METC Podcast: Recent Episodes
METC EdPlus
Midwest Education Technology Community Podcast with a mission to Motivate, Engage, Transform & Connect ALL learners!
On this special episode of the METC podcast we celebrate our community! Voices from around our community will share what has motivated them, how they engage others, areas in which they have transformed, or ways they have connected over the past year. This podcast is all about the community and we are excited to celebrate this episode with you. Let’s get started.
Be sure to connect with all of our guests from the episode! All Twitter handles are located within the Show Notes Document linked here.
Episode Overview:
In this episode I sat down with John Waters, Director of the St. Louis RPDC. We have a great conversation about technology and how it is crucial in engagement.
Episode’s Twitter Challenge
Share a lesson, resource, tip or idea around engagement with technology. Use #METCpodcast in your tweet!
Tech ‘n’ Sixty: Watch the episode here
In this episode we share the most recent Tech n Sixty - Episode 176. We share how with the new Google Chrome you can easily create QR codes for any webpage and that can then be customized to make it more personalized.
Be a part of the 100th Episode!
METC on Demand
In this METC miniPOD episode, our community guest is Christy Brooks and she shares a resource called Loop. Check it out!
Loop can be found at loophq.io. It is a free Ed Tech platform that allows teachers to get student feedback instantly. Unlimited exit tickets are free, additional question types are part of their premium package. Easy to set up and ad free. Loop is COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy) and GDPR (General Data Protection) compliant.
Episode 20 Show Notes
Loophq.io
In this episode our guest LeeAnn Lindsey joins us and talks about the importance of Digital Well Being or Digital Wellness. She shares some great ideas and resources.
Episode's Show Notes
Twitter Challenge - Share the steps you have taken to ensure your digital wellness
Be a part of our 100th Episode
METC on Demand
In this episode of the METC Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Ted Huff to talk about engagement strategies with Distance Learning. Ted shares some over great strategies and some wonderful apps to help with engagement really in all learning environments. We close the episode by learning more about how Ted lives METC’s mission each day and recommends some great educators to connect with.
Episode's Show Notes
METC on Demand Information
100th Episode Flipgrid Topic
Episode's Twitter Challenge - Share your favorite apps to engage your students within any learning environment, but especially within distance learning. Please add #METCpodcast to your tweets!
Be on a future episode of the METC Podcast or share your favorite tech tool on a METC miniPOD. Reach out to Jonathon at jlee@edplus.org
Adobe Spark is a creation tool that provides you and your students with the ability to create beautiful graphics, videos and webpages seamlessly. It is a free tool - and when deployed by districts, students and teachers have access to all the premium features. There is even the ability to set up your own Adobe classroom for students on limited release for specific Google id’s (to learn more about how to access the free version check out spark.adobe.com/edu)
Episode's Show Notes
Adobe Creative Educator
After talking about great lesson design in episode 95, Dorean and I focus on the tools that you can use to Motivate, Engage, Transform & Connect all learners during your lessons.
Episode's Show Notes
METC on Demand
Twitter challenge - Share you favorite tech tool to Motivate, Engage, Transform or Connect your students within your content. Add #METCpodcast or #METCpd to you-r tweet! Happy sharing!
Within this METC miniPOD episode our community guest is our very own Jonathon Lee. Jonathon shares about Microsoft Teams. Microsoft Teams is a collaboration hub. There are so many features and ways to utilize this tool within the school setting. Check it out! Episode Show Notes
This is the first half of our conversation with Dorean Dow on student engagement. Within this episode, Dorean focuses on the strategic design of lessons. Before we even think about the tech, we need to think about the What, Why, How, Accessibility & Incentives. Without these key components, your lesson will no doubt fall flat and miss learning expectations for all of your students. Listen to the expert, Dorean Dow on this subject! Then tune into the next episode as we apply some great tech tools!
Episode Show Notes
Twitter Challenge - Share your virtual/hybrid instructional strategies - #METCpodcast
METC On Demand - Begins February 9th.
Within this METC miniPOD episode our community guest is our very own Jonathon Lee. Jonathon shares about the Applied Digital Skills curriculum tool that Google has created! If you have not checked it out yet, you definitely should. Link is below but also within the show notes linked.
Episode Show Notes
Applied Digital Skills
ISTE Standards
This is part 2 of our Canvas conversation. Brian Reed, Amanda Moody and I focus in on instruction within Canvas. They continue to share some awesome resources! Be sure to check out the resources within the show notes linked below.
Episode's Show Notes
Receive the Tech Tuesday Resource Collection
Check out our Virtual PD - EdPlusDirect.org!
In this episode we take a look at the LMS, Canvas. Canvas is becoming very popular within our region and we have two of our region's gurus on everything Canvas. Amanda Moody & Brian Reed share their knowledge with us on this powerhouse of a Learning Management System.
Episode Show Notes
In this episode of the METC miniPOD our community guest is Jen Walter from the Fox C-6 School District. With these crazy times of distance learning, hybrid learning or maybe in-person learning, we are using many apps to engage our students. Jen shares one of her favorites, Google Classroom for her mobile device. Listen to learn why you should look into using this powerful app too! Enjoy!
Ep. 16 METC miniPOD Show Notes
ISTE Standards
In this episode we sit down with JP Prezzavento, Communications Coordinator for the Fox C-6 School District to discuss the importance of communication with families and the greater school community.
Episode 92 Show Notes
Tech Tuesday Resource Collection Sign-up Form
Google Slides - The Ultimate Instructional Tool Virtual Workshop
EducationPlus Virtual Workshop Offerings - edplusdirect.org
In this episode of the METC miniPOD, Jonathon Lee is our community guest and he shares his favorite app, Google Slides! Give the episode a listen and be sure to checkout the Show Notes linked below.
miniPOD Episode 15 Show Notes
Get added to the Weekly Resource Collection list
In this session I sit down with Carmalita Seitz, Director of ISTE Certification and discuss ISTE Certification. Carm and I have a great conversation highlighting the purpose behind the certification, who the certification is for and how every educator can benefit from the certification.
Episode Show Notes
METC ISTE Certification Information
ISTE Standards for Educators
ISTE Certification Information
Welcome to another METC miniPOD episode! In this episode, our community guest is Ariel Jankord. Ariel shares an awesome tool called Apple Clips! Ariel gives some great information about the tool along with some great ideas for use with your students. She also connect Clips to the ISTE standards. Check it out and share how you might use Apple Clips with your students on Twitter. Be sure to use #METCpodcast or #METCpd in your tweet.
Episode Show Notes
In this episode, I sat down with Rob Greenhaw of the St. Louis RPDC. Rob is an EL Specialist and does some amazing work supporting teachers within the region. Rob shares some great technology tools to support EL students.
