Moore Tech Monday Blog
The goal of EdTech integration is not to drive all classroom instruction, but to enhance the learning experience. There is no replacement for the hands-on experiences you provide for your students, the time you spend leading small groups, reading stories, and providing instruction. Technology is one of many tools in your tool box. My goal is to assist you in leveraging it to enhance learning.
March 4, 2024
"I believe that education, therefore, is a process of living
and not a preparation for future living."
John Dewey
The third E in The Triple E Framework stands for Extend, and reminds us that technology can support learning, and help students find value in learning that extends beyond the classroom.
It is important that learning extends to the real world and the everyday lives of students. Not only does this type of real-world learning add meaning and purpose to the learning experience, it also provides students with the opportunity to make deep connections and retain information. Technology when carefully selected and planned can support this extended-learning process.
When planning for technology integration, consider what tool are accessible to students both inside and outside of the classroom, and follow up by helping student draw connections between school-learning and everyday-life-experiences. For instance, when we teach students a skill -- such as research and fact checking -- we are giving them the opportunity to practice a skill that will be needed in the real world.
Technology integration can provide students the opportunity to share ideas and collaborate with others to solve problems. These are the type of soft skills that are important when building a positive classroom culture, but also extend to communities and future careers.
This type of technology integration may seem challenging at the elementary level, but let’s consider how technology integration can be scaffolded to support all grade levels.
PreK/Kindergarten - Students begin using Seesaw to take photos of their hand written journal and record themselves reading. This allows them to share their thinking beyond the classroom, and provides teachers with the opportunity to discuss digital citizenship.
First Grade - Students work together to build a simple machine using blocks, balls, or other building materials. They then record the process using the video tool in Seesaw. This process supports students in collaboration, problem solving, and allows them to share ideas beyond the classroom.
Second Grade - Students are provided with links to research articles, and a template to create an animal report in Seesaw. This process provides students the opportunity to use online resources for research (a skill they will need in the real world), and gives them the opportunity to create a digital presentation to be shared both in and outside of the classroom. Seesaw gives students the opportunity to build skills that can be transferred to tools in Microsoft and Canva.
Third Grade - Students access materials in MyOn to research and learn about a topic in Science. They then use a template in Canva for Education to create a poster. The template provides students with a guide for creating, but Canva gives students the freedom to safely search for images, add elements, text, and share their learning in a safe environment. Canva is a tool that is used in the real world and allows students the opportunity to think about ways they can use technology with purpose and to share ideas.
Fourth Grade - Students access online maps of a specified location over time, making comparisons, and identifying ways people have changed the ecosystem. Students take notes, compile notes to write a paper comparing and contrasting the changes. The paper is typed in Word and finally shared with a peer partner (the partner will be given " comment only" access). The partner leaves comments, possitive feedback, and constructive suggestions for possible edits. This allows students to share their thinking using a real world tool, and practice using collaborative tools for educational purposes.
Fifth Grade - Students work together to research and gather data on a specified topic. Students could use tools like OneNote, or other Microsoft Tools to collect and organize information. The students then work collaboratively in Canva to create a line graph, share explanations, and information. This allow students to practice soft skills while learning and sharing accademic content using real world tools.
Sixth Grade - Students organize ideas for a creative narrative, they may be provided with paper or digital tools for organization (Canva Whiteboard is a great digital option). They complete the writing, planning, and drafting process seeking feedback from peers. Students choose from a variety of formats to share their final product - traditional word document (Microsoft Word), presentation (PowerPoint or Canva), create a graphic novel (created using elements in Canva), or Podcast (created in Canva). This process allows students to take ownership of their work, support and collaborate with others, while using tools that are relevant beyond the classroom.
These are just a few ideas there are many other options that will allow students to extend learning beyond the classroom and make real world connections.
Kolb, L. (2020). Learning first, technology second in practice: New strategies, research, and tools for student success. ISTE.
Click the plus button to leave a question or comment.
Jennifer Seitsinger, M.Ed.
