# data[].attributes.body
Closing statement that will mend us together, final remarks that will bring back with each other.

# data[].attributes.body
What does the Internet know about you?

# data[].attributes.body
What I Know about:

Social Mediia

Phishing

AI

What I Want to Learn/Questions I have about:

Social Media

Phishing

AI

# data[].attributes.headline
Jin Fang Wu Phone! The Greater Montreal Chrous zoom meeting Monday! 730 

# data[].attributes.subject
Jin Fang Wu Phone! The Greater Montreal Chrous zoom meeting Monday! 730 

# data[].attributes.body
Teachers need to have the same growth concept for themselves that they have for their students. Be confident. Teachers shy away from teaching coding because they don't feel confident about it themselves. Go to www.dk.com/coolcat for help with teaching coding.

# data[].attributes.body
When teaching coding, have students keep a journal to encourage them to reflect on what they are learning. This is a great opportunity to incorporate blogging ... Students are eager to comment on each other's blogs.

# data[].attributes.body
Tweechme App ... App to teach teachers how to use Twitter in the classroom

# data[].attributes.body
Education Chat Calendar

# data[].attributes.body
Genius Hour has been instrumental in helping with blogging. It has taught the students valuable skills in learning to research and making ideas into their own. Students research topics they are passionate about and embed it into their blogs.

# data[].attributes.body
Blogging challenges the students to be better writers because they want others to comment on their blog. The students also get excited when their parents comment on their blog, so it is building relationships between students and parents, too.

# data[].attributes.body
Coding activity appropriate for 4th grade

# data[].attributes.body
Coding ... Free teacher workshops

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Free set of elementary curricula that introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world.

# data[].attributes.body
Read And Write ... Personalized support to boost confidence in reading and writing

# data[].attributes.body
Verso app ... Can post a question/topic for student feedback; students cannot see other responses until they post their response; responses are anonymous to students but not to teacher

# data[].attributes.body
Sketchnoting is a 21st century way of taking notes ... Visually appealing ... Combines words and images ... Effective way to retain information

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
visual note-taking for educators: a teacher's guide to student creativity

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
education / teaching methods & materials / general

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
education/teaching methods & materials - general

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Visual Note-Taking for Educators: A Teacher's Guide to Student Creativity

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A step-by-step guide for teachers to the benefits of visual note-taking and how to incorporate it in their classrooms. We've come a long way from teachers admonishing students to put away their drawings and take traditional long-form notes. Let's be honest: note-taking is boring and it isn't alwa...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
Visual Note-Taking for Educators: A Teacher's Guide to Student Creativity
~ Wendi Pillars (author) More about this product

List Price: | $17.95
Price: | $15.22
You Save: | $2.73 (15%)

|

# data[].attributes.body
Cool app that creates a word cloud from answers given

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
AnswerGarden is a new minimalistic brainstorm tool for online brainstorming, real time audience participation and classroom feedback.

# data[].attributes.body
Differentiate assignments in Google Classroom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
How to Differentiate Assignments in Google Classroom

I am often asked about differentiation strategies that will work in the Google Classroom application. Google Classroom is a very robust tool that can make differentiating digital assignments a reality. I often present on digital differentiation, and until now, differentiation in Google Classroom has been more of creative thinking than what teachers and students truly need.

(UPDATED January 24, 2017!) The issue some teachers face when giving an assignment in Google Classroom is that the assignment must be given to every student in the class. There is currently is no way to give different assignments to students. Every student receives all of the assignments. So when several groups of students are working collaboratively on different assignments within the same class, management in Google Classroom can get tricky. Differentiating assignments in Google Classroom is possible with a little creative thinking. Below are three ways that will allow you to differentiate assignments in Google Classroom.

NEW Feature! Give Assignments to Individual Students or Groups

Yay! Teachers rejoice! One of the features we have been waiting for is finally available-the ability to give assignments to EXACTLY who you want, meaning an assignment meant for one student, a few, or even groups of students within a Class in Google Classroom. This is a huge update and one that I couldn't wait to get my hands on.

Teachers often need the flexibility to differentiate assignments for students based on ability, learning styles, reading level, etc. In this case, the teacher chooses the assignment for each student/group of students.