Show Notes Link
Twitter Challenge - Share resources or ideas to meet the needs of your EL Learners. Use #METCpodcast in your tweet.
METC YouTube Channel
In episode 89 of the METC Podcast, special guest Ryan Boeckman and I discuss the power of storytelling. Ryan shares his background and love for Disney and how he incorporates engaging stories to hook his students on science concepts. It is a great story! Enjoy!
Episode 89 Show Notes
Twitter Challenge - Share how you incorporate stories into your lessons/content. Add #METCpodcast to your posts. Or visit the #METCpodcast Flipgrid
METC Youtube Channel - Tech n Sixty+
Check out Ryan Boeckman's podcast - My Disney Class
In this episode I sit down with the amazing Whitney Choate from Cape Girardeau, MO. Whitney is a high school special educator and instructional technology specialist. She does some amazing things within her classroom and district and she shares some of her ideas. She shares how to teach the hard (concrete) and Soft (abstract) skills using technology.
Episode's Show Notes
METC YouTube Channel
Tough Talk with Teachers Podcast
In this episode, our community guest is Sophie Chambers of the Chillicothe, Missouri. Sophie shares information about Google Expeditions. Though Sophie is speaking to using this within the classroom, if you have students who have access to a newer phone at home, these could be a cool extended activity for families to explore. Check it out and connect with Sophie below.
Google Expeditions
Connect with Sophie
Welcome to the second episode of season four. We have an awesome guest for this episode. Al Thomas joins us to talk about the importance of creativity. Al shares some great resources and ideas to bring creativity into your lessons to bring out the best in your students. We then talk about how to continue with creativity opportunities while teaching in our new virtual environment.
Episode Show Notes
METC YouTube Channel - Tech n Sixty+
Educopilot Free Gift
Dynamic Learning Project
In this episode of the METC miniPOD our community guest is Josh Howard of the Fulton Public Schools in Fulton, Missouri. Josh shares some easy ways to get started with 3D design using some very familiar tools! Enjoy!
Excited for the 4th Season of the METC Podcast. Our first guest for this season is Tara Martin! Tara was a featured speaker at #METC20 and was very popular! She was very nice to sit with us before the conference and chat about her book Be Real. Be sure to check out the show notes and her website. As always, be sure to connect to Tara!
Episode Show Notes
Tara Martin Webpage
In this episode of the METC miniPOD, our community guest is Vicki Mikow from the Fox C-6 School District. Vicki shares about an awesome tool, Screencastify. Enjoy!
In this episode we share our conversation with Dr. Robert Dillon from the METC20 Conference. At this conference we had a local podcasting table. While at the table, participants stopped by to talk about all things edtech. Dr. Dillon stopped and talked a while as well. We had a great conversation around how we need to be better at sharing resources. It was a great conversation and we are happy to share it.
Episode 85 Show Notes
Dr. Robert Dillon Website
In this episode we have three more guests that stopped by the METC Podcast table at METC20. Heather Delaurent and Shayla Viele from Camdenton Public Schools and Beth Ferranto sit down and share their experiences at the METC 2020 conference. All three presented at the conference as well. Connect with each of them to learn more about their presentations.
Episode Show Notes
METC20 Shared Session Slide Deck
This episode will be part 1 of 3 from #METC20. At METC we had a local podcasting table. METC Podcast was there all three days. While at the table, I was able to talk with a few participants. I have placed them in 3 different episodes.
In this first installment, I sat down with an unexpected guest and she was unknowingly enjoying her lunch at the podcasting table. She was nice enough to share her thoughts. While talking with Sandra Evans, Instructional Technology Specialist of St. Louis Public, her two co-workers joined us. Nicole Roberts, Samona Walker added in their thoughts from the conference. Great conversation! Enjoy!
Episode Show Notes (Twitter Handles to hopefully be added later)
This is the final episode of our #METC20 Spotlight Educator series. We focus on the seventh and final ISTE Educator Standard - Analyst. Our spotlight guest is Rena Hawkins of the Smithville School District.
Episode Show Notes
Tara Martin will be a featured speaker at #METC20. Learn more about her and what to expect when you see her at the conference! Check out her website at the link below.
Not registered? There's still time! (Assuming you listen to this before February 10, 2020!)
Tara Martin's Website
Register for METC20
More information on METC20
In this episode we continue our #METC20 Spotlight Educator series and focus in on another ISTE Educator standard. The standard we focus on is the facilitator standard. Check out the full show notes linked below.
Episode Show Notes
Tech n Sixty+ Episode 113 - QR Codes for AR Fun w/ Flipgrid
Tech n Sixty+ #FlipgridFever mini-series Playlist
ISTE Educator Standards
METC20 Conference
The 37th annual METC conference is less than 2 weeks away! One of our featured speakers will be Kimberly Lane Clark. Kimberly is the Director of Blended Learning for a school district outside of Dallas, Texas and a computer science/ed-tech consultant. She will be presenting all three days at the conference. Listen to learn more about Kimberly and what you can expect to learn from her at the conference. See you there!
METC20 Register Link
METC20 Conference Information
METC20 Session Grid
In this episode we continue our #METC20 Spotlight Educator Series. Theresa Taylor & Quentin Alimayu join the conversation around the Designer Standard of the ISTE standards for Educators. Be sure to check out the show notes for links to resources and these two awesome educators!
Episode 80 Show Notes
ISTE Standards for Educators
METC Conference - February 10-12
In episode 79 of the METC Podcast, I sit down with three #METC20 Spotlight Educators to talk about the ISTE Educator Standard of Collaborator.
Complete Show Notes
ISTE Standards for Educators
METC20 Conference - February 10-12, 2020
In this episode, we continue our METC 2020 Spotlight Educator Series. I sit down with Shelby Ward and discuss the Citizen Standard of the ISTE Standards for Educators.
Complete Show Notes
ISTE Standards for Educators
Tech n Sixty - Episode 104
METC20 Conference - February 10-12, 2020
In this episode we explore the ISTE Leader standard with 2 METC Spotlight Educators from previous years. Listen to Erin Lawson and JP Prezzavento share their insights on this standard.
Complete Show Notes
ISTE Standards for Educators
Tech n Sixty Episode 104
November METC Connect - eSports with Kris Miller
METC Conference - February 10-12 2020
In episode 76 of the podcast, we begin our 2020 METC Spotlight Educator Series. This year we have 10 Spotlight Educators. Over the next 7 episodes, our Spotlights will be the guests and talk about the ISTE Standards for Educators. In this episode, Jeremy Sullivan of the Springfield School District join the show and talks about the Learner standard.
Twitter challenge for this episode: How do you meet the Learner standard? Share your thoughts and ideas using the #METCpodcast.
