https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1 ELMP 7768, Spring 2021 en-us 2021-02-19 21:18:18 UTC 2024-07-15 23:02:48 UTC hello@padlet.com kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220464327 When it comes to reforming education and promoting student engagement, integrating technology is crucial; however, experts vary in opinion when it come to exactly how to integrate that technology. Some experts say that providing instant feedback and incorporating more game-like activities into the curriculum will lead to success while others are more focused on swiftly including technology and learning how to use it effectively. Regardless, this article provides a significant amount of ideas that educators can use within their own school to integrate technology in a manner that works for them.]]> 2021-02-19 21:21:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220464327 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220474265 This video explains that although technology has been integrated into the classroom for years, it is now being used in a transformative way. Technology is a tool that should be used in order to improve instruction, and if technology can do that within a classroom, educators and students should be able to utilize these digital tools to do so. Moreover, through the use of technology, both teachers and students are able to take ownership of their own learning and growing through the use of technology within the classroom. Ultimately, this video explores the benefits of technology integration and allows students to share their experiences first-hand.]]> 2021-02-19 21:26:22 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220474265 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220483526 Though these two terms may seem similar, there is an enormous difference between technology use and technology integration within the classroom. This article goes on to directly compare the two. When technology is used within the classroom and not integrated, much of the time is either spent exploring how to actually use the technology or delivering content in a digital manner. In contrast, when technology is integrated, the use of technology is active, as it is used to support and enhance learning. For those unclear on the specific differences between the two terms, this article is a perfect resource. ]]> 2021-02-19 21:30:40 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220483526 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220495395 This website provides educators, students, and families with 24 digital tools that can be used when integrating technology in the classroom. This website breaks up tools into different categories: Whiteboard Tools, Discussion Tools, Course Assessment Tools, and Library Tools. All of these tools are meant to be used in order to enhance learning and engagement. ]]> 2021-02-19 21:36:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220495395 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220511512 This resource is likely more helpful to those working with primary and early grades; however, the tips that are mentioned within the article can be applied to communication with families at all grade levels and in all types of schools. Many of the ideas put forth within this article, such as meeting families where they are in their own journey of learning to use technology, creating video models, and gathering information are akin to what would be used within the classroom at the beginning of the year. By learning how to effectively use technology to communicate with families, teachers and education leaders are creating a more transparent, open, and welcoming school atmosphere. ]]> 2021-02-19 21:44:48 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220511512 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220517453 A key part of any teacher or administrator's role is engaging with families, and technology has recently proven to be a great way to do that. However, it is critical to ensure that this is done in the most equitable way possible, which means using technology that most families have access to. This article explains what these resources are and how to best use them. ]]> 2021-02-19 21:47:48 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220517453 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220544531 School-family partnership are essential for students' academic and social-emotional success, and with new technologies, teachers can enhance this partnership. This article explores some of the ways that this can be done in order to further the learning experiences between the school, the parents, and the students. Relatives and parents can be given access to student work on applications that can downloaded onto any device, which not only allows them a deeper dive into student learning, but also empowers the student to do work that they are proud to share. ]]> 2021-02-19 22:01:36 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220544531 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220550911 This blog, written by a current teacher, helps explain the benefits and drawbacks of a variety of communication applications, such as Seesaw, ClassDojo, Remind, and Class Tag. All of these applications can be used to share messages and/or student work with families. Teachers are able to look through this blog post and see, in an organized way, the data that the author has compiled on each application in order to see which one will fit their individual classroom needs the best. 


