House of #EdTech

After this episode I will be returning to my regular every two-week release schedule. I hope you've enjoyed all the conversations I had at and related to ISTE 2023!

Attend the Supes Choice Award Gala!

Hey listeners! Today, I want to introduce you to an incredible tool that's revolutionizing the way educators create content - QuestionWell. Whether you're a teacher, tutor, or just someone passionate about learning, QuestionWell offers a suite of features that make content creation a breeze. From automatically generating learning outcomes and essential questions to offering a wide range of export options, this platform has got you covered. And for those looking to take their content to the next level, QuestionWell's paid plan offers even more advanced features. So, if you're looking to save time and enhance your educational content, check out QuestionWell today!

Debbie Tannenbaum is an accomplished educator, tech enthusiast, and advocate for innovative learning. With over a decade of experience in the educational sector, Debbie has dedicated her career to integrating technology into classrooms, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills they need for the digital age. As a passionate believer in the power of technology to transform learning, she has led numerous workshops and training sessions for educators, helping them harness the potential of modern tools and platforms. Debbie's commitment to education extends beyond the classroom; she is an active blogger, sharing insights, tips, and resources with a broader audience. Her dedication to fostering a love for learning and her ability to bridge the gap between traditional teaching methods and new technological advancements make her a valuable asset to any educational institution.

Behind the Mic: Voices of the EPN - Subscribe today! The podcast launches on September 1, 2023!

Explore the Power of Voice with Podcasting: Let's dive into the untapped potential of podcasting as a platform for sharing unique stories, perspectives, and knowledge. Emphasizing its accessibility and authenticity, the piece encourages educators to adopt podcasting as an innovative teaching tool and individuals to overcome fears and self-doubt to share their unique voice. With minimal equipment and genuine intent, anyone can connect, inspire, and grow through podcasting.

I've authored "I Like to Podcast and You Will Too: A House of #EdTech Guide to Podcasting" and it might be the perfect resource if you're ready to hit record and learn more about podcasting.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Alfonso Mendoza! He's the host of My EdTech Life and his podcast is also a member of the Education Podcast Network.

We spoke face-to-face at ISTE 2023 in Philadelphia back in June and we talked about why and how he creates his podcast.

Understanding and integrating technology in education is more than just using new tools; it's about tapping into their potential to enhance teaching methods. As teaching styles evolve, so do tech tools. Here's a quick guide:

1. Identifying Potential: Each educator should discover the transformative power of tech tools available to them.
2. Adapting Takes Time: Remember the initial struggle with projectors or whiteboards? Like them, mastering new tech requires patience.
3. Choose What Fits: Not all tools align with every teaching style. Find those that resonate with you and your students.
4. Trust Your Intuition: Each classroom and teacher is unique. Opt for technology that complements your teaching goals.
5. Challenge Past Notions: Don't shy away due to previous tech setbacks. Shift your perspective from 'daunting' to 'empowering'.
6. Unlock Possibilities: Leading educators are leveraging tech to redefine teaching. Don't miss out on potential game-changers.
7. Stay Current: Technology isn't just the future of teaching; it's the present.

Optimize your teaching approach by embracing technology, understanding its potential, and integrating tools that enhance your classroom experience. Don't let apprehensions deter you. Embrace the present and future of education.

How to Cite AI in MLA

"[prompt]" prompt. AI Tool & version (with date), Company, Date Accessed, General Link to AI Tool.

Christie Cloud chatted with me at ISTE Live 2023 all about Curipod!

Curipod's mission: "For too long, education has been focusing on remembering, recalling and memorizing. We have seen the greatness of what a curious person can accomplish. We are on a mission to spark curiosity in peoples lives and make questioning everything something you do everyday, because it is fun and energising."

Marisa Thompson is launching a fantastic course! The Ultimate TQE Course

I finally met Alana Winnick face to face at ISTE Live 2023 in Philadelphia after connecting with her virtually during the pandemic via Jesse Lubinsky from Partial Credit.

Alana is passionate about education technology, she's a podcaster and a newly published author!

During our conversation, we talk about artificial intelligence and its growing use in education and we share our opinions about some AI-related topics and I also share some of the ways I've leveraged AI in my own classroom.

