The Art of Tech: Recent Episodes
Cassondra Smith
Podcast for Teachers Who Can't Tech Good and Who Wanna Learn to Do Other Stuff Good Too.
Tips and tricks for using technology in the classroom.
In this episode we start our new theme leading up to our 100th episode highlighting our technology department! In this first episode in the short series we discuss our new Chromebook Handbook. Scott McDaniel, our director, joins the discussion to talk about why Chromebook handbooks are helpful and why we have our version. We also discuss the contents and how it can support students, teachers, and families with technology.
Links:
- BGPS Chromebook Handbook
- Going Online Resource Hub
- Going Online Family Resource Hub
In this episode we finish our discussion on the digital divides. Scott, McDaniel, our technology director, is back for this episode. We focus mostly on the Digital Use Divide in our discussion, but do also share about the Digital Design Divide. We share some ways for teachers and admin to address the Digital Use Divide to provide students with the types of transformative experiences that help build future ready skills.
Links:
- National Educational Technology Plan (2024)
- Going Online Resource Hub
- Accessibility Features Video Tutorials
In this episode we kickoff our new theme on the digital divides (yup, plural!). We focus on the Digital Access Divide that is what we typically picture when we hear the words "digital divide." Scott McDaniel, our technology director, joins the episode and we discuss the spectrum of digital access and the challenges of addressing access. We also share some tips for removing barriers for students.
Links:
- National Educational Technology Plan (2024)
- Digital Citizenship Resources for Families
- How to Enable Offline Access in Google Drive
In this episode we finish our theme on EdTech Kits. It's a bit different format with no guests and a shorter episode. I discuss the value of hands-on experiences in the ELA or gen-ed classroom and how different EdTech kits can provide engaging connections for students in ELA.
Links:
- BGPS EdTech Kits webpage
- BGPS Helpdesk Support Portal
- Sphero Lesson Collections
- Ozobot Lessons
- Makey Makey Guides
- Birdbrain Humminbird Projects
- Breakout EDU
We're back with a new episode! In this episode we continue our theme on EdTech Kits. Colleen Homola joins the podcast this week. She teaches math at Prairie High School and also supports teachers across the state through the Inclusionary Practices Technical Assistance Network and Teacher Residency program. We discuss the value of hands-on experiences in the math classroom and how different EdTech kits can provide engaging connections for students in math.
Links:
- BGPS EdTech Kits webpage
- BGPS Helpdesk Support Portal
- Sphero Lesson Collections
- Ozobot Lessons
- Makey Makey Guides
- Birdbrain Humminbird Projects
- Turing Tumble Guides
- Breakout EDU
We're back for the new school year! In this episode we kick-off our theme on EdTech Kits. Aaron Kabat joins the podcast this week. He's one of our awesome helpdesk people. In this episode, we introduce/review the currently available EdTech Kits. We share updates with the kits and the process for checking them out and why you might want to use a kit in your class.
Links:
- BGPS EdTech Kits webpage
- BGPS Helpdesk Support Portal
In this episode we continue our theme on assistive technology. Amy Campbell joins the podcast this week. She's a former Washington Educator of the Year and is a member of the Inclusionary Practices Technical Assistance Network through the Washington Education Association and is a Special Educator in the Camas School District. In this episode, we focus on a specific type of assistive technology: AAC or Alternative and Augmentative Communication. AAC is it's own umbrella that ranges from low to high tech and we discuss that range and why AAC is so important for building independence and the power of different types of communication.
Links:
- Special Education Technology Center
- Micah's Miles
In this episode we continue our new theme on assistive technology. We take a look at universal assistive technology or the tier 1 supports that can help all our students inside and outside the classroom. We discuss how building an inclusive and welcoming classroom community where students feel safe and like they belong is important so no one feels like they stand out or have any stigma when they use an assistive tech tool. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the conversation.
Links:
- What's new in Google accessibility playlist
- Going Onling Resources - Accessibility
- Special Education Technology Center
In this episode we kick off our new theme on assistive technology. We set the stage with an overview discussion on assistive technology categories and why assistive technology is so important. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the conversation.
Links:
- Special Education Technology Center
- Shriner's Children's Hospital Programs
In this episode we continue our AI theme and discuss AI Ethics (both Big "E" Ethics and little "e" ethics or ethical considerations). We talk about the big picture Ethics like the societal and environmental impacts of AI as well as the personal ethical considerations and how we can be ethical and responsible consumers and creators with AI. Scott McDaniel, our tech director, is back to join the discussion.
Links:
- Common Sense Media AI Literacy Lessons
- Neil Postman - Five Things We Need to Know About Technological Change
- MIT Technology Review - AI Energy Use
- SIFT Framework
- Classroom Discussion Guide - Deepfakes
- MIT AI Ethics Education Curriculum
- MagicSchool for Students
- The Uneven Distribution of AI's Environmental Impacts
- AI's Climate Impact Goes Beyond It's Emissions
We're back from hiatus! In this episode we discuss AI literacy and how it's important for both educators and students (everyone really). Scott McDaniel, our district's technology director, joins the conversation. We talk about the core components of AI literacy and some ways to build it into the classroom.
Links:
- Common Sense Media AI Literacy Lessons
- Digital Promise - AI Literacy
- Brisk Teaching AI Literacy
- SIFT Framework
- MagicSchool for Students
In this episode we start our discussion on media literacy with an overview and connecting to research skills. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the conversation as cohost. We discuss the main components of media literacy and why it's so important to incorporate into today's classroom. We also connect media literacy skills with student research projects.
