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Mixing it Up with Mangahigh: Using Games to Differentiate Instruction | Edutopia - 8 views

www.edutopia.org/...te-instruction-kristof-mueller instruction differentiation games web2.0
shared by Maria Ing on 22 Jul 14 - No Cached
  • Tip #1: Pre-Assessment - Know What Your Students Know and Can Do
  • While the students are playing, I will note which ones are struggling with the prior knowledge, and which ones quickly master it and are ready to move on. Using my notes and Mangahigh's teacher reports, I'm ready to plan lessons that precisely target the needs of the majority of students. I can also plan interventions for those who need them, and challenges for those who are ready.
    • Maria Ing
      Maria Ing on 22 Jul 14
       
      Pre-Assessments are great tools to help identify strong and weak areas for students. Do you feel that online games could better assess student abilities and allow for more differentiated instruction than a paper and pencil pre-test or a "KWL" chart? Please explain your answer.
    • textraveller
      textraveller on 28 Jul 14
       
      Of course the answer isn't going to be back and white, but my answer would is "Maybe." Online games definitely address the issue of student motivation more effectively than KWL charts. I find KWL charts get old really quickly for students, just like anything you do over and over. So as teachers we try to switch it up, add variety, etc. An effectively designed online game could be a great change of pace. It seems like there would be a learning curve for the teacher as well, though. The teacher would have to get used to being able to quickly assess student progress on the screen. Depending on the game, that may or may not be possible. - C Hilgeman
    • ksspurgin
      ksspurgin on 30 Jul 14
       
      Does anyone else ever feel like pre-assessment (I mean the kind that really gives you valuable data), takes more time than you have to give it? I always feel pressured by the amount of content that must be covered before the STAAR test. Pre-assessments and differentiating instruction are things I do but I don't think I do them all that well simply due to a lack of time. This online game might be a helpful tool and yes, I do believe it would probably give more accurate information than a KWL chart. With the KWL charts students share too much information with each other.
    • Maria Ing
      Maria Ing on 03 Aug 14
       
      Thank you C. Hilgeman, I think you make a good point. No matter what you do, if you do it over and over, it gets boring. I think even if they played the same games repeatedly they would get bored. If the program that they are talking about in this article allows for a variety of games and continues to challenge, then maybe it would prevent the mundaneness of doing the same thing all the time. ksspurgin, I think the pre-assessment does take a lot of time. I know that I don't give one because in order to cover all my material required by testing I really need to start my material on the second day of class. That leaves no time for pre-assessment. I think if I had an electronic pre-assessment like the game, it would be much easier because it could process the data for me versus me having to take time to do it when I needed to be preparing materials for the six weeks.
  • Tip #2: Formative Assessment - Know Your Curriculum
  • ...5 more annotations...
  • Prodigi quiz engine satisfies my hunger for data, allowing me to collect data during class, as well as review it later through reports and a gradebook. And by circulating during class, I can support students with targeted feedback. After class, I can check their high scores and the amount of time spent on task, and see which math problems were causing the most confusion -- which helps me plan better lessons in future.
    • Maria Ing
      Maria Ing on 22 Jul 14
       
      Formative assessment allows teacher to informally "test" students on their understanding of concepts. It also allows for the identification of misconceptions or misunderstandings. Please share a formative assessment strategy you are familiar with. Do you think that using a educational game such as the one in the article would be more, less or have the same benefit to the teacher and students as "traditional" formative assessments?
  • Tip #3: Goldilocks Principle - Find the Sweet Spot
  • When students are in the Goldilocks zone, the game keeps them there, progressing at just the right pace to keep them challenged and engaged.
    • Maria Ing
      Maria Ing on 22 Jul 14
       
      I love this term, "Goldilocks zone" to describe what they call the "sweet spot." It is a challenge in every class to find this pace for each student. I always seem to have some students who breeze through the material, which makes me feel it may not have been challenging enough. On the same token, I have students in the same class that are struggling and expressing that I am going to fast. I think if I could have a educational game that challenged each student at their proficiency level and allowed me to be sure each of them got the attention and support they needed to obtain the knowledge needed, I would be ecstatic!
  • In my classroom, the difficult goal of differentiated instruction is made easier by games and data. While a new generation of classroom tools, like Mangahigh's games and adaptive quiz technology, give me both of these ingredients in one place, it's all about how the teacher uses games and data to effectively differentiate instruction.
    • Maria Ing
      Maria Ing on 22 Jul 14
       
      Differentiated instruction is not a new term, it has been around awhile. I think most teachers still struggle with differentiating instruction enough to reach all levels of learners in their classrooms. I hope that as technology progresses and becomes more readily available, especially in the educational realm, it will be a problem that won't be so difficult to solve.
    • Maria Ing
      Maria Ing on 22 Jul 14
       
      Watch this video about using online math games to differentiate instruction.  Educators in K-12 are expected to vary instruction based on a students needs and abilities.  What are some ways that you have successfully differentiated instruction in your classroom?  If you are not a teacher, give an idea of how you think instruction could be differentiated.  
  • mrigal on 27 Jul 14
     
    Many digital natives, which are today's students, play video games. They are many supporting facts that video games can enhance student learning. Of course the learning will depend on the design of the game. As the video shows, video games can be designed by the teacher that is linked towards learning goals. To add, video games can be a strategic which may be challenging to the mind - increasing mind power and learning.
  • Maria Ing on 03 Aug 14
     
    I fully agree, games are only as useful as much as they connect to the content that we are trying to teach. If the game is designed well, students can learn a lot from it because it caused repetitive practice of concepts.
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Differentiation Meets Digital Technology | literacy beat - 12 views

literacybeat.com/...differentiation-tech differentiation technology education
shared by Rosalyn Martinez on 09 Feb 15 - No Cached
  • Differentiation is an elegant mindset that suggests to teachers a framework that permits them to engage students while focusing on learning results, and digital technologies offer many opportunities to differentiate instruction in meaningful ways.
  • three-phase approach to planning differentiated instruction: Where do we start planning for differentiated instruction with technology, What are considerations for who we teach, what we teach, and how we plan? How do I put it all together?
  • Planning differentiated instruction enhanced by technology is a perfect fit for the principles of understanding by design (Wiggins & McTighe, 2005) in which teachers plan instruction based on the results they intend for their students.
  • ...14 more annotations...
  • This means that before any digital tools are chosen, before a single activity is determined, before assessment instruments are designed, the intended results must be decided.
  • It will be tempting to think something like, “I really love Prezi and Glogster” so I’ll design my activity around those two tools.” An analogy might be helpful here as a kind of caution about choosing the technology before moving forward with other aspects of instruction.
  • Once we have a firm grasp on what results we expect based on standards and objectives, we can begin to think about the best ways to challenge our students.
  • Curricular elements we can differentiate commonly include the processes of learning, the products of learning, and the content on which learning is based (Tomlinson, 2001).
  • High-quality differentiation typically means different students doing different things that lead to achievement of a common learning goal.  Developing options is an effective way to put differentiation into effect.
  • Teachers develop options that meet identified learner needs while keeping key attributes of the target concepts and results in mind.
  • They can be simple tinkering (or micro-differentiation, as Tomlinson, 2001, asserts) or those digital tools can vastly improve how students learn and how they interact in our digital world.
  • How digital technologies are embedded in the learning tasks is vitally important
  • In the following example tasks, notice how the tools enhance the learning rather than restrict it; at the same time students are encouraged to use new literacy skills in learning as they complete the tasks.
  • In your classroom, what successful tasks have you designed with the end in mind that were built on solid principles of differentiation and use of digital technologies?
    • Rosalyn Martinez
      Rosalyn Martinez on 09 Feb 15
       
      I like that the author gets to the point immediately. He defines "differentiation" for the reader and explains a three-phase approach to planning this type of instruction.
    • Rosalyn Martinez
      Rosalyn Martinez on 09 Feb 15
       
      The author is very helpful. He provides useful tips on getting started in the planning process of differentiated instruction.
    • Rosalyn Martinez
      Rosalyn Martinez on 09 Feb 15
       
      Check out these videos! They are extremely helpful & provide a great visual on how to plan differentiated instruction and how differentiation meets digital technology.
    • Rosalyn Martinez
      Rosalyn Martinez on 09 Feb 15
       
      The following are some great examples to help you get started on planning your differentiated instruction.
  • Rosalyn Martinez on 09 Feb 15
     
    This is a great article about differentiating instruction with the use of digital tools. Have you considered differentiating instruction? If so, please provide an example to share with the group as to how you differentiated instruction on a particular lesson and/or how you differentiated an assignment. If you haven't considered differentiation, please state how you feel about this topic now that you are better informed.
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  • marie_lara on 09 Feb 15
     
    That is a very interesting article! No, I have considered this as it is defined, or specified. Actually I suggested something like this awhile back when I was teaching a group of adult students in computer basics. Some of the drawbacks were brought up by others, such as it would require many more resources than we had available at the time.
  • Rosalyn Martinez on 11 Feb 15
     
    Thank you for your response, Marie! I'm certain there are drawbacks due to lack of resources, and I'm sure it's time consuming to set up. Still, I would really like to try this in the near future. Thanks again.
  • jnfreeman7 on 24 Feb 15
     
    Differentiation is hard to do in the first place. When you have students in your classroom that are on 4 different levels and your students are not self directed or self motivated learners there are not enough "you" to go around the room. Technology can allow you to be in more than one place at a time. My favorite way to use technology for differentiation is the flipped classroom model. It can allow for students to work at their own pace and gives the teacher more time and freedom to differentiate during class.
  • Rosalyn Martinez on 01 Mar 15
     