Curriculum Technology Specialist
Moore Public Schools
February 19, 2024
Triple E Framework - Enhance
Enhancement brings added value to the lesson in ways that would be impossible to do with traditional (non digital) tools.
In this post I won't cover all of the possibilities for enhancement, but will attempt to highlight a few things that might get you to thinking of ways technology might enhance the learning experience for your students. Keeping in mind that technology is best used to support the teacher in quality instruction, not as a replacement for the teacher.
A teacher may show a video about the ocean, stopping periodically to ask questions and discuss with the class. The video provides the opportunity to explore the ocean, but the teacher guides students in thinking and learning.
Flip (formerly Flipgrid) allows students to share ideas with students from other classrooms. This allows students to share ideas in a way that would not have been possible before and with guidance could broaden the scope of learning and understanding.
When using a tool such as Seesaw students have the opportunity to record themselves explaining a concept. This helps to reinforce learning and gives the teacher important insights into the student's understanding of a concept.
Students could plan and create a presentation in Canva. This process requires students to understand and research content and allows them to share their learning in a meaningful way.
An adaptive tutor such as IXL provides reteaching for students as they progress through assigned content. When students miss a question the software adapts to the needs of the student by reteaching content and providing additional practice and focus on specific skill areas. The data from the program can also assist the teacher in planning for small and large group instruction.
Technology enhances learning when it is used to support quality classroom instruction, allows students to effectively organize their thinking, or share what they've learned in a meaningful way. What edtech tool or tools do you use to enhance learning in your classroom? Share you thoughts in the Padlet below.
Kolb, L. (2020). Learning first, technology second in practice: New strategies, research, and tools for student success. ISTE.
February 5, 2024
Triple E Framework - Engage
Classrooms can be filled with technology and loaded with all of the latest apps, but if students aren’t engaged in meaningful learning experiences none of it will matter.
When planning a lesson, start with the standard or learning goal and then consider technology. Will technology enhance the assignment or distract from it? If students will be distracted by elements in the tech tool such as creating an avatar, chat features, or gaming aspects — you may consider looking for a more effective EdTech tool. In some cases these features engage and motivate students to high achievement. You know your students and what tools will be most effective for them.
Another area for consideration is how students will interact with technology. Are they simply completing online assessments, or are they interacting with content? Students will be more engaged if they can drag and drop information, create, and record their thinking.
Beyond this, activities that require collaboration can be highly engaging for students as well! It can be tempting to restrict students to independent work on technology, but these types of assignments can be isolating and limit the learning experience. Consider making group assignments that require students to work together with one device. This will require a blended approach to learning that is reflective of real-world experiences. One example of this could be dividing students into groups to respond to a question in Padlet, students will discuss and compare ideas, and then one answer will be shared as a digital response in Padlet. Assigning specific roles for group assignments may be helpful to students and could create accountability for all.
If students are working independently with technology keep in mind that they will need a break. The longer a child is on a specific tech tool the more likely they are to become distracted and stray from learning goals. Build in breaks every 10-15 minutes so that students set the device aside to "think pair share" and reflect on learning with a partner.
When choosing a tool remember that "fun" isn't always the answer the tool need to keep students focused and engaged working towards the learning goal. Adding collaborative, hands on elements, and taking breaks can be important to the overall effectiveness of the activity.
The following are just a few examples of tech infused activities that could support student engagement.
- Students research using PebbleGo then share their finding with a partner or learning group.
- Students respond to a discussion question in Canvas, discuss and defend their answers during a live class discussion.
- Students work together to respond to a question in Padlet.
- Students create a presentation in Canva.
- Students use Seesaw to showcase learning and use the microphone to record their thinking.
- Students watch and answer questions in EdPuzzle.
Kolb, L. (2020). Learning first, technology second in practice: New strategies, research, and tools for student success. ISTE.