Links:
- Core Principles of Media Literacy Education - NAMLE
- SIFT Framework
- Common Sense Media - Media Literacy
- Be Internet Awesome - Media Literacy
- MagicSchool for Students
In this episode we continue our discussion on digital literacy with some practical tips. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the conversation as cohost. We review digital literacy and discuss ways to incorporate digital literacy skills and experiences across grade levels and subject areas.
Links:
- The Digital Use Divide
- PhET Simulations
- Math Learning Center Apps (Bridges)
- Desmos
- EdTech Kits
- Hour of Code
- Book Creator
- WeVideo
In this episode start our discussion on digital literacy with an overview. Scott McDaniel, our technology director, joins the conversation as cohost. We discuss what digital literacy is and why its so important in todays world. We also highlight the connections to media literacy and practical future ready skills.
Links:
- The Digital Use Divide
- The Digital Access Divide
- The Digital Design Divide
- The Long Tail - Wired Article
In this episode we finish up discussion on innovative communication focusing on infographics and creative visuals. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the conversation as well. We discuss ways to use infographics in your teaching practice as well as allowing students to create them as an alternative way to demonstrate learning.
Links:
- Thinglink
- Canva
In this episode we finish up our theme on the educational technology standards for students and kick-off our new theme on innovative communication. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the conversation as we discuss the final two anchor standards: Creative Communicator and Global Collaborator. In our discussion we highlight the connections with future ready skills.
Links:
- WA State Educational Technology Learning Standards
- ISTE Student Standards
- BGPS EdTech YouTube Channel
In this episode we continue our theme on the educational technology standards for students. We will be taking an in-depth look at each anchor standard and what that looks like across grade levels and subject areas. In this episode, Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, returns and we continue to discuss the anchor standard: Digital Citizen. We break down the second half of the standard in this episode and make connections to digital citizenship curriculum options in honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month and Digital Citizenship Week.
Links:
- WA State Educational Technology Learning Standards
- ISTE Student Standards
- ISTE Digital Citizenship Lessons
- Digital Citizen Standard In Action (ISTE Video Playlist)
- Common Sense Media Digital Citizenship
- Be Internet Awesome
In this episode we continue our theme on the educational technology standards for students. We will be taking an in-depth look at each anchor standard and what that looks like across grade levels and subject areas. In this episode, Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, returns and we discuss the next anchor standard: Digital Citizen. We break down half of the standard in this episode and make connections to digital citizenship curriculum options in honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month and Digital Citizenship Week.
Links:
- WA State Educational Technology Learning Standards
- ISTE Student Standards
- ISTE Digital Citizenship Lessons
- Digital Citizen Standard In Action (ISTE Video Playlist)
- Common Sense Media Digital Citizenship
- Be Internet Awesome
In this episode we continue our theme on the educational technology standards for students. We will be taking an in-depth look at each anchor standard and what that looks like across grade levels and subject areas. In this episode, Heidi Lammers, LAP & Title I coordinator, joins the conversation as we discuss the next anchor standard: Computational Thinker. In our discussion we highlight the connections with future ready skills and discuss the Computational Thinking Competencies from ISTE. Heidi also shares how LEGO Education has helped bring engaging hands-on learning to the summer school program and how that has connected computational thinking skills across subject areas.
Links:
- WA State Educational Technology Learning Standards
- ISTE Student Standards
- BGPS EdTech YouTube Channel
In this episode we continue our new theme on the educational technology standards for students. We will be taking an in-depth look at each anchor standard and what that looks like across grade levels and subject areas. In this episode, Mandie Thompson, middle school instructional coach, joins the conversation as we discuss the next anchor standard: Innovative Designer. In our discussion we highlight the connections with future ready skills, UDL, and the Danielson Framework. We also look at ways a deliberate design process can apply in different areas, not just STEM challenges like we sometimes think.
Links:
- WA State Educational Technology Learning Standards
- ISTE Student Standards
- BGPS EdTech YouTube Channel
In this episode we continue our new theme on the educational technology standards for students. We will be taking an in-depth look at each anchor standard and what that looks like across grade levels and subject areas. In this episode, Jordan Osborne, middle school ELA & history teacher, joins the conversation as we discuss the next anchor standard: Knowledge Constructor. In our discussion we highlight the connections with future ready skills and media literacy and how we can help prepare our students for whatever their future might look like with technology.
Links:
- WA State Educational Technology Learning Standards
- ISTE Student Standards
- BGPS EdTech YouTube Channel
We're back for a new school year! In this episode we kick-off our new theme on the educational technology standards for students. We will be taking an in-depth look at each anchor standard and what that looks like across grade levels and subject areas. In this episode, Mandie Thompson, middle school instructional coach, joins the conversation as we discuss the first anchor standard: Empowered Learner. In our discussion we highlight connections to the Danielson framework for TPEP evaluations and ways to help build independence, autonomy, and flexibility with students.
Links:
- WA State Educational Technology Learning Standards
- ISTE Student Standards
- BGPS EdTech YouTube Channel
- Troubleshooting for Students
- MagicSchool/MagicStudent
- Danielson Framework
- UDL Guidelines
This episode we finish up our shortened monthly theme on boosting engagement and we close out our second season of the podcast! We will be on hiatus for summer break and then will be back with new episodes in September when school kicks back up every Tech Tuesday! In this episode we highlight how to pace your lessons to boost engagement in the classroom and some tech tools to help streamline the process.