    I agree with you, Jeannine. Differentiation can very difficult especially when you have various levels of student learning. I was unfamiliar with the flipped classroom model. I'm glad you mentioned it. I've researched it and can see how it would help so many students. One idea mentioned in an article I read was to have students view short videos of an upcoming lesson. On the day of the lesson, students are then able to focus on the lesson itself and work on exercises & activities in the classroom. We do that in this class & it really does help. FYI - the article I read on this subject can be located at https://net.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/eli7081.pdf.
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How Collaborative Learning Leads to Student Success | Edutopia - 8 views

www.edutopia.org/borative-learning-college-prep
shared by Stephen Simon on 14 Apr 14 - No Cached
  • "What our collaborative learning style empowers and enables is a student's resilience -- how do you look to your neighbor as a resource, how do you test your own theories, how do you understand if you're on the right track or the wrong track?"
  • But now it's clear to her why allowing her students to learn in this way is so powerful. "They're learning more than just math," she says. "They're learning to be more proactive; they're learning how to depend on their peers. When they go off to college, they already know how to work with people and draw out their strengths."
    • lbanuelos
      lbanuelos on 20 Apr 14
       
      When students engage in peer learning, the build self esteem and a sense of responsibility. http://www.cte.cornell.edu/teaching-ideas/engaging-students/collaborative-learning.html
    • Stephen Simon
      Stephen Simon on 01 May 14
       
      Being more proactive enhances how we move forward with advancements in every discipline. College Prep forces students to learn to depend on each other in times of need and stress. Leaving the nest is an experience that everyone who goes away for college encounters. The more at ease you feel when join a new group in a new setting just lubricates the learning environment.
    • Don Martin
      Don Martin on 04 May 14
       
      I like the statement that students are learning more than math. What are they learning? They are learning life skills that cross the content area boundaries. Skills such as critical thinking which are so important in problem solving, creativity and general success can only be learned through collaborative learning. It is not possible to learn to depend on peers or to learn teamwork without working with others in a collaborative environment. In order to be proactive you have to be able to see the possibilities before they occur, this can't be done without interacting with a complex environment that involves others. You cannot predict in a system you have no familiarity with. Collaboration is a key scaffolding tool in the effort to constantly expand understanding and performance.
  • In math, for instance, the teachers prompt the students to ask each other their questions before asking the teacher, so that students learn to rely on their own collective wisdom.
    • lbanuelos
      lbanuelos on 20 Apr 14
       
      Peer learning is a mutual experience where student make equal contributions. Learning is also less formal. It may start in the classroom but can continue through social media.
    • Stephen Simon
      Stephen Simon on 01 May 14
       
      It's now OK to ask your classmate for help. This is a great idea and really fosters two things: learning and socialization. When certain tasks are intentionally harder, it nudges the student to explore if their classmates are having the same situation: a shared learning experience. This is an awesome approach to what can be both tedious and difficult in nature. This particular paradigm to math will foster metacognition in the individual learner.
  • lbanuelos on 14 Apr 14
     
    With the onset of many Web 2.0 tools we can all agree that collaboration is easier that ever before. As a student in high school I remember doing poorly in one of my Spanish classes so my teacher sat me next to another student that was doing much better. Together all three of us formed a partnership that ultimately helped me pass that class. Back then I never really understood why it was easier for me to learn with the help of my peer. How can we as educators encourage collaboration in the classroom? http://www.smu.edu/~/media/Site/Simmons/CCCD/Peer%20Teaching%20in%20Math.ashx
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  • eeverett3 on 14 Apr 14
     
    After the sticker shock of the private high school costs, I was able to focus on the many ways they are using collabortion! What I enjoy in collaborative efforts is watching the students justify their answers/opinions. That is going to serve them well in future jobs.
  • Jeff Blackman on 14 Apr 14
     
    I think the tools we will be showcasing in this class could be one way. I didn't realize there were so many of these types of tools out there and I'm looking forward to hearing about more. It can be overwhelming, though. So, I'd pick one or two to focus on and get my students going on those.
  • Araceli Gracia on 14 Apr 14
     
    Luis, I think teachers and administration would encourage more collaboration, but since everything is so data driven, they are weary of what that would do to their numbers especially in the upper grades. I like the idea of collaboration because like your article mentioned students do not all have to agree and they are able to challenge each others ideas. The opportunity to work with others gives everyone a chance to learn from one another, however there could be students who do not like being part of a group. My younger son sometimes does get frustrated when in a group, since he is just one of those who likes to work alone. http://www.districtadministration.com/article/benefits-teacher-collaboration
  • Brenda Wohlfeil on 17 Apr 14
     
    As a math teacher, I love having my students collaborate. However, I found that just throwing a group of students together and hoping for the best does not work. I found an article called "So Collaborative Learning Tips and Strategies for Teachers" that summarizes a lot of what I have learned in to have successful collaborate learning. Check it out, it is one that you might like to bookmark for future reference. http://www.teachthought.com/learning/20-collaborative-learning-tips-and-strategies/
  • Brenda Wohlfeil on 17 Apr 14
     
    Elizabeth, I had to laugh at your mentioning the sticker shock! I was thinking I must be in the wrong private school. Although my private school is in Texas, the Archdiocese of San Antonio decided to incorporate the instructional shifts of Common Core, especially the mathematical practices. I find that collaboration is strongly needed in satisfying these practices. Collaborating is essential in make sense of problems and persevere in solving them. (MP.1) and constructing viable arguments and critiquing the reasoning of others. (MP.3) One of my favorite activities is to put a challenging problem on the board and have the students collaborate in groups to solve it. Then the groups debate between themselves as to the correct answers. We have many lively discussions. http://www.corestandards.org/Math/Practice/
  • Don Martin on 20 Apr 14
     
    For me the best thing about collaboration is that it all fits well with the things that I feel work best in the classroom. I am a big proponent of scaffolding in the zone of proximal development. Problem based learning (PBL) and task centered learning (TCL) are two of my favorite scaffolding tools. Many of the web 2.0 tools we have seen this semester are excellent tools to help develop PBL and TCL experiences. The collaborative nature of many of the Web 2.0 tools lends itself well to learners helping learners and I think this is the best method of learning that we can foster in our classrooms whether they are online or face to face. Collaboration is great but it needs structure and guidance in order to be effective and have long lasting results.
  • Eric Folks on 20 Apr 14
     
    I'd say I'm going to play devil's advocate here and argue what I don't really believe, but I'll be honest: I'm on the fence about collaborative learning. I know in this day and age disparaging collaborative learning is like arguing for ObamaCare in Texas, especially with Social Media and sharing tools everywhere - many, many of which I use and advocate - but working in a group sometimes frustrates the snot out of me, and I'm not alone. http://www.wcer.wisc.edu/archive/cl1/cl/story/middlecc/TSCMD.htm#speed Some people like to just get the work done on their own, at their own speed, without all the trials and tribulations of working in a group. Here it is, Sunday night, and my son and I are waiting to hear back on a video presentation due tomorrow for his 8th grade English class. Obviously they're done with their Staar test and have more time and flexibility than they did a couple months ago, but the teacher has instructed them to work together collaboratively on a video version of a book they read...completely outside of class. So having worked through the challenges of scheduling a shooting time for the raw clips, and the challenges of everyone voicing different ideas on what to shoot, how to shoot, how to operate and so on, we finally got all the raw footage put together Friday afternoon. I keep saying "we" because for some reason my wife didn't want my 13 year old son going over to someone's house and recording themselves shooting BB guns !? Anyway, we specifically agreed and confirmed with one kid, who volunteered to do the editing and put the video together, that we wouldn't wait till Monday to see it for the first time. I send him the footage clips in the form of a Dropbox link Friday evening. At 12:15 AM last night he says he just got them and will hopefully get the video to us sometime today (even though the sent email below showed he rec'd the email Friday). Same old small group story. I know there are times when we need to collaborate in the real w
  • Jose Escobedo on 20 Apr 14
     
    Eric, I feel your pain. I have to say I remember those days when my kids brought group projects and were always waiting for the group to meet during the weekend. Like always dad had to help on Sunday night. Of course the main excuse they got from their peers was the lack of transportation. Luis made a good point when he mentioned the availability of Web 2.0 tools. With all these real time collaboration tools it should be easier for my youngest daughter once she gets to Middle School and HS.
  • Brenda Wohlfeil on 20 Apr 14
     
    Eric, I also feel your pain. My daughter ends up doing most of the work on collaborative projects. But I think with the tips in the link I left and teachers giving students time to work on projects in class, a lot of this pain we go through could be alleviated.
  • Don Martin on 26 Apr 14
     
    Eric, I believe the fault is not in the concept of collaborative learning but in the design of the collaborative project. How can there be a fault in any learning tool or style that works? When we look at anything we do or use in the classroom if that system fails it is usually a design flaw as a result of the creator. Power Point is a great example, I don't claim to be a power user of Power Point but I know what the system is capable of and I know when I have seen a really bad presentation. Collaboration is no different, it takes a great deal of thought and effort on the part of the instructor to create a successful collaborative exercise that can be used to scaffold a class or subject effectively. I think that if you went back and looked at the design of the project you could probably identify ways to make it better and make it work. If you do that you should send feedback to your child's teacher, let them know what the problem was for your child and give them feedback on how to fix it. Remember, teachers are learners too!
  • Eric Folks on 26 Apr 14
     
    Don, I train 240 teachers and even more para professionals and staff on an ongoing basis. I get that they are learner too. My point was not that any and all collaborative learning models are flawed; it was that it's proponents seem to go unchallenged and in practice, many times anything deemed or labeled "collaborative" is considered good teaching. I believe collaborative learning has its place, but I also believe individual learning does as well. If the project is collaborative, there must be clearly delineated roles and rubrics, and "group" grades must be coupled with grades that target individual contributions. Google Docs and Murally are just two tools of many I share with teachers to more accurately determine who has done what and when.
  • Stephen Simon on 01 May 14
     
    "How Collaborative Learning Leads to Student Success"
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5 Ways Google Glass Can Be Used in Education - 3 views

www.emergingedtech.com/...glass-can-be-used-in-education
shared by Araceli Gracia on 02 Mar 14 - No Cached
    • Araceli Gracia
      Araceli Gracia on 02 Mar 14
       
      Just like every other new technology, such as cell phones, tablets, etc... it is costly at first.
    • Olivia Basham
      Olivia Basham on 31 Mar 14
       
      There have been no studies on the long term effects to the eyes and visual processing centers of the brain done on devices like these. I hope these kinds of studies will be done before this technology is put into the hands of children, who's eyes and brains are the most vulnerable.
  • Jeff Blackman on 06 Mar 14
     
