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Q1 - As a person who uses a macbook each day, I thought it would be great to learn some new things about the mac that could help with creation of lessons, etc.
Q2 - In terms of the 4Cs - the training can help with creativity - using mac native apps can lead to some new lessons. I also learned new ways to use new mac apps to promote collaboration among students working on groups assignments.
Q3 - the Apple training definitely  helps NC Digital Learning Competencies - one of the big focuses of the standards are teachers being leaders in the classroom ... to be a leader we have to know what we are doing. I tend to push back against this idea of "the native generation" - my experience is that students do not have innate technology skills ... the skills need to be learned and modeled.

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Q1 Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
A1 I just love to read and I thought this would be a great way for me to be able to learn more about education in the comforts of my own home.

Q2 What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD?
A2: Well, I don't have a classroom, but I think the topic of this book relates to way more than just teachers in their classrooms. I think the chapter called "Never Slam a Door" really hit home to me because I'm totally been guilty of that in the past. I need to give each student a clean slate every time they walk through my door. I'm trying to give them all a fair chance no matter who their parents are or what I know about them. I'm also juggling with the time and effort it takes to make some of these connections. I'm amazed that these guys go out and visit the homes of their students. I'm trying to get the energy back into the job that I want to do that.

Q3: -List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?
A3: I love having choices, especially being a counselor when 99% of the PD is typically directed to teachers. Sadly, I feel that a lot of the PD we went over before school started is still geared towards teachers and I still have to work to find my own PD that is most relevant to counselors. It would be great if some of the PD options were more inclusive of the overall school staff. I know that's typical when counselors are in the extreme minority of the staff. But thankfully this book I'm reading applies to me, so I'm very grateful for that. Oh, and I am awful about remembering dates when things are spread out, so I'm going to have to put these reflection dates in my calendars (and remember to look at my calendars). But that's on me and it is a weakness I'm working on.

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The Best-Kept Secret in Learning: Executive FunctionWeb Ed                     Q 1 Why did you choose the PD module you chose? I have a large number of ADHD classified students in my courses, and2 of them are sporadic with their medication.           Q 3--What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD?  I am trying to incorporate more movement and make sure that directions are repeated to keep the executive function to help the students process the class                             Last Q-Open ended - share a thoughtful reflection of your choice. The PD stresses that executive functioning programs work for younger children, but I am trying to apply the things I am learning about ADHD and the brain processes to help my students.  It can be difficult to apply these strategies to my seniors as other external influences are also taking their time.

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The Best-Kept Secret in Learning: Executive FunctionWeb Ed                     Q 1 Why did you choose the PD module you chose? I have a large number of ADHD classified students in my courses, and2 of them are sporadic with their medication.           Q 3--What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD?  I am trying to incorporate more movement and make sure that directions are repeated to keep the executive function to help the students process the class                             Last Q-Open ended - share a thoughtful reflection of your choice. The PD stresses that executive functioning programs work for younger children, but I am trying to apply the things I am learning about ADHD and the brain processes to help my students.  It can be difficult to apply these strategies to my seniors as other external influences are also taking their time.

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edweb.net: New Lessons for Women's History Month Featuring Female Medal of Honor Recipient, Mary Walker

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edweb.net: New Lessons for Women's History Month Featuring Female Medal of Honor Recipient, Mary Walker

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-Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose this PD because while I do heavily focus on women's rights in American History and also globally through APHG, I do not do anything specific for Women's History Month.
List benefits and challenges of doing PD this way. What changes would you make. Obviously the major benefit is that teachers can do this on their own time at their own pace. However, I like PD as a school. We get very little time to bond with our fellow teachers and PD is one time that we get to collaborate together and build relationships. PD face to face with my fellow teachers and admin I think is really worth while as it relates to staff bonding and family atmosphere of the school.
-What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD?
This first module was primarily content driven not implementation driven. The context of the lack of women's right, cult of domesticity, women's right movement and women's role in society are all thoroughly covered in AH1 and APHG.

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AUSTIN SCHROTH

Q1) Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

I chose to use the NCEES for my PD for convenience and choices.  There's a lot of self-paced options that I can choose from so I can get what I need/want.

Q2) List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?

I really like this.  I'm able to seek out what will work in my math classroom with my teaching style.  I was glad that we took time to be presented all of the different options.  It was hard to choose just one to focus on so I would like to see this be a yearly thing so we can choose different PDs.
The potential drawbacks could be poor teacher participation.  I think sharing and reflecting is any important part of any PD.

Q3) How does this PD promote Digital Learning Competencies?

Part of the reason I chose this PD was to find modules that specifically align with Digital Learning Competencies.

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edWeb- Empower Your Students to Be Digital Leaders on Social Media

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edWeb- Empower Your Students to Be Digital Leaders on Social Media

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This PD promotes Digital Learning Competencies by implementing strategies as suggested in the title, Empower Your Students to Be Digital Leaders on Social Media.  The goal of this PD was to discuss how social media presents an opportunity for students and teachers to connect, share and grow together but also look at the challenges it presents.  We as educators need to become responsible and fluent users of technology so we can teach students how to utilize social media in real-world practice.  Also, we teachers are the leaders and need to educate our students to become technology consultants not just technology consumers.  It has become our responsibility to teach digital citizenship in a social media driven world.