Full Show Notes
METC Flipgrid
Tech n Sixty Episode 100
Subscribe to YouTube Channel
METC Conference
Episode 75 is another wonderful episode! We celebrate the 100th episode of the Tech n Sixty series in that segment. We sat down with Tara Link from the Moberly School District. Tara shares the importance of taking risks within the classroom and not to be afraid to think outside the box to engage your students within the content. We close this episode learning how Tara lives METC's mission each day.
Full Show Notes
METC Flipgrid
Tech n Sixty Episode 100
Subscribe to YouTube Channel
METC Conference
Tara Link's Blog
We have another jam-packed episode! We review two Tech n Sixty videos with some great tips for you Google Chrome Bookmark Bar! We sat down with Math Miller from Ditch That Textbook and talk about what he really means when he says to ditch that book. We had a wonderful conversation and talked about some great ideas and resources to begin integrating some meaningful tech with your content. We close with learning how Matt is living METC’s mission each day.
Full Show Notes
METC FlipGrid
Tech n Sixty - Episode 96
Tech n Sixty Episode 97
Subscribe to YouTube Channel
METC DigCit Day
Ditch That Textbook
In episode 73 of the METC Podcast we sit down and talk with Tanya Avrith, Education Evangelist for Adobe about Sharing Your Story. Check out the show notes linked here.
Be sure to checkout our new content, METC miniPOD available on Anchor and Google Podcasts. A new tech tool shared by a METC community member every other week. Available at anchor.fm/metc
In this episode of the METC podcast, I talk with Mandi Tolen about how you can integrate technology into the math classroom. Catch all of the show notes linked here.
Thank you for checking out this episode of the METC Podcast! All Show Notes can be located here.
We encourage you to participate within our Twitter challenge for this episode. Share your experience with Future Ready. Use the #METCpodcast with your tweet!
In this episode of the #METCpodcast, we sit down with Pat Brown and have a wonderful discussion around flipping the script of your teaching! Checkout all the show notes linked here.
We are excited for our first METC Connect Live Stream. The first one will be Wednesday, August 14 at 3:45. They will take place the 2nd Wednesday of each month. Join us live or check out the archive on YouTube!
In this episode of the #METCpodcast I sit down with Jen Walter and talk about ways to integrate technology into the science classroom. Checkout all of the Show Notes linked here.
In episode 68 of the METC Podcast I sit down with Kara Welty. Catch all the show notes linked here.
In Episode 67 of the METC Podcast I sit down with Ariel Jankord to talk about the importance of integrating coding across the curriculum. Find the complete show notes linked here.
In this episode I site down with the current board president for ISTE and talk about standards, the conference and his new book. Catch the full show notes linked here.
Thank you for tuning into this episode of the METC Podcast! All of the show notes for this episode can be found here.
In this episode of the METC Podcast, we have many topics covered! Be sure to check the FULL Show Notes here.
METCpodcast Twitter & Flipgrid Challenge - Share your Blended & Online Learning experiences. These experiences can be as a teacher or a learner. Share using #METCpodcast.
ISTE19 is coming up in less than 2 months. As a premier affiliate of ISTE, METC is privilege to being a part of the event. This release is a quick update of our involvement. We hope that you will be able to connect with us in Philly in late June.
Within this episode of the METCpodcast I sit down with Bethany Petty to talk about her book Illuminate. Be sure to check out all of the show notes at METCedplus.org.
In this episode of the #METCpodcast we talk about many different resources to grow your PLN. One of the big resources is ISTE. Their PLNs available through their membership can be huge in receiving the assistance you need.
For all of the show notes, click the link below.
https://metcedplus.org/mod/page/view.php?id=495&forceview=1
In this episode of the METC Podcast, we talk about the Everyone Can Create curriculum from Apple EDU.
All of the Show Notes for this episode can be located here.
Interested in being ISTE Certified? Go to METCedplus.org to learn more about signing up today!
A complete Show Notes can be located here.
All the Show Notes can be located here.
Episode's Challenge:
We all got into education for a reason. What drew you to teaching? Share either through Twitter or Flipgrid.
METCpodcast
flipgrid.com/metcpodcast
It is hard to believe that we have completed 2 seasons of the METC Podcast! Can't think of a better way to close out season 2. Mike McCann and I discuss my second favorite Google Tool, Google Keep! Keep is an amazing tool and if you are not using it, you should check it out for sure!
There were two Twitter Challenges within this episode! Share your answers using #METCpodcast for an opportunity for some of our new Podcast stickers!
Challenge 1 - What is @jleetechpercent's #1 favorite Google tool?
Challenge 2 - How are you using Google Keep? Either within the classroom setting or personally. Not using Google Keep? Share how you would like to begin using it.
Remember, use #METCpodcast within your tweet!
We will be back next week (not in two weeks like originally thought) with episode 58 and the first episode of season 3!
Thank you for checking out this episode. Connect with Mike and myself on Twitter.
In this episode of the METC Podcast, I talk with another #METC19 Spotlight Educator. Vicki Mikow is a Gifted Ed and STEM teacher in the Fox School district. She has been teaching for 14 years and we talked about the importance in cultivating curiosity. Vicki shares a few of the fun projects her students have worked on and used “real math” as her students have been known to put it. The culture and climate within Vicki’s classes also plays a vital role in her ability to bring out the curiosity within her students. Vicki is not afraid to try new things alongside her students. She is models her own curiosity for her students everyday. Be sure to connect with Vicki on Twitter or reach out to her via e-mail.
How are you cultivating curiosity? Share your ideas with us on Twitter using the #METCpodcast.
Episode’s Guest:
Vicki Mikow - Gifted Ed & STEM Teacher - Fox Middle & Ridgewood Middle -
mikow@foxc6.org - @GiftedEduc8or
In this episode of the METC podcast I sit with Amy Johnson, Digital Learning Specialist for the Parkway School District. She talks about best practices in creating online learning spaces. She shares an easy to use equation to build courses that are engaging and beneficial for teachers and students. Be sure to connect with her on Twitter.