    Sounds like it has a lot of potential! I will be very interested to see Google Glass in action. I don't know a whole lot about it but this article had some interesting ideas. Of course, like any technology, it will take some good instructional design to really make it more than just a "flavor of the month" for learning.
  • Araceli Gracia on 06 Mar 14
     
    Having this type of technology would be fantastic. However, I can see how it could also be intimidating to those who are not very comfortable with technology who are set in their ways about teaching. Hopefully they would be open to using Google Glass.
2More

HSLDA | Homeschooling Thru High School : Curriculum - 2 views

www.hslda.org/...curriculum.asp
shared by Brenda Wohlfeil on 07 Apr 14 - No Cached
  • Brenda Wohlfeil on 07 Apr 14
     
    I know as teachers we often associate online classes with the public school system. But a market that is growing in online classes is the homeschool market. This webpage gives you an idea of how many online programs already reach the home schooled student. However, According to Brian Ray, PhD, in 2011, there are approximately 2.04 million homeschool students. (https://www.nheri.org/HomeschoolPopulationReport2010.pdf) There is a lot of potential in this market yet for new and engaging classes.
  • Jeff Blackman on 14 Apr 14
     
    This is great to know both as a parent and as a developer/designer of online content. We are strongly considering homeschooling for when my son reaches high school age. My concern is always "what would he be missing?" along with "how are we going to make sure he learns the 'right' things?" Knowing that there is already so much out there (and more to come by the time he'd be ready) is very encouraging. He is already very comfortable on the computer and loves to learn and research with it. I think these types of classes plus involvement in various extracurricular activities like he is now, could be a really great opportunity.
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Social Networking in Schools - 4 views

www.huffingtonpost.com/...tworking-schools_n_840911.html education technology classroom teaching computer Web2.0 bullying
shared by Olivia Basham on 08 Apr 14 - No Cached
  • Olivia Basham on 08 Apr 14
     
    No one doubts the value of online collaboration to students and the classroom. However, there is much controversy and debate about how and if social networking is appropriate for the classroom and beyond. Fears about sexual predators and bullying have made educators ask if perhaps the benefits don't outweigh the risk.
  • ...11 more comments...
  • Araceli Gracia on 09 Apr 14
     
    Olivia, I can understand how there would be concerns about online predators and bullying but I think that this is something that could be monitored in a control environment. I realize the situation may not always be ideal but your article explains all the good that can come of online collaboration, such as a decrease in students being absent. Students are already using I pads, kindles, laptops, etc... for other activities, why not encourage that use for something positive that will motivate them in the classroom. I http://www.onlineuniversities.com/blog/2010/05/100-inspiring-ways-to-use-social-media-in-the-classroom/
  • Merrill Redfern on 11 Apr 14
     
    I have a book club that consists of 10 4th grade students. We communicate mostly through Kidblog. We do meet once a week however, the kids love posting on their blog outside of the school's four walls. I love that they are discussing book club topics outside of the classroom. They feel empowered when they have the opportunity to make decisions such as, what avatar to create and how they want their individual blog to appear. I've made our blog a very controlled environment in that it is set as private and password protected, just the members have access. In addition, posts must be approved by me before they go out in our blog world (which consists of the 11 of us, plus our principal). Other than the introduction to Kidblog, I began with an author study by providing links to author interviews via a YouTube channel for the students. We have embedded Google forms in our blog for a quick assessment. Overall, it has been successful and the students are excited and remain engaged with our activities.
  • Merrill Redfern on 11 Apr 14
  • Eric Folks on 11 Apr 14
     
    We've come along way as a district. Into thousand 10 when I arrived teacher to not have the ability to create a folder on the desktop. They have access to basically all sites, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube...and many of them are even active on these sites, uploading and sharing resources with other teachers and students. Here is a link to the guidelines we've established for use of YouTube and Facebook: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BMXrouaj67SFh-BISriU24a59c9mk8-K-9K9qeEEW4E/pub Still, the communication is primarily one-way: teachers disseminate information to their students through social media, but do not collaborate with students in real time, nor do they encourage students to collaborate with each other using social media. That may come down the road. For now, I'm happy we have continued to move away from the top-down control model to the empower the end user and give them the benefit of doubt...we don't want our students leaving a walled garden environment to fall on their face in the real world, where their aren't heavy-handed content filters in place. We need to wean them off being told what to do and educate them to make good decisions. With that in mind we moved in 2012 from an Acceptable Use Policy to a Responsible Use Policy. Here's what the student version looked like (https://www.dropbox.com/s/iwqu8kf9qmvlmuu/2012-2013%20Student%20RUP.pdf) and here's the teacher version (http://www.lampasas.k12.tx.us/files/filesystem/responsible%20use%20policy-employee.pdf). We considered opening up G+ to students as it's part of our GAFE suite of services, but tech tells me if we do, students, even younger ones, will be able to communicate with users outside our sub domain / walled garden. Thoughts? Have you found this to be true in your district? We are also looking at Office 365 and Sharepoint in terms of a training ground for safe student social networking....we will see what it can do in the coming weeks. For now, most of our teachers are comfortable using
  • Olivia Basham on 13 Apr 14
     
    Araceli, I agree that the benefits DO outweigh the risks especially when controls are put into place and certain systems are used. I try to stick to closed systems, but recently I have been hosting all my courses' book discussions via GoodReads.com, which is open. I teach high school students though, so I feel like I have an opportunity to teach intelligent internet use. For example, not only forbidding students from using actual pictures of themselves and never posting their age or location, but also teaching them why those are bad ideas through digital citizenship lessons. I honestly don't know how I would handle social networking with younger students, but I suspect I would stick only to closed systems.
  • Olivia Basham on 13 Apr 14
     
    Eric, Our district has recently decided to open up G+ to our students with good results so far. Because the students are still behind the school district Google web-mail (which provides them a kind-of "dummy" email that can't send or receive messages) their online visibility is very limited and no personal information is shared (as none exists other than their names). However, the program has just launched and many parents have expressed discomfort, especially with elementary and jr. high students. I'm taking a wait and see attitude as far as making any judgements.
  • lbanuelos on 14 Apr 14
     
    With the onset of Web 2.0 tools, collaboration between students and teachers is easier than ever before. I agree with Araceli that the risks far outweigh the risks. With apps like slideshare, slidebomb, google drive, and dropbox, students are encourage to provide feedback to fellow students with leads to increase confidence. http://www.edutopia.org/stw-collaborative-learning-college-prep
  • Jeff Blackman on 14 Apr 14
     
    As a parent, it would have to be REALLY controlled and closed for me to let my kids use it. I am appalled at some of the things I see kids posting on Facebook and other social media. Obviously, as someone in the EdTech program, I am seeing a lot of awesome ways to use technology. So, while not dead set against social media in the classroom, I would need to know what safeguards were in place and I would still be watching like a hawk.
  • Brenda Wohlfeil on 17 Apr 14
     
    We have banned social networking in school except using Edmodo, which the teachers can monitor. Our school has problems with social networking without even having it in the school! Parents feel it is the school's issue because problems are occurring between students, even though it is occurring outside of school. In my honest opinion, parents need to be better educated about social networking and take responsibility for their own children. As a parent of a child who did not use social media well, I know it is tough to restrict internet/website usage. But it is possible and needed.
  • Don Martin on 20 Apr 14
     
    Olivia, I don't see any reason that we couldn't incorporate the use of social media within the closed classroom environment. There must be many opportunities for collaboration, communication and scaffolding using social media in a controlled and safe environment. There are also many social networking sites that are designed specifically with kids in mind. Among them are: 1. Scuttlepad (2010) Age 7+ Social network with training wheels is safe but limited. 2. Togetherville (2010) Age 7+ Kids' social site connects to parents' Facebook friends. 3. WhatsWhat.me (2011) Age7+ Tween social network with top-notch safety features. 4. YourSphere (2009) Age 9+ Kid-only social network promises to block dangerous adults. 5. Franktown Rocks (2009) Age 10+ Music and social networking combine in safe, cool hangout. 6. GiantHello (2010) Age 10+ Facebook-lite gets a lot right, but watch out for games. 7. GirlSense (2009) Age 10+ Safe, creative community for tween fashionistas. 8. Sweety High (2010) Age 11+ Fun, closed social network for girls is strong on privacy. 9. Imbee (2011) Age 10+ Safer social networking if parents stay involved. With proper guidance and parental involvement I don't see any reason that we can't take advantage of the opportunities that social networking could provide.
  • eeverett3 on 21 Apr 14
     
    I think that one of the main reasons that student interest and engagement increases with the use of social media tools is that these tools are familiar and easy for the students to use...it is not only teachers that are intimidated by new tools! :)
  • Araceli Gracia on 21 Apr 14
     
    Thank you Don for your list of websites. That is awesome!!
  • Stephen Simon on 22 Apr 14
     
    My perception of social media in school is that it is essential to the process of development. That it is beyond the understanding of current educators should come as no surprise; one needs a point of reference in order understand the magnitude of such technological developments. Don made an excellent point concerning proper guidance and parental involvement; the latter representing the tired and overworked. Consider that many of our fellow classmates push themselves in these Master's classes at a cost to their personal lives. Social-ability is essential to our family core values and from it comes the capacity of the new generation to take the torch to the next.
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My Students Don't Know How to Have a Conversation - Paul Barnwell - The Atlantic - 8 views

www.theatlantic.com/...360993
shared by Stephen Simon on 22 Apr 14 - No Cached
  • Turkle wrote, “Face-to-face conversation unfolds slowly. It teaches patience. When we communicate on our digital devices, we learn different habits … we start to expect faster answers. To get these, we ask one another simpler questions. We dumb down our communications, even on the most important matters.” 
    • Stephen Simon
      Stephen Simon on 01 May 14
       
      Dumbing down online conversations has become the norm. To me personally, I believe that it a cautionary approach to communication since the impersonal tweet or IM is too often misinterpreted. What follows is usually personal offense since there are no other cues to communication when you are online. Therefore we dumb down our communications. Even just having a voice conversation is better than posting anyday.
  • Jeff Blackman on 22 Apr 14
     
    I thought this made a really good point about the way students are using technology and how we as educators need to be mindful of the way we allow it's use. How can we effectively combine all of these incredible technology tools with a good dose of humanity?
  • ...6 more comments...
  • eeverett3 on 23 Apr 14
     