January 29, 2024
The Triple E Framework an Overview-
Today’s post will be a brief overview of the Triple E Framework. Follow the links to learn more about the framework and think about how this framework could be applied to your own teaching. In the weeks to come I will share ideas and examples of using technology to support instructional strategies that Engage, Enhance, and Extend.
Click through the following slides for simple examples.
The Triple E Framework was created by Liz Kolb as a way to assist teachers in creating tech integrated lessons that align with research based teaching practices. Her framework takes what we know about good teaching and applies it to technology integration. The focus of this framework is not on specific apps or programs but rather how technology can be used meaningfully to support instruction and meeting learning goals.
The following graphic comes from the Triple E Framework/Instructional Strategies web page and includes examples of instructional strategies that meet each component of the framework.
- How are you using technology to support these instructional strategies?
- How could you use technology to support these instructional strategies?
Leave your response by clicking the plus in the Padlet below.
If you would like to learn more about the Triple E Framework and how it can be applied to your lesson planning, let me know. I would be happy to meet with you!
October 23, 2023
Leveraging Canvas for Student and Family Engagement
When discussing Canvas with teachers I get a variety of responces. Some teachers love it, some teachers tolerate it, and others just don't see the point. As teachers we often feel overwhelmed and don't want to put hours of work into something that no one will take time to access or use but Canvas is what you make it!! In this post I'll share a few simple ideas to make your Canvas page a place students and families want to visit! Keeping students and families connected and engaged with learning is an important component to student success. Check out this article Parental Engagement in Schools to learn more about the importance of parental engagement.
Get Families Connected:
Families won't know about Canvas if we don't tell them! Families can be provided with a pairing code that will allow them to easily join Canvas as an observer. Generate Pairing Codes and Share With Families.
Share Daily Lessons and Assignments on Canvas:
The minimum district requirement for Canvas is that students and families can access daily lessons and educational content. At the most basic level this would include stating the standard/skill being taught, instructions for accessing content, along with assignment information (if applicable). Not all lessons and assignments will have a digital alternative but by providing an outline of your lesson in Canvas students and families will know what is taking place in class each day. That being said the more engaging the content the more likely students and families will be to access your Canvas page. Consider providing screen clips of anchor charts, or links to resources used in class. (The following video along with the videos shared under the other headings will help you get started.)
Newsletter:
Do you share a Newsletter with families each week? If so consider adding it to your Canvas page. The Newsletter can easily be added to the top or your weekly module.
Create a Storytime, Music, or Additional Learning Playlist:
Do your students have favorite stories, or are there fun songs that they love to listen to? Consider making a playlist of these stories and songs. After sharing them in class remind students that they can access these songs in Canvas!! Provide students and families resources for extended learning by creating an Additional Learning Playlist or by simply adding a page for additional learning into your weekly module.
Embed Presentations:
Do you use slide presentations with your students? If so Canvas if the perfect place to share them. The following example shows how you can embed a lesson created in Canva into your Canvas page.
How do you create engaging lessons in Canvas? Share your ideas or questions in the Padlet below!
October 2, 2023
Exit Tickets and Seesaw...
and Some Info About Digital Citizenship Week
Exit tickets come at the end of a lesson and often include a brief assessment of content covered. When used purposefully they allow both student and teacher the opportunity to reflect on learning and teaching strategies. Information gathered from an exit ticket can help guide reteaching, and future lesson planning. To learn more about exit tickets read John Marzano's article,Art and Science of Teaching/The many uses of Exit Tickets.
Seesaw offers a broad set of tools to create exit tickets that can easily be assigned to students. I have shared a template and quick video explaining how to customize the exit ticket to meet your classroom needs.
Seesaw has provided the following resource to assist you in using the new assesment tools: Creating and Adding Formative Assessment Questions
Digital Citizenship Week
The third week of October is Digital Citizenship Week but anytime is the right time to discuss digital citizenship with your students. Check out the follow resources that can assist you in teaching your students more about Digital Citizenship!