To give an assignment to individuals or groups, simply use the new drop-down menu to select the students that you wish to receive the assignment (+>Create Assignment>All Students drop-down list). Here you can select, "all students," or just select the individual or groups of students you want to give the particular assignment to. Voila! Isn't that beautiful?

Of course, this also offers teachers ways to give special assignments inside Google Classroom, like independent study, special types of make-up work, extra credit, and genius hour assignments.

Now differentiation goes far beyond just giving different students different assignments. It should be much more purposeful and meaningful than that! Another common way to differentiate is to offer student choice. This could be the choice of topic, product, or process, depending on your assignment and learning goals. Below are a few more ways to introduce choice inside Google Classroom.

Tips for Creating Differentiated Assignments in Google Classroom

Numbering these types of assignments could get confusing. For your own sanity and organization, consider not just a number, but a group or individual identifier in the assignment title. (Ex: Group 4, Special Assignment, Extra Credit, EC Sarah Jones, or come up with your own consistent naming convention.)

Get specific with your directions! The more information that is available in Google Classroom, the fewer excuses students have for not completing the assignment and the fewer interruptions you are likely to have.

Attach a rubric if you have one.

If these are collaborative/group activities, designate a group leader in the assignment. The group leader is responsible for creating any new files and turning these in through Google Classroom for the entire group. This method will help alleviate some of the file ownership issues in Google Classroom when trying to turn in work. Consider asking students to submit a reflection at the end of group work to help you get the whole picture of the learning process.

Student Choice

Student choice is a great way to differentiate and allow students to take a more flexible learning path while tapping into interests and learning styles. It is possible to use the Google Classroom platform. Luckily, it's very easy to build in choice in Google Classroom assignments. If you create an assignment with multiple Google files where each student gets a copy, you will have a file management mess. You will end up with files that are not used, and students confused on which file they should turn in through Google Classroom. To avoid this mess, try one of the options below. (See my post on Interactive Learning Menus for another interesting way to give students choice.)

Create the assignment with an assignment number and detail the choices in the directions and/or in an attached (view only) document. (Note: This is also great way to use digital learning menus and choice boards.)

You can also attach links to digital tools that may be offered as a choice for completing the assignment. (Example: Using one of the digital tools below, create a digital story retelling, "The Tell-Tale Heart," in your own words. Then add links for the digital tools you would like them to choose from, like Powtoon, WeVideo, etc.)

Students will then choose to attach their own files to complete the assignment (as shown in the animation above).

Long-Term Projects and Modifications

Another solution that some teachers are using to keep track of group work or even modify work for individual students is to create separate classes inside Google Classroom for each group, or even for individual students. (Note: This is really only worth the time if these groups are long-term, or reused. Also a great option for students who require regular modifications.)

How do you differentiate assignments in Google Classroom? Please share in the comments below! I know there are some experts out there that can help us all learn!

Learn all about the new updates to Google Classroom and take your skills to the next level. This course will give you everything you need to get started using Google Classroom and best practices to help you make the most of this tool.

Perfect for beginner to intermediate skill levels! Consider this your video guide to Google Classroom!
Click here to learn more and to ENROLL TODAY!
Other Google Classroom posts you may like:

© Shake Up Learning 2018. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

18 Challenges for Teachers in 2018 FREE eBook!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Digital Differentiation with Google Classroom | Shake Up Learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
PinterestHow to Differentiate Assignments in Google Classroom I am often asked about differentiation strategies that will work in the Google Classroom application. Google Classroom is a very robust tool that can make differentiating digital assignments a reality. I often present on digital differentiation, and until now, differentiation in Google Classroom has been more of creative ...

# data[].attributes.body
Google Calendar as assignment notebook

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
When the school year started students were busy downloading the electronic versions of their assignment notebooks .

It only took a couple of weeks before it became very clear to me that the assignment notebook my students used so religiously could easily be replaced by a technology tool that they would also use in their high school and adult life to stay organized and remember things. The assignment notebook could be replaced by a google calendar.

