Edmodo is an educational technology platform designed to facilitate communication and collaboration between teachers, students, and parents. Founded in 2008 by Jeff O'Hara and Nic Borg, Edmodo has become a pivotal tool in the educational technology landscape, providing a safe environment for educational interaction.
History and Development
- Edmodo was launched to connect teachers with their students and colleagues, allowing for the sharing of resources, assignments, and grades in a secure manner.
- The platform was influenced by the social networking model, particularly Facebook, but tailored for educational purposes with a focus on privacy and safety.
- In 2013, Edmodo received a significant investment from Index Ventures, which helped expand its features and user base.
- Over the years, Edmodo has introduced features like a content store for educational resources, integration with third-party applications, and tools for professional development for educators.
Features
- Communication: Teachers can post messages, assignments, polls, and quizzes to their class groups. Students can interact within these groups, but external communication is restricted for safety.
- Resource Sharing: Educators can share resources like documents, videos, and links. The platform also features an app store where teachers can access and integrate educational tools.
- Gradebook: Teachers can manage grades, track student progress, and provide feedback directly through the platform.
- Parent Engagement: Parents can receive updates about their child's educational progress, assignments, and school events.
- Professional Development: Edmodo offers professional learning communities and courses for teachers to enhance their skills.
Security and Privacy
One of Edmodo's core focuses is on student privacy and data security:
- The platform adheres to Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) regulations, ensuring that children's information is protected.
- Access to student data is controlled by the teacher or school administrator, with strict privacy settings that limit external access.
Recognition and Impact
- Edmodo has been recognized for its contribution to education, receiving accolades like the Best Education Platform at the EdTech Awards.
- It has a global presence, serving educators and students in over 190 countries, facilitating cross-cultural educational exchanges.
Recent Developments
- In 2018, NetDragon Websoft acquired Edmodo for $137.5 million, aiming to expand its educational offerings.
- Despite the acquisition, Edmodo continues to operate independently, focusing on enhancing its platform for better user experience.
Sources:
Related Topics