    It would be very nice if our students learn to make eye contact with each other as well...:) I cannot tell you how many times a day, students stand at my desk waiting for me to read their minds as they converse on cell phones and listen to their earbuds...I am supposed to assume they would like to use a computer and sign them in. I like to just wait them out...and I frequently say, "Words are your friends! Use them to ask for what you want!"
  • Araceli Gracia on 23 Apr 14
     
    I went to check my 18 year old son's cell phone usage and in one month he had 3143!! What do he and his friends text about is beyond me. Texting to him is so second nature, that he could with out a doubt do it without even looking at the keys. However, even with all his texting, he can hold a conversation. I feel this has to do with experiences that he has had in his life. It also helps that he is not shy. In the elementary level this not a big issue because they all love to talk not only to each other but to their teacher. I like the idea of having students use their phones to record themselves speaking, debating, etc... This is probably a good trial and error for anyone having to do any type of public speaking. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/03/text-messaging-texting-conversation_n_1566408.html
  • Jose Escobedo on 24 Apr 14
     
    "Muzzle Memory" is what my daughter developed with her cell phone when I was trying to hold a decent conversation. Every time we had a conversation, she had to pick up her smart phone to check or send a text message. Her actions were not due to a rebellious attitude but to her muzzle memory. It's part of their life and I constantly see it here at my workplace. Many can't live without looking at their phone throughout the day even in meetings. I have to constantly call out people who are on their phone while the meeting is in progress. I find it hilarious when people get grumpy since their phone is nowhere near them for motivational support.
  • Jeff Blackman on 25 Apr 14
     
    Thanks for the comments! So, what do you all think would be some ways to engage learners using both technology and human interaction? I like the way it is handled in classes I've taken through the EdTech program. I like using the technology to learn but I also like the fact that we get together 'live" and are able to interact with the instructors and each other.
  • Brenda Wohlfeil on 25 Apr 14
     
    Although texting may not teach our students how to converse well, there is a lot of technology out there that promotes the skills of a good conversationalist. Below is a link which the author talks shows how technology is helping in kindergarten. Jeff, I think there are many opportunities. For example, using Collaborate, Skype or Google Hangout with students to collaborate or giving feed back. http://smartblogs.com/education/2014/04/10/using-technology-to-enrich-kindergarten-conversations/
  • Don Martin on 04 May 14
     
    I have said it before but I think it is worth saying here again. I don't think the technology or even the format of the technology is the problem. the problem is our understanding or misundertanding of how the technology can and should be used. We have always had some form of short and to the point communication whether it was a bulletin board, an announcement or a short phone message. Short messaging and quick messaging have indeed become more prevalent but that does not mean that internet technologies can't be used to promote communication. We need to recalibrate ourselves and begin studying how best to use technology in promoting communication which in turn promotes collaboration and cooperation. It may well turn out that the communication of the future looks fundamentally different from what we have seen in the past but it doesn't mean it will somehow be inferior. In fact, if we consider just the ability to communicate information and respond to immediate concerns the communications system we have evolved (or maybe revolutionized is a better word) into today is in fact far superior to what we had available to us only 10 years ago. Often times we see something as a problem or an issue because it is not what we are used to or accept as the norm when in fact what we should be doing is looking for the opportunity that has just presented to us. I believe that as a society we are in one of those pivotal moments of paradigm shift. This is one of those periods where people will look back from the future and call it the "Age of ????" What they choose to call it will depend on their perception is of how well we handled the moment and how well we adapted to the new situation. Think back to the the bronze age and the revolution that metal working brought to mankind. Compare today to the age of steam or the industrial age. I believe the comparison is warranted and that in fact this may be a more important time in human development than some of those earlier "ages".
  • Merrill Redfern on 05 May 14
     
    At the beginning of the year, I was surprised how many devices we took up in my elementary school. We have a box in the school office designated for devices. The students, as young as 2nd grade, check them in in the morning when they come to school and check them out as the school day ends. Many of those students are still learning social skills so I can understand how devices given to children that young and used freely, can influence their social skills. On the other hand, devices are great to use in education if used properly.
  • Merrill Redfern on 05 May 14
     
    Jeff, That is a good question. What are some ways to engage learners using both technology and human interaction? The first thing that comes to my mind is the reflection process. For example, students can gain and collect their information using a device and reflect on their findings with one another through human interaction. Maybe give it a "contest" theme and allow them to "one up" each other with their information. Of course, the expectations would be adjusted per grade level but this would provide an opportunity to use a device AND talk to each other. Two things kiddos, especially little ones, already love to do :).
17More

Five Ways To Bring Technology into the Classroom Without the Gadgets | Alisa ... - 7 views

www.huffingtonpost.com/...without-gadgets_b_5324611.html education technology classroom
shared by cinthia_sierra on 15 Jun 14 - No Cached
  • Technology was originally idealized as the panacea for our nation's "failing schools"
  • The reality is in the middle: Technology is not a panacea, but used effectively and implemented purposefully, it can help transform how our children experience school.
  • For us, having our students engage in real-world learning experiences is a priority, so we utilized technologies like video-conferencing that enabled making those connections.
  • ...6 more annotations...
  • at the iSchool we leveraged teachers' strengths by having some focus more on planning and curriculum development, some focus more on online course design, some on facilitating our challenge-based courses and some supporting struggling students.
  • Schools can combine resources to offer more Advanced Placement or credit recovery courses.
    • cinthia_sierra
      cinthia_sierra on 15 Jun 14
       
      This quote almost relates to the quality for quantity conception in education; it is not enough to use random technology without a purpose. Think about classes you've observed or reflect on your own: is technology use productive?
    • Cynthia Rios
      Cynthia Rios on 16 Jun 14
       
      There have been some classes which I have observed where the teacher is using technology but not the students. Technology is sometimes being used for the sake of using it and is not enhancing the students learning.
    • Lucretia Human
      Lucretia Human on 17 Jun 14
       
      True integration happens when technology supports the learning outcome goals. It must aid in the 4 key components of learning: active engagement, group collaboration, frequent interaction and feedback, and a conncetion to the real-world. Watch the following video to see how one school integrateds technology into every facet of learning. http://youtu.be/xCcwOmFF0HM
    • Lucretia Human
      Lucretia Human on 17 Jun 14
       
      True integration happens when technology supports the learning outcome goals. It must aid in the 4 key components of learning: active engagement, group collaboration, frequent interaction and feedback, and a connection to the real-world. Watch the following video to see how one school integrated technology into every facet of learning. http://youtu.be/xCcwOmFF0HM">http://youtu.be/xCcwOmFF0HM">http://youtu.be/xCcwOmFF0HM
    • cinthia_sierra
      cinthia_sierra on 15 Jun 14
       
      Consider your content area and former lessons and discuss how video conferencing can be utilized to maximize learning.
    • Cynthia Rios
      Cynthia Rios on 16 Jun 14
       
      I teach 8th ELAR, and we read Night by Elie Wiesel as part of a Holocaust unit.  It would have been amazing for my students to video conference with a actual Holocaust survivor.  This would have given them even deeper knowledge on the Holocaust.
    • cinthia_sierra
      cinthia_sierra on 15 Jun 14
       
      Would this even be possible at your district/school? Elaborate
    • Cynthia Rios
      Cynthia Rios on 16 Jun 14
       
      I don't know if this would be possible at my school.  Unfortunately, many veteran teachers are not as open to change.
    • cinthia_sierra
      cinthia_sierra on 15 Jun 14
       
      This would prepare students for online classes at the post-secondary level.
    • Lucretia Human
      Lucretia Human on 17 Jun 14
       
      I think that students would be helped by experiencing different teachers and teaching styles in order to have a well rounded learning experience. Sometimes students get very comfortable in a school with familiar surroundings and prior knowledge of teachers. When placed in this kind of atmosphere, the student will need to adjust and focus on the material being presented and the presenter.
    • Lucretia Human
      Lucretia Human on 17 Jun 14
       
      I think that students would be helped by experiencing different teachers and teaching styles in order to have a well rounded learning experience. Sometimes students get very comfortable in a school with familiar surroundings and prior knowledge of teachers. When placed in this kind of atmosphere, the student will need to adjust and focus on the material being presented and the presenter.
  • cinthia_sierra on 15 Jun 14
     
    Using technology wisely in order to improve instruction
21More

Districts Learn Lessons on 1-to-1 From Others' Missteps - Education Week - 8 views

www.edweek.org/...s-on-1-to-1-from-watching.html Technology Education Pedagogy
shared by Lauren Simpson on 15 Jul 15 - No Cached
Gladys Suarez liked it
  • "I wanted to observe and study what went wrong [in other districts] and why."
    • Lauren Simpson
      Lauren Simpson on 15 Jul 15
       
      This is a first! I find that many of those in power in education often like to jump headfirst into something then try to troubleshoot problems along the way. I applaud Mr. Carvalho.
  • In fall 2013, districts across the country were running into trouble implementing ambitious 1-to-1 computing initiatives:
    • Lauren Simpson
      Lauren Simpson on 15 Jul 15
       
      Before reading further, what do you think went wrong in so many districts with the 1-to-1 roll outs?
  • The initiative remains shelved.
    • Lauren Simpson
      Lauren Simpson on 15 Jul 15
       
      What else could this money have been used for??
  • ...3 more annotations...
  • Still, Ms. Diaz acknowledged that the school system didn't get as much teacher participation in workshops as expected, since teachers were being asked to attend on their own time.
    • Lauren Simpson
      Lauren Simpson on 15 Jul 15
       
      I find this too be all too common, districts often try to implement new tech or just new resources and want teachers to attend on their own time. This is a systemic problem across education, I know that as a teacher I value my personal time away from school, and when I am asked to attend a training on my own time and money, I get a slight bit perturbed.
  • "It's not about the devices,"
    • Lauren Simpson
      Lauren Simpson on 15 Jul 15
       
      This is the hardest thing for new teachers to understand, in my opinion. I feel that they see having or not having a particular device is going to make or break the students' learning. It really isn't about the device, the device just helps enrich and expand an already good lesson base.
  • Districts Learn Lessons on 1-to-1 From Others' Missteps
    • Lauren Simpson
      Lauren Simpson on 15 Jul 15
       