Links:
- Classroomscreen
- Pear Deck
- Blooket
- Gimkit
- EdPuzzle Live Mode
This episode we start a new monthly theme on boosting student engagement. We highlight the awesome EdTech Kits we have available for checkout in the district and how they can provide engaging and really fun experiences across grade levels and subject areas in the classroom. We have a range of technology kits that include "unplugged" all the way to full coding and VR experiences. Aaron and Troy from the Tech Department join the discussion to share how to check out and what goes into the process as well as why you might want to check out a kit.
Links:
- EdTech Kits in BGPS
- Turing Tumble Video Example
This episode we finish up our monthly theme on executive functioning. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, returns to the podcast to discuss the specific executive functioning skills that relate to initiation or starting and following through with tasks. We also highlight supports and scaffolds as well as technology tools to help teach these skills in the classroom.
Links:
- Goblin Tools
- Canva
- Magic School
- How to Use Smart Chips in Google Docs
This episode we continue our monthly theme on executive functioning. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, returns to the podcast to discuss the specific executive functioning skills that relate to self-regulation. We also highlight supports and scaffolds as well as technology tools to help teach these skills in the classroom.
Links:
- Classroom Expectations Matrix
- GoNoodle
- EdPuzzle
- Blooket
- Gimkit
- Pear Practice
This episode we continue our monthly theme on executive functioning. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, returns to the podcast to discuss the specific executive functioning skills that relate to managing time and resources. We also highlight supports and scaffolds as well as technology tools to help teach these skills in the classroom.
Links:
- Silent Superpowers Lessons
- Organize Your Life with Google Course
- Pear Deck Goal Setting
- Pear Deck Life Skills Templates
- Classroomscreen
- Blooket
- Gimkit
This episode we kickoff our new monthly theme on executive functioning. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, returns to the podcast to discuss the importance of explicitly teaching executive functioning skills in the classroom across grade levels and subject areas. We discuss how valuable these skills are and the difference they can make with things like engagement and motivation.
Links:
- UDL Framework
- Silent Superpowers Lessons
This episode finish our monthly theme on supporting student needs. We connect with Erick Suksdorf, our district's assistant director of Project AWARE. We hear about the awesome plans for the AWARE grant to support students, staff, and families in the district as well as supports already in place. We discuss how students and families can get support and how we are working to make sure needs are met and barriers are removed via universal screeners and an advisory committee.
Links:
- Access the SEL Hub through the Staff Portal
- Common Sense Media Digital Citizenship
- Be Internet Awesome
This episode continues our new monthly theme on supporting student needs. We connect with Felisha Sandberg and Kari Koller, two awesome members of our district's Prevention and Intervention Team. We hear about the great work this team does to support students across the district especially around mental health and with substance abuse prevention and intervention. We also share some great tech tools that they use in their work and that can be used to help support social emotional learning and mental health strategies.
Links:
- Blooket
- Gimkit
- Pear Deck
- Pear Deck SEL Templates
- Flip
- Flip SEL Topics
- Classroom Expectations Matrix
This episode continues our new monthly theme on supporting student needs. We connect with Heidi Lammers, our district's learning support program coordinator, and discuss ways to use support reading intervention and literacy through the Science of Reading and some technology tools. We highlight some current programs in the district and ways to think about Science of Reading to support student needs around reading instruction.
Links:
- Effects of assistive technology for students with reading and writing disabilities
- Vocaroo
- Getting Started with Flip
- Pear Deck Templates for Littles
- Pear Deck ELA Quick Checks
- Pear Deck ELA Templates
This episode kicks off our new monthly theme on supporting student needs. We connect with Stephanie Welniak, our district's coordinator for our multilingual department, and discuss ways to use technology and best practices to support ML students. We highlight current options for translation supports as well as other ways to scaffold and build connections for language learners.
Links:
- How to Use the Microsoft Translator App
- How to Join a Microsoft Translator Conversation
- Helpdesk Support Portal
- How to Split Your Screen
- GoGuardian Teacher Shared Scenes
- How to Use Captions/Subtitles in YouTube
- How to Change the Language on a Chromebook
- How to Translate a Google Doc
This episode we finish up our monthly theme of AI in Education with a mailbag episode. Scott McDaniel, our technology director, joins as co-host. We discuss the big topic requested on AI and academic integrity and highlight a student code of conduct.
Links:
- AI Literacy Lessons from Common Sense Media
- Leveled Decision Making Rubric
- Decision Making Rubric
This episode we continue our monthly theme of AI in Education. Scott McDaniel, our technology director, joins as co-host. We discuss AI literacy and some tips and tricks for understanding and using generative/multimodal AI effectively. We also discuss the importance of discussing AI literacy topics with students.
Links:
- AI Literacy Lessons from Common Sense Media
- How AI Works Lessons - Code.org
- Teaching Students How to Use AI Responsibly
- Large language models can do jaw-dropping things. But nobody knows exactly why. - MIT
This episode we continue our new monthly theme of AI in Education. Scott McDaniel, our technology director, joins as co-host. We discuss artificial intelligence, or AI, tools to support teachers and ways to use AI to help with teaching with topics like personal productivity and differentiation. We also discuss important considerations when using AI in education.
Links:
- OSPI Human-Centered AI Guidance for K-12 Public Schools
- Magic School
- Diffit
- Brisk
- Practice Sets
This episode kicks off our new monthly theme of AI in Education. Scott McDaniel, our technology director, joins as co-host. We discuss artificial intelligence, or AI, in general and some of the reasons why we are discussing it now such as preparing our students with future ready skills, equity and the digital divide, and supporting accessibility and inclusion.
