Educational Technology
Update May 11, 2020
Level Up!
It is hard to believe we are entering the 9th week of school closure. I have been looking for a metaphor for what many of us are experiencing, it’s hard to get perspective in the midst of things. A recent email exchange with a student, and conversation with a staff member helped provide two insights into our current situation.
The student, who is an avid gamer, was asking for help because “I feel like I am in a game and the levels are moving too fast.” Though he is tech savvy he was struggling with the tools needed to learn. Just like in a game when you start you don’t know all the rules and features, you play and start figuring things out and when you just get comfortable you suddenly level up and need to figure things out all over. No matter where you are the game, beginner or expert, you are always being challenged over again.
The teacher commented that “it’s like being out on a run and it is all uphill; where is the downhill, where is a flat?” For many of us, it does seem like an uphill run, continually adding and building upon new pedagogical, organizational and technology skills. Each step in this process provides new challenges.
In both examples, though there may not be any coasting, there is always progress. As we run on the road or move up the levels we are moving forward and there is success. Pause, take a look back and you will see the terrific progress have you have made in such a short time. We have all made remarkable strides in the last 2 months. Well done BPS!
Video Tutorials
We have also linked to other how to videos on the staff resource page particularly the page on creating and sharing video.
Make a PDF Fillable with Google Slides
A Tour of the Ed Tech Support Pages
Upcoming PD
With the need to make instructional videos to support direct instruction; we will be offering some general sessions to explore what goes into one, and tools for a smoother work flow.
We will also offer PD around creating a slide deck to support direct instruction, promote organization, and how to make the most of Screencastify to take your videos to the next level.
Look for the PD schedule in your email.
Ongoing Support
If you are experiencing difficulties using web resources visit the staff resource page, and join us for PD/Support web meetings or our virtual office hours.
For Ed Tech help please send your email to EdTechHelp@mybps.us to help us better share the work load. Please do not send requests to individual team members. This will help ensure your request will be handled in a timely manner.
If you are having a problem with your device please send these support requests to infrastructure@mybps.us.