As teachers, our digital resiliency is usually put to the test quite often. I recently had one of those experiences when I had to write the TeachersFirst weekly update using a new template. The biggest challenge for me was making the images fit in the template and have it work in all different types of browsers for all of our users. It was at this point that I learned about Canva. It has been a true time-saver and fun! (It is okay to have fun at work, right?)
May marks National Photography Month (also referred to as National Photo Month and National Photograph Month). So what better time is there to share Canva! Be aware that Canva does require you to register with an email and password. It also has some “freemium” features. I have only used the free features and LOVE the tool! Enough is offered with a free account that there really has been no need for me to consider going premium.
Canva allows you to create custom badges, flyers, posters, business cards, and many other images. Simply upload an image from your computer or your Facebook account. Choose the type of design that you wish to create (poster, blog image, presentation, social media, and others). You have the option of using their pre-made templates or designing your own. Use the drag and drop feature to change the background, add text (and change colors), and many other editing options.
Demonstrate how to use this tool on your interactive whiteboard or projector. Students will love all of the options for editing their images. Students can use this tool to create projects and presentations. Older students could definitely use this tool on their own. Use this tool to create engaging images for research projects or biography reports. Use in math or science class to have students demonstrate their own knowledge in a creative and meaningful way. In the beginning of the school year, create a Canva to introduce yourself to the students. Then have students create their own Canva to introduce themselves to the class. There are many ways to incorporate Canva into your classroom. Take a few minutes and explore this excellent imaging tool.
Here are some resources to help you to get started with Canva:
TeachersFirst’s Review of Canva
Canva – Teaching Materials (workshops, lesson plans, and more).