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Introductions

What is something you are working on that you’re excited about? (does not have to be related to flexible seating!)

Why this book?

Understanding Gen Z = global communication, need to be connected, connecting via social media, gaming, etc.

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How to Speak 'Generation Z' | Justin Shaifer | TEDxYouth@UrsulineAcademy

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Hi! I am an aspiring school leader and English teacher at Staten Island Technical High School. I teach 10th and 12th grade.

I am in the process of working on blogs with my students to make them responsible as global, digital citizens.

I am particularly interested in this book to gain access and build partnerships with Generation Z through gamification and their connection with devices.

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Hi everyone!

My name is Jenn Shanks, I am the Instructional Technology Director for the SI Borough Office. I support all of our schools Pre-K to 12 with infusing tech into their curriculum (and many other things lol). I am currently working on renovating our second floor Hall of Science for a flexible seating environment - will add pics of the proposed floor plan when I am in the office. If you have not see the first floor yet, check out our website www.bphos.org.

This book has been a go to for me since diving into flexible seating. I met one of the authors, Mark White, as he was consulting for our district. Flexible seating is one of his passions and we discussed the ever growing need for it in schools. The more I read, the more I knew this was something I wanted to explore with our schools.

I think understanding Gen Z and their needs of learning is critical in school today. In my own learning I know that I need to have flexible options to sit, stand, move around, and of course always be connected. My eleven year old twin cousins learn when they are laying upside down on a couch (which amazes me!) as they FaceTime a friend with questions about homework. I think chapter 1 in this book helps us connect with Gen Z and the notion that the world is changing - and we have to change with it!

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Hi everyone, my name is Janine Knight and I am the  Pre-K-Grade 5 Lead STEM Cluster Teacher at PS69.  I am currently working on creating an environment that includes a Makerspace/Makerspaces.  I want the environment to be meaning and comfortable for the students so they will want to come and spend time creating, designing, and collaborating even when they are not in class.  I want it to be inviting and relative to how they learn.

I am really passionate about gaming and gamifying my lessons to engage Generation Z while fostering their digital capabilities in a safe environment

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Hi All, Lisa Asher, High School Math Teacher at SITech. I have been thinking about a redesign to my classroom and how I can best use my space to create something that will work for my GenZ students. Our school had some PD last year on classroom design and I was hooked. Put a design plan together and am hoping for new furniture next year. I use technology everyday with my students. I use Google classroom and google drive. The kids love Kahoots and I use a lot of desmos classroom activities. I am hoping to gain some insight and ideas on what might work best for a math classroom.

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Good morning everyone! My name is Gary Giordano and I am a 7th grade social studies teacher/8th grade ELA ICT teacher at the Petrides School. Last year I piloted a full class chromebook program in my building and after a very successful trial run with supporting intervistations, my administration has decided to expand this work and purchase 4-5 more full chromebook carts this year. I utilize Google Classroom alongside other edtech tools in my practices such as PearDeck, Kahoot, Quizlet, Flipgrid, etc. As a school, our next step is to work with other educators to modify their learning tasks and assessments as well as increase more blended learning instructional activities to fit the needs and wants of Gen Z.

After reading chapter 1, I'm excited to continue to explore motivation factors for this unique generation and how to further modify our physical learning spaces to fit the principle of "freedom of choice" that our learners want in all parts of their lives. I'm also eager to further explore how we can take something perceived as a negative in most classrooms, cell phone usage, and use it to both our own, and our student's benefit. "They are not necessarily addicted their devices but addicted to the connection" (pg 9). Exploring this idea of connectedness, alongside intrinsic motivation and relationship building, is at the core of our work with Gen Z. Adapting physical spaces and building outward systems that support 21st century instruction is the path in which we can take to begin this process. Overall...to understand Gen Z is to begin to think like a Gen Z student...looking forward to this work with everyone!

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I am a STEAM teacher in an elementary school and teach grades Prek through 5. I like the idea of adjusting the classroom setting to meet the needs of the students (cozy spots, student choice, etc.). I think the idea of 2 smartboards is an excellent idea (especially for ICT classes). Just not sure if that idea is a feasible one as far as the school budget is concerned. I also love the idea of using microphones in the classroom.  I have a very large classroom with a lot going on, and they would help so much with being able to hear everyone without straining voices. That is something I will definitely be trying out. I am not crazy about the cell phone idea in the classroom because I feel that with the lower grades, it would be too much of a distraction. However, they often go on Ipads, computers, etc. in my room. I am looking forward to talking with others and sharing ideas!

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My name is Michele Corio. I have been teaching for 11 years but I currently am in my first year teaching a Media Arts program at IS24. I am very excited for this new venture but it has also posed many obstacles for me. First and foremost being my classroom. The Media Classroom was changed to a dance room and I have been moved to the old art room. I am determined to make the room more functional and edtech friendly. Students use mac computers daily to create imovies etc. I want the room to feel 21st century and right now it most definitely does not!
After reading the first chapter I was completely hooked and inspired. The authors expressed exactly how I feel in my classroom. I want to create an environment that inspires creativity but is not careless. I am excited to learn more and hope that I can get ideas on how to transform my classroom for the next school year!

