How to Choose e-Classroom Software

When looking at the many choices available for e-classroom software, what features should educators look for?  Since every child has unique learning needs and responds differently, educators who choose a system with multiple learning programs find the IQity Learning Management Suite to be a smart option.

A Rich Variety of Media Choices

The first thing educators should look for in e-classroom software is a system that uses a rich variety of media distance learning choices. The best e-classroom software includes different types of lessons presented virtually, such as audio or video files, as well as written content, remote labs and simulations.   Not every child learns in the same way, or at the same pace, and having e-classroom software with a variety of electronic learning formats from which to choose can help educators devise custom plans to fit the individual needs of their students.  

In addition, the "Millennial Generation" has grown up using the Internet, text messaging and other multi-media platforms, and expects to be challenged educationally by a variety of learning options.   E-Classroom software like the free IQity Learning Management Suite gives teachers access to IQity REACTOR, a continually growing repository of electronic educational content including: lessons, quizzes, assignments, labs, study guides, videos, tests, and biographies, with a variety of delivery media available.

Experiential Learning

Experience still remains the best teacher.   We learn by doing, and good e-classroom software propels that concept forward into the Information Age.  By using tools like remote labs, teachers can have students electronically test their hypotheses, record their results and use the data gathered to determine what works and what doesn't. IQity REACTOR is a rich source for teachers to search for inquiry-based lessons, which is especially helpful for teaching math and science. In addition, IQity Learning Management Suite makes it easy for teachers to assess what students have learned.

Collaboration Tools

E-classroom software should have communication and collaboration tools that allow students to work together and interact with their instructors in real time. With the IQity Learning Management Suite's online whiteboard, (called "Liveboard"), teachers can webcast live in one corner of the computer screen, while at the same time using the electronic whiteboard to write notes or other content students can see. Students can also use the Liveboard for group projects.  Because of its electronic connectivity in real time, the Liveboard expands the reach of any group beyond a traditional classroom and can open up group discussion to other schools and e-learners anywhere across the globe.

E-Classroom Software Costs

With most school districts experiencing budgetary pressures, the cost of e-classroom software will be a serious consideration. Whereas some e-classroom software systems like Blackboard are purchased, IQity is free to schools and school districts. To see how your school can use IQity's e-Learning Management System, you can request an online demonstration conducted by an IQity staff member.