Take a look inside 6 images
Virtual Nerd
Pros: Tutorials are high-quality and easy to follow; they cover a wide range of math topics.
Cons: Learning can be repetitive as all videos follow the same format; there's no active engagement for students.
Bottom Line: High-quality but monotonous math tutorials can be a good classroom supplement.
Teachers looking to build a flipped classroom (using technology to allow kids to learn at home, then come to class for interactive work) will love that clear tutorials are already created on Virtual Nerd. Students can watch the straightforward instruction and take notes at home, saving class time to focus on applying the concepts and working on cooperative projects. Additionally, students can use the videos to further explain concepts or to study independently for standardized tests.
Virtual Nerd claims to feature over 1,500 tutorial videos that can be used to supplement learning in middle and high school math classes, from sixth grade to high school. The videos cover topics such as Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry, along with additional videos on SAT and ACT math topics. Each tutorial provides a video of a teacher lecturing on a topic and writing on a whiteboard. Tutorials are separated by subject and organized by topic or according to Common Core State Standards, making the site easy to navigate. In 2013, Virtual Nerd was acquired by Pearson Education, which now provides all the content found on the site for free.
High school students will find a lot to work with on Virtual Nerd. ACT and SAT math tutorials provide opportunities for kids to review key concepts in preparation for those nerve-wracking, high-stakes tests. There's a lot of content here to explore, and the step-by-step methods they follow make it easier for students to build their math content knowledge in a straightforward and friendly way.
The videos all seem to be taught by the same person using the same method: a whiteboard and step-by-step instructions. While the quality and clarity of each lesson is excellent, over time, the tutorials could get a little monotonous. It would be difficult to convince younger students to explore the content on their own. High school students (and even university students), though, may find it a valuable resource for learning new concepts, filling in gaps, and getting a head start on new subject material.
Learning Rating
Overall Rating
Community Rating
Videos aligned with Common Core standards that have clear explanations and supporting visual notes.
I like to have videos that support each skill to offer to my students that they can use outside of the class. The same woman presents the videos. The visual is simple and basic with few distractions. I especially like the clear way she writes on the board. This is one of may favorite video sites for teaching.
Explore Our Favorite Tools