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After reading Step 2, consider the following:

Student Choice and Student Voice - do we ask students how they want to learn?

The authors talk about technology and making sure the correct infrastructure is in place. Do you feel prepared in your building for 21st Century learning? Check out the link attached for additional information about the DIIT 2015-2020 Strategic Plan

The reality of this chapter: having the opportunity to design a school from the ground up is an amazing experience. We work in NYC - and that is not currently our reality. So, taking that into account, was there anything from this chapter that you believed you can bring back into your school on a smaller scale?

Each school has a folder in Google (linked below). Please feel free to add photos of your classroom/space and any other photos you would like to include! https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1203rEKiaUoKzoMznCcDn94GCtRXuHJUz?usp=sharing

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My name is Mary Beth Quick.  I am the library media specialist & CS4All Instructional Lead at IS 7.  I've been in the library media center for about 12 years now and have always been inspired to try new things, dive right in to cutting edge technology, maintain a comfortable learning environment and just stay at the same pace, if not ahead of the curve to accommodate and understand my Gen Z students.  Pop culture was one of my favorite classes when I went to library school.  In that particular course, we learned that in order to let our students know that we respect them, in addition to remaining relevant ourselves, we must show them that we are interested and that we care. Our library is the hub of the school. It's a safe space, a place where students can come and be themselves.  Student empowerment and social emotional development are key in the lives of our Gen Z'ers, so why would we not allow them to be comfortable in their learning environment?  I've watched a few of our classrooms slowly integrate some flex seating options and I've had the opportunity to have conversations with our students about the new classroom configurations.  Their replies... "I love it.  It's so comfortable and it's not like a regular class.  Reading is more fun and relaxing when we can sit in bean  bag chairs."  My own experience with flex seating is comfy couches and a chair in the shape of a hand.  Students are drawn to the hand chair as soon as it's noticed and they seem happy; maybe special that they are the kid that got to sit in it that day.
Some take aways from Step 1:
- I want to share the Parable with my admin.
-Global Skills
-Learning on the Move
-Kinesthetic Lessons
-Z Spaces
-Mind Shifts
-Born Connected... We need to adapt to them
-Casual does not mean careless
- 8 SECOND ATTENTION SPAN!
My experience:
If you allow them to use a cell phone with a purpose, it will no longer be the bane of your existence.  Sorry for the long winded and late reply.  looking forward to collaborating with all of you.  Have a good weekend

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Kristen Fusaro-PizzoEnglish Teacher, Staten Island Tech

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Kristen Fusaro-PizzoEnglish Teacher, Staten Island Tech

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Student choice and voice is imperative in an environment where we want to keep students engaged in actual learning. I think teachers try to ask students how they want to learn, but fear prevents change (fear always prevents any kind of systemic change). There’s a fear in our own capabilities as educators to live up to the expectations of students, there’s a fear of our own ignorance in technology, and there’s a fear of under-delivering rigorous instruction. Despite this fear, I believe we have the ability to integrate chunks of learning which will give students greater choice, even if that simply begins with autonomy.

Real change takes real time, and the organizational model of dynamic shift presented in the book requires massive support by the NYC DOE. Our technology is expanding much faster than our current bureaucracy allows for. Reading the DIIT Strategic Plan gives me hope that the system’s vision is aligned with the vision of educators. I think we, as teachers, have ways of being creative, but when systems fail - such as the ever-too-frequent internet shut-outs - it forces us to spend creative energy on making our lessons primitive again. There is definitely a place where this change and growth can happen regardless of the state of DIIT. This shift often utilizes students’ own mobile devices and significant pre-planning - flexibility is key.

Designing Clark Hall was clearly an incredible experience for the author, and based on the teacher anecdotes, it obviously was a visionary success. While we are not afforded the same luxury, there were still several points that can be utilized in the space we have. I was especially taken by the teacher who hosted a book project night. I love the idea of creating project-based, collaborative learning which will be presented to an audience outside of the classroom. I think this is key when designing instruction for the 21st century learner - demonstrating how all the content students create is valid and meaningful for a global audience.

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Hi,
My name is Laura Kozdrajski, and I am the Literacy and Math coach at PS4. I am really excited about reading this book and using this platform to share comments. It's a great way to connect and learn.

After reading the first chapter I'm already hooked on this topic! As a school community we started introducing flex seating options and increasing our use of technology across grades, but considering making these changes with the perspectives from Generation Z will really expand the impact we make on students.

One important take away for me is when the author talks about attention span being around 8 seconds, and in those 8 seconds you determine if the content is worth your time. That has such a big implication on Presentation, Learning Space, and expectations.