Links:
- Handout: AI and the Future of Teaching and Learning - Dept. of Education
This episode wraps up our monthly theme on accessibility. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, returns to discuss the importance of ensuring all content is accessible for all students. We connect the importance of accessibility and accessible content with Universal Design for Learning and the UDL framework. We also discuss how that connects to our district curricula and remembering to ask "what are the barriers?"
Links:
- UDL Tips for Accessible Educational Materials
- Going Online Kami Resources
- Kami & Curriculum Resource Guide
- SLIDE for Accessible Content
- POUR Principles for Accessible Content
- UDL Guidelines
- Accessible Content Guide
- Live Captions in Chrome
- Helpdesk Support Portal
- Literacy Hub
- Middle School Social Studies Hub
- SEL Hub
This episode continues our monthly theme of accessibility. We discuss some of the new updates throughout Google in terms of accessibility over the past year. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the discussion. We talk about some accessibility apps and features within Google, Android, and Chrome systems. We specifically highlight image to text, reading mode, and the ability to extract text from a PDF for Chrome and Chromebooks as well as some newer exciting apps and what's coming.
Links:
- What's New in Google Accessibility Video Series
- Texthelp Resources
- Lookout Video
- Magnifier Video
- Envision App
- Live Transcribe
- Google Lens
This episode is a replay of last season's excellent conversation on accessibility features and their importance for our students. We connected with a special education teacher in the Camas School District and a mother of a student with disabilities from the Evergreen School District, both of whom are members of the state's Inclusionary Practices Project and Special Education Support Center, now called the Inclusionary Practices Technical Network. We discuss the importance of accessibility features to give students the ability to access content and tasks as well as build confidence and independence both inside and outside the classroom.
Links:
- AEM Center: Access to Learning
- Accessibility Features Video Tutorials
- Chromebook Accessibility Features Document
- Accessibility Features Resource
- Chromebook Accessibility
This is a replay of our great conversation with Anna Leeper and Felicia Barkell with special services on what accessibility means and how it applies in school settings. It kicks of this month's theme of accessibility in the classroom.
Links:
- AEM Center: Access to Learning
- Disability Discrimination and Employment Decisions
- About IDEA - Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
- Section 508 Compliance
- WAC 392-172A-02015
- RCW 49.60.030
- RCW 70.84.010
This is our first mail bag episode! We answer questions from the district and talk about the helpdesk. Scott McDaniel returns and we are joined by our helpdesk heroes: Cheryl ODell and Aaron Kabat to talk about a range of topics from moving hardware to favorite keyboard shortcuts.
Links:
- BGPS Helpdesk Support Portal
This episode continues our monthly theme of becoming future ready. We want to be future ready educators embedding valuable future ready skills in our classrooms to prepare our students for an ever-changing future. We check in with Andrea Smith, K-12 science coordinator, and Vicki Campbell, a 3rd and 4th grade teacher, to discuss problem solving skills in the classroom and how they help prepare our students to be future ready.
Links:
- Future Ready in BGPS
- Pacific Education Institute
- Wild Washington Lesson Plans - Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife
- What Do You Do with an Idea? by Kobi Yamada
- What Do You Do with a Problem? by Kobi Yamada
This episode continues our monthly theme of becoming future ready. We want to be future ready educators embedding valuable future ready skills in our classrooms to prepare our students for an ever-changing future. We check in with Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, and Sherah Campbell, a high school health and AVID teacher, to discuss collaboration skills and the future ready skills that connect with working with others. We also highlight the SEL connections with some of these future ready skills.
Links:
- Future Ready in BGPS
- Classroom Expectations Matrix
This episode continues our monthly theme of becoming future ready. We want to be future ready educators embedding valuable future ready skills in our classrooms to prepare our students for an ever-changing future. Andrea Smith, K-12 science coordinator, joins the discussion as we focus on future ready skills related to creativity and critical thinking.
Links:
- Future Ready in BGPS
- What Do You Do with an Idea? by Kobi Yamada
- What Do You Do with a Problem? by Kobi Yamada
- Example Genius Hour Pear Deck Presentation
This episode kicks off our new year and new monthly theme of becoming future ready. We want to be future ready educators embedding valuable future ready skills in our classrooms to prepare our students for an ever-changing future. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, and Andrea Smith, science coordinator, join the discussion as we highlight our district's list of skills and what it means to be future ready.
Links:
- Future Ready in BGPS
This episode close out our monthly theme of streamlining workflow with technology tools. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the episode. We discuss the Google Sheets extension/add-on called Autocrat that can be used for automating and streamlining various tasks. Autocrat can connect Google Form data (or any data in a Google Sheet) with Google Docs or Slides templates.
Links:
- Autocrat Video Tutorials
- Autocrat
- Going Online Resource Hub
This episode kicks off our new monthly theme of streamlining workflow with technology tools. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the episode. We discuss tips and tricks for streamlining with technology and then highlight efficiency tools in Google Docs and Sheets.
Links:
- Organize Your Life with Google online course
- Google Docs video tutorials
- New smart canvas innovations in Google Workspace
This episode closes out our monthly theme of Universal Design for Learning. Marisol Mallari, a classroom teacher in Everett and member of the Inclusionary Practices Technical Network, joins the episode to discuss the Action and Expression principle in the UDL guidelines. We discuss the importance of providing options for students to demonstrate what they know and can do and highlight some practical application examples.
