The Twelve Tech Tools of December: ThingLink

During the weekdays of December, we're sharing one tool per day as part of our Twelve Tools of December series.  Some of these tools are designed to be used instructionally, some can help you be more productive, and some are just fun.

Today, we're sharing ThingLink!

What is it?

ThingLink is a fantastic website that allows you to make images interactive.  Teachers and students can creatively share content or stories by making images come alive.  You can add links, videos, images, captions, music and more to a single image. Teachers across all content areas and grade levels could benefit from this flexible tool for teaching and learning. 

ThingLink is free.  You can sign up as a teacher and create classes.  There is a premium educator account as well that might be worth checking out for $35 a year. Thinglink integrates with Google Drive, works on iPhones, iPads and Android.



Why would I use it?  What does it do?
One of the best features within ThingLink is that is can be shared and embedded.  You can create a phenomenal ThingLink image and embed it into Schoology to facilitate an online discussion or you can even use it to make interactive assessments. 

ThingLink images can help students develop critical thinking skills and provide opportunities for students to explore as part of the learning process.  This creates enthusiasm for learning.  Below are two examples of how ThingLink has been used in the classroom by Adrian Neibauer, 5th grade teacher in CCSD.

Hover over the targeted areas above and read the information.  Identify the region and infer how the region adapts to the environment.

Please study the above image.  Be sure to click on each HOT SPOT. Based on the information provided, how accurate is this picture of the Boston Tea Party?

Where can I learn more?
You can Check out ThingLink's Help Center.

There is also a great YouTube video from TechGeeks83 on how ThingLink can be used in the classroom: