BoomWriter Review

In the digital landscape of education, especially post-pandemic, the quest for effective and engaging tools for remote learning has become more pressing than ever. BoomWriter is a remarkable platform that not only rises to this challenge but also revolutionizes the way writing is taught and learned.

As a former teacher, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative potential of such tools in the classroom. BoomWriter, with its rich array of features, offers a robust solution for educators aiming to foster a dynamic, interactive, and personalized writing experience for their students.

What is BoomWriter?

BoomWriter is a dynamic and innovative digital platform designed to enhance the writing skills of students by integrating technology into the learning process. It offers an engaging and collaborative environment where students can participate in group writing projects, create and vote on story progressions, and see their work published.

With features that allow for real-time feedback, the creation of class journals, and the ability to tailor writing assignments to individual or class needs, BoomWriter transforms traditional writing exercises into an interactive, motivational, and highly personalized educational experience.

BoomWriter Features

Let’s start with BoomWriter setup! Getting started with BoomWriter is a breeze, catering to the diverse technological landscapes of various educational institutions. Whether it’s integrating through Google’s single sign-in for schools already utilizing Google for Education, or importing student details from an Excel or CSV file, the platform ensures a smooth setup process.

Another powerful feature of BoomWriter is its versatility in the types of writing activities it supports. From persuasive essays and poetry to non-fiction and vocabulary-based activities, BoomWriter does not just accommodate but actively encourages a wide spectrum of writing exercises. This versatility is crucial in catering to the diverse needs and interests of students, fostering an inclusive environment where every student can find their voice and writing style.

The real-time monitoring and feedback feature is really noteworthy, enabling educators to provide immediate and personalized feedback to students. This not only helps in addressing issues at the moment but also promotes a more tailored learning experience. The ability to add completed works to Boomwriter portfolios or publish them adds an extra layer of motivation for students, transforming writing from a mere classroom task to a potentially published piece of work.

BoomWriter’s Student Journals feature further enriches this experience. The ability to provide writing prompts and specify vocabulary items offers teachers a high degree of control over the learning content, while still ensuring student autonomy and creativity in their responses. The option for families to purchase a published copy of their child’s journal at the end of the school year is a thoughtful touch, providing a tangible and cherished keepsake of their child’s progress and creativity.

The process of creating a book with BoomWriter is not just an educational activity but a journey into the world of authorship. The platform’s unique voting system where students decide the progression of the story cultivates a sense of ownership and collaboration among students, an essential skill in today’s interconnected world. The inclusion of each child’s own ending as an alternative in the book is a stroke of genius, validating every student’s effort and creativity.

The affordability of the books, at just $12.99 plus P&P, makes this innovative educational tool accessible. The fact that both schools and parents can purchase these books ensures that every child has the opportunity to see their name in print, a powerful motivator and confidence booster.

Related: Writer’s Toolbox: Stephen King’s Writing Tips

BoomWriter Limitations

While BoomWriter undoubtedly offers a plethora of features that transform the traditional writing experience into an engaging and interactive journey, it’s essential to approach it with a balanced view by considering its limitations as well. This perspective is crucial, not just for educators making informed decisions about their teaching tools but also for understanding the holistic impact of such platforms on the educational process.

1. Technology Access and Skills: BoomWriter, like any digital platform, requires a basic level of technological infrastructure and digital literacy. Not all students may have access to stable internet connections or devices at home, potentially creating a divide in accessibility. Additionally, the learning curve associated with navigating a new digital platform may pose challenges for both students and educators, especially those less familiar with technology.
2. Student Engagement Variability: While BoomWriter promotes interactive and collaborative writing, student engagement levels can vary. The platform relies heavily on student motivation and participation, which might not be uniform across the board. Some students may feel intimidated or less inclined to participate in group writing or the voting process, especially if they fear their contributions might not be well-received.
3. Feedback and Grading Nuances: While the platform allows for real-time feedback, the quality and impact of this feedback largely depend on the educator’s commitment and time. Providing detailed, constructive feedback to each student can be time-consuming, and the effectiveness of such feedback can vary based on how well the platform’s tools align with each educator’s teaching style.
4. Overemphasis on Product over Process: While publishing a book or journal can be immensely gratifying and motivating, there’s a risk of overemphasizing the final product over the writing process. Learning to write is as much about the journey — brainstorming, drafting, revising, and reflecting — as it is about the end product. Ensuring that students appreciate and engage deeply with each step of this process is crucial.
5. Creative Constraints and Standardization: While BoomWriter offers structured writing activities, there’s a possibility that this structure might limit creative expression. The emphasis on group projects and assignments may lead to a standardization of writing outputs, potentially stifling individual creativity and unique writing styles.
6. Privacy and Data Security: As with any digital platform, there are inherent risks related to data privacy and security. Schools and educators must ensure that the use of BoomWriter complies with local regulations and policies, such as FERPA in the United States, regarding student data and privacy.

In considering these limitations, it’s important to remember that no educational tool is without its challenges. The key lies in understanding these limitations, mitigating them as much as possible, and leveraging the platform’s strengths to enhance the educational experience.

Final thoughts

BoomWriter is a great tool for enhancing writing skills and fostering a love for storytelling among students. Its strengths lie in its ability to make writing an interactive, collaborative, and engaging process, while also providing educators with robust tools to monitor progress and provide real-time feedback. The opportunity for students to see their work published is not only a significant confidence booster but also a memorable milestone in their educational journey.

However, embracing BoomWriter or any digital tool in the classroom requires a thoughtful approach. It’s about striking the right balance between leveraging technology to enhance learning and being mindful of the challenges, such as ensuring equitable access, maintaining student engagement, and preserving the creative essence of writing. As with any educational tool, the ultimate efficacy of BoomWriter will depend on how it’s integrated into the broader educational strategy, taking into account the unique needs and dynamics of each classroom.