      If you were the head/lead of a committee bringing 1-to-1 to your campus/district, what advantages could you provide to motivate/persuade people to get on board?
    • Lauren Simpson
      Lauren Simpson on 16 Jul 15
       
      If you were the head/lead of a committee bringing 1-to-1 to your campus/district, what advantages could you provide to motivate/persuade people to get on board?
  • Lauren Simpson on 15 Jul 15
     
    My questions are a little out of order, not sure what happened with the annotator. Just read thru my comments/annotations and answer in one reply. Thanks! -Lauren
  • ...5 more comments...
  • juanrubenromero on 16 Jul 15
     
    Sticky #1: I think the best way to get someone on board is to show results. I would do research into how other districts that have implemented a similar program have improved their students learning. Also look at the steps taken by districts that had a successful implementation, and how far or close our district is to being able to do the same. Sticky #3: They probably didn't have an effective implementation plan. It's easier said than done. It could be teacher training on the how to use devices or how to incorporate them into their curriculum. I think that's something that districts need to focus on, is the education of teachers on the technology and continual monitoring and assistance. Sticky #4: They probably should have invested in ensuring that wireless coverage would be good enough to carry out online lessons before moving on to actually implementing the technology. More research could have gone into lessons that were aligned into the state standards. Sticky #5: I think that teacher training is very important to the survival of technology programs. School districts need to realize this and invest in providing professional development for its teachers. My school district is very good at providing professional development opportunities, unless it's very outrageous, our requests for professional developments get approved. Sticky #6: I wouldn't say that this thinking is exclusive to new teachers. I think in general some teachers will hear of a new technology that is all the rage and must have it because without it they will never catch up to other districts. I agree with you its not about the device, its about how its going to be used to enhance the lesson.
  • candacejames07 on 17 Jul 15
     
    This article was a perfect read for me right now. We are in the beginning phases of a 1 to 1 program in our school using iPads. I keep trying to tell the other teachers and admins that getting apps and devices are the easy parts of design model, but what are we going to do with apps and devices, is the hard part? I like how the article says to focus on one subject and give teachers trainings that are organized and well focused. As the instructional technology coach for our campus I have my work cut out for me and getting teachers trained. I can't wait to help these teachers understand how use the iPads to facilitate problem solving and higher level thinking skills.
  • Gladys Suarez on 18 Jul 15
     
    Mr. Carvalho gets a thumbs up! Usually those in power just jump right in! It is great that he wanted to check out what went wrong in other districts first.
  • Marie Evans on 18 Jul 15
     
    1 to 1 needs to be more grade/need specific. We cannot use a PENCIL for all activities at all grade levels in all schools. We need to keep this concept in mind as we move to implement innovations. AND we need a plan that is shared with all stakeholders BEFORE we even decide on which device(s) to purchase! Then we need a training and implementation plan to assist teachers, students and administrators!!! Hmmmm.
  • Lauren Simpson on 18 Jul 15
     
    Candace you are so right! Finding what you will use is easy, but the challenging portion is using it effectively to transform learning. Mrs. Evans I agree plans need to be shared with everyone, because often times when the plans aren't shared there is less buy in to the program.
  • asuarez1 on 19 Jul 15
     
    Would a committee work in these cases? Perhaps having a sampling of everyone involved would help in this situation! Then professional development is essential!
  • Lauren Simpson on 19 Jul 15
     
    A committee would work, but only if the committee truly represented the population accurately (sorry I so sounded like a math teacher there). I think it is an idea worth exploring, maybe on a smaller scale first.
5More

Using Digital Storytelling for Creative and Innovative e-Learning - 3 views

elearnmag.acm.org/featured.cfm Technology learning Pedagogy Digital storytelling Innovation
shared by summerloeffler on 17 Jul 15 - No Cached
Gladys Suarez liked it
  • summerloeffler on 17 Jul 15
     
    This article discusses how creativity and innovation can be enhanced with e-learning systems based on digital storytelling. A story creation model called movement-oriented design (MOD) is introduced for systematically developing effective digital stories, in conjunction with story creation principles articulated by Robert McKee, a Hollywood guru of script writing. "E-learning systems can play a key role in providing creative and innovative pedagogical solutions by using digital storytelling as the underlying model." Other than creating personal autobiographies into digital storytelling format, how can we encourage teachers to diversify different ways to use digital storytelling across various subjects and disciplines? Have you ever done this with your students? What were their reactions? Did they engage more? For example, would Digital Storytelling help students visualize math problem solving scenarios better because it resembles a real-life application?
  • ...2 more comments...
  • asuarez1 on 17 Jul 15
     
    I love digital storytelling! I think that it is a creative way to have students collaborate and have students and teachers diversify their learning/teaching styles. My students are completely engaged when they create. It becomes a personal task that is a part of them. When students own their learning, they internalize it. Digital storytelling is a great way to accomplish this!
  • candacejames07 on 17 Jul 15
     
    I think digital storytelling is great and it gets kids highly motivated to develop a voice and promote writing and reading skills. One of my favorite digital storytelling tools is to have the kids create comics. Here is an example of a website you can use for comics. http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/comic/.
  • Gladys Suarez on 18 Jul 15
     
    I am going to incorporate digital story telling into my classroom. Excellent opportunity to use digital literacy in my classroom and this is a great way to get students highly motivated and engaged. Candace thanks for sharing the website. Awesome that it helps both in reading and writing!
  • Marie Evans on 18 Jul 15
     
    This is an excellent article. Digital Storytelling is very engaging for all grade levels. Students love the opportunities to be creative in an online environment. Sharing and engaging!
1More

ZaidLearn: Use Bloom's Taxonomy Wheel for Writing Learning Outcomes - 0 views

zaidlearn.blogspot.com/...axonomy-wheel-for-writing.html education theory teaching instructional design
shared by Fred Kaplan on 27 Jul 09 - Cached
  • Fred Kaplan on 27 Jul 09
     
    A 'low tech' collection of Bloom's Taxonomy tables and charts to help you put learning objectives into sentences using the correct verbs.
10More

5 Real Benefits of Using Animation in the Classroom - 5 views

diigo.com/021jcq education web2.0
shared by textraveller on 27 Jul 14 - No Cached
  • textraveller on 27 Jul 14
     
    I've highlighted a few parts of this article that I thought summed up the gist of the material. Click on the link above to see the highlighted/annotated parts. Overall, interesting food for thought. I can see animation being helpful for motivation and inter-disciplinary skills in ways that normal lessons wouldn't be. Given the fact that there are an increasing number of web 2.0 tools available to remove the difficulty from animation, what are ways that you can forsee animation being used in various classrooms and disciplines? - C Hilgeman
  • ...7 more comments...
  • textraveller on 27 Jul 14
     
    Regarding a summary of Discussion Boards and their helpfulness... Discussion boards have been around for awhile and I've found that, for many, are the first thing that come to mind when hearing someone announce, "I'm taking an online class." They have been a staple of e-learning since its early days. The fact that they are still used in online education suggests that they are a useful tool for students. However, as with most tools, there are positives and negatives to using discussion boards for class. Here are a few positives: 1. They allow for collaboration between all students, not just the outspoken ones. 2. They provide a flexible way for students to interact. This is not only schedule-wise but also, for lack of a better term, circadian-rhythm-wise. Students who may not be fully awake and contributing at 8:00 a.m. in a traditional classroom may be much more likely to provide quality content at 11 p.m. if they are night owls. 3. Allows for increased interaction between professor/professionals and students. Discussion boards keep physical distance from being a hindrance between a subject-matter expert in Florida and a class in Seattle. A few negatives: 1. They allow for laziness. The fact that students won't be directly "confronted" about a minimal effort or faulty logic, or will only interact electronically can lessen motivation for excellence. 2. Cheating is easier. (If you have a friend who knows the material.) These are my initial thoughts regarding discussion boards. - C Hilgeman
  • kbanda on 28 Jul 14
     
    Discussion boards do have their pros and cons to them. I agree with you about the collaboration and integration between the students and teachers. The con that I agree with is that it allows for laziness. The students who are having to contact each other electronically tend to get used to this method and refrain from even trying to have a face to face interaction.
  • textraveller on 29 Jul 14
     
    That's an interesting observation - I haven't seen students using electronic over face-to-face when f2f would be easier. That may be b/c I'm usually in international schools or schools where phones aren't allowed to be used during the school day.
  • Jose Davila on 29 Jul 14
     
    I can certainly agree with your observation on the positives and negatives on taking on line classes. I feel that you need to be ready and prepared to take on line courses if you decide to. It can hurt you if you do not follow along timely and may cause you to fall behind if you are not mature enough to handle the responsibility of taking on line courses that comes with responsibility. I feel that anyone can be lazy whether your are skipping the actual class or just not taking on line classes seriously. I feel in the end it will hurt the individual and you will have to face the consequences. I personally like it because it works with my work schedule.
  • textraveller on 29 Jul 14
     
    Jose, I agree that responsibility is a big issue for successful online learning. Of course, it is huge for traditional classroom learning as well.
  • morgantucker on 30 Jul 14
     
    This just blew my mind a bit!- collaboration and animation together. I do not know if I will need my coffee this morning. This is student engagement gold. As long as teachers can guide students in the right direction with this tool and tie it tightly to the content, we are going to see amazing things from this.
  • ksspurgin on 30 Jul 14
     
    I have sat through MANY incredibly boring presentations from my students. As much as I work to train them how to present in engaging ways, most of them, I think, are just mimicking what they see in most of their classrooms - PowerPoint bullets. I have made progress with my students but there's a lot of work to do! I had one group this past school year present using Powtoons - they actually introduced the tool to me. Every student in the class was fully engaged during that presentation. Animation works and can be a very valuable learning tool when used effectively.
  • textraveller on 02 Aug 14
     
    Morgan, you said it. The trick is to keep focused on the right direction and content. I think stuff like animation is great but can very easily devolve into entertainment. Kids (and sometimes teachers) sometimes see all the work put into an animation project and misconstrue that as achieving the educational goals. To put it another way, because hard work is involved, the participants sometimes feel like they are doing a good job on the goal, whether or not that work relates directly to the objective.
  • textraveller on 02 Aug 14
     