To make this PD better in terms of meeting my needs as a professional, I am challenging myself to expand into a new area of social media.  I recently created a personal Instagram account but would like to make an educational/school account and link my students.  I would love to get their insight on our class, educational challenges they face and/or any group discussion they may want to have outside of our traditional 7:45am-2:45pm school day.  I would also consider learning how to use twitter, so students could re-tweet posts that are important to them.  If social media is the best way to reach our students, then I need to teach myself to be more involved.

The part of the PD which had real meaning to me was the idea of teaching our students to be “social media consultants rather than consumers”.  Most of our social media involvement is re-tweeting, or liking, or sharing other’s thoughts instead of voicing our own opinion.  Our students read and consume what they are presented without challenging the authenticity of the information or expressing their opinion on the subject.  Just because someone makes a statement on social media, does not mean it is correct or worth our time.  Students need to be picky with what they give their time to on social media, challenge their fellow classmates to do the same and share their original thoughts and passions with the world.  Our students need to make their voices be heard!

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Q1: Why did you choose the PD module?

I felt this PD would be the most beneficial as it crosses into my discipline, counseling. It is the most appropriate and the PD that I might be able to use in meetings and throughout different activities in counseling.

Q2: what surprised you about the training?
That there are so many things that an iPad can do. I wasn’t aware of all the tools that you could use and how versatile an iPad really is.

Q3: What opportunities do you see yourself/in the classroom?

Since I don’t have a classroom, I see myself using this for more communication with parents/students and trying to utilize it to make really interesting presentations that can reach all people at LNC.

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Teaching Historical Inquiry with Objects | edXwww.edx.org

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Teaching Historical Inquiry with Objects | edXwww.edx.org

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Q1) Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose this program because I want to focus my PD on skills that are specific to social studies and how to incorporate primary sources beyond "texts" into my teaching
Q2)What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD?
I have created two activities that focus on analyzing paintings and a revolutionary era political cartoon as the vehicle of understanding rather than reverting back to primary texts.
Q3)  How can you go "big" in your classroom, using some ideas youâ€™ve gotten from this PD?
My plan is to be able to bring in actual historical artifacts... (if I can get my hands on them) or perhaps to visit a museum or historical site that will allow us access to a historical artifact and build a lesson around the experience .

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Q1: Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose this PD because I wanted to learn more about the field of Data Science and this online course includes certification. Also, I can immediately put the information to use in my classes as my AFM classes cover Probability during the year. It’s also neat that the course was offered through Harvard University.

Q2: How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?
I will be able to better instruct my students in probability by taking this online course. Also, I am looking forward to learning of new examples that I can implement in my instruction. It will also be helpful to have a clearer understanding of the concept for myself.

Q3: Open-ended reflection
I am enjoying the PD Your Way program because I’m able to find applicable information for myself and my students. I will be able to immediately apply this information in my classroom and will benefit personally by receiving certification in a new field. Also, this is a topic that interests me so I am invested in following through on the coursework.

Natychia Redmond

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Whats the problem?  Finding the right math problem to challenge students.

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Whats the problem?  Finding the right math problem to challenge students.

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I chose this one from ED Web because I was looking for something that was math specific.

What surprised me was how easy it is to take a math problem and spiral it around other topics that students may have not used in previous year.

The opportunities for me to use this in the classroom will occur with my weekly spirals. I will start to incorporate more higher level thinking that will involve numerous topics.

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Q1:  Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
A1: I chose the Apple Teacher PD because I want to continue to incorporate technology into what we do in the counseling department. Also to get an idea of what the teachers in our building are doing with the features Apple has to offer.

Q2: What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?
That there are apps I have very little knowledge about that others in the building incorporate regularly into the curriculum/classrooms.

Q3:  What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD?
Collaboration and understanding seem to be the biggest opportunities that I see thus far. The ability to collaborate with others in the building as well as students. Understanding what our teachers and students are working on. Will help with the ability to relate in the counseling relationship.

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Q1:  Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
A1:  I want to develop activities which will help students be better prepared for the skills they need in the 21st century.  In particular, I want to find more ways of incorporating computer skills into the study of physics so that students are better prepared for science and engineering research.

Q2:  How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?
A2:  This course addresses data literacy, design thinking, and computational thinking.  All of these seem to connect with science research.  However, I feel I need to have a better understanding of how the terms are being used and how they are applied practically in order for me to incorporate these skills in my classes.

Q3:  What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD?
A3: I hope to be able to incorporate activities in my physics classes which will put students on the path of engaging in actual science research in addition to traditional lab activities. I hope to help students develop the skills of addressing a research problem and developing solutions using digital tools.

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Q1: How can you go "big" in your classroom, using some ideas you’ve gotten from this PD?
I appreciated the structure of the PD because it is very much like something a teacher would use in her classroom. Using stations and small groups to share information and diversify topics was effective. This is something I can use with my 9th graders when we begin our new novel, Poet X. It will be especially beneficial to watch videos and hear from a diverse group of voices, especially since exposure to those outside the LNC bubble may be limited.

Q2: What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom?
Since we have a lot of autonomy in choosing our curriculum in English, we are creating more diversity by selecting novels from people of color. As I mentioned above, this will help the students gain exposure to those who have had different life experiences than they have.

Q3: What innovative ideas have you come across that can keep you professionally renewed and inspired?
I often forget how many resources are available for teachers from the New York Times. Some of the videos that we saw in the diversity PD could be used to generate conversation in our classrooms, especially as they pertain to the novels we are reading.