Click here to purchase Alana's book, "The Generative Age: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Education"

Thank you to the Institute for Education Innovation & 2023 SUPES' CHOICE AWARDS. The only education industry awards judged exclusively by school district superintendents

Josh Swartz and William Illingworth are the hosts of the HiTech Podcast and I got to set and chat with them while I was at ISTE 2023 in Philadelphia.

Topics Discussed:

• What is the HiTech Podcast?
• Applying EdTech to HigherEd
• Inspiring students with effective edtech integration
• Are you someone's favorite teacher?
• How did you learn to teach?

Technology Mentioned:

• Soundtrap
• Seesaw
• BookCreator

I caught up with Bruce Reicher at ISTE Live 2023 and had a great conversation about building a school media program from scratch. Bruce will be moving into a new position at a new school and district after building a fantastic media program at his previous school.

I am launching TWO new podcasts!

• Behind the Mic: Voices of the EPN
• Inspiring Thoughts Daily with Chris Nesi

I have finally written a book! I invite you to check out my first book, "I Like to Podcast and You Will Too: A House of #EdTech Guide to Podcasting"

Physical copies are available NOW and the will release on Kindle on August 16, 2023! Whether you're looking to podcast with students or podcast for yourself this book will get you podcasting!

It was great to meet so many new people and connect with old friends at ISTE Live 2023 in Philadelphia!

Threads, a new social media platform developed by Instagram, is gaining traction among educators. It allows users to share text updates, join public conversations, and importantly for educators, link directly to resources. Despite early challenges with search functionality and account management, Threads holds significant potential for revolutionizing how educators connect and share resources.

Takeaways:

1. Threads provides a new avenue for educators to connect and engage in in-depth conversations, overcoming limitations of platforms like Instagram.
2. Despite its early-stage challenges, such as a lack of support for hashtags and account deletion tied to Instagram, Threads' potential to transform educational resource sharing and networking is significant.

Let's connect on Threads!

Explore mmhmm, a dynamic and user-friendly tool that's revolutionizing virtual classrooms for K-12 teachers. mmhmm offers a suite of features designed to make online teaching more engaging and memorable. From presenting on-screen alongside any content to hosting interactive activities and discussions on video calls, mmhmm is compatible with platforms like Zoom, Meet, Teams, and Webex. Teachers can record lessons, design custom video sequences, and even add special effects to their presentations. Once a lesson is ready, it can be shared with students or published to a school's video library, with closed captioning options for improved accessibility. Available for Mac and Windows, mmhmm also offers web and studio versions for added flexibility.

Crystal Samuels, John Terlecki, and Douglas Timm discussed their roles in their Delaware school district as instructional technology leaders.

The team is in charge of instructional technology for a district of 14,000 students across 33 schools, and they cater to diverse student populations, including those with unique needs such as a school for the deaf, students with disabilities, and autistic-centric programs.

They each emphasized the collaborative nature of their team, stating that they work well together because of their differing approaches and personalities. They stressed the importance of having a 'can-do' attitude, always striving to find ways to implement new ideas.

Topics discussed include:

• Technology Education and Support
• Challenging Assumptions
• Micro Credentialing
• Technology Adoption and Feedback
• Connectivity

Nicole Lipps is a seasoned educator with a fervent passion for integrating digital tools and resources into the educational landscape. Her mission is to revolutionize the way we teach and learn, and she has a proven track record of successfully leveraging technology to enhance student engagement and achievement. Nicole takes immense pride in leading other educators on this transformative journey.

I will NOT be taking a Summer break from the podcast! Rest easy knowing you will get some great content throughout the Summer!

I can't wait to meet you at ISTE Live 2023 if you will be in Philly!

While the notion of banning cell phones in schools might seem appealing due to concerns over distraction and misuse, it is worth considering the multitude of benefits these devices can offer in enhancing the learning environment. Cell phones can be exceptional educational tools, offering students access to a plethora of online resources, apps, and e-books, thus expanding their learning beyond traditional textbooks.

