Homeschooling with Technology

By Meryl van der Merwe

The Homeschooling with Technology Podcast is a weekly show, hosted by Meryl van der Merwe, where she shares ideas on how to use technology to be more productive as a homeschool parent and on how to us... more

3333 ratings

FAQs about Homeschooling with Technology:

How many episodes does Homeschooling with Technology have?

The podcast currently has 316 episodes available.

Homeschooling with Technology episodes:

October 09, 202410 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI
295: 10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI
We explore “10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI.” We’re focusing on how NOT to use AI tools. As AI becomes a major part of our children’s future, it’s crucial that we teach them the right ways to engage with it.
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
No Personal Information
AI platforms may store data to improve models, so personal info shouldn’t be used. Students must avoid sharing sensitive details when using AI for tasks like essay feedback.
Don’t Use AI as a Search Engine
AI can give misleading or overly advanced answers. Students risk providing answers that don’t align with course materials, making it obvious when they cheat.
Avoid Brainstorming with AI
Using AI to generate ideas can lead to laziness. Encourage students to use their own creativity first, then consult AI for additional ideas if needed.
Don’t Write Essays or Short Answers Using AI
This is essentially cheating. Using AI to write homework defeats the purpose of learning and undermines integrity.
Be Wary of Asking AI to Explain History
AI-generated answers may come with biases or inaccuracies, so it’s better to consult multiple primary sources to form a balanced understanding.
Don’t Use AI as an ‘Online Friend’
With AI bots integrated into platforms like Snapchat, it’s easy for students to rely on them for companionship. But real friendships with real people are essential.
Don’t Seek Advice from AI
For life’s challenges, students should turn to trusted adults, not AI. Encourage open communication with family or counselors instead.
Avoid Using AI for Problem-Solving Right Away
Encourage students to try solving problems themselves first, then turn to AI as a last resort. Developing critical thinking is important.
Don’t Over-Edit with AI
AI can help improve writing, but overuse can erase a student’s voice. Teach students to keep their work authentic, even with a few imperfections.
Don’t Use AI for Creative Projects
Relying on AI for creative tasks diminishes human creativity. Students should cultivate their own ideas and skills, experiencing the joy of creating something from scratch.
Join the Conversation
If you have other ideas on how AI shouldn’t be used, join the discussion in our Homeschooling with Technology Facebook community. Let’s learn from each other and help our children navigate AI responsibly.
Tune in next week for 10 Good Ways for Students to Use AI!