Topic Shared: * Design+Delivery+Content= Learning + Offering online experiences to students has several components. 3 categories to consider that impact learning in online spaces. - Design- elements that help students to be successful * Clear directions and expectations- in an online space students aren’t sitting with you where they can ask for clarification * Organization- easy to navigate and find materials and activities * Opportunities for interaction and collaboration * Integration of a variety of digital tools - Delivery- teacher communication with students and presence in the space with regular and timely feedback - Content- Evidence that standards are taught, there are opportunities for transfer and standards are assessed. + Without these components, you may just have a list of resources + We want our online learning spaces to… - Build community - Be collaborative - Utilized a variety of online tools - Be engaging - Offer active learning opportunities + For our virtual courses we have developed checklists for design elements and delivery elements that create conditions for more formal learning. We are planning to create a document that helps us evaluate the content of our courses as well. - These checklists hold our courses accountable for best practices in: * Design consistency * Accessibility * Course components * Human centered design * Standard look and feel- organization, color, language
Episode’s Guest: Amy Johnson - Digital Learning Specialist - Parkway School District - ajohnson@parkwayschools.net - @ajohnson106
METC19 36th Annual Conference -
METC Conference Information - Session Grid - Register Today
In this episode of the METC podcast, I continue my talk with Roger Brallier of the Hollister School District. Roger is the Innovation Teacher and Library Media Specialist at Hollister Middle School. Roger shares how his class is structured and how they are able to reach out to their community to provide students with real world experiences. We touch a little on standard-based grading and how that affects his class. Roger shares his thoughts on homework. Roger and his students will be at the METC conference next month. Roger closes the episode by explaining what they will be sharing during his sessions. You should come check him out! Episode’s Guest: METC Spotlight Educator Roger Brallier - Innovation/Library Media Specialist - @MrBrallier & @HMSTigerPride Techbrary Website
METC19 36th Annual Conference -
METC Conference Information - Session Grid - Register Today
In this episode of the METC podcast, I talk with Roger Brallier of the Hollister School District. Roger is the Innovation Teacher and Library Media Specialist at Hollister Middle School. We talk about student communication, but the hidden topic is student voice. It was very obvious that students have a strong voice in Roger’s class and at Hollister Middle. Roger explains how his students deliver news to the whole school LIVE each morning. They start each morning at 8:01 and are finished by 8:05 to not take up too much instruction time. This quick 4 minute show includes announcements sent in by teachers through a form. Students even share the weather!
Once the show is over, the learning begins. Students receive professional development on topics that help them become better at their role within the communications class. Students in his class are also responsible for maintaining four display monitors within the school’s cafeteria. If this wasn’t enough, students also are in charge of the school’s social media. That is some serious student voice!
Episode’s Guest: METC Spotlight Educator
Roger Brallier - Inoovation/Library Media Specialist - @MrBrallier & @HMSTigerPride
Techbrary Website
METC19 36th Annual Conference -
METC Conference Information - Session Grid - Register Today
In this episode of the episode of the METC podcast, I continue my conversation with Abby Erwin of the Ferguson-Florissant School District. Abby discusses her passion for sharing key resources to meet the needs of all students, but specifically autistic students. Abby will be presenting many different sessions at #METC19. One of these sessions will be Apps for Autism 2. Be sure to connect with Abby and come see her in person at the METC Conference in February. Episode’s Guest: Abby Erwin - Technology Coach - Ferguson-Florissant School District - @Abby_Erwin - aerwin@fergflor.org
Episode’s Resources: Voice typing in Google Autism speaks Apps Calm counter Picto 4 me METC Conference Information - Session Grid - Register Today
Within this episode of the METC Podcast, I sit down with Abby Erwin of the Ferguson-Florissant School district. Abby is a technology coach for the district and she is also a #METC19 Spotlight Educator. She shares with us how she provides professional development for the staff of the district on many different topics. Be sure to connect with her and reach out for additional information on how to can bring Abby’s ideas to your district. Episode’s Guest: Abby Erwin - Technology Coach - Ferguson-Florissant School District - @Abby_Erwin - aerwin@fergflor.org METC Conference Information - Session Grid - Register Today
In this special episode of the METC Podcast we highlight the responses of our previous guests on different ways they are integrating coding into the curriculum. There are many ways that STEAM and Coding can be integrated and our guests share a couple of their ideas. Be sure to check out the previous episodes, especially the ones with our guests. They share additional ways to integrate their tool within the curriculum. Be sure to check out the show notes for the individual episodes for each of our guests as the links they shared can be found there.
In this special episode of the METC Podcast we highlight the responses of our previous guests on how students respond to coding or STEAM activities. As you will hear within this episode, students tend to be very excited and engaged within these activities. Be sure to check out the show notes for the individual episodes for each of our guests as the links they shared can be found there.
In this special episode of the METC Podcast we highlight the responses of our previous guests on the importance of teaching students to code. It is our hope that these responses will help others understand the importance of providing students with coding and STEAM experiences. Be sure to check out the show notes for the individual episodes for each of our guests as the links they shared can be found there.
In this CS Week Special Episode of the METC Podcast I share my own thoughts and insights into coding within the classroom. I focus on a resource created by Google called Made w/ Code. This resource has many different “projects” to get students started with coding, more specifically girls interested in coding. There is a cool mentor and futurist page that provides many different video interviews of female coders making a difference. If you are looking to introduce your students to coding, I would definitely recommend checking out this resource. Even though it has a goal of getting more females interested in coding, there are definitely some projects and resources that can be shared with both genders. Made w/ Code
In this special CS Week episode of the METC Podcast, we talk with Garrett Gross about Sphero and coding. Garrett shares a ton of awesome information about how you could use Spheros within your classroom! This is a very flexible resource that he uses with ages 4-14. It can be integrated into just about anything if you put your mind to it! Don’t believe us? Check the resources linked below for all of the awesome ways that Garrett is using them with his students. Also check the links to Sphero lesson ideas. Connect with Garrett and keep an eye on his Twitter feed for additional ideas! Episode Guest: Garrett Gross - Technology Teacher & Coordinator - St. Mary School - @ggTechTeacher Episode Resources: Complete Show Notes with pictures and descriptions https://edu.sphero.com/cwists/category Hashtags to Follow: #BeyondCode #SPRK #Sphero #SpheroBOLT #SpheroHero Sphero Education Homepage
In this special CS Week episode of the METC podcast, we talk with Matthew King from the Orchard Farm School district about coding within the library. Matt has recently been exploring the wonderful world of Micro::Bits and what they have to offer. Matt speaks about how easy they are to use. He shares some ideas of integrating Micro:Bits with books. Matt will be presenting at the METC conference in the new Playkerspace Theater this February! We are excited to see him share his wonderful ideas! Be sure to check out the resources and connect with him on social media! Episode’s Guest: Matthew King - Library Media Specialist - Orchard Farm School District - @Kingoflibrary Episode’s resources: https://makecode.microbit.org/ https://www.microbit.co.uk/blocks/lessons https://microbit.org/teach/ https://makecode.microbit.org/lessons METC Conference Information: February 11-13, 2019 - St. Charles, MO Convention Center Register Here - Session Grid
CS Week Special Episode - Code.org
Within this special episode of the METC podcast, I talk coding and Code.org with Patricia Brown. Patricia shares some great insights on why it is important to embed coding into the everyday curriculum. Be sure to check out the curriculum that Code.org has available along with all of the other resources that Patricia shares. These links are located below.
Episode’s Guest:
Patricia Brown - Ladue School District - @msEdtechie
Episode Resources:
Code.org curriculum
Hour of Code Learning Activities
Workshops available through Code.org partnerships
Institute for School Partnerships - Wash U.