I also love the idea of creating a Z space and really being mindful of what is means to do that successfully for all learners to access what they need in an age where information is easily available.

Another point I really want to keep in the front of my mind as I continue reading is that in today's tech world it is very easy to get messages "out", what's hard is getting the message "in." So how can we structure what we have to empower students to join in on their learning?

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I am Jeanna Stanziale :) I teach Kindergarten at P.S. 62. I am working towards creating a classroom environment that supports that most natural states for learnings. As stated by Maria Montessori speaking on scientific mechanics that played a role in the construction of classroom environments, "Perfecting the benches in such a way as to permit to the greatest possible extent the immobility of the child, or it you wish, to repress every moment of the child." Over 100 years after this statement students are still in settings like this! We need to begin to shift a classroom environment and plan spaces that are organic and natural to ways students learn best!

"What's In Your Space?" is a wonderful to discuss how we can recreate an archaic way of school and classroom design that currently exist throughout our public school system. Understanding the need for Generation Z to develop real 21st century skills, such as creativity and innovation, to be successful in any aspect of life requires rethinking the learning spaces that would meaningful model the fostering of those skills. Leveraging the wonderful foundation that the current generation of learners has, such as digital literacy, can support the creating of a more meaningful learning environment.

We got this!! Looking forward to this book club collaboration!

Thank you!!

Jeanna

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Hello everyone! My name is Phillip and I am a social studies teacher at Gaynor McCown ELS (government and economics). I am currently completing my masters in Instructional Technology from NY Institute of Technology. I have been working in my building towards integrating technology for the past year or so.

One thing I am excited about that I'm working on is developing ed tech software/applications. I have been focusing specifically on a platform for microservices to address logistical issues that we face as teachers and administrators.

I think that this book is incredibly relevant to the issue of adapting educational philosophy to an ever-changing world. As the book describes, Generation Z is the first generation that has never lived without digital technology, and as such we must create learning environments in which they are able to relate to and flourish within. Much of this book resonated with my personal experience. I feel that in terms if tech integration and 21st century leaning, logistical issues create a significant barrier to teacher buy-in. In my own experience, my classroom is not organized in a way that foster 21st century learning, and as such it is frustrating to integrate technology and collaborative work in the classroom. I also strongly agree with the books philosophy on memorization and motivation. I believe that we need to change our thinking on what learning is from a passive experience to an active experience. The 21st century world wants influencers, creators, and problem solvers. Our educational system must adapt to address that reality.

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Hi Everyone!
A little late to chapter1! I am Marissa Smith. I am the Literacy and Nest coach at I.S. 75. Last week, I began teaching an 8th grade class and this chapter truly connected to the work we are doing with these students. I liked the thought process of designing spaces around the tasks you want to accomplish. What really stood out to me was that kids decide within 8 seconds whether the content your teaching is valuable. I also thought about the 140 word text or tweet and how this thinking impacts the students writing. For this unit we are writing position papers and I’m re thinking what our finished product should look like 🤔.

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Hi, everyone. This is Mark White, the main author of the book. Many thanks to Jennifer Shanks for inviting me! I'm so honored you are reading it, andI'm glad you're finding it useful. I believe learning space is the new frontier, perhaps the final frontier of our brick and mortar schools. I was speaking with a first year teacher yesterday, and I mentioned if she had a 40 year career that she would be retiring in 2059. I said, "I have a challenge for you. In 2059, look back at your career and note all the things that changed, including learning space." We MUST change to keep up with Gen Z. A key question to ask people as they think of changing their learning space is, "How are you going to use the space to teach differently than you are now?" Too many times people just change the chairs --- and teach the same way. Here's the equation: Mindset + Gen Z + Global Skills + Technology = A need for new learning space.

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We should absolutely be asking our students how they want to learn and what factors in school help to accelerate their own learning. We need to further our understanding of the types of settings, projects, and teacher-student relationship norms that can accelerate the growth and achievement of our students as well as overall engagement. I think speaking with students about the norms of our school building such as lockers, classroom size, furniture, paint, etc. and how much they really depend on/interact with these elements can help to launch larger conversations about instruction and what we need to do to evolve our schools into 21st century places of learning. “Classrooms must not be factories where students produce grades; they must be studios where students create and their minds are free”. Couldn’t have said it better myself.

