4 #EdTech Tools I've Never Used Before The #TLTechLive Cool Tool Duel

There were lots of cool tools introduced at Tech + Learning Live "Cool Tool Duel" this week. The format was really fun. Here is the description:

During this lightning-paced smackdown, presenters will make their cases for apps, add-ons, and other edtech tools while the audience votes on their favorites. Who will be left standing at the end of this battle?

Participants voted for their favorite tools while presenters made a case to explain why what they presented was the best.  This is a terrific professional development format that schools can use to highlight innovative educators and the tools they use.  

Here are the four free, platform-agnostic tools shared that I've never-used but plan to investigate.

Jay Eitner (@iSuperEit)

1 - Says-it

Create your own church sign, make an official seal, have your own fire or police badge, and more. Simply type in some text and choose from a few simple options.

2 - emaze

emaze is the next generation of online presentation software. Select a professionally designed presentation templates to easily create an amazing visual experience for your audience. emaze features a presentation maker that creates impressive slideshows, video presentations and even 3D presentations.

See more tools from Jay here.

Sal Contes Jr. (@SalContesJr)

3-Newsela

Newsela publishes high-interest news articles daily at five levels of complexity for grades 3-12 using Newsela’s proprietary, rapid text-leveling process. Common Core–aligned quizzes attached to articles give educators and parents insight into their students’ reading strengths and weaknesses. Newsela develops nonfiction fluency and critical-thinking skills necessary to master the Common Core standards for informational text.

Check out Sal’s Newsela presentation here.

Chris Casal (@mr_casal)

4 - TechSmith Sngagit

Snagit helps you capture great looking images and videos with just a few clicks. Easily customize your screen captures with effects, or show off what's important with Snagit’s markup tools. You can also create quick videos by recording your screen.

What do you think? Is this format something you think you could use at your school? What about the tools? If you've used them, what has your experience been? If not, what are you excited to try?