I decided to start with one student vs. my entire caseload. I needed to make sure my idea was a solid one and to work the kinks out of it before sharing with other students. I also needed a student in my classroom with the most technology experience. I wanted it to be someone who had already been assigned assistive technology (the technology is not going away and if this became a lengthy process that student would be the best choice for this tool). Double triple bonus.. the student I decided to try this with first was also a student also struggled with homework completion, organization and asking for help on their homework at home. If this worked it would be triple bonus awesomeness!

So my adventure to turn a google calendar into a viable replacement for students assignment notebook began...

I began by trying to create a calendar using her account. Total fail! In my district students can not share outside of our district and I knew that if this students parents could view the calendar many of the homework "battles" would go away. So, I created a calendar using my account and shared it with the student and the student's parents.

Next I set up the calendar. Each class was entered as an all day occurring event and I numbered each event to keep the classes in the same order they are in the student's schedule. (I decided against assigning a time to each event (class) only because of this student's organizational strengths and weaknesses. With other students I would make the class time slotted events. This would make their calendar look like what their life is going to look like in the future.)

The results of this simple tweek...hacking how we used a Google calendar had a significant impact on the student's homework completion, organization and the student's ability to receive help on homework at home. It brought our basic use of the Google calendar to serious awesomeness! The simple act of giving her parents permission to view the calendar did several things: 1) It took away the need for this student to constantly have to show their parents it (teenagers like to be independent you know...go figure). 2) It allowed her parents could check in on her assignments without feeling like they were nagging and allowed them to check in and keep track of assignments without being appearing overbearing.

Two weeks into using the Google calendar as an assignment notebook I was faced with a new problem. My student was still having trouble asking for help on their more difficult homework. So, I decided we add a note to each day. Any assignment that had an * would indicate to their parents that they needed help on the assignment when they got home. This allowed the students parents to know what the student needed help on and most importantly for this student, by knowing in advance what the student needed help on gave the parents an instant heads up exactly what they needed to inquire about.

Last week I was presented with one more problem with the calendar assignment notebook system. The student was having trouble keeping track of all of their electronic materials. So we streamlined all the student's work into google docs. No more anything else, except for the occasional PDF or word document. Once all the students notes, paragraphs and lessons were all in google docs organized into folders and color coded by subject the student was ready for the final addition to the google calendar ... The attachment option. Now each time the student knew they would need to type an assignment the student would create a new document for the assignment and then attach it to the calendar in that class. No confusion about what document to type the assignment on or what document to turn in. Click on the link and woosh (that's a technical term) the student was taken directly to the assignment.

The uses for google calendar are endless...
As an educator:

I share a classroom google calendar with all of my students

My students check it daily for individualized reminders, assignments or changes in the schedule

I also use it to communicate with my teaching assistants

I can attach schedule changes, agendas and materials to the calendar date for students and staff to view

I send email notifications to staff right from the calendar to ensure they get the information on the calendar

As a parents:

My husband I share a calendar to communicate events, activities and appointments

I also have one created for my daughters that I have set up on my iPad for them to look at daily and see what they have coming up

As they grow older I will use it to communicate upcoming activities, appointments or send reminders

As they grow older I will expect them to use it to communicate upcoming activities and appointments

As one of my teaching assistant joked a couple years back, "Google will rule the world!!!" I think she wasn't too far off!!!

BRIGHT IDEAS UPDATE (December 8,2013):
Heck Awesome visitor Madame Simonson shared fantastic ideas for how TEACHERS can use Google Calendar to share assignments and information with their students... 1) Attachments from Google Docs or the computer's hard drive can be added right to the educator's calendar event and then shared with students 2) The "Details" feature can be used by educators to elaborate on assignments and directions given to students 3) Use "Details" feature can even be used to share a link / URL for that days lesson or for an assignment 4) Educators can select and move whole calendar entries on their calendar. This makes it super easy to adjust lesson plans! 5) The "add calendar" feature at bottom right of the calendar that will automatically integrate a teacher/educator/parents calendar with the students' own calendars.
Heck Awesome Comments

comments

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bright Ideas #1: Using Google Calendar as an Assignment Notebook * Heck Awesome

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
When the school year started students were busy downloading the electronic versions of their assignment notebooks . It only took a couple of weeks before it became very clear to me that the assignment notebook my students used so religiously could easily be replaced by a technology tool that they would also use in their high school and adult life to stay organized and remember things.

