What online tools help with classroom management?
Behavior and Communication Tools
ClassDojo is a free behavior management and communication platform. Teachers can award points for positive behavior and message parents. It also has a student portfolio feature.
Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams help manage assignments, announcements, and due dates. They centralize communication and reduce paper flow.
Remind is a free messaging app that lets you send text reminders to students and parents without sharing personal phone numbers. It's useful for homework reminders and event notifications.
Noise and Time Management
Bouncy Balls is a free web tool that uses your microphone to monitor noise levels; the balls bounce more when the class is loud. It's a visual cue for students to quiet down.
Classroomscreen is a free web app that provides widgets like a timer, random name picker, noise level meter, and traffic light. It can be displayed on a projector.
For timers, use Online Stopwatch or Google Timer. For random grouping, use Random.org or Flippity's random name picker.
- ClassDojo – behavior points and parent communication
- Google Classroom – assignment and announcement hub
- Remind – safe text messaging
- Bouncy Balls – noise level visualizer
- Classroomscreen – all-in-one management widgets
- Flippity – random name picker and group maker
Common mistakes
- Using behavior tracking publicly in a way that shames students; keep individual data private.
- Assuming all parents have smartphones or internet access; offer alternative communication methods.
- Over-relying on digital tools for management; clear routines and expectations are still essential.
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