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post 10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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16min
October 02, 2024Online Contests for Students
294: Online Contests for Students
In this episode, we explore a variety of online contests for students that homeschoolers can participate in. These contests provide great opportunities for students to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and even win prizes.
Contests Mentioned in This Episode:
PicoCTF
A cybersecurity Capture the Flag (CTF) contest for ages 13 and up. Students work individually and in teams to solve challenges and develop critical thinking skills. Free training materials and practice challenges are available on the website.
Exploravision
A research-based contest where students, mentored by professionals, investigate a real-world problem. Available for high school and possibly younger students.
EngineerGirl Writing Contest
A writing contest focusing on engineering topics. Open to 3rd-12th graders, divided into different grade levels. The contest includes both boys and girls despite its name.
The Stock Market Game
A team-based game where students invest virtual money in the stock market. Open to students nationwide, it also includes an essay contest, InvestWrite, where students can win money and recognition.
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Contests
Patriot’s Pen: An essay contest for middle school students.
Voice of Democracy: A speech contest for high school students. Students record and submit their speeches, and winners can advance to regional and national levels.
Scholastic Art & Writing Contest
This well-known contest includes categories like art, writing, and even programming. Winners can earn recognition like the Golden Key Award, which looks great on college applications.
Jane Austen Essay Contest
An essay contest for fans of Jane Austen, with cash prizes for winners. Essays from previous winners are available for review on the website.
Classics and Mythology Contests
Offered by etclassics.org, these online contests focus on Latin, Greek, and mythology for different age groups and ability levels.
15-Second Vocabulary Contest
A creative challenge hosted by the New York Times, where students create 15-second videos defining vocabulary words.
Bonus Resource: Showsponsor Fundafunda has compiled a comprehensive guide with over 30 contest opportunities for homeschoolers. You can find the Homeschool-friendly Contests pdf on the FundaFunda Academy website for just $2.99. It includes a description of each contest, grade levels, and whether they are free or require a fee.
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post Online Contests for Students appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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14min
September 25, 2024 Nearpod: The Homeschool Resource You Never Knew You Needed
293: Nearpod: The Homeschool Resource You Never Knew You Needed
In this episode,guest Melissa Muir, shares how she uses Nearpod, an incredible tool that can transform your homeschooling experience. Melissa has been homeschooling her children in Ecuador for 13 years. She works with online teachers and homeschoolers, providing resources, self-paced classes, and tech-based tools to make learning more fun and effective.
What is Nearpod?
Nearpod is a platform offering a wide range of pre-made lessons across subjects. It’s free to start and offers interactive content such as:
– PDFs and videos (without YouTube distractions)
– Virtual Reality (VR) field trips
– Drag-and-drop activities
– Gamified quizzes
– PHET simulations and 3D models
How to Use Nearpod in Homeschooling
Melissa explains how homeschoolers can use Nearpod for specific topics or subjects that need extra resources. From history lessons to foreign languages, Nearpod provides engaging, supplemental learning activities.
Plans and Costs
Nearpod offers a free plan (Silver), which gives access to plenty of content but limited storage. Paid plans like Gold ($159/year) offer additional storage and logins. Melissa share a code for 3 months of Gold free
Why Use Nearpod?
– Access to curriculum you may not own or feel equipped to teach
– Student-led, interest-based learning
– Easy to search by grade level and topic for ready-to-use lessons
Resources and Links
– Nearpod
– 3 months of Nearpod Gold free:
Where to find Melissa
Melissa Is Teaching on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissaisteaching
More from Melissa Is Teaching: https://melissaisteaching.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissaisteaching
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Nearpod: The Homeschool Resource You Never Knew You Needed appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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18min
September 18, 2024Why Homeschool Parents and Teens Should Consider Remote Tech Careers in Salesforce
292: Why Homeschool Parents and Teens Should Consider Remote Tech Careers in Salesforce
In this episode, we explore the potential of remote tech careers in Salesforce for homeschool parents and teens. Our guest, Bradley Rice, shares insights on why Salesforce could be a great fit for the homeschooling community.
Key Points
Introduction to Salesforce
What is Salesforce?
How businesses use Salesforce
Career Opportunities in Salesforce
Types of roles available
Salary expectations and growth potential
Why Salesforce is Suitable for Homeschoolers
Flexibility and work-life balance
Remote work opportunities
Skills development for teens
Getting Started with Salesforce
No prior experience necessary
Basic tech skills required
Learning resources (Trailhead, YouTube, Udemy)
Job Market and Demand
Current state of Salesforce job market
Realistic expectations for job hunting
Impact of AI on Salesforce Careers
Current and potential future impacts
Opportunities in AI-related roles
Resources Mentioned
Trailhead: Free Salesforce training platform
TalentStacker: Free resources for homeschoolers wanting to get started with Salesforce
Salesforce for Everyone Podcast (Episodes 1-8)
FundaFunda Academy’s Computer Applications Class
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Why Homeschool Parents and Teens Should Consider Remote Tech Careers in Salesforce appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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32min
September 11, 2024MathCounts
291: MathCounts

