SMILE Factor

Creativity in schools fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and innovation. It enhances student engagement, encourages self-expression, and prepares students for future challenges by cultivating adaptability and diverse perspectives. Integrating creativity in education promotes holistic development and lifelong learning.

In this episode we talk about impactful ideas and the variety of projects educators can facilitate with Canva.

Show Notes: ⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

Aimee Bloom 

@AJBloom2pnt0

Supervisor of Instructional Technology, #ISTEcert #ISTECertTrainer #Wakelet AMB, #Google Trainer, Certified #BrainPOP & #Nearpod Pionear

Edtech coaching is pivotal in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of educational technology. These coaches serve as guides, empowering educators to harness technology effectively in their teaching practices. By offering personalized support, they facilitate the integration of digital tools, optimizing learning experiences. Edtech coaching fosters confidence, equipping teachers with skills to adapt to new tools and pedagogies, ensuring student engagement and achievement. Moreover, it cultivates a culture of innovation, where educators continuously refine their craft, enhancing teaching methodologies. Ultimately, edtech coaching cultivates a dynamic educational environment, where technology serves as a catalyst for transformative learning experiences.

Show Notes: ⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

Lesson planning with digital tools is vital for modern education. It enhances engagement, catering to diverse learning styles. Digital resources offer interactive and multimedia elements, fostering deeper understanding. They facilitate collaboration, communication, and critical thinking, preparing students for the digital age. Effective integration boosts student motivation and achievement, ensuring a dynamic learning environment.

Show Notes: ⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

In this episode we talk about more tools we couldn't fit into last week's show that are impactful BUT you may not have heard about them.......until NOW

Such as

Storyboard that: https://www.storyboardthat.com/

Which Face is Real: https://www.whichfaceisreal.com/

Trello: https://trello.com/en

Information is Beautiful: https://informationisbeautiful.net/

Hello, Ruby: https://www.helloruby.com/play

Explore.org: https://explore.org/livecams

and more.......

Show Notes: ⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

In this episode we talk about tools or recourse that are impactful BUT you may not have heard about them.......until NOW

Tools such as:

Mathigon: https://mathigon.org/activities

NY Times Learning Activities: https://www.nytimes.com/spotlight/learning-activities-for-students

CMA Working in Harmony: https://www.cmaworkinginharmony.com/

Poll everywhere: https://www.polleverywhere.com/

Mentimeter: https://www.mentimeter.com/

Show Notes: ⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

Laurie and Matt dive into some lesser know Google tools to enhance your work and student exploration.

Google has revolutionized education, providing instant access to vast knowledge resources. Its suite of tools like Google Docs, Drive, and Classroom streamline collaboration, organization, and learning. Google search facilitates research, enabling students to explore topics comprehensively. Now learn about other impactful tools.

Show Notes: bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

Laurie and Matt welcome Carl Hooker, author of Learning Evolution, to talk the importance, evolution, and ideas for AI in K-12 education.

Show Notes: bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

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In SMILE Factor episode 13, Matt and Laurie welcome in Digital Citizenship Institute (@digcitinstitute) CEO Marialice B.F.X. Curran, Ph.D.(@mbfxc) to talk DigCit Global Showcase.

Digital Citizenship Summit is April 5, 19, 22 & 26

Show Notes: ⁠⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

Utilizing EdTech tools in K-5 education enhances engagement, fosters critical thinking, and tailors learning to individual needs. It cultivates digital literacy from a young age, preparing students for future technological landscapes. Moreover, it facilitates collaboration and empowers educators to provide personalized learning experiences, nurturing holistic development. In this episode we talk about the impact and tools for our youngest learners.

Show Notes: ⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

Laurie and Matt dive into the benefits and impact design thinking can have on learning. One of the primary benefits of design thinking in K-12 education is its ability to foster creativity. Traditional educational models often prioritize rote learning and standardized assessments, leaving little room for students to explore their creative potential. Design thinking, however, encourages students to think outside the box, experiment with new ideas, and embrace failure as part of the learning process.

Show Notes: ⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024