In today's digital age, early exposure to technology through cell phones can cultivate technological literacy in students, preparing them for future opportunities. Additionally, cell phones can provide an essential bridge across the digital divide for students who lack access to computers or tablets at home, promoting a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.

In the event of emergencies, cell phones offer an immediate communication channel, ensuring safety. They can also be instrumental in teaching students about autonomy, responsibility, and digital etiquette. Moreover, they have the potential to revolutionize teaching methods, as educators can incorporate interactive activities accessible via students' devices, promoting active engagement.

While these benefits are significant, it's crucial to foster a disciplined and respectful usage of cell phones within the school environment. Rather than imposing an outright ban, schools could develop a comprehensive cell phone policy, focusing on teaching students how to use their devices effectively and responsibly.

Check out Troy Reynolds on TikTok | TikTok Referenced In Episode & Part 2

At the end of the school year, teachers should take a few key steps to clean up their Google Classroom to ensure a smooth transition to the next academic year.

1. Archive Classes: Once a class is over, you should archive it to keep your dashboard organized. Archived classes are still accessible for reference, but they don't appear in your active class list.

2. Return All Work: Ensure all assignments have been graded and returned to students. This allows students to view their grades and feedback even after the class is archived.

3. Download and Save Important Data: If there are important materials, grades, or student submissions you want to keep, make sure to download and save them elsewhere before archiving the class.

4. Remove Old Class Materials: Clear out any unnecessary posts, assignments, or materials from the class page. This will make it easier to navigate in the future.

5. Communicate with Students: Let students know when you plan to archive the class so they can download any materials or grades they want to keep.

6. Plan for the Next Year: Consider what worked well and what didn't this year. Start preparing for the next year by setting up new classes, reusing posts or assignments, and updating your course material as necessary.

Following these steps will not only make your Google Classroom more manageable, but it will also set you up for success in the upcoming school year.

In this episode of the House of #EdTech, I delve into the transformative power of Apple's latest technological innovation, the Apple Vision Pro. This groundbreaking mixed-reality headset has immense potential to reshape K-12 education, introducing students to an immersive, interactive, and highly engaging learning environment.

I explore the key features of the Vision Pro, from its advanced M2 and R1 chips for seamless computing and real-time sensor processing to its array of sensors and cameras that allow users to interact with digital content as if it were part of their actual surroundings. The EyeSight technology, which enables a sense of connection and presence, is also highlighted.

The episode discusses the revolutionary impact of the Vision Pro on education, emphasizing its capacity to bring lessons to life, foster deeper comprehension, and create a more inclusive learning environment. The headset's ability to bridge the gap between online and offline students, transcending physical presence and geographic limitations, is also explored.

You are presented with creative lesson plan ideas that leverage the Vision Pro's features across different grade levels. From virtual field trips to a zoo for elementary students to performing Shakespearean plays on a virtual stage for high schoolers, these examples illuminate the exciting possibilities for teaching and learning.

This episode paints an exciting picture of the future of education, demonstrating how technologies like the Apple Vision Pro can open new avenues for creativity, exploration, and inclusivity in the classroom.

EdTech Thought (3:02)

The Power of Community for Educators: A community is much more than a mere group of individuals; it serves as a robust support system and a platform for shared experiences and ideas. Within a community, we can find solace and encouragement during challenging times while celebrating our triumphs together. The realization that we are not alone in our struggles, achievements, and aspirations becomes a profound source of motivation.

Building a Sanctuary for Educators: By actively building a community of educators, we create a sanctuary where knowledge is exchanged, best practices are shared, and innovative ideas are collaboratively developed. This nurturing environment becomes a wellspring of encouragement, inspiration, and the fuel that drives us to strive for excellence within our classrooms.

Benefits of Joining an Educator Community:

1. Knowledge Exchange: In a vibrant community, educators can tap into a vast pool of knowledge and expertise. By engaging in conversations and sharing insights, we can enhance our teaching methods, discover new approaches, and refine our craft.
2. Best Practices: Within the community, educators can share successful strategies, proven techniques, and effective classroom management skills. This collaboration allows us to learn from one another and adapt these best practices to suit our unique teaching contexts.
3. Collaboration and Innovation: An educator community provides a fertile ground for collaboration and innovation. By working together on projects, lesson plans, and educational initiatives, we can amplify our impact and create transformative experiences for our students.
4. Support and Encouragement: The challenges of being an educator can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, within a community, we find unwavering support and encouragement from like-minded professionals who understand our journey. This support system bolsters our resilience and empowers us to navigate through difficulties with renewed vigor.