    Kevin, I'll have to check out Powtoons. It sounds vaguely familiar so I must have run across them at some point in time. Yeah, I'm with you on the bulleted powerpoints. I've started running my classes through the "Steal This Presentation" powerpoint that Dr. Sullivan had us go through and then including design as a small part of the grade. I don't grade very harshly, but it's enough to get kids thinking about more interesting presentations and it has helped to a certain degree.
3More

elearning - 3 views

cognitivedesignsolutions.com/...E-Learning1.htm education technology teaching computer
shared by kdauphiney on 22 Jun 14 - No Cached
  • kdauphiney on 22 Jun 14
     
    This is a great website that thoroughly explains e-learning and its significance in the 21 century.
  • kdauphiney on 22 Jun 14
     
    E-Learning What is E-Learning? E-Learning means "electronic learning" - it refers to a wide range of applications and processes designed to deliver instruction through electronic means. Usually this means over the Web, however it also can include CD-ROM or video-conferencing through satellite transmission.
  • kdauphiney on 02 Jul 14
     
    With the concept of e-learning, the world of education and resources can be extended to populations and areas that would never be able to afford the experience that it provides. What impact do you think this will have on a global free market economy in the future?
19More

Discovery Education Web2014 : Home - 3 views

web2014.discoveryeducation.com
shared by Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14 - No Cached
  • Be Web 2.0 savvy - create safe communities and teach responsible internet use
  • Master new technology tools and find free apps. Tech has never been easier or more accessible.
    • Gena Jean
      Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14
       
      Be sure to click on the Web 2.0 Tools link at the bottom of the page!
    • stacey perkins
      stacey perkins on 27 Sep 14
       
      My school subscribes to Discovery Education, but I have never explored all these features. So glad you pointed them out!
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 30 Sep 14
       
      My initial response to Gena Jean's Article Post- Gena thank you so much for posting about Discovery Education, of which I already use- but know that not all teachers are aware of its immense educational value. It is definitely a wealth of information, and such a great tool to supplement a lesson- especially when schools are now so into the incorporation of technology in all facets of the word- within the classroom environment.
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 30 Sep 14
       
      My 1st reply- @Karla Fabiola Garcia- Having used Discovery Education for the past two years, I can honestly say that I love the fact that one can choose to download the videos, or stream them directly from the site. Sometimes my internet connection at school is very slow, and so I find that the download option is quite convenient. Besides that, Discovery Education is interdisciplinary and so it is cross contents so there is an abundance of resources available to all teachers in general.
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 30 Sep 14
       
      My 2nd reply- @Elizabeth Rodriguez- I used to teach all subjects at one point and found that after having discovered this web 2.0 resource really allowed me the flexibility and ease to transition from one subject to the next and not feel so overwhelmed. I also like the fact that Discovery Education shows the "Discovery Education" logo as the videos play, so when an administrator walks into the classroom they know immediately that the source of my video is educational legit.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 29 Nov 14
       
      Ive heard about this site because I used to sell PBS learning Media, a competitor to Discovery Education. Either way, I like it as it is one huge site with so many resources. Although I have only browsed through it and not used it before, I can see the many tools and resource available to teachers.
  • ...1 more annotation...
    • Gena Jean
      Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14
       
      Click on the links button for access to a host of helpful resources!
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 29 Nov 14
       
      @Gena, I guess one can say its like a kid in the candy store. Yes, there are so many resources available on the site. I love that parents can go on it as well. I wonder if teachers can contribute to it. I know some sites, teachers can create or extend lessons using the content and make it available to other teachers in the district.
  • Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14
     
    This website is filled with many current Web 2.0 tools that can be utilized in various aspects of education!
  • ...6 more comments...
  • Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14
     
    These tools can be utilized to deliver content, communicate with students and/or parents, or to organize course content.
  • Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14
     
    One of the most relevant links on the page is the one to do with Internet safety. It is very important that everyone involved in the online education process, from parents, to students, to teachers and administrators.
  • Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14
     
    Another extremely helpful link is the Tech Tips. This page gives helpful advice on the utilization of the apps and has many helpful suggestions to make the integration of them into your workflow as easy as possible!
  • Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
     
    Wow! I use Discovery Education to show videos in class, but I had never seen, much less heard of this page. It looks EXTREMELY resourceful for professional development.
  • Elizabeth Rodriguez on 21 Sep 14
     
    This is an excellent site. I am always looking for new technology tools to introduce to our faculty! This is a great resource that I will be sharing for sure!!!
  • mariavictoria1 on 18 Oct 14
     
    Now this I have heard of. While I was working as a program coordinator for an after school program, this is something that was encouraged to be used. Mind you it was a few years back and we usually got all of our content shipped to us directly, but my students loved the videos and you can't go wrong with Discovery Education. I would have loved to have access to this website back then though.
  • Vianna Madrid on 20 Oct 14
     
    Thanks for sharing. I learned about Discovery Education several years ago as a librarian aide. I did my best to encourage teachers to use it but there wasn't very much interest in it. The lack of interest was mainly by the older teachers who weren't too tech savvy...five years ago, that was a lot of teachers. I have been teaching for three years now and completely forgot about this resource. Thank you for reintroducing it to me.
  • Pedro Rodriguez on 29 Nov 14
     
    I do have one complaint about the site. I do not like the design. It makes it feel like its from 5 years ago. I also do not like the fact that it is not mobile friendly. But I guess I am just being picky. Either way, its a great website. I guess its whats under the hood that counts.
25More

Piazza * Ask. Answer. Explore. Whenever. - 8 views

piazza.com
shared by Gena Jean on 17 Sep 14 - No Cached
    • Elizabeth Rodriguez
      Elizabeth Rodriguez on 17 Sep 14
       
      This is a short video that will give you a brief overview on what Piazza is and how it works!! Excellent way to interact with your students online!!
  • ntegrates with every major LMS and is FERPA compliant
    • Gena Jean
      Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14
       
      It is amazing how complicated FERPA can be, but it is a very important part of an educator's job to know the guidelines
    • Elizabeth Rodriguez
      Elizabeth Rodriguez on 18 Sep 14
       
      Gena, yes FERPA is huge here on our campus. Although it has not been done since I started here, I know we are looking to make sure that all our faculty members go through a FERPA training. It's important to know as much as we can with these regulations!!!
    • Gena Jean
      Gena Jean on 20 Sep 14
       
      It can be very tricky, especially when you are dealing with dual credit students. Parents feel as if they should have automatic rights to their child's information, but we have specific guidelines that we must follow that are designed to protect the students' rights.
    • Elizabeth Rodriguez
      Elizabeth Rodriguez on 21 Sep 14
       
      That is so true Gena. We deal with dual enrollment students all the time and it's difficult when parents call and you have to tell them that you are not allowed to give out any information. Some simply do not understand. I've even had grandparents calling. Go figure.
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 28 Sep 14
       
      @ Elizabeth Rodriguez- Yes, you're right on about the importance of FERPA compliance within schools. It is so important to ensure that student information is kept as confidential as possible, and sometimes as teachers- we may not know which programs comply with FERPA. Therefore, we can get in so much trouble if we violate FERPA, and student information gets released online. We run the unfortunate risk of getting sued. Therefore, after having reviewed Gena Jean's Piazza link, I am feeling much more comfortable in being able to use this medium in my classroom with my netbooks, and continue to add on to my flipped classroom.
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 28 Sep 14
       
      My initial response to Gena Jean's Article Post- I like that students can ask questions, that anyone can answer and that it's in real time, much like Google Drive. It's collaborative and so thank you for sharing this with everyone Gena Jean I am definitely going to definitely start looking into this platform, because I think that my English Language Arts and Reading class will greatly benefit from it. I thought it was so neat to see that a woman is the CEO and founder of this particular online program. Actually, it's quite inspiring to see that educational tools can be used in this way, and brought to the forefront by women.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 29 Nov 14
       
      Very interesting tool. I will give it a try. I like the fact that it integrate to major LMSs such as Canvas, BlackBoard, and Moodle. Currently I am using Moodle 2.8 and I would like to see how it works. I also like that it is FERPA compliance. I will definitely bookmark this and give it a try. Thanks for the resource.
    • Elizabeth Rodriguez
      Elizabeth Rodriguez on 17 Sep 14
       
      Since I work for a higher ed institution, this is a big one for me because we are always looking to see how we can integrate different web 2.0 tools to assist our instructors in their classroom! Especially online tools!
  • ...3 more annotations...
    • Elizabeth Rodriguez
      Elizabeth Rodriguez on 17 Sep 14
       
      See what others are saying about Piazza! It is a powerful tool to help student communicate and learn from each other!!
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 29 Nov 14
       
      The also like the analytics it has. I can see how the classroom is doing as a whole and individual students engagement levels as well. I wonder I there is a real time chat window. I know some LMSs have chat enabled. Once again this is worth exploring and trying out.
    • Elizabeth Rodriguez
      Elizabeth Rodriguez on 17 Sep 14
       
      How would you use this Web 2.0 tool in your classroom! I think sharing each other's thoughts is a great way to learn from each other!
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 29 Nov 14
       
      I think I would use it to more for discussion as it seems to have powerful communication and notification tools. One idea comes to mind. During the lesson, I can use polls to see how students are grasping the content or to see if they are paying attention. I wonder if one can use a microphone and camera for Piazza
    • Gena Jean
      Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14
       
      I find it very beneficial that this uses the familiar wiki style to make it easier to use!
    • Karla Fabiola Garcia
      Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
       
      I have never heard of this tool. I already like how similar it is in terms of style, to wiki.
    • stacey perkins
      stacey perkins on 27 Sep 14
       
      I am immediately drawn to the filtering and hierarchy of importance you can apply to student questions. I love the idea of bringing order to all those posts!
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 28 Sep 14
       
      @ Karla Fabiola Garcia- Yes, I had never heard of this online tool "Piazza" before either- however, it definitely seems like a great tool, as a teacher can see how many of their students are online. Students can help each other, and therefore know that they are not alone. The purpose of this program appears to me to exemplify what a true learning community should cover. Autonomy and accessibility outside of just the classroom environment. As was mentioned in the video from the website link- "a lot of it is kind of thinking through challenging problems with other people (- Pooja Nath Sankar, Piazza Founder & CEO)."
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 28 Sep 14
       