The emphasis on technology within this learning shift goes without saying.  I was particularly intrigued by Ms. Sturchio’s story and her use of Google tools to propel her classroom instruction. The physical shift and curricular modifications were one thing but without the technology and technological infrastructure, this new space could have easily become like any other school building with a typical curriculum and fancy furniture. The technology and ability for students to remain connected through a classroom Google Site allowed for the flexible seating and student choice to become all the more meaningful and purposeful.  In terms of my building, it does have some aspects of 21st century learning – large windows for sunlight, wide classrooms, varying size classrooms, colorful hallways, school spirit reminders and a decent technology infrastructure, but it could use a further technology enhancement and major curriculum reboot. We also need a more flexible time schedule with larger time blocks. On a small scale, I think the emphasis of rebooting curriculum to infuse it with some 21st century learning opportunities is doable. I think following Sturchio’s example can really lift the spirits and mindset of any educator in executing this work. “Sturchio blended traditional curriculum with global skills and tied her 21st century teaching elements together with technology”. We need to work on this transition within my school building.

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I really liked seeing the classroom designs.  I think the more ideas and examples of what the class space can look like is very helpful.  I am a math teacher, so I think the examples of an English and Social Studies classroom always throw me off.  I feel that in those classrooms, there is more flexibility with how you can design your room.  I rarely see what a math classroom can be.
My students are set up in groups and they work together each day.  But I do feel that my class is mostly a teacher dominated classroom, especially for the higher level math classes like AP Calculus.  There is so much material that they need to know and I always feel that it is a time crunch to get that material to them.

I would really like some help in creating a learning environment for my students that best meet their needs.  I envision a class with white board walls which have high top chairs and a long desk along the wall, some white board flooring on one side, so that students can sit on the floor and work on math problems, some grouping of desks in the middle of the room for collaboration.  I would absolutely love to have a vibrant ocean blue color on the walls(that are not white boards).  I would love yellow chairs to brighten up the room.

We use technology every day, so I don't think that is an issue.  I also have no problem with letting the students take leadership and ownership roles.

On reading this chapter, I am curious to see how I can incorporate the halls into my daily lessons. I will try this next week.

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Our students are the experts! I believe everything we do as educators, no matter what role we are in should be grounded in that belief. We need to amplify their voices, help them feel like the have the power of choice, validate their decisions and ask them more questions about how they learn. I recently saw a student in Kindergarten making choices about where they would like to sit for circle time, and the type of seating that would work best for them. The teachers in that classroom have done a lot of work to let students feel that empowered- and the student was completely engaged during the lesson because of it! I believe all the little moments like that one can really have the power to change the culture and tone of a building.
I believe that our building is committed to 21st century learning.  As Kristen said in her post above, real change takes real time and I couldn't agree more. As a school we have worked a lot on ways to incorporate technology into the instruction and students have increased interactions with technology significantly over the past two years. This year we see many students engaging with technology in different ways. We have a Computer Science team this year and staff who participated in the CS4all work over the break. I believe that if we think about how we can ask the right questions to push this vision, together we can build a strong 21st century learning community.
I think there are a few ideas from this chapter that I can take back to my building. The first is in Listening to Others . Circling back to the idea that the experts are our students we can ask them questions to reflect on the flex seating that they do have. What's working? What's challenging? What would make this better? I also think the idea of redesigning complex spaces so that students can have some increased flexibility to work in those spaces is a great idea. I also like the GJPS Lesson Plan Template for Student Learning. I think the progression of the plan and the format of the questions can push student centered thinking.
Finally, I love the part on page 44 that says, "I realized that we have to keep in mind that just to change the environment, while not changing the way we teach, will have negative results..." It is important to teach students how to use these technology as a tool and as educators, commit to being lifelong learners, pushing ourselves to do better for our kids!

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Reading this book came at the perfect time for me. I am the Media teacher and have been moved from the Media classroom to a new room. Formerly an art room. It is a decent size space for a NYC classroom but it is NOT equipped for my classroom teaching. We have 2 outlets in the room and a very large closet that is full of shelving (for art supplies). I also have a sink and art displays. I am in the process of redesigning. I have personally felt it has been extremely beneficial polling the students on their thoughts and ideas. They have given me great ideas for new spaces and how we can better utilize the classroom. Everything takes time of course. I am hoping that this year I can use to plan and have the space better situated for the next school year. I have been connecting with other tech teachers via twitter and facebook to gather thoughts and ideas. Even though our physical locations are so different the concepts we teach are the same. Im truly excited and so inspired to not only change the room but transform the energy of my classes.

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After reading Step 3:

Technology in the classroom: where does your school stand?

Risk taking is a huge factor when it comes to technology and changing space. How comfortable do you think others in your building are with change?

There is a mention in this chapter of asking students to look at their surroundings (coffee shops, book stores, etc). Is this something you have ever asked your students? If not - can you through maybe a Padlet or Google Form... they may give you ideas towards creating your space!

Global skills are popping up through this entire book. Global collaborator is one of the core ISTE student standards (attached here). How are we integrating this standard into our work?

Global collaboration can work hand in hand with SAMR. We do not always need to be at Redefinition - and it is rare that you are always there. But how can we push to make our students global digital citizens?

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The ISTE Student Standards guide educators toward student-driven learning practices that prepare students to thrive in an evolving technological landscape.