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Q1: Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

I searched all the possible choices. The Capella Project Based Learning module piqued my interest. As a student, I enjoyed projects. During my first 10 years of teaching, project were not an option. With the pressure from Judge Manning on EOC scores most of my teaching was geared to making sure the students performed well on a test. Since the state removed the EOC requirement for US History, I now have time to focus on different ways of teaching. The module offers theory and discusses the differences between problem-based learning and project based learning. I hope that it will offer some good ideas on how to implement and different projects that may be worthwhile for American History and Contemporary Issues. I am only 1/3 of the way, it is mostly informative, and why it is a good learning strategy.

Q2: what has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?

I am surprised that I know some of the answers without having to read the content. It is question and answer driven. If you cannot answer the question correctly, you are given information to help you answer the question. You are also given three tries to answer the question correctly. It is also going to take me longer than I anticipated. May be I should have signed up to do the Apple training. ;)

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Q1:  Why did you choose the
PD Module?
A1 I feel more comfortable w/ Apple Technology so I thought I would expand my knowledge & comfort levels w/ technology in the classroom

Q2: What surprised you about the training?
A2: Honest answer, not a lot. I did see more opportunities to use in class, but I wouldn't label myself as surprised.

Q3: What opportunities do you see yourself/your classroom in this PD?
A3: I hope to try most of the tools but will/might be limited w/ limited access to the IPad Cart

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I want to enhance my knowledge of Apple products since it is the way of the future.

What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?
That I don’t know as much as I thought I did with what the iPad has to offer. Each app has so many more options I was unaware of.

-List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?
I do like how they’re many options and we can do them on our own time and pace but I do wish they had more course specific options such as Health/pe.

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Q1:  Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
A1:  It is my understanding that Apple products were created primarily with the visual and performing arts in mind.  I own an iMac, iPad, and iPhone and have access to an iMac and iPad at school.  My primary computer at school however is a Microsoft PC which I tend to use more than the iMac.  I need to become more proficient with Apple products as I feel it would better suit both my students and myself.

Q2:  What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?
A2:  Although I have taken workshops on learning to utilize the utility programs, what has surprised me the most so far is how little I know about the possibilities of each.

Q3:  What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD?
A3:  I see tremendous opportunities for myself and my classroom in this Apple Teacher Certification PD.  I have already learned of new ways my students can collaborate on the iPad.  Having access to an iPad cart will allow me to continue to expand the digital art opportunities for my students as well.

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Q1: Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

A1:  I selected the apple PD because I have a mac functioning home.  At school however in my classroom I mainly utilize a PC.  I wanted to improve my mac skills. Additionally, I aim to learn of new ways to incorporate the effective use of apple devices and tools in my classroom to enhance my instruction.

Q2:  What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD?

A2:  I will incorporate more creative lessons utilizing the learned skills from this PD within my classroom.  I would also like to improve my mac literacy.  I would like to incorporate iMovie to my oceanography class within the overexploitation unit.  I am working to finish the final draft of my biology manuscript.  I would like to learn ways to use computerized imagery to construct visual explanations of biological processes which are important for students understanding.

Q3: How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?  When it comes to technology I often find my students being the teacher.  I would like to improve my mac and tech literacy so that I can aid my students when we encounter challenges.

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Why did you chooses the PD module you chose?
I chose this PD for a couple of different reasons. First, it was a Twitter chat.  I had not been involved in a slow twitter chat before and so I thought trying a new activity could open up some possibilities for the use of Twitter in the classroom, eventually to communicate with parents and for student assignments.  Secondly, I have a teacher friend who had read the book and seemed to enjoy it, not only for strategy ideas, but also as a motivating piece.  Lastly, I am always looking for innovative ideas  in teaching that will allow me to help students better facilitate their education based on their individual interests.

What has surprised you so far with this PD?
First, this book is written in a positive tone that keeps the readers interested.  It is motivational in many ways.  I have been reminded about the importance and necessity of a strong reflective teaching process.  Innovator's Mindset also discussed the importance of being a "school teacher, not a classroom teacher".  As George Couros says,  "human interaction is the key force of ...spreading change".

List the benefits and challenges of doing PD this way.

I like doing PD this way because, I have a choice in what I am learning and I am able to do it as it fits into my schedule.  I like the Twitter chats because you have the ability to extend the conversation with multiple individuals and have multiple conversations  going on about the text at the same time. This methods is flexible and I am so APPRECIATIVE of that.

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What is an idea you have had that you have wanted to try but haven't? I have had thoughts of integrating more apple based software  into my technical theatre lesson. I Want to become more familiarized with the numbers program so I can implement a thorough teaching of how to organize our production prompt books better.

Why did you choose the PD module you chose? I utilize a mac computer as my main device for both my middle school and high school classes. I am intrigued to educate myself more on the ample amount of software that I employ on a daily basis.

What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD? I see an opportunity for growth in productivity, creativity, and organizational skills for all parties. Being able to grasp a better understanding of the content I utilize daily, and have an opportunity to educate our future with these skills reassures the value of this PD.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose the ditch that textbook PD because I am not very tech savvy. I use some technology in my classroom but not as much as other teachers or in a way that can really enhance the learning in my class. The future is all about technology and I want to teach my students how to use and be successful with technology in a way that will help them in the real world. The book talks about not only how to use technology in the classroom to enhance learning but why it is important to use and the impact it will have on the students future.
How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?
I now have ideas of how to use technology in my classroom as well as other teachers that I can connect with if I have questions. In past, I’ve only used technology things that I am familiar with and have not branded out with new technology due to my lack of knowledge. This year I plan to change that and incorporate new technology into my teaching. I plan to take risks with technology to help enhance my teaching and my students’ learning as well!

