Innovative Tools for Education Assistants to Support Students

Education assistants (EAs) play a crucial role in the classroom, offering support to teachers and students alike. In today’s digital age, there are numerous innovative tools available that help education assistants provide even more effective and personalized assistance to students. These tools are designed to cater to a wide range of needs, from improving communication to providing specialized support for students with learning challenges. Below, we’ll explore some of the best tools in different categories that can significantly benefit education assistants and the students they work with.

Communication & Collaboration

• ClassDojo
  ClassDojo is a powerful tool for classroom management and communication, helping education assistants track student behaviour, share feedback, and communicate with teachers and parents. It’s a simple platform where EAs can award points for positive behaviour, like participation or cooperation, and also track areas where students need improvement. The app allows for easy messaging between teachers, education assistants, and parents, ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding student progress. ClassDojo also has a built-in feature that allows education assistants to share photos and videos of classroom activities with parents, helping to create a stronger connection between home and school. By utilizing ClassDojo, EAs can play an active role in reinforcing positive behaviour and ensuring clear communication across all stakeholders.

Assistive Learning & Accessibility

• Read&Write by Texthelp
  Read&Write is an excellent tool designed to support students who struggle with reading and writing, making it ideal for education assistants who work with students with learning disabilities like dyslexia. The tool offers a range of features such as text-to-speech, word prediction, and speech-to-text, all of which help students better comprehend and engage with educational materials. One of the standout features of Read&Write is the text-to-speech capability, where the software reads the text aloud to the student, helping them better understand what they’re reading. It also offers word prediction, which helps students with writing challenges by suggesting words as they type. Education assistants can use these tools to guide students through reading comprehension activities, writing assignments, or even everyday classroom tasks, making learning more accessible to students with specific needs.

• Kurzweil 3000
  Kurzweil 3000 is a comprehensive learning tool that supports students who have difficulties with reading, writing, and study skills. Education assistants can use Kurzweil to assist students with tasks like reading comprehension, note-taking, and writing essays. The software includes features such as text-to-speech, highlighting tools, and graphic organizers to help students process information more effectively. Kurzweil 3000 is especially helpful for students with dyslexia or ADHD, as it helps break down complex reading material into manageable chunks. Education assistants can guide students through using the tool, helping them learn how to study more effectively and retain information. The program also provides support for English language learners, making it a valuable tool in diverse classrooms.

• SnapType Pro
  SnapType Pro is designed for students who have difficulty with handwriting, such as those with dysgraphia or fine motor skill challenges. Education assistants can help students complete worksheets and other assignments by using this tool, which allows students to type directly onto a digital version of their worksheet using a tablet or device. For students who struggle with legibility or experience discomfort when writing, SnapType Pro offers a practical solution. Education assistants can scan worksheets or import digital assignments into the app, and students can complete them by typing instead of writing. This helps reduce frustration for students who might otherwise fall behind due to their handwriting challenges, allowing them to focus more on content and less on the physical act of writing.

• Speechify
  Speechify is a text-to-speech tool that converts written content into spoken words, making it easier for students with reading difficulties to engage with educational materials. Education assistants can introduce Speechify to students who have trouble reading due to dyslexia, visual impairments, or other learning challenges. With Speechify, students can listen to textbooks, worksheets, and online articles, which enhances their comprehension and learning experience. The tool supports multiple languages, making it particularly useful in classrooms with students who are English language learners. Education assistants can work alongside students, helping them navigate the app and customize settings like reading speed and voice type to suit their individual needs.

Interactive & Engagement

• GoNoodle
  GoNoodle is a tool that education assistants can use to incorporate movement and mindfulness into the classroom. It offers a variety of short, interactive videos that promote physical activity, brain breaks, and social-emotional learning. For students who need to release excess energy or refocus during the school day, GoNoodle is an excellent resource. The videos on GoNoodle cover everything from dance routines to breathing exercises, making it easy for education assistants to find something that matches the mood of the classroom. These activities are particularly beneficial for students with ADHD or sensory processing challenges, as they help improve focus and self-regulation. By using GoNoodle, EAs can create a more balanced learning environment that supports both physical and mental well-being.

• Boom Cards
  Boom Cards are interactive, self-checking digital task cards that education assistants can use to engage students in a fun, educational way. These task cards cover a wide range of subjects, from math and reading to science and social studies, allowing EAs to customize learning activities to suit the individual needs of their students. Boom Cards are particularly effective for students who thrive on immediate feedback. As students work through the task cards, they receive instant feedback on their answers, helping them identify areas where they need to improve. Education assistants can assign specific sets of Boom Cards based on the student’s level and provide support as they work through the activities. The interactive nature of the cards keeps students engaged while helping them reinforce key concepts.

Digital Document & Annotation Tools

• Kami
  Kami is a digital document and annotation tool that education assistants can use to help students complete assignments digitally. With Kami, students can highlight text, make annotations, add drawings, and even collaborate with their peers on assignments. This tool is especially useful for students who prefer working digitally or who may struggle with organizing paper-based materials. Education assistants can use Kami to assist students in reading comprehension exercises, annotating class notes, or working on group projects. The tool’s ability to integrate with platforms like Google Classroom makes it a convenient addition to any classroom, allowing EAs to offer digital support in real-time. Kami also includes features for text-to-speech and voice comments, which can be especially beneficial for students with learning disabilities.

By integrating these tools into their daily practice, education assistants can enhance their ability to support students effectively. These resources promote communication, engagement, and personalized learning experiences, making it easier for education assistants to cater to the diverse needs of their students.

Ashton College offers an Education Assistant Diploma designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to support individuals with disabilities. This flexible online program focuses on understanding disabilities and implementing effective educational strategies, ensuring that future education assistants are prepared to make a meaningful impact in the classroom. The program allows for great flexibility, enabling students to choose between live classes, recorded sessions, or a combination of both, all while emphasizing the importance of educational strategies for a successful career. Learn more about Ashton’s Education Assistant Diploma program here.