Links:
- CAST - UDL Guidelines
- CAST Action & Expression
- UDL Tips for Assessment
- Formative Assessment Ideas
This episode continues our monthly theme of Universal Design for Learning. Mandie Thompson and Angela Sawdye, two middle school instructional coaches, join the episode to discuss the Representation principle in the UDL guidelines. We discuss the importance of supporting your content with visuals and auditory scaffolds, providing and activating background knowledge, and giving students different access points.
Links:
- CAST - UDL Guidelines
- CAST Representation
- Full article: Effects of assistive technology for students with reading and writing disabilities
This episode continues our monthly theme of Universal Design for Learning. Colleen Homola, high school math teacher at PHS and member of Washington's Inclusionary Practices Technical Network, joins the episode to discuss the Engagement principle in the UDL guidelines. We discuss the importance of connecting with student interests and providing different access points for students.
Links:
- CAST - UDL Guidelines
- CAST Engagement
- Desmos
- Pear Deck
This episode kicks off our new monthly theme of Universal Design for Learning. Joan Fleming, member of Washington's Inclusionary Practices Technical Network, joins the episode to discuss an overview and introduction to UDL, or Universal Design for Learning.
Links:
- UDL Framework
- CAST - UDL Guidelines
- CAST - UDL
- Katie Novak - UDL Infographic
This episode is a special crossover episode with BG Cast! We joined our district's podcast to discuss technology in the district. Check out BG Cast linked below for the full episode and listen here for the technology part of the conversation.
Links:
- You can find the BG Cast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon and Google.
- Going Online website
- EdTech website
This episode continues our series of episodes for cybersecurity awareness month. We check in with Angie Krant, a middle school teacher librarian, and we discuss cybersecurity with students. Angie shares her experience with teaching digital citizenship, internet safety, and cybersecurity with students and helping them build valuable digital and social skills.
Links:
- ISTE Digital Citizen Standard in Action
- Be Internet Awesome for Educators
- Common Sense Media Digital Citizenship
- Google Applied Digital Skills Digital Citizenship
- Google Internet Safety Videos
- Common Sense K-8 Cybersecurity Collection
- How to Use the GoGuardian Parent App
In this episode we continue our new monthly theme of Cybersecurity Awareness Month. We are joined by Julie Peay with Homeland Security to discuss resources for protecting students online and things to be aware of as parents and educators. This is a sensitive topic and we do discuss things that may be challenging for listeners. We included a warning at the beginning of the episode and below:
Content warning: suicide, child exploitation, sexploitation
Links:
- iGuardian
- Netsmartz
- Take It Down
- NCMEC - National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
- BGPS Online Safety Plan
- BGPS Student Online Safety
This episode continues our series of episodes for cybersecurity awareness month. This is part two of the replay of our great conversation with Ian Moore, Washington's Cybersecurity State Coordinator/Advisor for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) at the Department of Homeland Security. We discuss cybersecurity concerns for schools districts and future trends in this episode.
Links:
- Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
- CISA Cyber Essentials Starter Kit
This is a replay of our great conversation with Ian Moore, Washington's Cybersecurity State Coordinator/Advisor for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) at the Department of Homeland Security. This is Cybersecurity Awareness Month and is our monthly theme. We discuss cybersecurity essentials and why it's important in this episode.
Links:
- Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
- CISA Cyber Essentials Starter Kit
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
- NIST Cybersecurity
In this episode we finish out our monthly theme of meaningful technology integration. Our technology director, Scott McDaniel, returns for the conversation and we discuss SAMR. We highlight different ways to think about the SAMR model and how it can help us consider our technology integration in the classroom.
Links:
- TPACK/SAMR Lesson Plan
- What Is the SAMR Model?
- Flip Live Events
In this episode we continue our new monthly theme of meaningful technology integration. Our technology director, Scott McDaniel, joins the conversation and we dive into TPACK. TPACK stands for Technological, Pedagogical, and Content Knowledge. It is a framework for technology integration in the classroom that highlights the connection and intersection of these different types of knowledge we have as educators. We discuss how we can use this framework to help guide our choices in the classroom to have meaninful and authentic learning experiences with tech for our students.
Links:
- What is the TPACK Model?
- TPACK.ORG
- TPACK/SAMR Lesson Plan
In this episode we continue our new monthly theme of meaningful technology integration. We discuss some tips and tricks for managing your digital classroom and devices with students throughout the year. Jordan Osborne, 6th grade teacher, returns to the podcast and we continue our discussion from last week. He shares ways he uses GoGuardian Teacher, specifically Scenes and scheduling, to help manage his class. We also highlight the importance of digital classroom expectations and digital citizenship discussions with our students.
Links:
- District Technology Expectations Poster
- District Technology Expectations for Students
- District Technology Expectations Video
- How to Create and Apply a Scene
- GoGuardian Teacher - YouTube
- Be Internet Awesome
- Digital Citizenship | Common Sense Education
- EdTech Website - Digital Citizenship
We're back! In this episode we kick-off the school year with a new monthly theme on meaningful technology integration. We discuss some tips and tricks for setting up your digital classroom at the beginning of the year for successful technology integration and Chromebook use with students. Jordan Osborne, 6th grade teacher, returns to the podcast to join the discussion. He shares ways he uses Google Classroom and GoGuardian Teacher to help manage digital assignments and activities with his classes. We also highlight the importance of digital classroom expectations and transparent and planned program rollouts.
