Technology Tidbits
Pullman Elementary January 2013
Tech PD 4 U
Sometimes more is not always better, so I am thinking of trying an App of the Month Club. Here's how it will work...
- One creation app will be chosen to be the focus of the month
- I will offer PD on this app one time each week.
- The first week week of PD will focus on how to use the app, and the follow up sessions will give participants a chance to brainstorm how to use it in the classroom, focus on challenges and how to overcome them, share examples they have created with their students, etc.
- My plan is to keep each session to 15-30 min max
My hope is that building in more time to focus on one app will allow us time to really dig in and use the app in a meaningful way in our classrooms vs. just glossing over it and then forgetting about it.
Our first app will be pic collage!
When: First meeting Wed Jan 15, follow up meetings on Jan 22, 29
Who: Anyone interested in using Pic Collage in the classroom
What: a fantastic app that allows you to mix text and photos in an easy way--great for all grade levels!
The Nuts and Bolts
- Don't forget our staff meeting on January 7 will focus on ways we can help set limits on the iPads for our students
- On Jan 8 classroom teachers (others are more than welcome to join a classroom group!) will be participating in another Google Hangout with Crestview and Newport as we share take aways from TIES.
- As we return from break, it would be a great time to reinforce good digital citizenship skills. I will attach a good document here. The last bullet point may not fit, but the rest are good reminders. https://blog.edmodo.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/8.5x11_poster_design.pdf
- I look forward to touching base with everyone soon and seeing where we are now that we are almost 1/2 way through the first year of our tech journey!!
- Please email me if you are interested in a Schoology training. I know many younger grades are using google drive and that is working for them, but if you are looking at adding in a way to hand in work as well, Schoology might improve that part of workflow. I'd be glad to throw together a training for primary folks, if there is interest.
Twitter Follow Up
Try searching some of the education leaders listed in this article, follow them...then start enjoying all they have to say!
Websites worth Noting!
Howtoons
The Curiosity Machine
Curiosity to Learn. Courage to Do. Persistence to Achieve. This great sites motto says it all...students can watch scientist videos, build activities, and then share their knowledge! Another great resource for Genius Hour or for your learners who just like to get their hands dirty!
http://www.curiositymachine.org
Wildlife Fun for Kids
About Me
Email: kbellus@sowashco.k12.mn.us
Phone: 651-768-3616
Twitter: @kbelluspenz