In this blog we share highlights from our March 2024 'Innovative EdTech' workshop, "Pixton 101: Bringing Comics into Education." This session focused on how to use Pixton, a dynamic tool for creating comics and graphic novels, to enrich your teaching toolkit.

What is Pixton?

Pixton is a versatile comic and graphic novel creation platform. It allows both teachers and students to create digital comic strips and graphic novels for various educational purposes. Here’s why Pixton stands out:

1. User-Friendly Interface: Its intuitive design makes it easy for educators and students to create visually stunning comics.

2. Privacy and Security: Pixton is committed to student privacy, being a signatory of the Student Privacy Pledge and certified COPPA and FERPA compliant by iKeepSafe.

Getting Started with Pixton

Sign-Up Process: Signing up is straightforward. Visit Pixton’s website and create an educator account using Google, Microsoft, or Clever credentials. Pixton offers options for students to join without creating individual accounts, making it seamless for classroom integration.

Educator Dashboard: The dashboard is your control centre, where you can create classes, manage students, and access various resources. Features include:

• Comic Maker: The core tool for creating comics.

• Avatar Creation: Students can personalize avatars, fostering engagement.

• Content Packs: Various thematic packs (e.g., historical events, literature) available, some requiring additional purchase.

Classroom Implementation

Creating a Classroom: Set up a new classroom by providing details such as grade and subject. Customise options to include or exclude specific avatar features to suit your classroom needs.

Adding Students: Pixton offers two methods for student access: via Google IDs or unique usernames generated by Pixton. The latter simplifies the process, ensuring easy login and participation.

Exploring Pixton’s Features

Comic Creation:

• Backgrounds and Characters: A wide range of customisable backgrounds and characters allows students to create detailed and relevant scenes.

• Objects and Props: Add handheld props, scenery elements, and more to enhance storytelling.

• Speech and Thought Bubbles: Incorporate dialogue and thoughts to bring comics to life.

• Facial Expressions and Actions: Customise characters’ emotions and actions to convey precise narratives.

Assessment and Feedback: Teachers can view all student-created comics within the classroom dashboard, providing a centralised place to assess work and give feedback.

Lesson Ideas and Applications

Pixton offers endless possibilities for classroom use. Here are some ideas:

1. Social Issues: Create comics addressing topics like climate change, poverty, or homelessness.

2. Text Summaries: Summarise chapters or units in subjects like English or History.

3. Visual Biographies: Students can create biographical comics, enhancing research and creativity skills.

4. Historical Events: Present historical periods or events in a visual format.

5. Social and Emotional Learning: Develop comics that model positive behaviours and social scenarios.

6. STEM Concepts: Explain complex scientific or mathematical ideas through engaging visuals.

Conclusion

Pixton is a powerful tool that brings creativity and engagement to the classroom. It’s simple to use and offers a variety of features to support diverse educational needs. Whether you're teaching literature, history, social issues, or STEM subjects, Pixton can help make learning more interactive and enjoyable for students.

If you would like to learn more about these tips, and many others watch the March episode of 'Innovative EdTech' now:

And, don't forget to stay connected with us at Evolve EdTech for more tips, resources, and updates. Visit our website, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and follow us on social media. Together, we can support our students and enrich their learning experiences through innovative educational technology.