5 Free Tools Every Teacher Must Know About

The world of education has undergone a seismic shift. In today’s interconnected and digital world, the traditional methods of teaching no longer suffice. Students have access to an abundance of information at their fingertips, often learning things outside the classroom even before they are introduced in school. As a result, it has become imperative for educators to embrace innovative tools and methods to meet the evolving demands of modern education. Before diving into the free teaching tools and resources for a better classroom experience, let’s understand why modern teaching  tools are essential more than ever.

Why modern teaching tools matter

As India advances in the knowledge-driven 21st century, teachers stand as the true Karmayogis, shaping the nation’s future. With technology acting as a catalyst for transformation, traditional teaching methods are no longer sufficient. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the need to empower teachers with advanced skills and resources to adapt to this rapidly evolving landscape. By utilizing these free tools, educators can not only elevate their teaching practices but also foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills among students—preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow.

Also read: The Ultimate Guide to Teacher Training in Skill Education: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change

5 Free Teaching Tools to Upgrade Classroom Experience

Here are five free tools that can help teachers enhance their teaching practices and foster engaging learning environments.

1. DIKSHA platform

The DIKSHA platform, spearheaded by the Ministry of Education, is a comprehensive resource for teachers and students alike. It provides access to high-quality e-content that aligns with the Indian school curriculum. Teachers can explore lesson plans, worksheets, teaching videos, and more to enrich their classrooms. Designed to empower educators, the platform also offers opportunities for professional development with courses tailored to enhance teaching skills.

Key features:

• Access to curriculum-aligned resources.
• Tools for creating interactive and engaging lesson plans.
• Professional development courses for teachers.

Explore here: DIKSHA Platform

2. e-Contents by NCERT

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has curated a robust library of digital resources to assist teachers in delivering quality education. Through the e-Contents portal, educators can find digital textbooks, audio-visual learning aids, and interactive activities. These resources are not only engaging but also ensure inclusivity by catering to diverse learning styles.

Key features:

• Free access to digital textbooks and resources.
• Multimedia learning aids to make concepts more relatable.
• Resources available in multiple Indian languages.

Explore here: NCERT e-Contents

3. The TeacherApp

Unveiled by the Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, The TeacherApp is a game-changer in empowering teachers with 21st-century skills. Developed by the Bharti Airtel Foundation, this platform aims to equip educators with innovative teaching methodologies and future-ready skills. The app offers courses on various subjects, interactive learning modules, and opportunities for teachers to connect with a community of peers.

Key features:

• Courses designed to enhance teaching methodologies.
• Easy-to-use interface for seamless learning.
• A community-building feature to connect with other educators.

Explore here: The TeacherApp

4. AI For All initiative

Launched by CBSE in collaboration with Intel, the AI For All initiative brings the basics of artificial intelligence (AI) to classrooms. This free, 4-hour self-paced program introduces teachers and students to the fundamentals of AI in an inclusive manner. Available in multiple Indian languages, the initiative aims to foster AI literacy among a wide audience, making it an excellent resource for educators keen on integrating technology into their teaching.

Key Features:

• Simple and accessible AI literacy program.
• Self-paced learning modules available in regional languages.
• Inclusive content for individuals of all backgrounds.

Explore here: AI For All

5. CIET-NCERT’s digital initiatives

The Central Institute of Educational Technology (CIET), under NCERT, has launched various digital initiatives to support teachers in creating engaging learning experiences. From video tutorials to interactive apps, CIET’s resources are tailored to help educators adopt a student-centric approach in their classrooms. These tools not only aid in teaching but also enable continuous professional development.

Key features:

• Access to multimedia teaching aids.
• Tools for blended and digital learning.
• Professional development programs for teachers.

Explore here: CIET Digital Initiatives

Government initiatives to empower teachers

The Government of India is taking several significant initiatives to ensure that teachers are well-equipped to cope with the changing dynamics of education. Recognizing the pivotal role educators play in shaping the future generation, these initiatives focus on continuous capacity building and skill enhancement.

• NEP 2020 Implementation: The National Education Policy 2020 emphasizes empowering teachers through training programs and the integration of technology in education. It highlights the need for continuous professional development to enable teachers to meet the demands of modern classrooms.
• Launch of NISHTHA: The NISHTHA (National Initiative for School Heads and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement) program aims to improve the quality of school education through integrated teacher training. Over 40 lakh teachers have already benefited from this initiative, which provides them with skills to adopt learner-centric teaching methods.
• Recent Developments: Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan recently launched The TeacherApp, which equips educators with innovative tools and community-building features. This is part of a broader strategy to make teachers future-ready and to leverage technology effectively in classrooms.
• Budget Allocations for Education Technology: The government has also increased budget allocations for digital education and teacher training. 

These efforts demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting educators as they navigate the changing landscape of teaching and learning.

In an era where information is readily available and teaching methodologies are evolving, educators must adapt to the changing needs of students. By leveraging the tools teachers can make learning more interactive, inclusive, and impactful. Additionally, the Government of India’s commitment to empowering teachers through initiatives like NEP 2020 and NISHTHA ensures they are equipped to meet modern educational challenges. Together, these tools and initiatives pave the way for a future-ready teaching community that nurtures critical thinkers and innovators of tomorrow. Let’s embrace these opportunities to transform education and elevate the teaching-learning experience!

Empower yourself and your students by exploring these tools today! Which of these tools will you try first? Let us know!