# data[].attributes.body
Everything you need to know about Google Sites

# data[].attributes.body
Google Sites Cheat Sheet

# data[].attributes.body
EdCamps - Teachers hold EdCamp sessions to train other teachers in their school/school system how to use specific technology (ex: Google Classroom)

# data[].attributes.body
Google Slides

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Google Slides is such a versatile tool in G Suite (Google Apps). It goes much further than creating a slide presentation to show on the screen to the entire class.

Mix in images - the visual tools that make instant connections in our brains - and you've got an engaging activity in the making.

I want to show you two brand new tools that will mix those two elements - slides and images - in ways that you haven't been able to in the past. They're quick and easy to use if you have the Google Chrome browser on your computer or Chromebook.

DriveSlides

DriveSlides is a Google Chrome extension created by Alice Keeler and me. We created this extension to pair with our new book, Ditch That Homework. (For more information about Ditch That Homework, visit DitchThatHomework.com.)
Note: Are you thinking, "Wait a second ... I don't even know what a Chrome extension is!"? Don't worry! They're easy to use and I'll show you what to do step by step. You will need the Google Chrome browser for your computer (laptop, desktop or otherwise ... doesn't matter) or Chromebook. If you need to install it, click here (it's free). It's my favorite way to surf the Internet.
Here's what DriveSlides does: It uses a folder of photos in your Google Drive. It creates a new Google Slides presentation and adds each photo in that folder to its own slide in the presentation. (i.e. A folder with 15 photos has 15 slides ... one for each photo.)

This makes creating presentations with images super easy. It does all the photo uploading, adding and sizing for you.

It also lets students pull in photos of their work - or of the content they're studying - and add text, speech bubbles and comments. The sky's the limit with this tool, and I'll share several ways you can use it in the classroom later in the post.

How do I use DriveSlides?

Want to see how this tool works? Check out this step-by-step tutorial video that shows you how to do it, start to finish, click by click.

Here are links to the two Chrome extensions mentioned in the video:

Or follow these directions:

1. Install extensions. You'll need the DriveSlides Chrome extension (click here) and the Save to Google Drive extension (click here).

2. Go to your Google Drive (drive.google.com). Create a folder for images to go to in Drive and name it something related to the activity you're doing.
Pro tip: You can have all of your images automatically saved to that folder you just created. Right-click (or two-finger tap with Chromebook or Mac) the Save to Google Drive extension in the top right of your browser. Choose options. Change the destination folder to the folder you created for this activity. (Just remember to change it to a different folder next time you use the Save to Google Drive extension!)
3. Start finding images. Some suggestions for places students can search for images they have the rights to use:
Note: If you're doing this from Google Images, you'll want to click on the image you want to save to see the full-size version of it. Then right-click (two-finger tap) this bigger one to save to Google Drive. Otherwise, you'll save the smaller thumbnail-sized image, which won't look as good on the slides.
4. For each image, right-click and Add to Google Drive. This will save your image directly to your Google Drive.
Pro tip: If you used the previous pro tip and you set where you wanted Save to Google Drive to put your images, you can skip this step!
5. Put images in the right folder. When done, go to your Google Drive and click "Recent." Find all the pictures you just added. Hold in Shift and click the ones you want to use to highlight them. Right-click one of those files and click "Move to ...". Select the folder where you want the images moved (or create a new one). Then click "Move here."

6. Run DriveSlides. Open the folder with your photos in Google Drive. Click the DriveSlides icon.Voila! Your slide presentation is created.

Are there other ways to get images on my DriveSlides slide presentation?

Definitely! Here are a couple of ways.

Option 1: Use the Google Photos app. If you're going to shoot your own photos on a smartphone/tablet/iPad, the Google Photos app will automatically upload photos taken on that device to your Google Drive. (Be sure that smartphone/tablet/iPad is connected to WiFi.) Shoot the photos you want and then, once the photos are uploaded to the Google Photos folder in your Drive, jump to step 5 above.

Option 2: Use the Awesome Screenshot extension. It's a pretty easy extension to use. ( Here's a video tutorial if you'd like to see how to use it step by step.) You can install the Awesome Screenshot extension by clicking here.