      My initial response to Gena Jean's Article Post- Thanks for sharing this online tool with us all Karla. Symbaloo is a smart way to bookmark important things that educators may need to go back and reference. I tend to use Twitter to bookmark my educational resources…but that can get tiring- because sometimes frankly I don't want to share them with everyone, but I need that source to be retrievable at a later time. I'd like to have the ability to organize other things within my educational realm, such as my online modules, training videos, of which I've created throughout my pursuit of my master's degree- and this appears to be a more streamlined way to do just that.
  • Elizabeth Rodriguez on 17 Sep 14
     
    This is a great tool to use in the classroom! It allows for an online platform to be used by students and teachers to get questions answered!!!
  • ...3 more comments...
  • Gena Jean on 18 Sep 14
     
    This looks like it could be very beneficial to a higher education instructor, especially as an additional Discussion Forum activity. I found this interesting article : http://www.sicet.org/journals/ijttl/issue0801/4_1_6_Wang.pdf that discusses wiki use in education that you may find enlightening.
  • Elizabeth Rodriguez on 18 Sep 14
     
    Just wondering why my post states that someone else shared it. I started the post on Piazza. Can anyone tell me? I'm new to Diigo. I just want to make sure I get created for starting this discussion post. :)
  • Gena Jean on 20 Sep 14
     
    Elizabeth, apparently when people comment, it can replace the original author. Hopefully the administrator of the group will be able to tell who was the original host/author of each post. I do apologize if I inadvertently made a setting selection that caused this to happen. This is definitely your original post. I wonder if by doing a sticky note it changed it to mine?
  • Elizabeth Rodriguez on 21 Sep 14
     
    Thanks Gena. Hopefully Dr. Chavez will know.
  • mariavictoria1 on 18 Oct 14
     
    Hi Gena, As I'm going over all these great tools, I feel a bit overwhelmed with all this information. I have never heard of Piazza before. From what I have read it is used in Colleges and University but I feel that with where technology is heading in high schools and middle schools, I can see this in that setting as well. Thank you for introducing this tool.
11More

The Rise of Competency-Based Education - eLearning Industry - 1 views

elearningindustry.com/ise-competency-based-education Technology education teaching classroom
shared by Gena Jean on 20 Sep 14 - No Cached
  • Gena Jean on 20 Sep 14
     
    Higher education is seeing a rapid increase in the installation of competency based education. Traditional education has three main issues - 1) More people need education, but few can afford it 2) A traditional Degree can take too long to earn 3) Traditional Degrees don't really show the skill set of the graduate Competency based education helps to address these issues while providing students with affordability and flexibility as they continue their education.
  • ...8 more comments...
  • Gena Jean on 20 Sep 14
     
    Competency Based Education, or CBE allows the participants to personalize their educational pathway. Students can work through assignments at their own pace and complete a large amount of curriculum in a short amount of time if they are determined enough and willing to work hard.
  • Gena Jean on 20 Sep 14
     
    in Spring of 2014, the Competency Based Education Network announced that 18 different universities will work together to test and use CBE and share their findings. This could help to revolutionize the education industry, which has remained the same for a very long time.
  • Elizabeth Rodriguez on 21 Sep 14
     
    Gena thank you for sharing this very important information. I've been in higher ed for about a year now and I had not heard of CBE! It think this is a wonderful tool for students. I for one am going to look into this further and share with my institution. I believe this will definitely help our students in so many ways. Often times you have students following a career path that isn't even suited for them. Thank you so much for sharing this excellent resource of information!
  • Gena Jean on 21 Sep 14
     
    Elizabeth, It is something that we have been discussing for the past year at TSTC. It has it merits as well as disadvantages and would work better for some instructional areas than others, but I know that as a student I would have loved to have been able to do something like this. I think that WGU does something similar.
  • Maricela Gonzalez on 12 Nov 14
     
    My initial response to Gena Jean's Article Post- My initial response to Gena Jean's Article Post- Thanks for posting this article. I have long thought the same thing about traditional education' it lacks the innovation that today's students need in order to be successful in the 21st century. I like the logic behind Competency-based education, (CBE). With CBE "credits are awarded based on the demonstration of content mastery, rather than on seat time (http://web2014.discoveryeducation.com)." One can experience this type of education online or in the traditional classroom environment and so the benefits can reaped in either platform.- which is awesome. However. it is great that students are able to take courses from the comfort of their own home, and still learn just as much without having to drive to school, and waste precious time. CBE is all about levels, as your article stated...students are able to master concepts, and then move on to the next "set of competencies." Therefore, they are always challenging themselves, and trying to get to the next level. I love the competitive nature of this type of instruction. Very informative article- thank you.
  • Maricela Gonzalez on 12 Nov 14
     
    @Elizabeth Rodriguez- I also had not heard of CBE, but I think it is great. Looking at the research that Gena presented to us, CBE is a tool that really allows student to be successful from virtually any place. Students can learn so much when they immerse themselves in higher education. With programs like CBE they find more flexibility in their learning process, and in turn this brings more students to the educational realm. I will also be looking more into CBE, as I think that it is a great resource for us in education to know about. I believe that our students can greatly benefit from seeing other options to educational programs such as this. Furthermore, the fact that CBE is flexible, transparent., personalized, and affordable makes it that much more appealing to me. Overall, as the article points out "higher education continues to rise," and so therefore, it is important that we begin to look into other more affordable options to get the higher learning process going for those that simply
  • Maricela Gonzalez on 12 Nov 14
     
    @Gena Jean- It's awesome that students are allowed to work without the pressure of performing at a moments notice. They can simply work at their own pace, to ensure that they get their work done and turned in online. How beneficial is that? Greatly beneficial...in fact, it is the way of the world at this point. Education needs to rise to the occasion of our current internet revolution. I love that education has accepted online schooling, it is the reason that I choose to get into a degree plan that will really teach me a thing or two about online learning, and online instruction. Honestly, sometimes it feels as if my online courses have been way more challenging than my traditional courses. I believe that this is due to the flexibility and regards to creativity that an online classroom provides for the online student. Great things are to come!
  • Pedro Rodriguez on 28 Nov 14
     
    @Gena Jean I have not heard of the name Competency-Based Education, but I wonder if it just means online learning. The article explains its self-paced, but but would like to get more information of the meaning self-paced. I also have questions on what does it mean by personalization. How personalized will the CBE be? I think I am still trying to get more info on it. Its sounds like a great idea. I would love to see the list of the 18 universities and their findings.
  • Pedro Rodriguez on 28 Nov 14
     
    @Maricela Gonzalez @Elizabeth Rodriguez I can agree many students can benefit from the many options that are available out there. I am curious how affordable it is and what courses will be available. I would like to see the interface as well. But yes, I agree with Maricela, it is important for us to know about these options. As an instructional designer, I am always open to new innovative technology tools.
  • Pedro Rodriguez on 29 Nov 14
     
    @Gena Jean You mention TSTC is working on CBE. I wonder what courses will be on CBE. Will the instructors create the CBE's or will they hire or will they outsource it? If instructors know how to create CBE's, will they get a higher salary? Im sorry for the questions, but I am curious how they will implement the CBE's courses.
25More

Voicethread in the classroom - 10 views

njea.org/...voicethread web2.0 Technology classroom differentiation
shared by stacey perkins on 18 Sep 14 - No Cached
  • collaborative projects
    • stacey perkins
      stacey perkins on 18 Sep 14
       
      Voicethread works as an asynchronous discussion board, so students could work collaboratively in different class periods or locations.
    • Elizabeth Rodriguez
      Elizabeth Rodriguez on 18 Sep 14
       
      Stacey, I've not heard about Voicethread but I am excited to look into it and come back and comment more in depth on this web 2.0 tool. It's amazing just how much technology is out there for use in the classroom! I love it because I am always looking for innovative technology tools for our faculty to use in their courses!!
    • Gena Jean
      Gena Jean on 20 Sep 14
       
      This app was new to me as well, but I could definitely see where it could boost communication among students. As a design instructor I could definitely see how it could be used by students to help them in sharing their work and providing constructive criticism to one another's works.
    • Karla Fabiola Garcia
      Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
       
      This tool is also new to me. I love what I have read so far and the different ways it can be incorporated into the classroom. I am defenitily sharing this with my colleagues and brainstorming on diffrent ways we can incorporate, as some of us don't have many computers in our classroom.
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 30 Sep 14
       
      My initial response to Stacey Perkins Article Post- As was stated in your link, it makes sense that "text alone can't deliver the subtlety and expression required for meaningful connections (http://njea.org/news-and-publications/njea-review/march-2011/voicethread)." Students need a place to be able to communicate and learn from each other. Not just via text, or typing forums- but also through real life asynchronous discussion boards. This allows students the ability to work together and collaborate to come up with some real solutions to problems. What I noticed about this particular medium, was that as an educator I would have the ability to use a webcam, and reach all types of students in that manner. It appears to be a good way for students to learn from each other, and really get into the lessons that are being taught.
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 30 Sep 14
       
      My 2nd reply- @Gena Jean- I agree with you that this application can help students communicate and thus collaborate with each other- in efforts to gain knowledge. It is important in today's world that our students are as tech savvy as possible, and so the incorporation of asynchronous technology such as this has so much value in today's educational realm. The students of today are living within the technology revolution. They grew up with smart phones, and my daughter who is only 1 year old…screams when I take away my phone because she in some way understands apps like "Candy Crush." She literally knows what to do to manipulate and thus communicate with the technology. It's truly amazing in that same regard, how Voice Thread can help even the shyest students come out of their shells. As educators we need to speak our students language and that is making sure that we learn as many technology driven programs as possible- such as Voice Thread and so on.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 04 Dec 14
       
      @stacey perkins I have heard of voice thread but have not seen its potential in the classroom. I am glad you shared it with us. I a begin to start integrating discussion into lessons, I can see how voicethread is a good tool for students. This tool changes things up a bit, instead writing, one can record their voice. I also like the integration to LMSs.
  • You can look at examples of how other educators are using VoiceThread on its digital library or browse Ideas for using VoiceThread, a collection of 143 examples from the library
    • stacey perkins
      stacey perkins on 18 Sep 14
       