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Kristen Fusaro-Pizzo
English Teacher, Staten Island Tech

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Kristen Fusaro-Pizzo
English Teacher, Staten Island Tech

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I am distinctly aware that I work in an environment which is always doing its best to bring the most modern technological advancements it could afford.

Risk-taking is an inevitable part of any change process. Just as White, et. al. explain in the book, there will always be three types of people: Those willing to take risks, those who will take risks if guided, and those who are in opposition. I believe all of these people exist in every building.

As quoted in The New Social Learning mentioned in What’s In Your Space: “In so many ways, learning is a social act,” and I think this speaks volumes to the point about asking for student feedback of their space. I believe if we ask students for feedback we will learn that they overall thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to work with their friends on various projects, but also have space and time for individual development. I definitely will start having this conversation with my students to find out exactly what they would model a learning space after.

We should always teach our students to prepare for audiences other than their teacher and this is one of the first and main ways we can show them how to collaborate globally. Giving them opportunities to be facilitators of knowledge on public forums, such as social media or through blogging, teaches our students to be more mindful of their final work product.  Students want to feel like what they are learning and producing has purpose - giving them opportunities to publish their work products on public forums creates this onus and ownership.

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Some of the suggestions are already being done in my school.  For example, we now have a STEAM room which has 30 new Macbooks and 4 new Apple Desktop computers.  The students are encouraged to use technology everyday, and we are collaborating with Computer Science for All.  Students are learning how to computer code, research topics, about internet safety, etc.  They love this and are completely engaged.  I will also be doing Scratch with them soon in which they will be able to use coding to create stories with their own backgrounds, dialogue, etc.  I know they will love this too as they will be able to be creative and take command of their topics.
Student choice is also encouraged in my school.

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At my school, most of the teachers use technology everyday in their classes. We use google drive, google classroom, kahoot, desmos activities and nearpod. I am incorporating the Makerspace at our school into my Geometry class. My students are making blueprints and then creating a scale model of a Miniature Golf course. Th Project incorporates slope, transformations, proportions, angle measurements. Students will be working with pipes, clay, wood and other materials to create their golf course(which is really just one hole). I always try to incorporate hands on learning and creating to show the students that math is more than just equations on a sheet of paper. I am excited to see how much better these activities work when my classroom is redesigned so that these models of learning can be better served.

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I already commented about technology above, but I also wanted to comment about transforming spaces in my school to accommodate the students of this generation.  As for changing the spaces in my school to mimic living rooms, coffee shops, etc. I think the teachers in my school would be more comfortable if this occurred o a small scale.  For example, having one room converted to a media/library center in which there were comfortable chairs, couches, brightly colored rugs, etc.  We may be doing this in my school next year.  Also, I love the idea of using the hallways as "extra classrooms"  especially for ICT teachers because many voices going at the same time can be distracting.  In the classrooms, many of the teachers do have cozy spots already, but to have classrooms totally converted would be too much of a change in my opinion....especially that it is an elementary school.

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This is my first year teaching in a full tech classroom. I feel our school as a whole is split. So many are really intrigued and motivated to try using tech in their classrooms and some are not interested in any way. We have major issues with tech not being available- that causes teachers to be discouraged and it also makes them uncomfortable with using it when they do have the opportunity.

I am very lucky this year to have a full cart of macbook minis for my students. I am working on designing my space to make it best fit for the subject area. I have a lot of teachers reaching out for help with using chrome books in their classrooms. I am trying to collaborate with teachers so students can complete their work in the subject area and then I can create a tech option to add to it. I am excited to be collaborating within my school but I hope to expand to other schools as well as make a global connect.

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As much as we offer student choice through academic content areas, I think it is essential to develop student voice how they learn best. Understanding how individuals learn best can create the strong systematic change that is necessary for every school being great. Students, who are the main priority during learning experiences, should be able to support the creation of learning environments. Since we have many advantages of a school infrastructure that supports 21st Century learning our next step should focus on student voice and choice in supporting the structure of classrooms and other areas of our building that would be best support their learning journey. Not only will this process cultivate student ownership, it will also begin to create authentic learning spaces that can support positive systemic change that is necessary.

P.S.62 opened in 2015 and we are equipped with strong technology advantages to support 21st Century learning. We have Promethean boards and ActiView document cameras in each classroom and MacBook Air’s for each student along with iPads and interactive learning nodes that can be used amongst all classrooms. Our staff utilizes interactive platforms (such as GSuite) to support learning experiences and integrate assistive technology to accommodate learning needs. As a net-zero school our infrastructure was created to conserve energy and operate more sustainability (i.e., solar panels, heating and cooling systems powered by underground geothermal wells and other clean-energy features). With many components of the DIIT 2015 – 2020 Strategic Plan within our school, we can focus more on increasing the development of the knowledge and skills in computer science and other STEM disciplines. This can support incorporating skills for the global economy for students and better apply P.S.62’s technology advances.