Digital Citizenship Week/Common Sense Media
Digital Leadership and Safety Lessons/Seesaw
Digital Citizenship Lessons/Nearpod
The EdTech department has a collection of Digital Citizenship picture books appropriate for PreK-6th grade. I would love to come out to share a story and digital citizenship activity with you students!!
Click the image to view the exit ticket.
September 25, 2023
Teaching to Learn and the Jigsaw Method
Last week's blog was all about the protégé effect and how we learn from teaching. This week I've taken things a step further to discuss the Jigsaw method. In his book Visible Learning: The Sequel John Hattie indicated that the Jigsaw method is one of the most effective teaching strategies. According to Hattie the Jigsaw Method has an effect size of 1.20. That’s a big deal, because according to Hattie .4 represents the average effect size of instruction interventions. Learn more about Hattie and his research here:
The Visible Learning Research
In the Jigsaw Method, each student is assigned a home group. The members in the home group are each given a different topic to learn about. Initially the members will work independently to read or learn about their assigned topic. Following this, the group then spits up to meet with others who have been given the same topic. Together they will research, study, and support each other in becoming "experts" on the topic. After a given amount of time the home groups comes together and each student expert teaches their home group about their topic. The home group will use all of the knowledge they've gained to complete a final project or assesment. In this scenario students are actively sharing their learning and collaborating with peers, both of which are important skills in and out of the classroom.
In the following video Jennifer Gonzales of
does an excellent job of explaining the Jigsaw Method.
The jigsaw method does not require the use of technology, but if used effectively technology may enhance the process.
Provide Curated Content
It is important that students learn to use the internet for educational purposes, but turning them loose to "Google" a topic may be more than they are ready for. The Following options allow you to curate a collection of online resources for students to reference.
MyON
In MyOn teachers can create assignment groups and add book collections or projects to them, allowing expert groups to easily access desired content.
Wakelet
Wakelet allows teachers to compile content from across the web in one easy to access collection. The collection can be shared via QR Code, embedded directly into Canvas, or shared with a link in Seesaw. Expert groups would be assigned a specific Wakelet collection to access. This video gives an overview of a variety of ways you can use Wakelet with your students.
Other easy options for sharing resources include creating a Hyperdoc in Seesaw or Canvas.
Sharing Ideas
Student experts can record their learning in a variety of ways. There is nothing wrong with using sticky notes, notebook paper, or poster board, but you may want to consider a digital option that experts can easily access and share when they return to their home group. This will also be a convenient way for you to check in on student progress and understanding.
Padlet
I’ve suggested Padlet before and I’m sure I will suggest it again. Padlet is reliable and easy to use, and there is something to be said for allowing students to become comfortable with digital tools. This insures that more time is spent on learning content than learning to navigate new apps and programs. In this scenario each expert group would have a Padlet where information could be sorted, discussed, and refined. The experts could then use the board as a resource when teaching their home group.
Wakelet
Wakelet is a great tool for curating content but it can also be used collaboratively (watch the video above to see how you can create and share a collaborative link for Wakelet.) Student experts would follow their assigned topic link where they would share and refine their content knowledge. Each student expert will then be able to share the completed Wakelet with their home group.
Assess Learning
Students could be assessed by completing a quiz or given the option of preparing a slide presentation, vidoe, or podcast that demonstrates their understanding of the skill or standard. If students are preparing a presentation it is important that they be provided with a rubric giving the specific expectations of the assignment and outlining the exact questions their presentations should answer.
Canva
Students love the freedom and the advanced tool set of Canva making it a great option for all of the projects mentioned above. If you’re just getting started with Canva I’ve shared links to tutorials that will help you understand the basic design tools and options. When working with students I suggest keeping it simple. Encourage them to choose no more than 2 fonts, simple backgrounds, and minimal pictures per slide. As students become more accustomed to using Canva they can be given more freedom to explore and use the tools in Canva.
