Whether you’re looking to optimize your time, make higher quality video tutorials, or unlock the power of edtech apps with digital ink, here are our top picks for the tech gadgets you’ll need for your 21st century classroom.
This post is sponsored by Wacom. The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. The links in this article are affiliate links, and New EdTech Classroom will receive a small commission if you choose to make a purchase.
What is it?
An affordable, easily portable microphone that plugs into your computer with a USB connection.
Why do teachers need it?
At under $30, the Fifine USB mic won’t break the bank, but it will significantly increase the audio quality of your video tutorials. Plus, higher quality audio adds a degree of professionalism to your virtual meetings or video conference calls with parents. And who knows, you might even be inspired to start a podcast or a YouTube channel!
Cost: $29.99
Link (affliate): Fifine USB microphone
What is it?
This simple, reliable, no-frills wireless clicker allows you to advance your presentation slides from any location in your classroom.
Why do teachers need it?
Whether you’re presenting a Google Slides or PowerPoint lesson to students or running a staff PD, there’s nothing more annoying than having to return to your physical computer to advance your presentation. With the Kensington Wireless Presenter Pointer, you’ll never have to worry about that again. Plus, this clicker also includes a handy laser pointer, always a student-favorite.
Cost: $29.99
Link (affiliate): Kensington Wireless Presenter Pointer
What is it?
Wacom’s most affordable pen tablet is easily portable, Chromebook compatible, and enables you to be able to fluidly write on your screen, just like you would with a regular pen or marker.
Why do teachers need it?
Here at New EdTech Classroom we consider pen tablets an invaluable tool for making the transition to a fully technology-integrated classroom. Whether you’re flipping instruction with video tutorials, live teaching with a digital whiteboard, or marking up digital resources, a pen tablet allows you to do so with ease.
Cost: $59.95
Link: One by Wacom
What is it?
A compact charger for recharging your USB-C and Lightning cable devices (e.g. an iOS or Android smartphone or tablet) on the go.
Why do teachers need it?
If you use a smartphone or tablet throughout the school day to take notes, play music, or even AirPlay lessons, you’re almost certainly going to need a second charge. Anker’s Portable Charger will get the job done much faster than plugging your device into the wall.
Cost: $21.99
Link (affliate): Anker Portable Charger
What is it?
A compact green screen you can easily set up, take down, and store if you don’t have space for a permanent setup.
Why do teachers need it?
Green screens allow you to remove your background and appear directly on top of whatever you’re showing on your computer. And with free software like mmhmm, you no longer need video editing skills to get the job done. Green screens aren’t just for teachers: students can use them for creative projects too. If you’re planning on having students use them for group projects like skits, however, you’ll likely want a larger version.
Cost: $79.99
Link (affiliate): Neewer Portable Green Screen
What is it?
A wearable smart device that syncs with your iPhone and will change your life (we’re only half-joking).
Why do teachers need it?
Apple Watches aren’t cheap, but in our opinion the benefit far outweighs the cost. After owning one, none of us would consider going a day without it. Whether you need a buzz on your wrist to remind you of an upcoming meeting, need to quickly check your daily schedule, want to leave yourself a quick voice note, set a timer, start and stop the video you’re projecting, or just get in your steps, the Apple Watch has you covered.
Cost: $309
Link (affiliate): Apple Watch SE
Did we leave any of your favorite teacher tech gadgets off the list? Let us know!
