Taylor ISD DuckLink # 54
empowering student success and school improvement
February 26, 2016
Are You a Maker?
The idea of a Makerspace is based on hands-on learning through building things. This may often include using technology but it is not required. The main philosophy behind this movement is that learning is highly personal and initiated by students. These spaces are educational playgrounds for students to explore their ideas and apply what they have learned. Some of the common tools and materials students may use in these spaces include cardboard, duct tape, yarn, glue guns, playdough, Minecraft, Lego Mindstorms, Spheros, Makey Makey, littleBits, Dremel tool, Tinkercad, Ozobots, and many more.
Though educators may set boundaries and help facilitate activities, students are challenged to lead in the learning process and ultimately demonstrate mastery of concepts taught. A Makerspace can be used to explore those concepts or be a great space to produce a final product to show mastery. Would you consider creating a Makerspace in your classrooom?
Learn more here: Makerspace Pins
Pictured Above: My maker project this Spring Break was a loft bed for my 7 year old son.
Set Expiration Dates on Google Files You Share
Google just announced a nice new feature that allows you to set expiration dates on the access you grant to others that comment or view your Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. This does not apply to those you grant edit privileges. Here are the steps.
- Click the Share button.
- Enter the email address of the person for whom you want to share.
- Click Send or OK.
- Click the Share button if necessary.
- Click the Advanced link.
- Hover over the area where you change permissions and click the clock icon.
- Select the expiration date.
- Click Save changes.
New Outline Tool in Google Docs
Submit Today!- Student Project Showcase
I would love to showcase all the great things Taylor ISD students are doing while integrating technology on the Taylor ISD IT Blog, Twitter and Facebook feeds. I created this form for your submissions. https://goo.gl/aJZkp0
(link also available on the Technology homepage)
I will draw for a prize every Friday until the end of the school year.
Signed up for Twitter Yet?
Here is a great list of Education Chats you can join.
Create an account today! https://twitter.com/
Why Teachers Should Use Twitter (Video)
Follow me @edtechminute
Subscribe to the IT Blog!
Help Desk Contact
Eduphoria Help Desk- https://taylor.schoolobjects.com
Phone: 512-365-5015 or x1900
Be sure to visit the Taylor ISD Technology site for more information.
Contact Information
Director of Instructional Technology
Taylor ISD
Email: jphale@taylorisd.org
Website: http://www.taylorisd.org
Location: 3101 North Main Street, Taylor, TX
Phone: 512-365-5015
Twitter: @edtechminute