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The 21st Century mindset paradigm shift is the most important transition to sustain a long-term change in 21st Century curriculum and learning environments. In our school, all classrooms are equipped with technology as the primary learning tool and each teacher uses various platforms and devices (i.e., Google Slide, ActivInspire) to plan and deliver instruction for all content areas. As we are a growing school that will be at full capacity in 2020 we provide technology training to new staff members prior to each school year and technology training is ongoing as we collaborative plan and move throughout the school year. Although the adjustment of using technology varies for each individual, we continuously share new and innovative ways to use technology in our school and will continue to be resources for each other to support any technology barriers that arise. Technology use is necessary in our school building and as a community we are comfortable to explore using technology and asking others to support the work. There is a wonderful quote to concisely support this change in mindset, “Great things don’t happen in comfort zones.”

Since our school community does have access and availability of technology and various platforms, we need to begin moving into more global collaboration and embracing collaborative communication that can be modeled by our grade 3 students. Constructing a learning process that students can engage in small group collaboration, project-based activities and real-world applications that can be accessed inside and outside the classroom can support social learners being active members of the educational journey. Having our students connect with other students within our community, district and the world can support the development of relationship building skills and cultural understanding that is necessary for student to be successful in their everyday lives.

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Connecting our Students to a Global World:

If you walked into your classroom 10 years from now, what would you see? What do you predict will be different or the same?

How are we preparing students for global learning and not just passing standardized exams? This is probably one of the hardest topics!

Do you see easy integrations of ISTE into CCSS?

Looking at the different profiles in this chapter - are we helping Gen Z students towards a 21st Century graduation?

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Technology in the classroom: where does your school stand?

Fortunately my elementary school has a vast amount of technology from PreK-Grade 5.  Every classroom is equipped with a Smart Board.  Each floor has a full class set of laptops for each grade to share.  There are many classrooms with 1:1 laptops or IPADS as well.  So every student has access to devices throughout the day.

How comfortable do you think others in your building are with change?
Fortunately, so many of my colleagues are comfortable with change but the change can't seem like more work for them.  The administration at my school does a great job in rolling out new ideas and change slowly.  We are good at taking baby steps and there is alot of flexibility and understanding in setting aside time to allow for discussions and planning around any new initiatives.  Teams of teachers get together often and have strong opinions that are discussed and worked through meaningfully. I can relate to the idea of creating spaces and environments that include teams of educators and community members.  I can really relate to the idea of Making the Space a Group Effort.  No matter the space or the initiative, a group effort should include students.  "We must seek constant feedback from our students in all that we do in schools, especially in this time of rapid change as we seek to catch up with their learning styles and with their demands.  Students can provide valuable feedback on how they like to learn, what they find interesting, and what they want to see in a new learning space."  There are many ways students and teachers can be a part of the effort to initiate a comfortableness with change.  Teachers are in this profession for the students so, in my opinion, when the students initiate the change, the teachers are more likely to be on board.

I haven't personally asked my students about the spaces around them and how they feel or like them.  I will definitely survey my students and see how the spaces around them connect to their learning style and comfortableness in being a part of these neighborhood spaces.  I think I will create a Padlet so they have choices in how they respond.

I think we can push our students to be global communicators by first become global communicators ourselves. Lead with a positive view of social media and how to use the power of the Internet to build PLN's. In the section of Part 3 titled "Embrace Social Media," the authors state that a good place to start BEFORE the redesign process is to " identify key people in the organizations who have a strong social media presence, who can provide advice and help to disseminate the information via their followers and online friends." Another important point that they write about in this section is that "In today's social media world, the absence of official information invites noninformed individuals to spread inaccurate information, and once this happens it becomes difficult to clarify the misconception." I have connected with so many amazing educators and have gotten so many ideas using Social Media, especially Twitter, so I would definitely continue to embrace Social Media as a source for information

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After reading this chapter I realized it’s always important to discuss the learning process with students and ask how and what they want to learn.  When students are engaged in the learning process they become engaged in the learning itself. The author talks about asking students about the designs and spaces. I think this is important in their learning because as adults we don’t learn the way they do. Personally, I like to learn when I’m comfortable but a lot of teachers say students can’t learn this way. As the author discusses they are worried it won’t work out or test scores will dtop. I think the process is about the risk but also about the co planning that goes into it. I think the infrastructure in my building is prepared for the 21st learning environment. I liked the idea from the book for the colors. The bright colors in their hallways seem gave me a positive vibe and I’m sure it does that for the children as well.