You can take a screenshot of your device (a picture of what's displayed on your screen). With Awesome Screenshot, you can even add things to that image like:

drawing with a pen

boxes, circles and arrows

text

blurring

highlighting

You an also crop the screenshot you just took. Once you're done, you can save the image right to your Google Drive. (Once you click "Done", choose "More options ..." and "On Google Drive". You'll give it permission to access your Google Drive account and then Awesome Screenshot will save your image to Google Drive.

When you're done saving screenshot images to your Google Drive, you can jump to step 5 in the DriveSlides instructions above to add those images to a slide presentation.

Is DriveSlides the only way to add images to slides?

No way! Alice Keeler, with whom I co-created DriveSlides, also created a different Chrome extension: SlideShot.

Once you click the SlideShot extension icon and turn it on, SlideShot will automatically take a screenshot of your screen every minute until you finish. When you click "Finish", it will add all of those images to their own slides in a slide presentation (much like DriveSlides). You can even click the SlideShot icon and have it manually capture a screenshot whenever you want.

This is a great tool to help students reflect on their work or show their work for the day. They can revisit the steps they took to complete an activity. They can also see how they've used their time during the day since SlideShot will take screenshots every minute.

How can you use DriveSlides or SlideShot in class?

There are tons of options! Here are some ideas. If you can think of another way it could be used, please add it to the comments below, and check there to see if anyone has suggested something you could use!

1. Lab reports - Students could take pictures of what they're doing in a science lab (or in any class that does labs). With the Google Photos app installed (see above), students take images of their various steps with a smartphone/tablet/iPad. (Be sure the device is connected to WiFi.) When finished, they move the images they want into a folder and run DriveSlides from there.

2. Field trips - Take the lab reports idea above beyond the school! Have students take images of a field trip. When they return, they can run DriveSlides from a folder with the photos to put them all on slides in a slide presentation. Then, they can add text and annotate the images to explain what they learned.

3. Reflection on work - Students can use the SlideShot extension to take a screenshot of their work every minute and put them on a slide presentation. They can then go back over their work for the day, reflecting on what they did and what they created/shared.

4. Quick photo-based reports - Students can easily create a quick text-and-images report in a slide presentation with DriveSlides. They gather images (see the DriveSlides steps above). Then they create a slide presentation using DriveSlides. In the presentation, they can add text and annotate the images to explain the concept of the day.
Pro tip: Share that presentation with students in an announcement or assignment in Google Classroom. In the presentation, click the blue "Share" button and "Advanced," then choose "Anyone with the link can edit" or "Anyone with the link can comment." By giving anyone the ability to comment, students can jump to each other's slides and peer edit by adding comments. By giving them the ability to edit, students can jump to each other's slides and add text, images and other elements to work collaboratively.
5. Take photos of student work for peer review - Take photos of student work (projects, written activities, anything in the real, non-digital world). With the Google Photos app installed, those images are automatically uploaded to Google Drive. Use DriveSlides to create a slide presentation of all of those images of student work.

6. Step-by-step directions with screenshots or photos - Give a step-by-step explanation of how to do something online. Use the Awesome Screenshot extension (above) to take pictures of each step. Add those screenshots to slides with DriveSlides to provide a step-by-step tutorial.

7. Photos of math problem step by step - Let students take a deep dive into a math problem. By adding screenshots or pictures of each step of a math problem, they can explain each step in detail in a DriveSlides presentation.

8. Storytelling - Let students create a story, finding images to illustrate it with one of the image sources listed above (i.e. Creative Commons search, Photos For Class, Google Images). They save the images, then use DriveSlides to put them all on individual slides. They can then write the story by adding text boxes to each slide.

9. Finding example images of a concept from class - A picture is worth a thousand words. When students find example images of what you're studying in class, they see that subject in a different light. Have them find six, 10, 15 ... any number of images that are relevant.
For notifications of new Ditch That Textbook content and helpful links: Interested in having Matt present at your event or school? Contact him by e-mail! Matt is scheduled to present at the following upcoming events:
10. Bell ringer activity - If you're about to dig into a new topic in class, have students do a little research of their own first. Have them find some images and and important facts about that topic on their own. Students can save those images and create a slide presentation with DriveSlides. Then, they can add the facts with text boxes.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
2 BRAND NEW tools to help students display work, reflect

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Google Slides is such a versatile tool in G Suite (Google Apps). It goes much further than creating a slide presentation to show on the screen to the entire class. Mix in images - the visual tools that make instant connections in our brains - and you've got an engaging activity in the making.