EdTech Recommendation (8:24)

I want to introduce you to a powerful tool that is revolutionizing the way educators deliver presentations. ClassPoint is an innovative solution that seamlessly integrates with Microsoft PowerPoint, elevating your teaching experience to new heights. Let's explore how ClassPoint enhances your existing PowerPoint presentations and transforms them into dynamic and interactive learning experiences.

Transforming PowerPoint into a Dynamic Teaching Platform: ClassPoint elevates PowerPoint from a basic presentation tool to a dynamic teaching platform. By incorporating ClassPoint into your digital lessons, you can enhance student engagement, foster interactivity, and create memorable learning experiences. Take your teaching to the next level by giving ClassPoint a try and experience the transformative power it brings to your classroom. Share your feedback and let me know how it enhances your teaching. If you're already using ClassPoint, I would love to hear from you too!

Featured Content (10:29)

In today's world, podcasting is becoming an increasingly influential tool in many educational settings. We delve deep into this topic, particularly the benefits of podcasting in schools.

This episode explores how podcasting contributes to students' development and growth in various subjects, boosting their communication and social skills. Whether you're based in Brazil like my listener Leo Calbusch, in Pennsylvania like Mike Brilla, or anywhere else in the world, this episode provides insightful answers to critical questions on the role of podcasting in enhancing student engagement and commitment.

Resources:

1. #1 Resource: https://chrisnesi.com/schoolpodcast
2. https://everything-everywhere.com/everything-everywhere-daily-podcast/
3. http://zebrapodcastnetwork.com

Topics and questions addressed:

1. What are the benefits of podcasting in school?
2. How does it contribute to students' development and improvement in different subjects?
3. How does it enhance their communication and social skills?
4. Does it help them become more organized?
5. Curious about student engagement and commitment
6. What do they learn and what skills do they develop or improve by podcasting?
7. Could you provide some guidance on how to distribute a podcast on major platforms such as Apple, Google, and Spotify?
8. How regularly do you meet with your podcasting club at school?
9. How can I introduce the concept of podcasting to students who may be unfamiliar with it?
10. What are some engaging topics or themes that students can explore in their own podcast episodes?
11. What roles can students take on in the production of a podcast (host, producer, editor, etc.)?
12. How can we ensure that students' podcasts are appropriate and safe for sharing?
13. How can we involve parents and the wider school community in our podcasting project?
14. Can you provide any examples of successful student-led podcasts or podcasting projects in schools?

I will be at ISTELive23 on June 26 and 27! Let's connect.

As the school year comes to an end, teachers can reflect on their growth and explore new technology tools to enhance their teaching skills. Integrating new tech in the classroom can help educators stay current, become more effective, and contribute to their professional development. Embracing innovation in education is essential for personal growth and student success.

Key Points:

• End of the school year reflection
• Trying out new technology tools
• Staying current and relevant in education
• Enhancing teaching effectiveness
• Professional growth and development
• Embracing innovation and challenges
• Expanding skill set and expertise
• Investing in personal growth and student success

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Check out the slide deck I created about the featured content for this episode.

In today's episode, I focused on the process of creating digital portfolios with students, which can enhance their learning experiences and showcase their growth. Key takeaways include:

• Benefits of digital portfolios: develop digital literacy skills, demonstrate progress, and prepare for college and career opportunities.
• Establish clear learning objectives for digital portfolio projects.
• Select a suitable platform, such as Seesaw, Google Sites, Weebly, or Wix.
• Organize and curate content effectively, incorporating multimedia elements.
• Encourage reflection and goal-setting to develop metacognitive skills and a growth mindset.
• Foster collaboration and communication through peer feedback and review.
• Share and celebrate students' success, showcasing their work to a wider audience and fostering a positive learning environment.