Because Video Is How We Learn These Days:

EdPuzzle

@LisaBerghoff

Using video to learn is not new at all. Sesame Street has been around since 1969.  YouTube has been popular for its "how-to" content for many years. The idea of a "flipped classroom" became widely known in the early 2000's. The flipped classroom model is a learner-centered design where students are introduced to new concepts outside of school via videos or slide decks. This frees up classroom time for exploration of topics in greater depth. Teachers are able to use class time for answering questions and touching base with students on a more personal level. 

We all know that video has its merits, when it comes to learning, and the built in accessibility features are there for everyone's benefit. While the idea of creating engaging videos can feel daunting, with the vast number of video platforms, including YouTube, there is no real need to create your own. It can sometimes be hard to find exactly what you are looking for on YouTube. That's why I am so excited to reintroduce you to EdPuzzle.

 

On March 11th, 2020 we had a lovely woman from Edpuzzle who came and did some initial training with us and helped us understand how Edpuzzle integrates with Schoology. That was such a bizarre time to be teaching us about this tool that would get so much use in the coming year! I looked her up and I'm happy to say that she is still with Edpuzzle.  

Let's take a look at what EdPuzzle looks like in 2025. As always, think about what the learning goals are, and see how this tool can help support our students in meeting those goals. 

What Is Edpuzzle And Why Should I Use It?

Edpuzzle is a versatile online platform that allows you to transform video content into an active learning experience. It's a video editor and assessment tool rolled into one. You can use it with videos from popular sources like YouTube, TED, and National Geographic, or even upload your own. Edpuzzle also has its own library of high quality original videos. 
The magic of Edpuzzle lies in its ability to embed interactive elements directly into the video. As students watch, the video automatically pauses at points you've designated, prompting them to answer a question, listen to an audio note, or read a comment.

We are all tired of seeing our students looking like zombies staring at screens screens, but we aren't going to stop using video. By requiring students to interact with the content, Edpuzzle prevents passive viewing. Students can't just press play and zone out; they are held accountable for their attention and understanding. The platform's analytics provide real-time data on student progress. You can see who has watched the video, how much of it they've watched, and how they answered each question. This helps you quickly identify areas where students are struggling and adjust your instruction accordingly.

For our students who struggle, they can rewatch sections of the video as many times as they need to grasp a concept. You can also assign different videos to different students or groups to tailor the content to their specific needs. This fits in beautifully with our focus on access, belonging, and achievement. 

Edpuzzle isn't just for teachers. You can also have students create their own interactive video projects, demonstrating their understanding in a creative and engaging way.

How Do I Use Edpuzzle?

Ok, since Edpuzzle integrates with Schoology through something called an LTI application (Learning Tools Interoperability), you will go through a two-step process so your students will only have one step.

Here's step 1: 

• Find a Video: Log in to your Edpuzzle account. You can search for a video from a variety of sources directly within the platform, or paste a URL for a video you've already found. You can also upload a video you've created yourself.

• Edit the Video: Once you've selected a video, you'll be taken to the editor. Here, you can:

  • Trim: Cut the video to show only the most relevant sections.

  • Add Questions: Insert multiple-choice, open-ended, or true/false questions at any point in the video. The platform can automatically grade multiple-choice questions, saving you time.

  • Add Audio Notes or Narration: Record your voice to provide further explanations or emphasize key points. This adds a personal touch and makes the lesson feel more like a one-on-one conversation.

While it may be tempting to click on the "assign" button in Edpuzzle, don't! You will assign in Schoology in the next step. 

Here's step 2: 

• Once you have selected your video and you have your interactive elements the way you want them, go to Schoology.  Here are the steps to assign in Schoology. 
• Go to your materials page and click Add Materials, choose Add Link/File/External Tool.
• Select External Tool and choose Edpuzzle from the dropdown menu. Enter a title, select Enable Grading, and add your other assignment details like date, category, etc. Click Submit

Here's what that looks like: 

• Then, click on the Edpuzzle assignment you just created. You will be prompted to sign into Schoology and "create a class". The class is already autogenerated so just fill in the blanks. This is where you can adjust the controls. How many attempts are allowed? Do you want students to be able to speed up the video? Enable close captions? The next time you go to the assignment, you will see your students' progress and class analytics here. 

If it is set to auto-grade the grade will automatically go into the grade book. 

I know this seems like a lot to remember, but once you do it one time, the workflow makes a lot of sense.

Plus, that's what I am here for! Want some help getting started with Edpuzzle? Let me know. I'm happy to work with you.