# data[].attributes.body
Ditch That Textbook Digital Summit Sketchnotes

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The first Ditch That Textbook Digital Summit reached educators all over the world with innovative teaching ideas.

Thousands of teachers from dozens of countries signed up. The nine video presentations were viewed more than 15,000 times during the 16 days of the summit.

The #DitchSummit Twitter hashtag was a flurry of activity, with hundreds of educators writing thousands of tweets.
UPDATE: There will be an encore presentation of the Digital Summit! All videos, notes and certificates of completion will be available for one more week in January. Check everything out from Jan. 12-18, 2017, at DitchSummit.com. Go to DitchSummit.com/ticket to get your FREE ticket to have links emailed to you!
One of those Digital Summit participants was Jen Giffen, a digital literacy resource teacher from the York Region of Ontario, Canada.

Did she take notes during each video presentation? Why yes, she did.

Sketchnotes. Visual notes. Of ALL of the presentations. I was FLOORED by every one of them.

So, I figured, why not turn an entire post over to Jen's creative work? Below are all nine of Jen's sketchnotes of the Digital Summit presentations. Plus, she very generously shared high-resolution scans of all of them here. Feel free to download, print and share them - but be sure to credit Jen!

Changing lives worldwide in the classroom (Mike Soskil)

Supercharging your class using Google tools (Kasey Bell)

Ditching all that homework (Alice Keeler)

Teach with passion and engagement - like a PIRATE! (Dave Burgess)

Hyperdocs with Lisa, Sarah and Kelly (The Hyperdocs Girls)

LAUNCHing student creativity (John Spencer)

Student-led classrooms (Paul Solarz)

Don't get ready, get started (Noah Geisel)
For notifications of new Ditch That Textbook content and helpful links: Interested in having Matt present at your event or school? Contact him by e-mail! Matt is scheduled to present at the following upcoming events:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sketchnotes of all 9 DTT Digital Summit presentations

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The first Ditch That Textbook Digital Summit reached educators all over the world with innovative teaching ideas. Thousands of teachers from dozens of countries signed up. The nine video presentations were viewed more than 15,000 times during the 16 days of the summit.

# data[].attributes.body
17 Things for Teachers to Try in 2017

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
by Kasey Bell

17 Things for Teachers to Try in 2017

17 Challenges for Teachers in 2017!

2017 is upon us, and there are so many new and exciting advances in technology coming our way. I always geek out learning about the latest gadgets, but I especially love learning about new ways that technology can improve learning in the classroom.

The new year always inspires us to set new goals, learn new things, and start fresh. I love the start of a new year. I spend a lot of time reflecting, goal-setting, and planning for the year ahead. I like to get organized. I create to-do lists, vision boards, and read productivity books to inspire me. This list was created to help teachers and other educators try new things, experience new and advancing technology that could impact the classroom now or in the near future.

Are you up for the challenge? Consider this list your 2017 Challenge, and tweet your progress with the official Shake Up Learning hashtag: #SUL. I hope this list helps inspire you to take risks, try new things, and share new technology with your students.

Keep scrolling! This is a long, in-depth post! And there's a FREE DOWNLOAD!

Get 17 Things for Teachers to Try in 2017 FREE Download!

FREE Download! Want this post in a downloadable PDF? You will get a 13-page, printable PDF that you can save and read throughout the year. It includes every detail of this blog post in one pdf! Simply enter email in the form below.

17 Things to Try in 2017

1. Google Expeditions

With Google Expeditions out of Beta, and Google developing more and more expeditions for the classrooms, expect to see the use of this fantastic application to explode in 2017. Google Expeditions is a unique initiative from Google designed to bring educational virtual reality experiences into the K12 classrooms. "Google Expeditions enable teachers to bring students on virtual trips to places like museums, underwater, and outer space. Expeditions are collections of linked virtual reality (VR) content and supporting materials that can be used alongside existing curriculum. These trips are collections of virtual reality panoramas - 360° panoramas and 3D images - annotated with details, points of interest, and questions that make them easy to integrate into curriculum already used in schools. Google is working with a number of partners, including WNET, PBS, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, the American Museum of Natural History, the Planetary Society, David Attenborough with production company Alchemy VR and many of the Google Cultural Institute museum partners to create custom educational content that spans the universe."