List the benefits & challenges of doing PD this way.
I like doing PD this way because it gives us the freedom to choose what kind of PD we want based on the needs within our classroom or our subject. I know I need help with technology so this book really sparked my interest and I am excited to learn from it. Sometimes PD isn’t very exciting depending on what it is but I have enjoyed this so far. It also allows us the freedom to do PD when it is convenient for us. I coach and am in season right now so I can do my PD at night or on the weekends and still get it done. The only challenge for me has been doing technology stuff!  I had to learn to tweet and use Padlet but it is forcing me to use new technology that I haven’t really used much before which is a good thing!  Another challenge is there are so many options that sometimes it’s hard to know what to choose!

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-Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose EdWeb.net as my PD choice because it had several Google Webinars.  After returning from the NCTIES last year, I was constantly searching for new ways to incorporate Google assignments into my classes. The first course I took was Educator: Sills for Success.  Why Flipped Classroom?

Community URL: www.edweb.net/digitaledu

-What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?
I was surprised after watching the first webinar that the presenter was very interesting.  I took several of the real life examples and plan to use them directly in my classes.   I learned that designing a Flipped Classroom needs these  3 Stages:

1. Encourage interest ahead of time

2. Flip and Engage- media

3. Extend and Apply in a student centered way

-How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?

Here is an example of how I could use this for my small group Study Skills class to review Math 1 Content:

Step 1:In small groups of 2-3, assign a math example similar to one they practiced in class. Let the students try to work together to figure out the answer.  Encourage them to explain their thought process on how they would solve it.
Step 2: Post a video of myself completing the problem via  YouTube Channel so students can view at their own time/pace.
Step 3: Prepare a mix of student based review activities such as Kahoot races, Schoology, Quizziz, Quizlet and GimKit.

New tools that I learned about:
Camtasia, Free Castomatic,

Other good takeaways:

For a teacher that might teach primarily using a flipped classroom, prepare a flipped classroom open house video.  Ask parents to watch the same video format used in your flip prior to Open House.  This explains why you asking their children to watch the videos at home.

I also liked this Station Rotation model that can be used to skill check:

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-Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I use my Mac at home on a daily basis but I was curious to learn a little more about the programs that Mac uses. My understanding of how to use the programs on my Mac are very basic, as well as with the iPad. I was curious to see if there were features on the Mac/iPad that I could implement into my classroom occasionally even though I use the laptop computers on a daily basis.

-What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?
There are SO many ways that you can allow your students to collaborate with the Mac programs. Several of these programs not only allow for students to collaborate, but also implement 21st-century learning skills.

-How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?
I am hoping to use some of these features in the future to diversify my classroom activities. I found some of the ideas interesting that were presented in the modules for student collaboration using quicktime video, Photobooth, etc.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I am an active participant in Twitter PD chats. One day, I stumbled on a chat that was discussing this book. The ideas presented were interesting and an extension of my own philosophy. I decided that I wanted to read the book and learn more, so our PD fits nicely with my plans.
How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?
I will be using ideas from the book to promote innovative thinking that goes beyond the basic growth mindset. My students will benefit from my participation because I will have new strategies for inspiring them to actively apply the skills they are learning creatively to their real world environment.

List the benefits & challenges of doing PD this way.
I appreciate being able to choose my own PD. I am able to learn about ideas that will directly improve my classroom and that I am ready to apply immediately. Because it is a slow chat, I can respond to the questions as my time allows. I am also able to collaborate with like minded peers and approach the book/questions from different angles because of their input. The only part of our PD that might be a challenge for some people is that you have to be self-motivated to keep up with it. However, if they have picked something that they truly are interested in, it will not be an issue. An additional benefit for me is that it strengthens my belief that voice and choice is best in the classroom. I can see firsthand how my students will benefit from more choice because I am enjoying it myself.

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Sharon Albury                                                               Enhance your World Language Classroom (NCEES)

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Sharon Albury                                                               Enhance your World Language Classroom (NCEES)

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose this PD because I am always looking for ways to incorporate new technology into my classroom. I want students to take more ownership of their language learning, and one way to help them do this, is to ensure they have access to a variety of learning tools.This PD promotes various learning apps that will enable participation from everyone and therefore benefit everyone. Participation through these tools is not strictly verbal but written as well. Even the shy, quiet student can be engaged in this way.

List the benefits & challenges of doing PD this way? What changes would you make?
It is nice to have the flexibility of the day as well as the choice of what you would like to learn. This type of PD allows you to work at your own pace and not feel “rushed to learn.” The downside is that there is not always a great deal of variety with regards to the World Languages.

How does this PD promote digital learning competencies?
This PD discusses a variety of tools that students have access to in the WL classroom. Some of those listed are Quizlet, Kahoot, Padlet, Storybird and Piktochart. Of these I am only unfamiliar with Storybird but would interested to explore it more. The module also makes reference to the “blended classroom” in which both teacher-led and e-learning occurs. This mix of the two types of teaching promotes student engagement and has better success in reaching all students than the traditional method of teaching did.

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How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?

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How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?

