WW-P HS South EdTech Bulletin #14
Resources for Integrating Technology into Instruction
April 28, 2017
Mental Health Awareness Week
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week, why not check out some of these tech resources and tools that help to balance the time you (or your students) spend online and guide you through the practice of mindfulness:
Web:
https://app.stopbreathethink.org/ helps you rewire your brain for the better
http://www.livehappy.com/ “Weaving the science of positive psychology through inspiring content, relatable stories, and sage advice, we help readers discover their personal journey of happiness.”
Chrome extensions:
Move It is a great reminder to get active and integrate a break into your work online
Strict Workflow enforces a 25 min/5min workflow. 25 minutes of distraction-free work, followed by 5 minutes of break
Forest is another distraction blocking extension, except now you are responsible for the growth of a tree!
Apps:
Calm (also on the web) - Join the Calm revolution and enjoy the amazing benefits of meditation. Resources for you and your classroom. Free for teachers!
Insight Timer - free meditation app
TL;DR
Google Earth
Choose your adventure! Fly through 3D cities, visit natural wonders, go on a guided tour - all with Google Earth!
Google Forms
Tech Tool of the Week
Google Earth!
If you weren’t familiar with Google Earth before, you should definitely check it out now! Last week, Google launched an improved version of Google Earth, which is now available on a Chromebook! Take students to the:
Setting of a novel
Location of a historic event
Landscape of a native speaking country
Go on an interactive tour with the new “Voyager” feature. Some highlights:
Natural Treasures from BBC Earth
Jane Goodall in Gombe National Park in Tanzania
This is Home, a journey into traditional homes from cultures around the world
Following Charles Dickens: Trace the steps of Victorian novelist Charles Dickens and some of his best-loved characters around Great Britain.
Even use the “I’m Feeling Lucky” feature that takes you somewhere unexpected with the click of a button!
Tech Refresh
Set rules for your Google Form using the “Data Validation” feature! This often overlooked feature can come in very handy when you want to set a limit to a paragraph or checklist response, or are looking for a very specific response. You can even use this feature to make a digital Breakout or a quick “Do Now” challenge for your students that will take minutes to prep. You can use the data validation feature on checklist, short answer, and paragraph questions.
Learn more about it here: https://goo.gl/jOca8R or Book Me and I’ll show you!
Resources for PD
Upcoming PD opportunities:
- THIS SATURDAY!! Join me at Edcamp Garden State on Saturday, April 29 from 8:00-1:00. This is a FREE unconference, designed by teachers for teachers! Register today!
- Edcamp Happy Camper on Saturday, May 13 in Sewell, NJ. FREE!
- nErDCampNJ on Saturday, May 20 in Chatham, NJ. An edcamp with a focus on literacy! FREE!
- Edcamp Philly on Saturday, May 20 in Philadelphia, PA. FREE!
- South Brunswick Technology & Learning Conference on Tuesday, June 27. This conference was inspired by educators who are excited about sharing and learning innovative ideas for empowering students to find their passion and self-direct their own learning (how awesome is that?). Before you register, ask me for the friends and family discount code! One of the benefits I get from presenting at this conference is a discount for YOU! Yay!
Kim Lowden
Supporting teachers integrating technology into instruction
I can support your technology integration by:
- Collaboratively planning lessons and units
- Exploring new tools or updates
- Integrating technology into existing lessons
- Team teaching, assisting, modeling with classes or departments
- Peer coaching
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting instructional issues
- Creating and sharing resources
Find a time that works for your schedule to meet and then book me using this link: https://kimlowden.youcanbook.me
Email: kimberly.lowden@wwprsd.org
Website: https://www.pinterest.com/msitech/
Location: HSS Media Center
Phone: 5216
Twitter: @ms_itech