2. Google Daydream Viewer Virtual Reality

What is virtual reality? Merriam-Webster defines virtual reality as "an artificial environment which is experienced through sensory stimuli (as sights and sounds) provided by a computer and in which one's actions partially determine what happens in the environment"...eh? So what does that mean? Basically, virtual reality uses a computing device to simulate and immerse you in a virtual environment.

Virtual reality has improved leaps in bounds in the last year, and is becoming even more accessible in the classroom. First of all, if you haven't experienced virtual reality, you must! It is absolutely incredible. And take a friend, because it is very entertaining to watch others experience virtual reality! Daydream VR is Google's latest headset that debuted with the long-awaited Google Pixel phone. Along with the physical headset, Google is developing and working with third party developers to create interactive apps, games, tours and more that are compatible with Daydream. Watch the video below to get a better idea of what the Daydream Viewer has to offer.

3. Listen to the Google Teacher Tribe Podcast!

What is a Podcast?

A Podcast is a series of audio or video recordings that you can subscribe to and listen to whenever you like on just about any device. Think of it like a radio show that is recorded so you can listen to it on demand.

What is the Google Teacher Tribe Podcast?

The Google Teacher Tribe Podcast is a weekly podcast designed to give teachers practical ideas for using G Suite and other Google tools that you can use in your class tomorrow. We will offer our favorite Google tips and tricks, important updates, and effective strategies for K-12 teachers. But wait...there's more! We will also have interviews with innovative and inspiring teachers.

4. The NEW Google Sites

The new Google Sites is now available from just about any Google account, and it is a must-try. They have given the old workhorse a BIG overhaul and it is slick! Watch the video below to learn more about the new Google Sites.

5. Get Google Certified!

Ready to Become a Google Certified Trainer? I have an awesome e-course to walk you through the entire process! Check it out here: BecomeAGoogleTrainer.com

6. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence has arrived in our mainstream world. With the advancement of artificial intelligence, internet of things, and machine learning, all of our "stuff," is now becoming smart and connected, and in some cases can follow commands. I have the Amazon Echo, which is powered by Alexa. She can order a pizza, lock my door, control my lights, play my music, tell me the news, or even order me an Uber. Siri, Apple's virtual assistant has greatly improved, although you will still hear me say she doesn't speak Texan. Google just released the Google Home device as well, which is powered by Google's amazing personal assistant. The point here is that we all need to get familiar with talking to our stuff. It's only going to increase, and eventually, we will have devices to automate our routines in the classroom. I can't wait to say, "Alexa, take attendance."

7. Program a Robot

So not only is AI becoming mainstream, but we have some pretty cool robots available for our classrooms. Robotics offer a lot of learning opportunities for students at every level, and it will help them understand the basics of coding all the way to advanced programming and robotics. If you haven't had a chance to play with one, I highly recommend you get your hands on one sometime soon.

You can start the itty bittys off with something simple like Code-a-Pillar from Fisher Price where you learn basic commands just by rearranging the parts of the caterpillar. Or try something more sophisticated like the Wonder Workshop Dash and Dot robots. The Ozobot is also super cool and allows students to program with markers and create games and challenges.

8. The Google Transformation Center

The newly announced Google Transformation Center was designed to promote school change, including a framework for school leaders, resources, and more. "The Transformation Center is a hub of resources to help education leaders improve all aspects of their schools and work toward a vision for change." Look for this resource to grown a lot in 2017, including innovative projects from Google Certified Innovators.

9. Augmented Reality

What is augmented reality? Augmented reality is the integration of digital information with the user's environment in real time. It's a virtual layer on top of reality, usually making use of the camera on a mobile device. Yes, both virtual reality and augmented reality top this year's list and with good reason. This will be the year that we really begin to see both gaining mainstream traction, and more classroom applications available. Augmented reality has been around for a few years, but it failed to really catch on...until the debut of a little game called Pokemon Go. Pokemon Go broke all kinds of records with roughly 30 million downloads in the first month. We have also seen a transformation in the way businesses do business in relation to this game. There are Pokestops across the globe, and here are just a few of the crazy headlines during the first month of the Pokemon Go app.