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I choose an online course entitled Ecology Landscapes. This course has highlighted for me how technology often simply mimics things that were once done on paper. The digital class is setup with a series of reading assignments followed by reading comprehension questions.  The level of difficulty of the course is high but the reading comprehension does not test my understanding. It reminds me of reading checks that I did in high school on paper. Instead of using technology to promote inovative thinking, here technology is just digitizing an activity from last century. I try to use technology in my class to be meaningful.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose to facilitate the book study for Ditch That Textbook because the author, Matt Miller, has impressed me with his blog and Twitter feed. He has practical, yet innovative ideas that teachers can implement into their classrooms. He focuses a lot on Google Drive tools, and I'm always looking for new, inspiring ways to use Google that I can pass along to staff. I also love a good Twitter chat. Since it's so difficult to get a group of teachers into a room at the same date and time, a slow Twitter chat is the next best thing to get teachers "talking" and sharing their thoughts on the book.

How does this PD promote the Digital Learning Competencies?
The first DLC is 'Leadership in Digital Learning'. What better way to demonstrate leadership for technology innovation beyond the classroom than reading a book and facilitating a discussion on using technology instead of an outdated textbook! The more I learn about ways to use technology to reinvent education the more I can empower the teachers in my building to revolutionize their teaching.

Open Ended
I have loved Miller's idea of learning, unlearning, and relearning. So much of the time we as humans do something a certain way because "this is how we've always done it." Miller suggests that there are times when we need to unlearn the way we've always done things, and relearn a new way, especially when it comes to teaching. The old way doesn't necessarily mean it's currently the best way.

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Responsibilities of the 21st Century Educator

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Responsibilities of the 21st Century Educator

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

As an educator who spent half her career in the 20th century, I want to compare, contrast and incorporate as many "21st century" strategies and approaches to learning as possible into my classroom. After all, my audience is only FROM this century. I need to continue to stay current with the world my students know and are comfortable learning in.

How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?

By bringing me "up to speed"- familiarizing me with the digital and mobile technologies that are not second nature to me , but are to my students. This will keep me connected with the world through their eyes and allow me to adapt my instruction accordingly.
List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?

I think this is an great way to allow teachers the flexibility to work on professional development at their own pace, with content they are truly interested in. One change might be to open up the options to include webinars and PD from other sources.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose to complete the Responsibilities of the 21st Century Educator on the Powerschool portal.  I choose this PD because it takes about many aspects of incorporating technology into your classroom along with using Professional Learning Networks that are more than just posting materials you have used.  This PD focuses on global awareness and student centered learning.

How does this PD promote Digital Learning Competencies?
This PD promotes digital learning completencies through the use of PNLs to grow as an educator.  This PD also explores global awareness through using Skype in the classroom.  The PD also focuses on the creation of student-centered learning classrooms.

List the benefits & challenges of doing PD this way.
The benefits are doing PD this way are that we are able to complete it when we have time and are able to use the scheduled days for other activities (doctors/ dentist appointments) if needed. We are also able to focus more on topics which we feel can benefit our teaching or are needed to renew our licence (digital learning CEUs).  One thing I would change is allow more variety in the PD offered.  For example maybe allow the math teachers to complete some of the Webinars offered through Texas Instruments as part of our PD.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

I am continuing to attempt to fully implement a flipped classroom and trying to find new ways to make my in class instruction more student centered as opposed to teacher centered.  Because we are a one-to-one school, it made sense that technology would need to play some role in this transition both in and out of the classroom.

How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?

Through this PD, I was able to learn some strategies to both select and post evaluate the digital and technological resources that I may and will use in class.  It has provided a couple of frameworks/rubrics that will provided me with a better measure of effectiveness as a result of a tools integration or removal form my instruction.

What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD?

As a math teacher, it is assumed that I will utilize tools like calculators or graphing utilities within my classroom; however, many of us just use this form of technology within the classroom to simply perform basic calculations or viewing functions (maybe finding intercepts or extrema).  I have been able to collect and create some activities that utilize the calculator for more exploratory means.  I also am better at redirecting students to the use of this tools when they ask questions like "How does this change that?"� or "What if instead of _ the equation was _?"� so that the information is a little more meaningful to them as opposed to me simply giving them the answers.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

I chose the flipped classroom module because it’s a concept I have always been interested in, and I wanted to understand its foundational ideas.  I think that because LNC students all have access to technology in the form of lap tops and internet, there are lots of opportunities to flip some or even many of my lessons, especially in AP Lang.

How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?

After three years of teaching AP Lang, I feel like I am finally getting a handle on which content works best for both the exam and for students’ long-term writing education. Since A.P. students are very independent, motivated, and intelligent, I am now thinking about what they could learn independently and what I still need to help them with in person.  To this end, the flipped classroom environment will give me more options to maximize class time and at-home time.  In concrete terms, I already have some good ideas on how to re-vamp my summer reading project, including adding video tutorials.

-How does this PD promote Digital Learning Competencies?

Flipped classrooms, from what I have seen so far, rely on access to technology and digital citizenship.  I tend to be an ‘in-person’ kind of teacher; I like to interact directly with my students, but this PD requires me to consider how I might develop my presence online for my students, and how they might interact with me on Youtube or another video platform. It is also forcing me to think about project-based assignments which will likely have a digital component.  How can I incorporate a true, digital project-based learning assignment into that class?

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

I chose this book because the most important thing in my class is my students. My goal is to create a safe, yet engaging learning environment for each student.  I am interested in learning about them, believing in them, and teaching them beyond the subject matter.

What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?