Links:
- Going Online - District Webinars
- District Technology Expectations Poster
- District Technology Expectations for Students
- District Technology Expectations Video
- Classroom Expectation Matrix Slides
- Google Classroom Roadmap
- GoGuardian Teacher Scaffolded Year Plan
- Technology Roadmap Template
- Google Classroom Teacher Review Resources
- Add or Modify Classroom Schedules
In this episode we discuss the Google Teacher Center and the educator resources available there like training courses and product guides. Jordan Osborne, Google Certified Educator, joins the discussion and we talk about what it means to become a Google Certified Educator and what that process entails.
Links:
- Google Teacher Center
- Google Training Courses
- Fundamentals Course Outline
- Registering for Level 1 and Level 2 Exams
- What to expect on the exams
In this episode we hear from past guests and from the tech department all about our favorite apps, programs, and features. We share recommendations for things to try, lesser known features and options, and creative uses for the classroom. Check out the episode and the document linked below for a list of all the programs mentioned:
- List & Links for Recommended Programs & Features
In this episode we finish out our monthly theme of student engagement with tech. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, and Sarah Rhodes, 6th grade teacher, return to the podcast to discuss creative assessment options to spark student engagement. We highlight some programs that help streamline assessment like Google Forms and include excellent feedback options like Kami as well as maximizing Google Classroom rubric options to allow for student choice in how students demonstrate mastery.
Links:
- Blooket
- Gimkit
- Kahoot!
- Giant Steps
- Quizlet
- Quizizz
- Flashcard Factory
- Grade with Kami
- Kami Grade by Page
- Kami Questions
In this episode we continue our monthly theme of student engagement with tech and focus on designing and implementing engaging course materials to connect with students. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the discussion as we highlight ways to use templates and platforms like Canva to design both physical and digital materials to use in the classroom.
Links:
- Slides Carnival
- Slidesmania
- Canva
- How to Enable Offline Access for Google Files
- Kami Library
In this episode we continue our monthly theme of student engagement with tech and focus on interactive video lessons. Claire Verity, theatre arts teacher at PHS, joins the discussion to share how video, and EdPuzzle specifically, have helped boost engagement and streamline workflow in class. We also share some tips and tricks for using video in class and ways EdPuzzle can be a great resource.
Links:
- EdPuzzle
- EdPuzzle Resources
- How to Embed EdPuzzle Videos in Pear Deck
- Pear Deck Resources
- WeVideo & Google Classroom
In this episode we continue our monthly theme of student engagement with tech. Jordan Osborne, 6th grade teacher at DBM, joins the discussion as we talk about ways to boost engagement with presentations. We highlight Pear Deck and incorporating interactive elements so students become active participants in the learning experience as well as other tips and tricks.
Links:
- Slides Carnival
- Slidesmania
- Canva
- Pear Deck
- Pear Deck Resources
In this episode we kick-off our new monthly theme of student engagement with tech. We focus on the importance of student choice and how choice boards or choice menus can be a powerful engagement tool to help meet the needs of all students in the class. We hear from two 6th grade teachers at AMS, Amy Agren and Betsy Clayton, about how a review choice board helped them motivate their math students and meet their needs.
Links:
- Kami
- Kami Resources
- Slidesmania
- Canva
- Google Doc Choice Board Example
In this episode we continue our monthly theme of ACCESSIBILITY as we gear up for Global Accessibility Awareness Day at the beginning of May. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach at LMS and member of the Inclusionary Practices Project with your host, joins the discussion as we talk about the importance of making our content accessible from the start. We also discuss some basic tips and guidelines for making content accessible like the POUR principles and using SLIDE.
Links:
- Building Accessible Content One-Pager
- AEM Center: Access to Learning
- WebAIM
- WebAIM Color Contrast Checker
In this episode we continue our monthly theme of ACCESSIBILITY as we gear up for Global Accessibility Awareness Day at the beginning of May. We connect with a special education teacher in the Camas School District and a mother of a student with disabilities from the Evergreen School District, both of whom are members of the state's Inclusionary Practices Project and Special Education Support Center. We discuss the importance of accessibility features to give students the ability to access content and tasks as well as build confidence and independence both inside and outside the classroom.
Links:
- AEM Center: Access to Learning
- Accessibility Features Video Tutorials
- Chromebook Accessibility Features Document
- Accessibility Features Resource
- Chromebook Accessibility
In this episode we kick-off our new monthly theme of ACCESSIBILITY as we gear up for Global Accessibility Awareness Day at the beginning of May. We check in with Anna Leeper and Felicia Barkell with special services on what accessibility means and how it applies in school settings.
Links:
- AEM Center: Access to Learning
- Disability Discrimination and Employment Decisions
- About IDEA - Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
- Section 508 Compliance
- WAC 392-172A-02015
- RCW 49.60.030
- RCW 70.84.010
In this episode we close out our monthly theme on gamification and game-based learning in schools to connect with esports and how valuable esports is as an opportunity for our students. Our district's esports coaches Rob Pollock and Simeon Redberg join this episode. We discuss what esports look like and the various roles involved, our current esports teams and events, and the great opportunities available to our students through esports with scholarships, future jobs, and the skills they build and connections they make.
NOTE: We recorded this episode prior to the big district rivalry matchup for Super Smash Bros. and we discuss it as upcoming. PHS won 2-1 in a close match. Check out both school's Twitch stream channels below to watch future matches.
Links:
- PHS Twitch Channel
- BGHS Twitch Channel
- Esports Education Network
- High School Esports League
In this episode we continue our monthly theme of gamification and game-based learning. We pick up on our conversation with Sara Gillihan and Eric Anderson, 4th grade teachers from Maple Grove, from last week to discuss how they have gamified their whole classes from academics to classroom management using platforms like Classcraft, Class Dojo, and Freckle.
