Technology Today

New Year's resolutions are not everyone's thing. I would rather think back on the previous year and ponder what I did well that can continue into the new year. This excites me more as I don't feel guilty for making a resolution and then not sticking to it, but rather think about habits I am already doing that I want to continue.

With this being said, my job requires a lot of trial and error, making relationships with different people in different job titles, and being thrown into situations I am not always prepared for. I pride myself in being calm, and reassuring when times are stressful. My goal this year is to keep working hard and providing assistance whenever possible. I also want to continue asking questions and have teachers backs when technology is involved.

Think about a habit you had last year that you feel can be accomplished again this year. Maybe you walk 5 times a week, or limit the amount of time on your phone. Maybe you spent more time outside and want to continue that! Whatever it is, and you enjoyed the change in lifestyle, keep it up!

Have you ever heard about the SAMR Model? Next time you are creating a lesson try going up the ladder to create a more engaging and lasting lesson. It's not about High Tech but more about using the technology we already have, and bumping it up a level.

S - Substitution: EdTech is used as a direct substitute for your traditional lesson.
Examples:
Writing an essay on Google Docs instead of paper
Having students access a PDF online instead of printing
Using the Promethean board and saving your content instead of a regular whiteboard with markers

A - Augmentation: EdTech provides something more to the learning process besides just convenience.
Examples:
Students present in front of the class using a slideshow or other multimedia tool
Students use the web to search for content instead of using textbooks or relying on teachers
Videos are used in class to explain a concept that may be harder to grasp
Online quiz games for students to track progress

M - Modification: Technology is interactive and allows for more complex tasks.
Examples:
Students create their own podcasts and then share with classmates for feedback
Google docs are shared between pairs to collaborate and provide feedback
Students conduct online interviews

R - Redefinition: Technology is used to create entirely new experiences and learning opportunities.
Examples:
Reaching out to experts around the world to learn more about a topic
Publishing work online for anyone to view and provide comments on
Creating 3D printed objects using an online software
Technology allows for a more hands-on experience within the classroom (Virtual field trips, Google Earth)

I have heard from many teachers this week that student engagement is very low. There could be a variety of reasons this is happening (5 days until break!) but it's frustrating as a teacher to create lessons and get blank stares.

Try these tools to help bump up the student engagement in your classroom:

1. Mixed groupings
   Find a way to move the class around in different groups each day for the next week. Whether you use a random group generator (Grouper) or have students make their own, your content will reach more students in a variety of ways.
2. Engaging Tools
   There are sooo many tools out there to make a lesson engaging for students. Although it may take a few extra minutes to prep, this may save you when class begins. Check out a few tools here to take your lesson from Substitution to Augmentation.
   - NotebookLM - AI can create a podcast for students to listen to based on your resource.
   - Brisk Boost - Create a Chatbot for students to engage with. Whether it is a character chat from a book you are reading or a individualized tutor to help guide them to the lesson objectives, there is something for everyone.
   - Padlet - Allow collaboration when you let students create a Padlet. Take the pressure off of you to get things ready by putting the power in the students hands. See the amazing projects they create.
   - Canva - As you may know, Canva is my jam. Create infographics, engaging presentations, posters, videos, and the list goes on and on. Such a unique way for students to create projects!
   - Knowt - Engaging way for students to practice for a test.
3. Keep things going
   Changing up the work throughout the long class period is helpful. Try showing a video, doing a Kahoot!, or playing another interactive game to split up the time.
4. Change it up
   Don't be afraid to step out of your teaching comfort zone. Surprise your students with a Jeopardy game day to go over content and give out free homework passes. Get a breakout box going and have students work together to complete the challenge.
5. Have fun!
   Don't let the last week before break get you stressed. Enjoy the days and have fun with the students.

Okay, so I found this "new" website that is AMAZING! NotebookLM (through Google) allows you to upload anything you have previously created in Drive, Youtube Videos, or any other website/document you have access to. The best feature I have seen with AI in this program is turning your resource into a Podcast! Yup, this website will use the resources you upload and create a Podcast with two adults discussing and teaching about the subject you presented.

How many students do we have that throw in some earbuds and listen to music? Probably over 75% of your students. Well now you can assign a Podcast that ties into their work immediately. No more scrounging the internet trying to find something that works well enough. Click on the link below to start exploring and I promise you will become addicted immediately.

Google NotebookLM

My technology brain has become more aware of writing down my thoughts and ideas as a way to educate others and honestly, keep myself accountable. My goal for the new year is to create a blog where I share content, new technology tools, and highlight any new updates/resources for my district. I love reading other technology coaches blogs and so I figured it was time! I hope my fellow staff members are excited to see this project come to life.