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Our school is in the process of obtaining more technology but a lot of our use is in the augmentation stages. As a school, we are working towards more redefinition. I think this also comes with risk and understanding the process. This also is true with creating a differentiated learning space. It takes patience, time and creativity.  We have many teachers that do take risks and work together in doing so. We are currently redesigning many of our classrooms and some of our teachers have asked the kids to use outside models as references. A lot of our students hang out in Starbucks and they use the high top seating as a model in their rooms. Some have decided to place them next to windows to mimic the Starbucks environment. We hope to build global communications as part of our 21st century learning and building our environment to match the real world takes us one step closer. When students take ownership they being to research and want to know about other perspectives around the world.

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Our school is in the process of obtaining more technology but a lot of our use is in the augmentation stages. As a school, we are working towards more redefinition. I think this also comes with risk and understanding the process. This also is true with creating a differentiated learning space. It takes patience, time and creativity.  We have many teachers that do take risks and work together in doing so. We are currently redesigning many of our classrooms and some of our teachers have asked the kids to use outside models as references. A lot of our students hang out in Starbucks and they use the high top seating as a model in their rooms. Some have decided to place them next to windows to mimic the Starbucks environment. We hope to build global communications as part of our 21st century learning and building our environment to match the real world takes us one step closer. When students take ownership they being to research and want to know about other perspectives around the world.

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Kristen Fusaro-Pizzo
Staten Island Tech HS

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Kristen Fusaro-Pizzo
Staten Island Tech HS

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All of my boards will be digital. Desks will be able to transmogrify depending upon the needs of the student and class. Desks will have digital screens which function as individual learning centers. Student attendance and submission of work will use biometric data. All assessments will be portfolio-centered and cloud-based. Students will regularly have access to connect globally with other students and information. Learning will be much more self-directed and in the spirit of Montessori.

After every class, every student should be able to answer these questions:  What did I learn? Why did I learn it? How will I use what I learned?  If we are teaching with this philosophy, we are preparing our students as global learners.

For high school English, CCSS have always positively hearkened meaning and purpose in instruction, as well as ownership of learning. ISTE standards seek the same capacity-building for students: For students to become creators.

I think we, as members of the NYC DOE, are in a dynamic situation where we can both harness the power of New York City and are simultaneously so limited by our physical space.  Even still, I think many educators have reinvented their instruction and pedagogy to better suit Gen Z’s capacities for learning (and thus, graduation).  I believe many of us realize the goal of making our students into creators because it is through creation they tap into skills of communication, empathy, foundational skills, synthesis, and more.

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- I would hope in 10 years from now my entire classroom would be digital. New technology besides laptops, ipads and smartboards. I think classroom layouts will be totally different and all students will have some sort of 1:1 device. I envision a class with interactive desks where students can work collaboratively.
- I think teachers and admin are trying to put less focus on testing however it is hard due to the amount of pressure put on them.
- As a former math teacher, I tried my best to incorporate ISTE standards into the CCSS but it was definitely hard with the amount of curriculum that needed to be taught and the pressure on testing. I see a lot of science and SS teachers truly truly trying to shift their teaching to focus on ISTE along with CCSS
- I definitely think we are helping students toward a 21st century graduation. I don't think we are fully there- but I can see and feel the shift towards it

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The number of technology options has exploded since I wrote the book. Now we have so many cool tools (Mentimeter, Flipgrid, Dotstorming, etc.) that can be used effectively in classrooms. In the past three years I've been in over a thousand classrooms around America, and here are some key tech points. 1) Technology grabs the attention of students. 2) I've seeing growing concerns in parents about students and technology in classrooms. Some are demanding no technology be used. Have you encountered this? 3) I, too, have concerns about technology, but I see so many great benefits for students in schools that I think we should monitor and keep track of what the research is saying. 3) I say this all the time: "A teacher can be great and never use technology, but a teacher will never be his or her BEST until he or she sees technology effectively."

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My school has made huge gains this year in improving technology. More and more teachers and parents are advocating for 21st century technology in our school building. Just this past month, my principal shared the latest technology purchases with the staff in her monthly message. It includes:

CAASS system (Comprehensive Attendance, Administration, Security System)

140 Chromebooks  (Four and a half carts)

32 Lenovo laptops (One cart)

One to one iPad pilot program in 12:1 class

Four “Printing Stations” (including desktop computers and printers), in convenient locations around the buildings for use by high school students

Equipment for our new Broadcasting class, including: Racer drones, mini-drones and remote controls

Equipment for our new Drone Science class, including: Camera accessories, editing software, mics and sound gear

4 new Smartboards, 6 new Smartboard projector arms

Staff members are very excited about his and looking forward to the shifts in instruction that will come along with the new tech. I have been creating and placing in each staff member’s mailbox a monthly edtech newsletter highlighting some staff “spotlight stories” where teachers are integrating tech into their instruction and rethinking their learning tasks. I also include some resources for new apps to try, SAMR notes, and Google Educator training information. I think now my staff members are more comfortable than ever to experiment with edtech and transform their practices.
The Global skills piece is essential. I believe we can better integrate this standard into our work in my school building but lately I have seen more attempts than ever including a PreK class skyping with students with Greece. The work is absolutely possible, but teachers need substantial planning time to really put it into action.

