Tech Tidbits
February 2014
Digital Learning Day 2014
Digital learning is when technology is effectively used by a teacher to strengthen a student’s learning experience. It emphasizes high-quality instruction and provides access to challenging content, feedback through formative assessment, opportunities for learning anytime and anywhere, and individualized instruction to ensure all students reach their full potential to succeed in college and a career (Alliance for Excellent Education).
To learn more about Digital Learning Day and access DLD resources, go to: http://www.digitallearningday.org
How are you using technology and digital content in the classroom on Digital Learning Day? How have you used technology and digital content this school year? Share in the comments section below.
Our teachers participated in a variety of digital learning activities. Mr. Kiser's 3rd grade Math classes measured the perimeter of the elementary building, the White House, the Pentagon, and the Great Pyramids. Mrs. Radford's 5th grade Library classes went took a virtual trip in time to research the Underground Railroad.
Upcoming Tech Professional Development
21st Century Skills
Learning and innovation skills are being recognized as those that separate
students who are prepared for a more and more complex life and work environments in
the 21st century, and those who are not. Focusing on the four Cs (creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration) is essential to prepare students for the future (Partnership for 21st Century Skills).
Learn more about the Framework for 21st Century Learning at:
http://www.p21.org/storage/documents/P21_Framework_Definitions.pdf
Tech Tuesday Sessions - Exploring the 4 C's of 21st Century Learning
Tuesday, February 25th - 21st Century Skills: Creativity & Communication
MS/HS Teachers - 3pm until 4pm (TBA)
K5 Teachers - 4:15pm until 5:15pm (Media Center)
Teachers will learn how to maximize the use of the internet to enhance teaching and learning. Each session will examine a variety of resources with potential for growing 21st Century learning skills in students by focusing on creativity & communication.
Mark your calendar! Bring charged laptop.
Let's Work Together...
...In and Beyond the Library
"Leading in and Beyond the Library"... Great read!
For the full report: http://all4ed.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/BeyondTheLibrary.pdf
Resource Spotlight
myON ebooks
myON is partnering with Alliance for Excellent Education's Digital Learning Day to offer FREE ebooks until June 30th, 2014!
username: books
password: books
Enjoy your free access to thousands of ebooks. Please share with students and parents!
Maintenance Tip
Data Projectors
- They must be kept free and clear of any papers or other objects so the heat can pass through the filters. Let those puppies breath!
- Do not touch the bulb. The oils from your fingers can cause the bulb to overheat and blow.
- If you are not using the projector, turn it off. The bulbs have a life of about 1000 - 2000 hours. The bulbs cost on average about $350 to replace.
- Do not move the projector. The bulbs are sensitive when they are hot.
- Let your projector's fan cool the projector completely before unplugging from the electrical outlet. The bulb requires cool down from the fan after you power off.
- Filter warning message? Let Haumont know ASAP. This means the filters are full of dust. Last month I was able to clean MS data projectors only before my compressed air ran out. I will get to HS/Elem when I have my supplies. (Compressed air would be a great item for future teacher supply purchase.)