This book really confirms my beliefs about the importance of relationships. The investments that we, as teachers, can make in their lives can be very impactful.
What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD
I am definitely making more of an attempt to contact parents/students with positive messages. It is important that my students know the impact that they are making on me and the value that each individual has.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose this  book because another  educator had recommended this book to me over the summer.  So when I saw it on the list, I thought I should definitely read it. Also  I am always looking for new ideas and ways to engage students and per the reviews this book offered that. I was a little nervous about the twitter chat, but I thought it being a slow chat would give me ample opportunity to use twitter and follow others reading the book.
What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD?
I  like the idea of talking to parents when their child is doing an awesome job or has improved.  I know i tell the students and I feel I definitely do that and love the reaction and smiles I get when I say something positive to them, inside and outside the classroom.  I really want to focus on telling the parents as well. I especially think this is important for students who do not always do so well
List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?
I like this PD format in that it allows us to choose something that interests us and is applicable to our subject areas. I also like that you can digest the information as opposed to sitting for many hours without actually having the time for applying the new information I like the flexibility it gives in allowing us to go at our own pace, but keeps us in check with periodic reflections, much like we do for our students with large assignments.

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-Why did you choose the PD module you chose? I chose this PD because I have an iMac and the iPad and I want to become more comfortable with both.  I have a basic understanding of what can be done with the iPads but I want to learn how I can utilize the iPad cart more effectively in art.

-What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module? I was very surprised how specific the quizzes were for this PD. I am not completely through all of the module yet but felt like I needed to take a break and process all the information and actually experiment with the apps.
-List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?  I really like the fact that we had options. At my previous school the PD was not beneficial and I had a hard time translating it to my subject. I also enjoyed that we could complete this where we would like. I knew I would have a hard time staying focused at home so I chose to work at a different location.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose this PD as I read good reviews on this book and was interested in other ways to do things within my classroom without a textbook.  I already teach Math 3 without a textbook due to there not being a text for it, but I still utilize a textbook for AP Statistics.  I use additional resources for that class but I am interested in other things I could be doing that I may not be thinking of currently.

How does this PD promote Digital Learning Competencies?
The whole idea behind this book is how there are so many ways that individuals can learn now in a digital world that we do not need to rely on just a textbook or teacher exclusively.  So far in the first 7 chapters it has talked about how so much is at your fingertips online.  There are videos, worksheets, examples, etc located online that students/teachers can both find many different ways to learn the material or teach the material within their content areas.

What is an idea you have had that you have wanted to try but haven't?
One thing that I plan on trying out here soon is a new way to post notes from my class (or provide copy of teacher notes). I am looking at trying to video my lessons using the website screencastomatic. A lot of the time, students need to hear the explanation of the math/work than just look at the steps involved. This will give the students an opportunity to see the steps worked out with explanation instead of just the entire process all written at once.

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Intel Thinking Critically with DataWhy did you choose the PD module you chose?I chose the Thinking Critically with Data PD because I feel like this is an area where our students need more practice. I also wanted some new strategies to help in my teaching of this important 21st century skill. Our students want to memorize and recite information but struggle when we make them think through pictures, tables, and graphs. Students need to know how to gather credible information and sort through the information, noticing sources of possible error. What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD?With this PD and implementing some of the practices, I can see my students being more open to different viewpoints and ideas. Collaboration during the work will allow them to hear things that maybe they did not notice while analyzing data. List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?This is awesome…I love that everyone gets to explore topics in their own interest. You can also find areas in which you feel that you need to improve and the resources are available for pretty much everything. 

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Intel Thinking Critically with DataWhy did you choose the PD module you chose?I chose the Thinking Critically with Data PD because I feel like this is an area where our students need more practice. I also wanted some new strategies to help in my teaching of this important 21st century skill. Our students want to memorize and recite information but struggle when we make them think through pictures, tables, and graphs. Students need to know how to gather credible information and sort through the information, noticing sources of possible error. What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD?With this PD and implementing some of the practices, I can see my students being more open to different viewpoints and ideas. Collaboration during the work will allow them to hear things that maybe they did not notice while analyzing data. List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?This is awesome…I love that everyone gets to explore topics in their own interest. You can also find areas in which you feel that you need to improve and the resources are available for pretty much everything. 

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

I chose this option because I am an avid Mac addict. I use my personal MacBook everyday in class and recently came from a Mac school, so I wanted to take my skills to the next level and I thought becoming an Apple Teacher would encourage me to do so. In addition, I am not as comfortable on the ipads and wanted ideas and skills to better utilize the ipad cart in my classroom to get my Mac fix.

How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?

As mentioned, I came from a school where all of the students used MacBooks, so I struggle with the capabilities of the PC and find that I am restricted from a lot of the activities I would like to do, especially in my journalism class.  Because I am less familiar with the ipads and their capabilities, I thought this PD would allow me to learn more about utilizing the ipads since there is a cart available to all teachers and my students are more familiar with the ipads. I wanted to capitalize on the collaboration and user-friendly programs the ipad uses to create multi-platform projects with my students, ensuring 21st century learning.

List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?