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I think 10 years from now instruction would be digitalized. Every student would have a Chromebook or Ipad. Textbooks would still exist but seldom used. Electronic texts would be a common tool utilized by students. All classrooms would have a Smaboard. Student desks would ideally become “Smart Desks” where the teacher can send work directly to it electronically then the student can send it back when complete or share to each another. The teacher’s desk would be the hub of the classroom and have insider view to each student desk. The teacher could design bulletin boards electronically from their Smartdesk then send it out to the hallway bulletin boards which would be interactive TV Screens. This sounds more like 25 years from now, but hey one can dream.

There’s no doubt always going to be a focus on testing to some degree but we need to be mindful that global skills and competencies must be nurtured in our students to prepare them for the global society and workforce as we know it. The way we do this work is by resigning our learning tasks, bringing the world into our classrooms and working with others in new communities, states, countries, etc in long term experiential learning projects. There has to be a new focus on partnerships and using new tools to communicate and create. ISTE is easily integrated into the CCLS world. We can teach and engage students in writing , reading and mathematics skills through using tech in the classroom to create, inspire, communicate, empower and explore. The connection is a no brainer.

We are definitely making progress in how we teach and engage Gen Z, but its a work in progress and we're not fully there yet. I'm not sure if we ever will be until Gen Z becomes the leaders of education 30-40 years from now.

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10 years from now, I can see my students working with students, via internet, in other countries during the school day.  Maybe they would be learning with the other students from both teachers.  I envision state of the art technology in the classrooms with digital desks just like Kristen said.  The schools need to be rewired in order for all of this to happen.  I see more makerspace classrooms opening in each school so kids can learn to design, create, and work with their hands.
I think at my school, most of the teachers are having their classes work out of the box.  For example, I normally have my geometry students create a miniature golf course project at home.  This year I have them making it in our makerspace lab.  So the students are creating this model which must be accompanied by blueprints for their design.  They are cutting wood, sanding, painting, drilling, glueing and they are so engaged.  It is amazing to see how they are using their talents to create motorized windmills and waterfalls!!  I will send pictures if you would like.  But its moments like these that remind me why I became a teacher.
I think that a lot of schools have to change what they are doing. Its not just changing the questions we ask. Its so much more than that. As teachers, we have to change. We have to come out of our comfort zones and let the kids think and create. Whether it be with computer programs or by hand.

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Our last chapter!

Blended learning - do you use any form of blended learning? Where is the value to this approach, and do you see a difference in your students?

We try to be as device friendly as possible. Apple or Android, we welcome all. Do you see one device being used over another, or do you find that students gravitate towards whatever is available?

Looking into resources available: do you use Donors Choose? Or another form of funding? Being that we are usually so limited in funds, how do you make it work?

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Kristen Fusaro-Pizzo
Staten Island Tech HS

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Kristen Fusaro-Pizzo
Staten Island Tech HS

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I would love to integrate more blended learning in my classroom. I have added it in bits and pieces, where I use a syllabus that has supplementary videos and texts, but I have not figured out a way to make it part of my total curriculum.  I do think I can get there someday - I just need some more time.  I definitely see the value because it creates a level of discovery in students - they are seeking out material and finding a passion of learning on their own.

In our school, most kids are gravitating towards Apple devices, whether it’s a mobile device, a laptop, or tablet.  While I am personally a Windows fan, I do think Apple mobile devices and tablets are really user-friendly which makes them appealing.

I have used Donor’s Choose many times in the past, but, I have noticed that only my book grants get funded. I have tried for trips and technology, but was never funded for those projects. I think the structure of Donor’s Choose is geared more toward elementary school, because those teachers only require 34 of whatever they need, while in high school, I always need 170.  Nonetheless, we make it work because we allow students to use their cell phones, and as long as it’s monitored, it can definitely be used productively.

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I use some blended learning in my class.  I have flipped lessons using Khan academy.  I use many online activities such as kahoot, desmos activities.  Students have watched videos that apply to lessons.  I think this is a great way to get students engaged in math lessons.  The students tend to pay more attention when videos and online tools are involved rather than me just standing at the front of the room and explaining procedures.  I have recently asked my AP to purchase Breakout EDU, which is an Escape Room Activity.  I'm in the process of figuring that out so that I can implement it in my class.  This can be used for all disciplines.  I find that I'm constantly hearing about new approaches to learning and I'm eager to try them out in my class.  I love to switch it up.

As for technology, I find that the students have a nice mix of devises that they use in class.  We had started off giving the students mini Ipads.  But now that they have the option to choose their own device, I see many more Microsoft Surfaces and chrome books being used in the class.  The kids are so Tech savvy that they figure out how to use their devices with any program that I implement.

I have never used Donors Choose