Meryl continues her conversation with Hayley Story, who runs a local homeschool math club. Last week, Hayley shared details about three math contests, and in this episode, she dives into the final one: MathCounts. Hayley provides an overview of the competition, her experience as a first-time coach, and tips for homeschool parents interested in starting their own MathCounts team.
Key Points from the Episode:
What is MathCounts?
A nationally recognized math competition for grades 6-8.
Features four rounds of team and individual math challenges.
Held across all 50 U.S. states and territories, for U.S. citizens only.
The competition rounds include: Sprint (individual), Target (individual with calculators), Team (group of four), and Countdown (live competition).
Preparation Tips:
Practice is key: MathCounts provides free resources, including videos and practice tests.
Homeschoolers can form teams to practice and participate at various levels (school, chapter, state, and national).
Watching previous national Countdown rounds on YouTube can be helpful for preparation.
Why Homeschoolers Should Consider MathCounts:
MathCounts is a prestigious competition and provides a sense of community and teamwork.
The competition is well-organized, and homeschoolers are welcomed and accommodated.
The competition offers advancing levels, and for those who progress to nationals, travel and accommodation are covered.
Pros and Cons of MathCounts:
Pros:
Prestigious and nationally recognized.
Well-organized with clear rules.
Great resources and support for coaches.
Creates a sense of team spirit and community.
Cons:
High competition level: Students often train intensively with tutors.
Not many students advance to higher levels (only four individuals and one team from each chapter).
Time commitment required for both students and coaches.
Other Contests Mentioned: Hayley also recapped the other contests discussed in previous episodes: Bebras, Noetic, and AMC 8, offering comparisons for homeschool parents looking for different math challenges.
Resources and Links Mentioned:
Visit the MathCounts website for more details and to access free practice materials.
Check out videos of previous Countdown Rounds on YouTube for practice.
Listen to last week’s episode on other math competitions.
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post MathCounts appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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21min
September 04, 2024Math Contests Revisited
290: Math Contests Revisited
In this episode of the Homeschooling with Technology podcast, we revisit the topic of math contests with guest Haley Story. This episode builds on Haley’s previous discussion from Episode 243 Math Contests, where she introduced listeners to the topic. Now, with a year of experience running multiple contests, Haley shares valuable insights on what works, what doesn’t, and how these contests can benefit homeschoolers, particularly those in middle school.
Episode Highlights:
Recap of Math Contests:
Math contests are academic competitions that involve problem-solving and logic skills rather than traditional math problems found in school or on standardized tests.
Benefits of participating in math contests include exposure to the fun side of math, development of test-taking skills, and opportunities to build community and friendships within the homeschooling community.
Why Homeschoolers Should Consider Math Contests:
Math contests can introduce students to academic competitions with less time commitment compared to other contests.
Participation can help students develop resilience in competitive environments and realize that they may not always be the best, exposing them to a world of gifted peers.
Important Considerations:
Stress the difference between a competition and a test to avoid pressure on students to achieve perfect scores.
Make the contests low-key and fun to ensure students enjoy the experience, with activities like game days or social events after contests.
Let math contest days replace regular math assignments to avoid overwhelming students.
Types of Students Who Thrive in Math Contests: Haley suggests that all students should try a math contest, but those who particularly enjoy logic puzzles, are motivated by competition, or have a strong interest in math will likely benefit the most.
Math Contests Covered:
Bebras Challenge: An international computational thinking contest with fun, interactive logic puzzles. It’s free, accessible to students from kindergarten through 12th grade, and an excellent introduction to academic contests.
Noetic Learning Math Contest: A 20-question contest with a mix of easy and challenging problems, ideal for grades 2 through 8. This contest is offered twice a year and is perfect for group settings.
American Mathematics Competitions (AMC 8): A more challenging contest aimed at middle school students, the AMC 8 is a 25-question, 40-minute multiple-choice exam that covers topics like algebra, geometry, and number theory. Haley describes the AMC 8 as ideal for students who are more serious about math competitions and looking for a national-level challenge. There is also an AMC10 and AMC12 for high schoolers
Practical Tips for Organizing Contests:
Form a homeschool group to register participants for contests like Bebras.
Offer small prizes and participation awards to keep the contests enjoyable.
For group settings, consider organizing a math club or circle to foster a sense of community among participants.
Article mentioned:
Some great articles are found on AoPS website. Here is one: https://artofproblemsolving.com/blog/articles/math-competitions-when-youre-not-competitive