Links:
- Classcraft
- Class Dojo
- Freckle
- EDrenaline Rush
- EMC2 Learning
- Classroom PowerUps
In this episode we continue our monthly theme of gamification and game-based learning. We discuss ideas for starting out with gamification/GBL by focusing on a lesson, unit, or project. Sara Gillihan and Eric Anderson, 4th grade teachers from Maple Grove, join the conversation to discuss how they have gamified lessons, projects, and incorporated games in their classes. We specifically highlight Breakout EDU as a great option for starting out.
Links:
- Classcraft
- EDrenaline Rush
- EMC2 Learning
- Classroom PowerUps
- BreakoutEDU Help Center
- EdTech Kits
In this episode we kick off our new monthy theme of gamification! We connect with two experts in gamification and game-based learning from around the state of Washington, Tammie Schrader and Al Gonzalez. Both have presented on gamification topics at various edtech conferences and currently lead statewide training courses on gamification and game-based learning in WA. We discuss tips for starting out with gamification and GBL and some of our experiences with both in the classroom.
Links:
- How to Hide and Unhide a Shared Drive
- Current District Essential Standards
In this episode we close out our new monthy theme of PLCs. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, and Sarah Rhodes, 8th grade teacher, return to the podcast to discuss the importance of data analysis. We discuss the benefits of analyzing our data for data-based instructional decisions through our PLC collaboration as well as ways to streamline our analysis with tech tools like Google Sheets.
Links:
- Google Sheets Video Tutorials
- PLC Data Analysis Materials
- Autocrat Video Tutorials
In this episode we continue our monthy theme of PLCs and specifically focus on data collection. Cindy Viall, special education teacher, and Kim Kellstadt, special education instructional coach, join the converstation to discuss data collection methods, tips, and ways to use digital tools to streamline data collection in the classroom.
Links:
- How to Use Google's QR Code Generator
- PLC Data Analysis Materials
- ABC Data Chart
- Duration Chart
- Frequency Chart
In this episode we continue our monthy theme of PLCs and specifically how our essential standards work fits into our PLC discussions. Angela Minick and Kendra Vaught, instructional coaches in our district, join the episode to talk about our essential standards project so far, why it's so important, and how it fits into the bigger PLC picture.
Links:
- How to Hide and Unhide a Shared Drive
- Current District Essential Standards
In this episode we kick off our new monthy theme of PLCs! Two of our district's directors of instructional leadership, Luke LeCount & Travis Drake, join our discussion on how to set up and run a successful and streamlined PLC with the support of various tech tools. We also connect our PLC work to some bigger picture district ideas.
Links:
- How to Hide and Unhide a Shared Drive
- Current District Essential Standards
In this episode we close out our monthy theme of debunking tech myths. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, and Alex Gordon, occupational therapist, join the discussion on some common responses to resisting the use of assistive technology and accessibility features in the classroom, specifically that those tools can amount to cheating or giving an unfair advantage.
Links:
- Assistive Technology Myths Video
- Accessibility Features Resources
In this episode we continue our monthy theme of debunking tech myths. This episode includes two interviews with a special education teacher, Cathy Butler, and with primary teachers, Kim Hoffmann and Teresa Taylor, to discuss the common myth of "my kids can't handle that" or "that's too advanced or complicated for my class" that we encounter when using technology with students, especially with younger grades and students with varying abilities and challenges.
Links:
- Going Online Resource Hub Website
- Going Online Students Resource Hub Website
- BGPS EdTech Website
- Blooket
- How to Access & Manage District Padlet
- How to Login & Access District Padlet
- EdTech Kits
In this episode we continue our monthy theme of debunking tech myths. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, and Sarah Rhodes, 8th grade teacher, join the discussion on some common responses to resisting the use of tech tools in the classroom. We discuss some classics like "you won't always have a calculator in your pocket" and "if it ain't broke, don't fix it," as well as other responses like "that's not how I learned it" or "I've always taught it this way."
Links:
- Future of Education Report
- Teaching for Tomorrow Video Playlist
- P21 Framework
In this episode we continue our monthy theme of debunking tech myths. We discuss whether or not teachers need to be experts in the various technology programs before using them with students. Lucinda Bancroft, instructional coach, and Katie Reed, 5th grade teacher, both from PVM join the discussion.
Links:
- Going Online Resource Hub Website
- Going Online Students Resource Hub Website
- BGPS EdTech Website
In this episode we kick off our new monthy theme of debunking tech myths. We discuss the misconceptions around screen time, specifically the differences between passive and productive screen time. We also discuss how important it is to take a deeper look at studies beyond headlines. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach, joins the discussion.
Links:
- Mayo Clinic - Screen Time and Children
- CNBC - Screen Time
- Nature - Adolescent well-being and screen time
In this episode we highlight tech tools that help streamline the grading process. We take a look at features in Google Classroom, Kami, EdPuzzle, Pear Deck, Skyward, Google Forms, and Google Sheets. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach for LMS, and Sarah Rhodes, teacher at AMS, join the discussion and share some tips and tricks for grading smarter not harder.
Links:
- How to Use Conditional Formatting in Google Sheets
- Google Sheets Video Tutorials
- How to Grade with Kami
- How to Use Reflect & Review in Pear Deck
- How to Use Grades in Google Classroom
- How to Import Quiz Grades in Google Classroom
In this episode we connect with last week's episode on demonstrating mastery to discuss the use of rubrics in the classroom. This month's theme is on assessment and in this episode we highlight the use of Google Classroom rubrics and how that can help streamline the process and make rubrics easier to navigate for you and your students. Mandie Thompson, instructional coach at LMS, and Cindy Viall, special education teacher at CMS, join the discussion.