Sept. 18, 2023
Teaching to Learn & the Protégé’ Effect
Planning lessons, keeping up with curriculum guides, and covering accademic standards can feel overwhelming. You want to give students the opportunity to work collaboratively, create, and practice critical thinking skills but you're not sure how to fit it all in. An easy way to start is by allowing students to create instructional content and share it with a friend. This practice has a positive impact that is often referred to as the protégé effect. In short the protégé effect tells us that we learn by teaching or pretending to teach.
Here are a few ideas to get you started-
Calendar Math:
The teacher would use the digital calendar in Seesaw during circle time, allowing students to interact with the calendar. During stations students are assigned the calendar is Seesaw, where they can guide a friend through the calendar process or use the record feature to record themselves as they pretend to lead the calendar lesson.
Vocabulary Cards:
Into Reading (HMH Reading Curriculum) comes with weekly vocabulary cards. These cards give a photo, definition, and example sentence. Allow students to create their own vocabulary cards and share them with classmates. You may choose to assign each student 1 or 2 vocabulary words that they are responsible for teaching. Canva has an extensive photo library making it an ideal option for this activity.
Anchor Charts:
Most of us are familiar with the importance of making and displaying anchor charts in our classrooms, but what if students were allowed to created anchor charts and share them with the class. Anchor charts could be created digitally, but creating them with butcher paper, markers and crayons could be fun too. Allow students to create anchor charts and teach their peers. For future reference these anchor charts could be hung in the classroom and photos of the anchor charts could be uploaded to Canvas or Seesaw.
Sharing Anchor Charts in Canvas-
Teachers have the ability to give individuals or groups of students editing rights to specific pages in Canvas. This could be a great way for students to upload and share images of the anchor charts they’ve created. They even have the option of adding a voice recording to further teach the skill to classmates. The finished page could be published and shared with peers.
Sharing Anchor Charts in Seesaw-
Students can easily add content to their Seesaw journal using the “add” button, once the photo is added they could even record their thinking and the teacher could share the submission with the class.
Watch this video from Edutopia to learn more about the Protégé’ Effect.
Click Here to Learn More
Click Here to Learn More About Anchor Charts
Give Student Editing Rights in Canvas
Students Can Easily Add Content in Seesaw
Sept 11, 2023
Level Up Whole Group Instruction with Engaging Tech
It can be a challenge to keep students engaged in whole group instruction. Why not leverage technology to keep students actively involved and thinking?
Seesaw
Seesaw is more than a cute tool for littles! The interactive capabilities of Seesaw are appropriate and engaging for all ages and can be used for presentations or assignments. Teachers have the ability to create their own activities or search the Seesaw libraries. Within Seesaw teachers can share and use resources from the School & District Library as well as the Community Library. Additionally Seesaw provides a Library of carefully curated activities and lessons that can be searched by curriculum and state standards alignment. Click the images to the right for a peak into what Seesaw can do.
Click here to learn more-
Padlet (Not new but it’s tried and true!)
We’ve all been there...the presentation is prepared, the content is standards based, appropriate questioning strategies are in play but not all students are engaged. Padlet can help by allowing all students to take part in the conversation by digitally sharing thoughts, questions, and ideas. While one student is verbally sharing an idea another may respond or ask a related question via Padlet giving all students the opportunity to engage in the lesson. With a little instruction and practice this tool can be used from Kindergarten and up. Padlet can be shared using a QR code or link. The free version of Padlet offers a limited number of boards, however boards can be cleared and reused and content from old boards can be saved as a PDF or image.
Click here to learn more-
Newline Engage Cloud
Newline Engage Cloud is Newline’s alternative to Smart Notebook. If you like to try new things and are willing to endure a glitch here and there Newline Engage Cloud is a promising new tool for the classroom. It’s not perfect but the interactive tools that it offers are extensive and may be worth the trouble. You can share resources from the board and even invite students to join the board and share content from their own device. All teachers in the district have access to this tool.
Click here to learn more-
Padlet YouTube Channel
Click the image to view an example of the resource
Techer Created
Created by Seesaw
Padlet Example-1st Grade
Click the image to check out some of the fun tools Newline has to offer.
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