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Math Contests Revisited appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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23min
August 28, 2024Create your own Digital Planner
289: Create your own Digital Planner
In this episode, we discuss various tools and methods to create your own digital planner, perfect for homeschooling or managing other aspects of life.
We mention practical and customizable options like Google Calendar, Google Sheets, and Trello, and then talk about more visually appealing solutions using Canva and SlidesMania.
Key Takeaways:
Google Calendar: Create multiple calendars for different aspects of your life (homeschooling, chores, etc.) and customize them with color coding. Easily share and collaborate with others.
Google Sheets: Use spreadsheets to organize your homeschool plans by subject and week. Great for those who prefer a simple, column-based approach.
Trello: A project management tool that can be adapted as a planner. Organize tasks by subject or child using lists and cards, with easy drag-and-drop functionality.
Canva: Ideal for creating visually appealing planners. Start with customizable templates and adapt them for homeschooling.
SlidesMania: Free templates in Google Slides or PowerPoint format, offering flexibility and organization in a well-structured format.
Resources Mentioned:
Google Calendar
Google Sheets
Trello
Canva Personal Planners
SlidesMania Planner Templates
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post Create your own Digital Planner appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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10min
August 21, 2024 Search and Research in the AI era
288: Search and Research in the AI era
In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of search and research in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). We reflect on the shift from traditional search engines like Google and Bing to the use of AI tools such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other large language models (LLMs). We discuss the pros and cons of using AI for research, the importance of understanding source credibility, and the challenges of ensuring that students are accessing reliable information.
AI in Search Engines:
Search engines have used AI for years to tailor results based on location, search history, and preferences. However, AI’s role has grown with the introduction of tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, and others that provide summarized information.
Challenges with AI-Based Research:
Unlike traditional search engines, AI tools often provide summaries without showing the original sources, which can obscure the origins of information. It is important to teach our children to verify sources and understand potential biases.
Importance of Source Verification:
Whether using traditional search engines or AI tools, it’s crucial to evaluate the credibility of the sources. Parents need to teach their children these skills.
Google Scholar and AI Research Tools:
For serious research, students can use Google Scholar, which focuses on scholarly articles. Also consider AI research tools like Research Rabbit and Elicit, which provide links to academic articles.
Citing AI in Classwork:
Since AI outputs are not consistent and lack original source material, students should avoid citing AI except when discussing AI itself.
Teaching Search Skills:
To avoid over-reliance on AI, teach effective search strategies. These skills are taught in show sponsor’s Computer Applications class, which is available in both live and self-paced formats.
Resources Mentioned:
Ditch That Textbook: Article on citing AI in classwork.
Google Scholar: A reliable source for scholarly articles.
AI Research Tools: Research Rabbit and Elicit.
Computer Applications Class: Available with weekly deadlines / teacher-graded or self-paced / parent-graded, includes lessons on effective search strategies.
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Search and Research in the AI era appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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15min
August 14, 2024Bringing History to Life with Technology
287: Bringing History to Life with Technology
If your children find history boring, here are 8 ideas on bringing history to life with technology
Videos:
Use YouTube channels, documentaries, and docudramas to visualize historical events.
Battle simulation videos and feature movies can also provide an immersive experience.
Compare movies to actual historical facts for a deeper learning experience.
Online Games:
Incorporate games like Mission USA, “Be George Washington,” and Oregon Trail to make history interactive.
Video Games:
Civilization and other strategy games can be used to learn about different civilizations
Virtual Museum Field Trips:
Explore museums online, such as Ellis Island or Anne Frank’s house, to experience history virtually.
Reading Old Newspapers:
Use Chronicling America to access historical newspapers and explore what life was like in the past
Museum Websites:
Museum websites, like the Smithsonian, offer primary sources and interactive resources
Google Maps & Google Arts and Culture:
Virtually visit historical sites and explore ancient ruins to connect with history.
Google Arts and Culture offers specific experiences related to historical events
Digital Escape Rooms:
Engage with history through digital escape rooms that require problem-solving and critical thinking.
FundaFunda Academy Discount Offer:
Special offer: 50% off with code HWTHISTORY until 30 September 2024 for:
World War II web-based unit studies— “Who’s Who World War II” and “World War II Year by Year.”
Mystery of the Painted Pyramid
Two digital breakouts: “Mosby’s Treasure” (American Civil War) and “The Mystery of the Amber Room” (World War II).
High School History Classes from FundaFunda Academy mentioned in this episode
World History
US History
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Bringing History to Life with Technology appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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16min
August 07, 2024Essential Computer Skills for Students in 2024
286: Essential Computer Skills for Students in 2024
What are the essential computer skills for students in 2024? These are 5 that are covered in this episode.
Understanding Computers and How They Work:
Importance of knowing the basics of computers.
Learn about binary, algorithmic thinking etc
Practical examples and benefits of understanding computer fundamentals.
Learning to Code:
Coding as a valuable skill across various fields.
Introduction to coding through Scratch and Python.
Real-life applications of coding skills in different careers.
Benefits of understanding coding even for non-technical roles.
Free and paid resources for learning to code.
Digital Literacy:
Importance of managing digital footprints and understanding internet safety.
Developing skills for evaluating online information.
Media literacy and critical thinking.
Online etiquette, email communication, and virtual collaboration.
Life skills like online shopping and booking travel safely.
Computer Applications:
Mastery of essential tools like Google Drive (Docs, Sheets, Slides).
Importance of graphic and video tools like Canva.
Organizing tools such as schedulers and to-do lists.
Understanding AI:
Basics of AI and its integration into everyday tools.
Importance of responsible AI usage and understanding its limitations.
Age-appropriate introduction to AI tools and prompt engineering.
Teaching Methods:
Enrolling in structured classes, such as those offered by show sponsor FundaFunda Academy.
Integrating technology skills into everyday life.
Using educational games and practical applications to teach younger children.
Incorporating technology into “school” projects.
Resources Mentioned:
FundaFunda Academy classes (Computer Science, Computer Applications, Scratch, Python, Web Development, Canva, Adobe Photoshop).
Google Drive unit study.
Common Sense Media for age-appropriate games.
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Essential Computer Skills for Students in 2024 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
...more
18min

FAQs about Homeschooling with Technology:

How many episodes does Homeschooling with Technology have?

The podcast currently has 316 episodes available.

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