      If you aren't sure how you might incorporate Voicethread into your classroom/curriculum, check out how these teachers are using it.
    • sharonmahabir
      sharonmahabir on 24 Sep 14
       
      Thank you for the link. I have never used Voicethread in my classroom. I wanted to implement a new technology this year and I think Voicethread is a great tool that my PreK students will be able to use. I particularly liked the Brown Bear example. We do a Brown Bear unit at the beginning of the year and this would be a great way for students to represent their learning.
    • stacey perkins
      stacey perkins on 27 Sep 14
       
      Sharon, I have taught in the elementary grades for years, and have struggled to find tech tools that were user-friendly to my students. Their frustration threshold is low! But I think Voicethread would require minimal training.
    • Maricela Gonzalez
      Maricela Gonzalez on 30 Sep 14
       
      My 1st reply- @ Elizabeth Rodriguez- just like you I had never heard of Voice Thread. I think that it is definitely something that I can use in my classroom. Right now I'm really trying to use as much technology within my curriculum, but I really need to figure out which Web 2.0 technology is going to be the most effective for the amount of time that I have with my students. I will need to research a little more about this particular software, and I hope that I can find some online You Tube tutorials to help me figure out an easier way to use this platform.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 04 Dec 14
       
      Wow, there are many examples one can use. I know sometimes the hardest part of web tools is learning how to integrate them into the curriculum. I can see the examples are also grouped together by subject. Best part is that educators can contribute to the examples.
  • Examples of classroom VoiceThreads
    • stacey perkins
      stacey perkins on 18 Sep 14
       
      Examples of some finished products...
  • ...3 more annotations...
  • New Jersey Education Association Sign in for member information and resources. Member Sign In Need help signing in? function toggle_signin() { if(document.getElementById('member-signin-form').style.display == 'none') document.getElementById('member-signin-form').style.display = 'block'; else document.getElementById('member-signin-form').style.display = 'none'; } jQuery('#login-username').keydown(function(e) { if(e.keyCode == 13) { e.preventDefault(); postToLogin(); return false; } }); jQuery('#login-password').keydown(function(e) { if(e.keyCode == 13) { e.preventDefault(); postToLogin(); return false; } }); jQuery("#login-button").click( function() { postToLogin(); return false; } ); function postToLogin() { jQuery.cookie("loginusername", jQuery('#login-username').val(), {path: '/'}); jQuery.cookie("loginpassword", jQuery('#login-password').val(), {path: '/'}); var query = window.location.search.substring(1); var launchUrl = "https://njea.org/resources/help-desk"; if (query != null) { launchUrl += "?" + query; } window.location = launchUrl; return false; } Facebook YouTube Twitter RSS Feeds Message Pinterest Flickr Email Texting AboutWho We AreCalendar and EventsAffiliated GroupsRegional OfficesCounty/Local AssociationsNJEA Hipp FoundationClassroom Close-Up, NJEmployment OpportunitiesContact NJEANews & PublicationsNews RoomGood News About NJ's Public SchoolsNJEA ReviewNJEA Reporter ArchivesTeaching & LearningAdvocacy TrainingProfessional LearningClassroom ToolsNJEA ConventionE-Learning AcademyESP AcademyJobs and CertificationNJ Center for Teaching & LearningCenter for Future EducatorsParents & CommunityFamily InvolvementPRIDE in Public EducationTeacher for a DayRead Across AmericaPartnerships and ContestsFamilies and Schools Together (FAST)¡Contribuya al éxito de su hijo!Issues & ActionAnti-BullyingCollective BargainingElectionsESEA - No Child Left BehindEvaluationHealth and SafetyNJEA Political Action Committee (PAC)NJEA Position StatementsPensions and Health BenefitsTenurePolitical Action GuideSchool FundingTake ActionVouchersResourcesAID-NJEAAssistance for RIF'ed membe
  • A single educator license is free and class and district memberships are reasonable
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 04 Dec 14
       
      Trying out the product at no cost is a great idea. By creating voicethreads, you can showcase your work and it becomes easier for the school of school district to see how it works. This can convince administration to purchase voicethread for the whole school or district.
  • rather than using text to talk about text (which doesn't jive when you're teaching art history)
    • stacey perkins
      stacey perkins on 18 Sep 14
       
      Since virtually all of my students are struggling readers (I'm a dyslexia teacher), I think they would be more engaged with--and more willing to respond to--pictures or videos than a written prompt.
  • stacey perkins on 18 Sep 14
     
    How could Voicethread be used in the classroom to differentiate instruction?
  • ...1 more comment...
  • Elizabeth Rodriguez on 21 Sep 14
     
    VoiceThread seems to be a great tool to have students interact with each other. I have found in my own experience that sometimes students have a difficult time sharing in person, in front of a classroom. VoiceThread would give students the ability to share their thoughts with the classroom on different assignments. I think its a great collaboration tool!! I would not hesitate to use it in my classroom!
  • mariavictoria1 on 18 Oct 14
     
    Hi Stacey! I have never heard of Voicethread but after reading the article you shared it seems like a very intriguing tool to use. What I loved the most about Voicethread is that it allows those with hearing impairments to collaborate through webcam commenting by using sign language. Thank you for sharing.
  • robertogarcia24 on 07 Dec 14
     
    It's very nice to hear about the voice threads. I've never actually used them before, but I've seen students present information using them. It looks like something I'll be looking into for my future classes. Thank you so much for sharing.
23More

SymbalooEDU is FREE - 8 views

www.symbalooedu.com/free-version free Technology classroom computer web2.0
shared by Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14 - No Cached
  • For Symbaloo Beginners
    • Gena Jean
      Gena Jean on 21 Sep 14
       
      Karla, This one was new to me, but a s website hoarder, I am drawn to anything that could help me to organize them. I downloaded the app and began to set up some tiles and so far it looks like it could be very useful! I love that you can create different pages for different sections, so I can have graphic design, publishing, photography, e-learning, etc. Thank you!
    • sharonmahabir
      sharonmahabir on 24 Sep 14
       
      Thank you for the resource! I have to explore it some more, but at first glance, it reminds me of the Windows 8 desktop. It looks to be a great way to stay organized.
    • Karla Fabiola Garcia
      Karla Fabiola Garcia on 25 Sep 14
       
      I have personally found it very useful in the elementary setting where we must be more careful as to the sites students visit. This allows teachers in elementary to have some control while allowing studetns to explore independently.
    • stacey perkins
      stacey perkins on 27 Sep 14
       
      I love that, for special education elementary students, there are icons to help non-readers organize and identify apps and websites.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 20 Oct 14
       
      @sharonmahabir Yes, it does remind me also of Windows 8 tiles. I like the visual part as compared to regular bookmarks which are text only. I wonder if the tiles? are responsive to fit on a mobile device. I think anything that is visually appealing works better than text based information.
  • Check out our Symbaloo EDU User Guide, which provides all the basics for getting started
  • Use it for yourself, or to help teach colleagues and/or students how to use Symbaloo!
  • ...7 more annotations...
    • Karla Fabiola Garcia
      Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
       
      This quick guide can help you, colleagues and students understand how to use Symbaloo.
  • Use the Symbaloo Bookmarker to save your favorite sites with a single click!
    • Karla Fabiola Garcia
      Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
       
      I personally bookmark resourceful websites & often forget I did because they are hidden under "my favorites ." This tools allows everything you find relevant and important to be front and center.
  • Helpful Webmixes from Team Symbaloo Tuesday Tutorials Thursday Did You Know
    • Karla Fabiola Garcia
      Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
       
      Professional development! Tips from symbaloo to make your life much more simple. (:
    • stacey perkins
      stacey perkins on 27 Sep 14
       
      Many of my elementary teacher friends have been singing the praises of Symbaloo for a long time now, but I have never explored it. Thanks for the beginner's guide :-)
    • Pedro Rodriguez
      Pedro Rodriguez on 20 Oct 14
       
      @stacey perkins Because I am not yet a full time teacher, I have not seen or heard any other teachers talking about it specifically, but I have heard mentions of needing central place for getting to resources. I am glad I've heard about it and now I can recommend it. I like the video tutorials as it makes it easy to understand.
  • Recent Posts
    • Karla Fabiola Garcia
      Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
       
      Resourceful tips!
  • Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
     
    Symbaloo is a FREE page & app that not only helps with personal organization, but also enables users to share online tools and resources. Students too can easily navigate and access only relevant websites and information.
  • ...3 more comments...
  • Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
     
    The following link is a quick start guide. http://www.symbalooedu.com/wp-content/uploads/Symbaloo-Manual-New-Interface.pdf This tool was actually introduced to me by a colleague last year, but I never got around to using it. I am starting off this year on a very organized note, and it has allowed my students to access websites & information that are relevant to their learning. Aside from that, it is a super time saver in elementary calssrooms. (:
  • Karla Fabiola Garcia on 20 Sep 14
     
    Watch this introductory video for SymbalooEDU. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=TX9zSYC0mCo
  • Pedro Rodriguez on 20 Oct 14
     
    @Karla Fabiola Garcia I been bookmarking pages for many years. I often see how difficult it is to navigate around all my bookmarks and folder. I even have subfolders and admit that I do not like going through my bookmarks. I am going to give SymbalooEDU a try. I wonder how well it works with all my devices. I guess I just need to try it out. 1st Reply
  • Vianna Madrid on 20 Oct 14
     
    Thanks for sharing Karla. I have two classrooms and have to go back and forth all day. I have bookmarks galore on my desktops and two laptops. This resource is great and will keep me organized and keep me from having to go back and forth from one room to the other to look up a book mark. I will continue exploring so that I can see how I may be able to use it with my students.
  • robertogarcia24 on 07 Dec 14
     
    Right away to recognize a Web 2.0 Tool is knowing that it's free! Thank you for sharing, Karla. I've honestly never heard of the tool, but it really does sound interesting. Hopefully I can use this in and out of the classroom. It's always great to keep updated with new information, and this tool can help that happen.
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