I appreciate and love this version of a PD. Not only does it allow me flexibility in my PD days (bonus with small children), but it enables me to take classes to focus on areas I want to grow in. Many times PD days are repetitive information, does not provide enough time to apply the skills, and hard to cater to multiple subjects. This allows us the independence and professional growth necessary to develop our strengths and weaknesses.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
I chose The Innovator's Mindset because I am familiar with George Couros' educational philosophy and I am more interested in reading than completing online coursework. Between the three book options, I felt this one best fit my interests, teaching style, student's needs, and my desire to improve the creativity of my lesson's and my student's work.
How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?
This PD encourages me to plan lessons through the innovator's lens. When I plan lessons, it encourages me to think of new ways to use strategies and tools to make the lessons more engaging and provide my student's with lessons from a new perspective. This PD will not only equip me with innovative ideas and strategies but it will expose my students to experiences in which they will see innovation in action. I am also eager to be more deliberate in encouraging my students to be innovative with how they demonstrate learning.
How does this PD promote Digital Learning Competencies?
This PD encourages me to think creatively when planning lessons and when considering how student's can demonstrate learning. This year, my goal is to research and implement new technological tools to promote active student engagement through online platforms and tools. In addition to my classroom, I eager to share my learning and ideas with my professional learning community both at LNC and through social media.

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-Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

I chose to do a book study because I liked having the freedom to read the text when it worked with my schedule, and I thought that "Ditch That Textbook" could offer some innovative ways to teach my content area that I haven't utilized in the past.  I have been teaching Chemistry for close to a decade, and in my experience it can be really tough to find resources online or through my PLN's that offer more flexibility and creativity than the conventional labs, worksheets, and notes.  (It is actually sort of comical how so many chemistry teachers will refer to a simple paper worksheet as "an activity" for their students!).

-What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD?
My hope is that "Ditch That Textbook" will offer up some interesting new ways to teach content that I have not previously used, and that these techniques will increase engagement for my students.  I want my students to be able to incorporate their own talents, skills and interests into the activities that we complete in class.  I want my students to feel like they all have something positive to contribute to our classroom environment, even if they are not particularly math-minded.

-List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?
It is great to be able to work on my book study when it fits in with my schedule, and I also appreciate really having the free time to complete other school-related work after I have finished my PD.  (Teachers do not get enough of this!)  A potential challenge for staff is maintaining the discipline to complete PD during this free time, even when other aspects of our lives are needing attention. :)

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-Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

-Currently, I’m in my last content course for a MA in US History, so I figured I would use it as an opportunity to connect it to the classroom. Since it’s a history degree, I use all of the historical thinking skills that I teach the juniors on a daily basis in my coursework, and the opportunities to bring in new connections, interpretations, and content to my classes are everywhere. This course is in Early Modern European history, which has less direct content but a ton of contextualization for the early American era.

-What has had real meaning?

-The value of context to the narrative of early American history. Throughout the first month of the course, the content has been centered on the English Reformation. I don’t typically have too much time to go into the Reformation other than as a movement of causation. However, having read two books and written two papers on the Reformation (and specifically how it connects to Puritan New England), I’ve been exposed to a lot more primary and secondary sources that inform topics that I present to the kids in US I. In this case, increased background knowledge on the Reformation has helped inform me to the greater picture of the colonial era.

-What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD?

-This PD has created an opportunity for vertical integration of the Social Studies curriculum. Specifically, this week I used the juniors’ understanding of the Protestant Reformation from ninth grade to connect to religious toleration in the American colonies. We talked about the religious drama of the English monarchies (Catholicism / Protestantism) of the 16th century (Henry VIII, Mary, Elizabeth, etc.) and I connected it to the formation of Maryland as the earliest colony in North America with religious tolerance. This is a really interesting historical conversation and one that I probably would not have taken a risk going into without the grad class. Their existing knowledge, combined with newer perspectives of early modern European history, really helped substantiate the new content we are working in now.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose? I read #Ditch and #TLAP this summer and was on a roll of reading books that would challenge my burnt out and outdated pedagogy. I wanted to continue to challenge the way I have been thinking for years and continue with my goal of updating my teaching style, classroom, and becoming more relevant to my students. I have always been extremely supportive of students and who they are, where they are, and what they are going through. I feel I am a deeply caring educator and hope my students see that but I wanted to see what these authors thought about this topic - Kids Deserve it.
-What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?  It is always good to know all that I am already doing and doing well. I am not surprised too much by what I have read already.
-What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD? I plan to call home to parents with good news as soon as I can and have good news! I also want to find a "thinking partner" to help me think and be more creative! Bounce ideas off but be accountable to for the follow-through!

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose? I really liked the cover of the book--honestly! But....aside from that I also like the idea of going more digital. I am hoping to find some ideas that will work digitally for the EC students. There seems to  be a big pull by EC students who want to do everything on paper, but if there are great ways to use technology to assist them, I would like to tap into these resources and begin to make them part of my teaching style. I am also not as good with Twitter as I probably should be, so this is a good way to force me to jump in.
What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module? Recognizing just how much I DO NOT know about Twitter and how to operate it, reply, hashtag, respond with the correct # of words, etc..... I am learning. Also, just hearing about how the workplace has changed in other professions. I guess I dont pay so much attention to that, so hearing it in the book is eye opening.
What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD? I already see that this book is going to give me the options that I think I am looking for. It talks about the ideas in a broad and realistic sense which will make technology easier to "sell" to the EC kids who want paper everything. By being able to explain just how this will work in their futture jobs and lives, it will make all of it more relevant and I think I can get the buy in I will need to become more digital with the students.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
The biggest pull for me on this was the slow Twitter chat. It's building a new skill (I had never done a Twitter chat before) while also reading a book to pick up new ideas. At the same time, it allows us to have discussions and share ideas across all of our schools. Being able to read and respond to middle and elementary school teachers will help build my understanding of what's happening on all levels at LNC.