]]> 2021-02-19 22:05:13 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220550911 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220560948 2021-02-19 22:11:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220560948 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220561845 2021-02-19 22:11:37 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220561845 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220562609 2021-02-19 22:12:05 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1220562609 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224255046 When we are considering how to implement technology within the classroom, it is critical to consider potential pitfalls. This article, which is focused on technology within elementary and middle grade classrooms, not only lists those drawbacks, but also highlights the advantages to using technology within the classroom. This allows educators and administrators to make their own informed decision. ]]> 2021-02-21 22:17:32 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224255046 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224260687 Using technology within the classroom is simple, namely because the school itself is able to provide the technology and resources that students require. However, with education moving in a more digital direction, and with the recent pandemic, the question has pivoted to: How can we address inequity in technology among school-aged children? This article provides alarming statistics about students attempting to learn from home, which includes low access rates to technology, as well as viable solutions. This article is exceptionally useful for educators and leaders within districts that have high rates of poverty. ]]> 2021-02-21 22:22:13 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224260687 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224268539 This article is composed by a senior in high school within the Oakland Unified School District. This article provides a student's perspective on barriers that teachers and administrators face when they attempt to fully integrate technology into the classroom. This student has a grasp on the complex social and economic consequences of first acquiring and then utilizing technology within the classroom. This student's city is well know as a technology hub; however, technology is still contributing to inequality within their school, and he explains why. ]]> 2021-02-21 22:29:00 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224268539 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224273342 This article defines and explores six key types of professional development for educators within the confines of improving their awareness of technology and how to appropriately use it within the classroom. Digital literacy, virtual reality, cloud computing, maker spaces, gamification, and virtual laboratories are all aspects of technology that professional development for teachers should hit on. Research indicates that all of these areas, though not currently used consistently within the classroom, are the future of digital and personalized learning. ]]> 2021-02-21 22:33:22 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224273342 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224277562 Depending on what technology a school district is using, gaining a certification in Google for Education may be useful. Currently, my district is attempting to use a variety of platforms, including Google, so this particular resource would be exceptionally helpful. Teachers can also take courses and trainings without gaining a certificate if they want to simply improve their digital skills to improve their instruction. ]]> 2021-02-21 22:37:00 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224277562 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224281350 2021-02-21 22:40:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224281350 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224284135 Though YouTube tutorials and videos can hardly be considered "official" professional development, it can be incredibly useful to learn tips and tricks on how to use technology within the classroom, teach virtually, or teach concurrently from an educator who has already done those things. Moreover, many teachers have created tutorials that show exactly how to use Zoom, Google Slides, Blackboard Ultra Collaborate, and so many other resources that teachers across the world are currently using. Attached are a few of the most helpful playlists and videos from a teacher in Maryland.]]> 2021-02-21 22:42:38 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224284135 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224293119 Though this publication is long, it is certainly worth the read. It not only summarizes what research has shown about learning and equity over the course of the pandemic, but also continues to explore the ways in that education can evolve in order to meet the needs of learners today, which includes a renewed focus on the whole child. Additionally, this article discusses the "device divide" and how the pandemic has highlighted inequity between peers as it pertains to the ownership technology and other learning materials. ]]> 2021-02-21 22:50:40 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224293119 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224296891 While the impact of the pandemic on education as a whole has been researched, the impact specifically on educators is discussed less often. This article centers upon a study of nearly 200 teachers from 35 states, and it explores the moods and feelings that they associate with teaching during the pandemic. For any teacher experiencing extreme emotions, either positive or negative, during this school year, this article provides a sense of camaraderie among educators and serves as a reminder that we are in this together. ]]> 2021-02-21 22:53:51 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224296891 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224302283 Parents, particularly working parents, are another demographic that has been hit hard by the recent pandemic. This article explores the anxieties and stressors felt particularly by working parents who have at least one child in school. This publication provides a perspective that not many teachers may have considered in the debate about reopening schools, so reading this in order to better understand where parents are coming from is critical to community building and healing.]]> 2021-02-21 22:58:03 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224302283 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224311682 Though at first glance, this article may only appear to be relevant to a small group of educations (those working with preschool age children), it quickly becomes apparent that this article provides key knowledge for educators and leaders at all levels. This article discusses the economic disparities that are apparent for low-income families who are unable to send their children to private preschool amidst the pandemic. These students are then a year behind those from more wealthy families, and this singular year will impact their development far into their educational future. It is crucial that educators understand the gravity of this situation and are beginning to strategize how to help these students next year or whenever they arrive in their classroom. ]]> 2021-02-21 23:06:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224311682 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224321584 To understand the purpose of something right now, it is critical to understand how it got to be there and what role it has served in the past. This article allows teachers to gain an understanding of how technology within the classroom has evolved since 1870. Moreover, this article continues to present technology that is up-and-coming , which provides a great heads up for educators today!]]> 2021-02-21 23:14:48 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224321584 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224325354 My school district (Fairfax County Public Schools) will not require students to turn their cameras on during virtual learning or penalize them in any way if they choose to keep their cameras off. However, many of my colleagues and I have been searching for ways to encourage our students to keep their cameras on during the majority of the day. This article describes a multitude of SEL (social-emotional learning) approaches to promote camera use.  ]]> 2021-02-21 23:18:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224325354 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224328641 For me, there are two important resources presented on this Wisdom Wall that truly stand out. 