We are excited to bring a bunch of new content for this year's Computer Science Week! Be sure to subscribe and catch each episode. There will be one for each day from December 3-9. Check all episodes' show notes for links to content being shared.
Within this episode of the METC podcast, I talk with #METC19 Spotlight Educator Rhonda Jenkins. She shares all about her library makerspace. Rhonda shares the process she has taken over the years to get her space up and running. An effective makerspace isn’t necessarily built overnight. Rhonda also shares that a makerspace isn’t always about the “toys” you have available in the space, but instead it is really about having a dedicated space to make and create collaboratively. Be sure to connect with Rhonda to learn more about her journey and her space. She will be presenting multiple sessions at the #METC19 Conference in February. I highly recommend coming out and joining us to not only see this wonderful Spotlight, but all of the awesome learning that takes place at this annual conference. Information about the conference is linked below.
Episode’s Guest: Rhonda Jenkins - Library Media Director - Indian Prairie School District * + @luv2teachtech + rhonda_jenkins@ipsd.org + Google Photo Album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/9VZ9omEua9o2QNow9
METC Conference - Full information can be found at our website METCedplus.org * View the Session Grid here * Here is the Schedule at a Glance * Register Here
Within this episode of the METC podcast, I talk with #METC19 Spotlight Educator Rhonda Jenkins. She shares all about her library makerspace. Rhonda shares the process she has taken over the years to get her space up and running. An effective makerspace isn’t necessarily built overnight. Rhonda also shares that a makerspace isn’t always about the “toys” you have available in the space, but instead it is really about having a dedicated space to make and create collaboratively. Be sure to connect with Rhonda to learn more about her journey and her space. She will be presenting multiple sessions at the #METC19 Conference in February. I highly recommend coming out and joining us to not only see this wonderful Spotlight, but all of the awesome learning that takes place at this annual conference. Information about the conference is linked below.
Episode’s Guest: Rhonda Jenkins - Library Media Director - Indian Prairie School District * + @luv2teachtech + rhonda_jenkins@ipsd.org + Google Photo Album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/9VZ9omEua9o2QNow9
METC Conference - Full information can be found at our website METCedplus.org * View the Session Grid here * Here is the Schedule at a Glance * Register Here
In Episode 41 of the METC Podcast, I sit down and talk with two innovative educators about the Student Innovation SHOWcase. Eleanna Liscombe and Julie Gambill have brought their students to the SHOWcase the past two years. The time frame to enter students for the #METC19 Student SHOWcase is now open, so we thought it would be a great opportunity to share with our audience why you should think about bringing your students to the SHOWcase! It really is an amazing experience for all involved! Please connect with them or reach out to myself if you are interested in having your students be a part of the #METC19 Student Innovation SHOWcase! Episode’s Guests: Julie Gambill - Poplar Bluff School District - @GambillJulie Eleanna Liscombe - Orchard Farm School District - eliscombe@ofr5.com Reach out to me at jlee@myedplus.org or connect on twitter at @jleetechpercent
More Information: Student Innovation SHOWcase will be Tuesday, February 12, 2019 Learn more about the SHOWcase at our website METCedplus.org or the link here. We hope you decide to be a part of this year’s SHOWcase! It is going to be a wonderful learning experience and a ton of fun!
METC Conference registration is open! Register Here and learn more about the conference here.
In Episode 40 of the METC podcast, we talk Media Literacy with a local expert Marteana Davidson. Marteana is a wife, mother, Video Technology coordinator at a high school (21 years). I manage the Charles Marshal Video Technology Center. This center is made up of a TV studio, computer lab, sound booth and three editing suites. I’m also the current president of GMLP. A not for profit who is passionate about educating the community about media literacy. We are excited to have such a local expert on our podcast to talk about this important topic. Marteana shares information on what media literacy is and how she incorporates it into content at her school. She also shares some great resources that educators can use within their own classroom. Marteana shares what events the Gateway Media Literacy Partners organization is sponsoring during Media Literacy week 2018. Be sure to connect with Marteana and check out the GMLP and all the resources they can provide. Gateway Media Literacy Partners (GMLP) - glmpstl.org The News Literacy Project - newslit.org Common Sense Media - commonsense.org Episode’s Guest: Marteana Davidson - Video Technology Coordinator - Ladue High School - @mdavidson09
Within this episode of the METC Podcast, I sit down with 2 library media specialists at Liberty High School in Liberty, MO. Christine Anderson and Lori Riedel created a course called Digital Media Managers. Students apply for this course and learn valuable skills that they will use in the future. Christine and Lori facilitate learning of various apps and skills with these students. The students then in turn are available to support classes within PBL activities. Throughout our conversation we talk about some wonderful teaching practices. Students are constantly creating and bringing their ideas to life. They receive feedback from peers and teachers and then make their product better. Students don’t receive homework. Instead they know the expectations and the deadlines and work on their organization skills to get their work done. These two library media specialists are developing future instructional technology coaches and it is amazing! Checkout their resources below and connect with them!
Episode’s Guests:
Christine Anderson - LMS - Liberty High School - christine.anderson@lps53.org
Lori Riedel - LMS - Liberty High School - lori.riedel@lps53.org
School Information: Liberty High School
Twitter: @360LMC
Facebook: Liberty High School (MO) LMC
Instagram: lhslmc7055
Episode’s Resources:
https://sites.google.com/student.liberty.k12.mo.us/dmm/home
- Course Information
- Tutorials
- Quick Tips
Within this episode of the METC Podcast, I sit down with 2 library media specialists at Liberty High School in Liberty, MO. Christine Anderson and Lori Riedel created a course called Digital Media Managers. Students apply for this course and learn valuable skills that they will use in the future. Christine and Lori facilitate learning of various apps and skills with these students. The students then in turn are available to support classes within PBL activities. Throughout our conversation we talk about some wonderful teaching practices. Students are constantly creating and bringing their ideas to life. They receive feedback from peers and teachers and then make their product better. Students don’t receive homework. Instead they know the expectations and the deadlines and work on their organization skills to get their work done. These two library media specialists are developing future instructional technology coaches and it is amazing! Checkout their resources below and connect with them!
Episode’s Guests:
Christine Anderson - LMS - Liberty High School - christine.anderson@lps53.org
Lori Riedel - LMS - Liberty High School - lori.riedel@lps53.org
School Information: Liberty High School
Twitter: @360LMC
Facebook: Liberty High School (MO) LMC
Instagram: lhslmc7055
Episode’s Resources:
https://sites.google.com/student.liberty.k12.mo.us/dmm/home
- Course Information
- Tutorials
- Quick Tips
In this episode of the METC Podcast, I talk with Andy Wall from the Orchard Farm School District. Andy is a Innovation Class teacher and it is his job to get students creating everyday. How cool is that! We discuss what it means to be connected. We discuss how being connected can give educators access to all kinds of support and resources. Looking for a new way to teach a unit? Toss a question out to your PLN on Twitter and watch the ideas roll in. Andy shares how he is connected. He also shares how we can stay connected without it taking up so much time! Being connected to educators all over the world gives you access to unlimited PD.
