear. The positive skills will appear in green, the need work skills in red.
Multiplatform.
ClassDojo allow you to connect with a computer, tablet or mobile phone. This fact allowed me to project the status screen in the smart board, while the students are working, and use my phone to give them points while I am checking their progress. The effect is immediate and keeps everyone engaged and motivated.