Links:
- How to Use Google Classroom Rubrics
- Example Google Sheets Google Classroom Rubric
In this episode we finish our month-long discussion on Teacher Clarity and the Teacher Clarity Playbook with module 9 that focuses on demonstrating mastery and designing meaningful assessments. Joining the discussion are Mandie Thompson, instructional coach at Laurin, and Kendra Vaught, instructional coach at Amboy.
Links:
- Teacher Clarity Resource Website
- Teacher Clarity Playbook
- Teacher Clarity Assessment Choice Board
In this episode we continue our discussion on Teacher Clarity and the Teacher Clarity Playbook with module 8 that focuses on lesson planning through designing meaningful learning experiences for students. We highlight some tech tools to support this step in the process and our district's lesson plan that connects with Explicit Instruction. Joining the discussion are Mandie Thompson, instructional coach at Laurin, and Angela Minick, instructional coach at Daybreak Middle.
Links:
- Teacher Clarity Resource Website
- Teacher Clarity Playbook
- Teacher Clarity Lesson Plan
- Explicit Instruction Resources
- Importance of Modeling Episode
In this episode we continue our discussion on Teacher Clarity and the Teacher Clarity Playbook with modules 6 & 7 that focus on building and communicating relevance and creating assessment opportunities in your lessons. Joining the discussion are Mandie Thompson, instructional coach at Laurin, and Gene Fritz, culinary arts and hospitality teacher at Battle Ground High School.
Links:
- Teacher Clarity Resource Website
- Teacher Clarity Playbook
- Distance Learning Playbook
In this episode we continue our discussion on Teacher Clarity and the Teacher Clarity Playbook with modules 3-5 that focus on goal setting with learning intentions, language expectations, and success criteria. Joining the discussion are BJ Rush, instructional coach at Pleasant Valley Primary, and Stephanie Welniak, our district's English Language Learner program coordinator.
Links:
- Teacher Clarity Resource Website
- Teacher Clarity Playbook
In this episode, Mandie Thompson returns and David Kennedy, our district's Executive Director of School Improvement joins us to talk about Teacher Clarity. We discuss how Teacher Clarity fits into our district's mission and why it's so important to our work and our PLCs. We also connect to the Teacher Clarity Playbook by Doug Fisher, Nancy Frey, Olivia Amador, and Joseph Assof and the first two modules on Concepts and Skills and Learning Progressions.
Links:
- Teacher Clarity Resource Website
- Teacher Clarity Playbook
- Hattie’s Effect Sizes
This episode closes out Cybersecurity Awareness Month and we are joined by one of the district's middle school teacher librarians, Ron Wagner. Ron helps us discuss ways to introduce cybersecurity topics to students to help them build good digital habits and stay safe online. We connect cybersecurity with digital citizenship to help make both topics relevant and meaningful for students.
Links:
- ISTE Standards: Students | ISTE
- ISTE Digital Citizen Standard in Action
- Washington State EdTech Standards
- Be Internet Awesome for Educators
- Common Sense Media Digital Citizenship
- Google Applied Digital Skills Digital Citizenship
- Google Internet Safety Videos
In this episode we discuss definitions and what to look for with social engineering and phishing. We also discuss tips for staying safe with different devices like phones and with various accounts.
Links:
- KnowBe4 Training
- CISA Cybersecurity Awareness Tip Sheets
- Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks
- Password vs. Passphrase Comic
This episode continues our series of episodes for cybersecurity awareness month. We are joined again by Ian Moore, Washington's Cybersecurity State Coordinator/Advisor for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) at the Department of Homeland Security. We discuss cybersecurity concerns for schools districts and future trends in this episode.
Links:
- Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
- CISA Cyber Essentials Starter Kit
This episode kicks off our series of episodes for cybersecurity awareness month. We are joined by Ian Moore, Washington's Cybersecurity State Coordinator/Advisor for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) at the Department of Homeland Security. We discuss cybersecurity essentials and why it's important in this episode.
Links:
- Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
- CISA Cyber Essentials Starter Kit
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
- NIST Cybersecurity
In this episode, Mandie Thompson, the instructional coach at Laurin Middle School, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of modeling technology in the classroom. We discuss ways to streamline modeling to reach all learners.
Links:
- Student Tutorials
- Going Online Student Resources
In this episode, the instruction coach team from Pleasant Valley joins the podcast, BJ Rush & Lucinda Bancroft, and we discuss the importance of setting and maintaining high expectations for students and some ideas for how to help with student buy-in and integrating technology.
Links:
Technology Expectations Poster/Wallpaper
District Technology Expectations
Chromebook 101 Video
District Technology Expectations Video
In this episode Jordan Osborne, 6th grade teacher, joins the podcast to discuss tips and tricks for setting up your Google Classroom for a successful year.
Links:
- Little SIS Teacher Review
- Little SIS Teacher Review Resources
- How to Accept Classes for Google Classroom Using Teacher Review
- How to Reuse a Post in Google Classroom
- New in Google: Schedule Posts Across Classes
Check out our first episode where we discuss some tips and tricks for including technology in your first few days of the school year including using video to help create engaging ways to share classroom routines.
Links:
In case you wanted to check out The Waster vs. Art Power videos:
Art Room Clean Up 101
Art Room Clean Up 102
The EdTech YouTube channel: bit.ly/edtechchannel