Episode’s “Commercials”
- Be sure to checkout #MOEdChat - Thursdays 9PM
- How do you get your students connected? Share at #METCpodcast
- Checkout the #METC19 Conference link below!
Checkout the resources below to get yourself connected:
Education Twitter Chats
Voxer
Slack
Episode’s Guest:
Andy Wall - Innovation Class Teacher - @awall777
METC19 Conference - February 11-13, 2019
Episode 36 - Creation Part 2 Within Episode 36 of the METC Podcast I continue my conversation with Matt Weld on creation. We begin by discussing roadblocks for leaders, educators and students in creating relationships and opportunities. After this discussion, we move onto the third aspect of creation; things. This is what we typically think of when we think of creating. We create “things”. Tangible things we can see, feel and touch. Be sure to connect with Matt and checkout his podcast!
Episode’s Guest: Matt Weld - #METC19 Spotlight Educator - Director of Innovation and Technology for ROE Area 5 of Illinois - Teacher’s Classroom Podcast
Within this episode of the METC Podcast, I sit down with #METC19 Spotlight Educator Matt Weld. We have a great discussion around creation. Conversation went so well we split it up into two episodes. Within this first part of our discussion we talk about the first two aspects of creation; Relationships and Opportunities. We had a wonderful conversation about the importance of relationships. As educators we know that relationships are huge! They have tremendous effects on climate and culture and the overall growth of staff and students. Even when we know the importance of relationships, we fail to look at what it takes to Create these relationships. From relationships we turn to creating opportunities. The opportunities we create as educators are very important. We look at creating opportunities from an administrator perspective, a teacher perspective and also a student perspective. Be sure to connect with Matt and check out his podcast as well! Episode’s Guest: Matt Weld - #METC19 Spotlight Educator - Director of Innovation and Technology for ROE Area 5 of Illinois - Teacher’s Classroom Podcast
In this METC Teaser, Sarah Thomas shares what an AMAZING weekend we have coming up Friday, September 21 and Saturday, September 22 at Webster University. On Friday METC will host its 3rd annual DigCit Day and The Digital Citizenship Institute will host its 4th annual Digital Citizenship Summit. There will be speakers from all over the world meeting in St. Louis to discuss the importance of Digital Citizenship in our lives. The theme for Saturday is From the Classroom to the Boardroom! Check out metcedplus.org for more information! Join us for this amazing event! #DigCitWeekend #DigCitDay #DigCitSummit Also checkout information at bit.ly/digcitsummit2018
Within this episode of the METC Podcast, Mike McCann and I continue our conversation on how to best manage your workflow. Mike moves away from the e-mail client and into three apps that can really ramp up your communication and management in your quest to Inbox Zero. Check out the apps that Mike shares and connect with us on twitter to share your thoughts.
Episode's Guest:
Mike McCann - Instructional Technology Coach - Wentzville School District - @mccann1776
Episode's Resources:
Google Keep
Google Calendar
Todoist
In this METC Teaser, Rob Jacklin shares what an AWESOME weekend we have coming up Friday, September 21 and Saturday, September 22 at Webster University. On Friday METC will host its 3rd annual DigCit Day and The Digital Citizenship Institute will host its 4th annual Digital Citizenship Summit. There will be speakers from all over the world meeting in St. Louis to discuss the importance of Digital Citizenship in our lives. The theme for Saturday is From the Classroom to the Boardroom! Check out metcedplus.org for more information! Join us for this amazing event! #DigCitWeekend #DigCitDay #DigCitSummit Also checkout information at bit.ly/digcitsummit2018
In this METC Teaser, I talk with Marialice Curran of the Digital Citizenship Institute about an AWESOME weekend coming up Friday, September 21 and Saturday, September 22 at Webster University. On Friday METC will host its 3rd annual DigCit Day and The Digital Citizenship Institute will host its 4th annual Digital Citizenship Summit. There will be speakers from all over the world meeting in St. Louis to discuss the importance of Digital Citizenship in our lives. Marialice likes to call it From the Classroom to the Boardroom! Check out metcedplus.org for more information! Join us for this amazing event! #DigCitWeekend #DigCitDay #DigCitSummit Also checkout information at bit.ly/digcitsummit2018
In this episode of the METC Podcast, I sit dow with Mike McCann and discuss many ways to manage our workflow. We all receive a bunch a e-mail throughout our busy day and sometimes it can be very overwhelming. Mike shares some great strategies to manage your inbox to hopefully one day get to Inbox Zero! Yes, you too can get to zero in your inbox by implementing some of these strategies. You will notice that no where in the episode does Mike say that this will be easy. However, I love the tips he shares and the information about the new GMail. Be sure to connect with Mike on twitter.
Episode's Guest:
Mike McCann - Instruction Technology Coach - Wentzville School District - @mccann1776
Welcome back everyone! Thank you for checking out the METC Podcast! We felt that this would be a wonderful topic to share at the beginning of the school year. As we all know, it is important for us as educators to ensure that all students are growing. Some students need additional support and/or resources to be successful. Well, my guest for this episode is Rashell Mehring. She is a special education teacher and works with assistive technology for the Special School District here in St. Louis, MO. At the time of the recording, she worked for the St. Louis Regional Professional Development Center as a Special Education Consultant.
Within this episode, Rashell shares many different resources to assist our students in four major areas. The resources she mentions are linked below so please check them out. Also be sure to reach out to Rashell and connect with her on social media.