10. Inbox by Gmail

Inbox by Gmail is Google's way of redefining the way we do email and let me just say this is way overdue! Inbox is not new, but it is newly available with G Suite for Education accounts! Inbox automatically bundles related email categories, gives you the option to "snooze," an email to a later time or date, and includes reminders. I've been using it for a couple of years, and it took me a long time to adjust, but now I can't go back. I'm super excited that it is finally available in our G Suite for Education accounts! Watch the video below to learn more.

11. Google Cast for Education (Chrome App)

Cast for Education, a Chrome App, "allows you to turn your computer into a wireless projector for screen sharing from another device. Just install the app, give your device a name, and invite your students to cast." Watch the video below to learn more.

12. Create an eBook with Google Slides

Google Slides is one of the most flexible learning tools in G Suite. In fact, I used Google Slides to create my eBook: The Teacher's Guide to Google Classroom! That's right! Google Slides made the process of creating an eBook so much easier than if I had done it in Google Docs. Google Slides allows you to manipulate and edit images in ways that you cannot in Google Docs. Consider having students create a collaborate ebook this year! Or if you are so inclined, create your own ebook! Learn how to create an eBook with Google Slides from this blog post: How to Create an eBook with Google Slides.

13. #GoOpen with Amazon

There is a new Open Educational Resource platform from Amazon Education, where you can search for K-12 resources that are tagged by subject area, grade level, and standard. I've had early access to the private beta version of the platform, and I am so excited to see a big player like Amazon working on open source resources for teachers and students. And Amazon is looking for innovative teachers like you to join! Learn more about the program and how to request early access here: http://shakeuplearning.com/blog/amazon-wants-innovative-teachers-goopen/.

14. Google Keep

Google Keep is Google's note-taking service. Since it's debut, Google Keep has received some really awesome updates and features and is becoming a mainstay for Google users, including reminders that integrate with Google Now, sharing notes and lists, adding images and photos, voice memos and more. Grab the Google Keep Chrome extension, and the iOS or Android mobile app to make things even easier! Use Google Keep to organize your 2017 goals, notes, reminders, and more!

15. Google Classroom Integrations

16. Join the Shake Up Learning Facebook Group

Looking to connect and learn with like-minded educators? Join the Shake Up Learning Facebook group to connect with Kasey Bell, engage more deeply with Shake Up Learning content, ask questions, share your own lessons and ideas, and expand your personal learning network! Join the group and share how you are trying the things on this list! There may even be some exclusive content and live training coming your way in 2017! Click here to join.

17. Use the Shake Up Learning Official Hashtag: #SUL

In 2017, Shake Up Learning is official launching it's very own hashtag to help you learn and connect with other Shake Up Learning followers. Share how you are shaking things up in your classroom by using the official hashtag #SUL. (It's short and sweet, so you have plenty of characters left!) As you tackle the challenges on this list, be sure to share with the hashtag #SUL! Be disruptive and Shake Up Learning!

Want this post in a sweet, downloadable PDF? Fill out the form below.

FREE Download! Want this post in a downloadable PDF? You will get a 13-page, printable PDF that you can save and read throughout the year. It includes every detail of this blog post in one pdf! Simply enter email in the form below.

17 Things to Try in 2017

YES! I want the FREE PDF copy of, " 17 Things Teachers Should Try in 2017!" Get this 13-page, printable pdf to save and read throughout the year.

© Shake Up Learning 2020. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

Filed Under: Tagged With: Blended Learning, 2017, challenges, infographic, shake up learning books edtech, educational technology, Facebook, FREE Download, Free Resources for teachers, Freebie, G Suite, GAFE, Google, Google Classroom, Google Expeditions, Google Sites, Infographic, Instructional Technology, iOS, Professional Development, Robotics, Virtual Reality

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
17 Challenges for Teachers in 2017! 2017 is upon us, and there are so many new and exciting advances in technology coming our way. I always geek out learning about the latest gadgets, but I especially love learning about new ways that technology can improve learning in the classroom.