As an educator who has been struggling since September to encourage students to turn on their cameras, the article titled "Strategies to Encourage Students to Turn on Their Cameras" is one that I know I am going to refer back to again and again. I have tried to engage students by building trust and personal connections, but that is extraordinarily difficult to do over the computer. My students are in third grade, so they are still so happy to play games and participate in interactive activities. This article suggests playing games and presenting activities that really require the camera to be turned on. During a game, students may feel that they are no longer in an academic setting, so they may be more willing to turn on their camera. Of course, it is crucial to not push a student to turn on their camera and share more of their private life than they are ready to. However, if a student is comfortable, incorporating games that require camera usage is something that I will absolutely begin utilizing. 

Furthermore, I found the blog "Digital Platforms: Seesaw, ClassDojo, Remind, and Classtag" to be extremely helpful, as well. As an educator, I am constantly searching for the best ways to engage my students' families in my classroom, and in the virtual setting, it has been difficult. Sharing work has become a challenging, and I know that it is vital to parent-teacher relationships to share student successes. This blog post gave me an overview of four common tools used to provide families with updates on their child's learning. I have used Seesaw as a student-teacher, been a student as part of a Remind classroom, and have been a nanny to a child who used ClassDojo and had notifications sent to me. Each tool has it's own benefits and drawbacks, but it was extremely helpful for me to see (in one place) what these are. After reading this post, remembering my experiences with the applications, and conducting my own research, I have decided that Seesaw makes the most sense within my classroom. It is simple for my students to use and submit work to me, which is useful, especially since when I do return to the classroom, I will be unable to collect physical work from them as per district policy. Moreover, I can share approved student work to share with parents, and I can then communicate with these parents easily over the application. 

Ultimately, each one of the resources on my Wisdom Wall helped me to grow as an educator and leader and furthered my knowledge of the relationship between education and technology. However, the two resources previously mentioned are the ones that I plan to currently and quickly apply to my own teaching. ]]> 2021-02-21 23:21:27 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224328641 kyraganezer https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224345626 I believe that all of these resources would be helpful to the faculty within my school, but I am particularly passionate about introducing and exploring three resources with my colleagues. 

"Strategies to Encourage Students to Turn on Their Cameras" is one that I plan on emailing out to my third grade team immediately. We have spent hours of CLT's brainstorming new and innovative strategies that will lead to greater student participation with their cameras. But, there hasn't been one strategy that has worked for all of our classes. This resource provides a variety of strategies that can be used and tailored to individual students and small groups. I have heard that other teachers, especially intervention and ESOL (English as a Second Language) teachers, who see their students on a semi-consistent basis, are struggling to engage their students, as well. I think that this article, once circulated around the school will increase student participation with cameras. Teachers will be able to select the strategies that will work best for their students and then begin to actively practice them, which further differentiates learning and instruction. 

Another resources that I would assert could be used to improve my school environment is "COVID-19 and student performance, equity, and U.S. education policy". Many of the students at my school do not have reliable access to internet or the ability to pick up school work from the school building. And, this article explains the consequences of that for these students. Once we better understand, as a collective school community, how this school year and our shift to virtual learning can impact our most vulnerable students, we can begin work to protect those students and decrease the opportunity gap. 

Finally, I feel that my school community would benefit from a shared reading of "How Does Your School Use Technology to Connect Families?". We are a school community that has multiple translators for students and parents who speak their native languages at home. It can be difficult to engage and communicate with these families when the translators are working with another grade level, though. So, finding digital tools and resources that allow us, as educators, to have meaningful interactions with these families at any time in their native language is critical. This article not only provides educators with the resources to connect with their community, but it also discusses various resources that allow community members to engage with one another, particularly in times of crisis. By having an understanding of all of these digital tools, my school will be able to better engage with the community and promote community unity.

In summation, many of the resources on my Wisdom Wall are ones that I would present at my school in order to better our environment. However, the three that I selected can be most widely used across grade levels and specializations. I do plan to introduce some of these resources at staff meetings, and I hope that with these resources and ideas we will be able to improve upon our school community together.   

]]> 2021-02-21 23:37:06 UTC https://padlet.com/kyraganezer/2sqy139d6uv09it1/wish/1224345626