Episode's Guest:
Rashell Mehring - Special School District of St. Louis County, MO @rmehr02
Resources Shared:
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL) at http://www.cast.org/
- Understood.org
-
Jamie Martin at https://www.atdyslexia.com/
- Twitter @ATDyslexia
- Rashell Mehring Twitter @rmehr02
-
Text to Speech- Digital text read aloud by a device
-
Read&Write for Google Chrome (Chrome Extension)
- @texthelp
- Text to speech feature is a feature that is available in free version for students
-
Premium features are free for educators sign up using this link https://www.texthelp.com/en-us/products/free-for-teachers/
- Snap&Read (Chrome Extension)
-
Free for 30 days for the trial period
- ClaroRead (Chrome Extension)
- Speechify (Chrome Extension)
- Select and Speak (Chrome Extension) by ispeech.org extension
- Built-in sites like Readworks.org
- Dictation- Spoken words converted into digital text on a device
-
Google Docs and Google Slides Presenter notes
Tap on Tools
Tap on Voice Typing
Enable microphone if asked
Tap on microphone to begin and end dictation
-
- Chromebook (Utilize the on-screen keyboard to enable voice typing)
-
Display Accommodations- font size, font color (minimize the use of red font), spacing between lines of text, words, and letters
- Visor (Chrome Extension)
- nOverlay (Chrome Extension)
- OpenDyslexic (Chrome Extension)
- Mercury Reader (Chrome Extension)
- Dualless (Chrome Extension)
-
Tools for Executive Functioning Issues
-
Google Keep
-
Google Keep (Chrome Extension)
- Location or date/time reminders
- Checklists
- Color coding of topics
- Take pictures of assignments or important information
- Voice notes in the mobile app
On the 31st Episode of the METC Podcast, I interview Greg Lawrence from the Wentzville School District. Greg is the Director of Technology within his district. We sit down and discuss change. Change can be scary. This is definitely true with technology. Technology seems to change at the blink of an eye. As educators we know that for many of us, our students tend to know more about the tech than we do. As we change/adapt with the times, Greg lays out some key character traits that can help guide us through change.
Thanks to Greg Lawrence for being on the podcast. He is a fountain of knowledge, and I highly recommend following him on social media. Check him out on Twitter and Google+.
Thank you for checking out our podcast. If you are enjoying what you are listening to, please share with others. Rate us on iTunes and/or Google Play. Thank you for checking us out!
Episode's Guest:
Greg Lawrence - Director of Technology - Wentzville School District
@greglawrence Greg Lawrence on Google+
GEG of Eastern MO gafemo.org
Professional Development mentioned within episode:
METC Google Extravaganza - July 16-17
In Episode 30 of the METC Podcast, I sit down with Stephanie Madlinger. Stephanie is the Director of Educational Innovation & METC. We sit down and talk about Digital Citizenship. Stephanie is very passionate about many things EdTech, but Digital Citizenship is obviously at the top of her list. She is completing her doctorate on the subject and has been providing professional development around dig cit for years. Stephanie started a Digital Citizenship Day here in the St. Louis area. This year's event will be the third annual. Stephanie has been hosted many Student Summits throughout the state of Missouri and beyond. Below are some of the resources and upcoming events she mentions within the episode. Episode's Guest: Stephanie Madlinger - Director of Educational Innovation - @cyberteacher - smadlinger@edplus,org Resources mentioned within the episode: METC Digital Citizenship Resources Page Digital Citizenship Day 2018 - September 21 (information coming soon) Digital Citizenship Student Summits - contact Stephanie Madlinger if interested in learning mroe about bringing a summit to your area. ISTE Standards Certification Professional Development Opportunities mentioned within episode: ISTE Standards Certification METC Summer Institute - with Katrina Keene & Josh Stumpenhorst METC Workshop Proposal Submissions METC Spotlight Educator Application Information
In Episode 29 of the METC Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with two very talented fifth grade students. Danny and Ethan shared their current project with me. They have spent their free time working on coding within Scratch a math review game for kindergarten and first graders. Now this would be cool in and of itself, but these two took this activity a step further. They have been able to repurpose a previously unused SMART table and turn it into a holographic, interactive tool meant to engage students in learning important content.
After speaking with these two gentlemen, it was very clear that they used perseverance throughout the process to get this activity up and running. They tested their idea at various scales prior to building their current version. While talking with them, they were already talking about how they could make the whole experience better for their users. Simply amazing!
Here is a link to their code within Scratch. You can see that it is pretty sophisticated!
Thank you to their innovation class teacher, Andy Wall for providing the time to sit with these two students. I also would like to give their classroom teacher, Amy Maledy for allowing these students to explore their passion!
I encourage each of you to visit the Flipgrid space for this episode. We recorded with their project in view to help give you the viewer a better understanding of what they have accomplished. Share your thoughts and ideas.
In Episode 28 of the METC Podcast, we sit down with Sadie Lewis of the Mehlville School District. Sadie talks to us about the coaching model she uses for the staff within her district. She shares how she came up with the process and how she manages it. It is amazing that all if it is done within Google! She has shared different resources. These resources can be found within the show notes on our website at metcedplus.org.
Are you an edtech coach? Do you work with an edtech coach? Share your experience and thoughts on our Flipgrid!
Thank you for listening to this episode. Check out a previous episode!
This is the first episode of Season 2 of the METC Podcast. When we began this podcast, we interviewed students at the METC Student SHOWcase at the METC conference. To begin this season, we thought it would be great to interview students again!
In this episode we sit down with students and staff that were able to experience the Google Expeditions AR Pioneer Program. This was an amazing opportunity for these students. Their faces said it all! You can checkout it out on Twitter #GoogleARExpeditions.
If you get the opportunity to bring this to your building, I highly recommend it!
Here is an update on the METC Podcast as we prepare for Season 2. Subscribe to receive updates on new content coming soon!
In episode 26 of the METC Podcast, I talk with Bob Deneau of the Rockwood School District in St. Louis County Missouri. We discuss the importance of having computer science & programming opportunities across the curriculum in K-12 education. As the needs of a highly technical workforce continue to evolve, schools face the task of preparing students for this new future. At the center of innovation is automation, machine learning, cloud computer, artificial intelligence, and our app/web connected connected lives. Giving students the skills to thrive in this environment is paramount to their success. How are schools meeting these needs? Bob and I talk about curriculum resources for both primary and secondary. Bob shares some of the authentic student experiences he has been able to provide the students in his district. We also talk about some of the challenges educators face in integrating computer science into curriculum, especially the core subjects. Be sure to connect with Bob to learn more about K-12 computer science! He will be a valuable resource! Episode's Flipgrid Link Episode’s Guest: Robert Deneau - STEM Coordinator - Rockwood School District - @itechbob Episode’s Promo South Central Google Mania - April 11 & 12 - Mountain View, MO - More Information & Register Here
In Episode #24 of the METC Podcast, we sit down with Samantha and Amanda of the Wentzville School District to talk about their annual Film Festival. These two amazing instructional technology coaches give us the ins and outs of how they got their Film Festival started. These two were kind enough to share their e-mail and twitter information, so reach out to them if you have specific questions to bring a student-led Film Festival to your school or district!
Share your thoughts & ideas! - Episode Flipgrid
Episode’s Guests:
Samantha Hardesty Knoll: * Instructional Technology Coach for the Wentzville School District * Former Elementary Teacher and Technology Teacher * @techknoll and samanthaknoll@wsdr4.org
Amanda Moody: * Completed first year as Instructional Technology Coach in WSD * Former High School English Teacher * @techmoody and amandamoody@wsdr4.org
Resources:
Wentzville Film Festival website
Connect with METC! Twitter - @METCedplus Facebook - @METCedplus Instagram - @METCedplus YouTube - Midwest Edtech Community (METC)
In Episode 24 of the METC Podcast, we sit down with Shannon Steimel from the Lift for Life Academy in St. Louis, Missouri. Shannon talks to us about the importance of leveraging community partnership within the school setting. Shannon shares how she has been able to partner with some local start-ups and organizations to really create a win-win for all involved. Shannon also shares the different ways she has been able to get funding for various projects within her school!