What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?
Going back to the Twitter chat, I have used Twitter for years (not really Tweeting, more just following), so thought it would be hard to keep up with and figure out which question is being answered and sharing well thought-out responses in limited characters. My perception has completely changed. I think having so few amount of characters to work with is actually a plus as we're forced to be succinct and makes positions clear.

What are some things you are already successfully implementing in your classroom as a result of this PD?

When students come to me with a question, I'm trying to make it a point to respond with a question. Not to be annoying, but to really push their thinking rather than just pointing in the direction of the right answer. Too often, students quickly read directions and the hand shoots up before they're even willing to try. I'm trying my best to slow them down and make them work through it rather than just quickly hand them the information. Doing all I can to get rid of that "Gatekeeper" mentality.

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Why did you choose the PD module you chose?

I chose this particular book study because I like the idea of creating my own curriculum and moving away from the standard textbook.  Teaching with at textbook seems similar to teaching to the test, and both are a cookie cutter approach to education.  I also picked this book because I want to move in a more digital direction in my classroom.  I am hesitant to move away from paper, but want the creativity and flexibility the digital world can provide.

How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?
If I am constantly learning and implementing new ideas, my students will see that I am trying to grow, and will hopefully be willing to do the same.  Also, English classes tend to gravitate towards the essay, but in the real world, there are so many other types of writing.  I hope to implement more creative and accessible types of writing for my students.  For example, I have had the students blog, but this year I want them to make connections with other classes so they know their audience is more than just their teacher.

List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make?
I really like the flexibility of doing PD this way.  I can do it on my own time and focus on a subject that interests me most.  I like the collaboration of the Twitter Chat because it allows me to connect with other teachers at LNC and even go to them for help!  I also like that I can do more than one option if I have time and if I need to for renewal credits.

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Teaching Historical Inquiry with Objects

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Teaching Historical Inquiry with Objects

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How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future?
In the last several years, the focus of our department and in my World History classroom has been historical thinking skills. While I've maintained the framework we have used across the department, this PD showed me other methodologies and languages in using historical inquiry. This will give me more tools to consider how I use historical inquiry in class and regard how and which primary sources I can integrate into lessons.

What innovative ideas have you come across that can keep you professionally renewed and inspired?
The emphasis of this course was the use of museum pieces and sources. Typically I use written primary sources in the classroom, but this course showed innovative ways of using physical objects. This could be particularly applicable to my World History classes, were so much of our content comes from other parts of the world and it is relevant to use objects rather than translated materials. The course gave a variety of materials from the Smithsonian to use, but being an American history museum, I found it somewhat lacking in what I needed. However, in trying to find sources to use for my course project, I did come across several other international libraries and museums with relevant materials for my courses. I look forward to integrating some of these into my lessons.

What is an idea you have had that you have wanted to try but haven't?
While much of the object-based historical inquiry ideas can be done with images of objects, I would really like to try using physical objects. This is somewhat easier in American history, as vintage ephemera can be fairly easily acquired through vintage shops and eBay, but it's rare to stumble across Sumerian clay tablets or medieval toolkits here in the States. However, I considered and did find several sources that have 3D printable objects that could be used in historical inquiry. Knowing that we have that technology available, I'm considering how to integrate 3D printing into my historical inquiries and what objects I could use.

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Apple Certified Teacher PD Q1 reflection 

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Apple Certified Teacher PD Q1 reflection 

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Q1: Why did you choose the PD module you chose?
A1: I chose the Apple Educator option because I use my iPad a lot still, even though we have moved to laptops as a school. There are some apps I prefer using on the iPad, such as FlipGrid. I edited a video using iMovie for the first time last year and learned so much as I went through the project, and it made me want to know more. I'm curious to know more about Garage Band and more advanced functions on iMovie specifically.

Q2: What opportunities do you see for yourself/your classroom in this PD?
A2: For myself, I see learning more tools available on the iPads that I wasn't aware of. For example, I didn't know some of the neat features in an app as simple as Pages, but now I know that you can delete a background to a picture in Pages, and other neat little tricks in various apps. For my students, I hope to learn new ways of sharing content matter with them that is both interactive and meaningful.

Q3: What has surprised you so far with your chosen PD module?
A3: For the most part, it's what I expected. I like that it's pretty fast-paced, since I selected the "I already know the basics of Apple" option. It cuts out all the beginner level stuff that would've been a waste of time for me personally. I am also surprised McNeilly over here beat me to the punch on the Quarter 1 reflection, and here I thought I was sooooo early. JK :P

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-Why did you choose the PD module you chose? I have several Apple devices in my room that my DigCit & Spanish students use for video projects, design projects, etc. I took this course as a refresher on the iWork suite and general workflow of using a Mac and iPad.
-How will this PD inform your instruction and impact your students in the future? This PD will help me provide students with the most efficient means to accomplish a task. The Productivity & Creativity modules included some new features of programs such as Photos, Photobooth, etc. and ideas for collaboration & app-smashing with Apple software.
-List benefits & challenges of doing PD this way (LNC Choice). What changes would you make? Benefit: I liked that this PD is self paced, so I can do it whenever I find the time. Challenges: This particular choice felt isolated, so I'm excited to try the book study / something that will allow me to collaborate more with colleagues.