She provides some great ideas and tips to get your project or idea funded and off the ground! Check out the resources below and reach out to Shannon for additional questions!
Episode’s Special Guest: Shannon Steimel - @ShannonSteimel
Episode’s Resources:
1904 Labs: http://1904labs.com/
Parkway Spark Program: http://parkwayspark.com/
ITEF grant: https://innovteched.com/itefgrant/ Due Jan 31
Monsanto Fund grants: https://www.monsantofund.org/grant-programs/#grant-programs-1
Donor's Choose Match Offers: https://www.donorschoose.org/match-offers
Check out Shannon’s page on Donor's Choose to see some of the projects I've gotten funded: https://www.donorschoose.org/ShannonSteimel
2018 METC Conference - Pre-Conference Session:
Rae Hughart @RaeHughart is leading the Community Connections METC18 precon
Within Episode 23 of the METC Podcast, I sit down with Kelly Oliva. Kelly is a High School Librarian/media specialist. She also is a 2018 METC Spotlight Educator! She talks to us about being curious! Kelly has read over 80 books this year! She shares the different resources she uses to get to that large number each year. She also shares a few of the adventures she has been on as a result of her continued love for being curious! It is our hope that this episode will spark your curiosity! As you read new books, we hope you let your curiosity take on new adventures. As you experience these adventures, feel free to share them on the METC Podcast Flipgrid page at flipgrid.com/metcpodcast. We would love to hear all about it! Episode’s Guest Kelly Oliva - High School Librarian at Liberty High School in Wentzville, MO - @kellydoliva Check out her blog at - plotdrivenlife.com Episode’s Resources Good Reads Audible Playster OverDrive
In Episode 22 of the METC Podcast, I sit down with Stephanie Kuper from the Popular Bluff School District. Stephanie and her colleagues have developed an effective system of PD opportunities for their staff. From Whole district conference type PD days to PD in your PJs, Stephanie talks about how these opportunities have been helpful for their staff. Be sure to connect with Stephanie with her contact information below! Shout out to Stephanie for joining us on the METC Podcast! Episode's Guest: Stephanie Kuper - Instructional Coach - Popular Bluff High School Twitter - @kupertech stephaniekuper@pb.k12.mo.us METC Conference 2018 - Early Bird pricing ends December 6th! Follow the link to join us for our 35th conference!
In Episode 21 of the METC Podcast, I continue my conversation with Sophie Chambers, a 2018 METC Spotlight Educator. In this episode we hear the rest of Sophie's top tech tools. The tools are listed below. Be sure to connect with Sophie. Episode's Guest: Sophie Chambers - Chillicothe School District - Gifted Ed Teacher - Innovation Learning Coach - @atechiebookworm Sophie's Top Tech Tools #7-12
7 -- Popplet -- Make online web organizers -- I’ve used this to diagram the types of quadrilaterals as well as the genres of writing/books -- good visual representation for organizing our knowledge.
8 -- BreakoutEdu -- The best game to play when you want a meaningful class filler or to work on critical thinking, teamwork, collaboration, problem solving, etc. -- It is the game of 21st Century Learning Skills -- I also love the digital breakout options when you don’t have enough time to set up a whole game.
9 -- Adobe Spark -- A great creation tool for your artists or for projects; free online or mobile graphic design studio; sign in with Google but if too young, sign in as teacher and share an account; create social graphics, web stories, and animated videos; I’ve used this with K-8 also and everyone loves it; I’ve even used it in Sunday School class to retell stories.
10 -- Co-spaces -- Want free virtual reality? This is the tool. It is an easy VR tool that lets anyone create virtual reality experiences. Available on all devices and desktops. Still a bit basic and blocky but a good beginning tool when other funding isn’t available.
11 -- Speech-to-Text -- Speech to text options in your Google apps are life changing for your language SpEd kiddos. If you’re not grading spelling or grammar, why make them type it all. Let them get their fantastic ideas out instead of struggling through letter by letter. Pick and choose when students are allowed to use this tool to improve their learning experience.
12 -- Twitter -- If you’re a teacher who isn’t on Twitter yet, you are missing an entire world of free, fantastic PD at your fingertips. I can talk about how I got started and felt less overwhelmed with one more social media tool than I thought I would.
This Episode's Promo: 2018 METC Conference - 35th Anniversary Registration Open! Conference Information Pre-Con Information
In Episode 20 of the METC Podcast, I talk with Sophie Chambers who is a 2018 METC Spotlight Educator. Sophie works for the Chillicothe School District. Sophie shares her top tech tools she uses with her students. While sharing information about each tool, Sophie shares how she uses each one within her classroom and how she ties it to content. We ran out of time for the complete list. Be sure to tune into the next episode for the rest of her top tools list. Below, you will locate information about each tool mentioned within the episode along with a link to that tools website.
Episode's Guest: Sophie Chambers - Chillicothe School District - Gifted Ed Teacher - Innovation Learning Coach - @atechiebookworm
Sophie's Top Tech Tools #1-6 1. Mystery Skype -- connect globally with other classrooms, learn geography skills, can do other subjects too. Use Google+ and Twitter to find partner teachers, problem solving, questioning, collaboration, etc. 2. Podcasts -- There are so many great ones out there for students of all ages, teachers, and for your personal life. -- Mars Patel, Finn Caspian, Sesame St, Eleanor Amplified, But Why, Short & Curly, Serial, This American Life, 99% Invisible, Hardcore History, Adam Buxton, METC, Truth for Teachers, Real Teachers Real Answers, The Best Ideas in Ed 3. ThingLink -- make interactive images with the freemium version, students can prove their learning, or teachers can make a lesson more engaging, embed info into images 4. Seesaw -- free digital portfolios for all students of any age; I’m using it with K-8 currently and students and parents love it; could even be used in high school and beyond; I speak about all the different parts of this tool too; free version is great! 5. Google Keep -- great way to give students Must Do, Can Do lists; share book list ideas with students; give kids To Do lists that you can both see and edit in real time; free with your Google account 6. Padlet -- awesome discussion board tool for every voice in the room to be heard in a fast but meaningful way; also a good exit ticket strategy-- in youngest ages, don’t sign in, they can still comment but not reply to each other; in older ages, sign in and really collaborate together -- discuss a book or podcast, share six thinkings on a novel with SnapChat, PD book study
This Episode's Promo: 2018 METC Conference - 35th Anniversary Registration Open! Conference Information Pre-Con Information