Many districts today struggle with finding the right tool for the right job, in teaching and learning there are different jobs; with the advent of PARCC, a computer given assessment, the need for schools to acquire new technology is great. There is vigorous debate about what that tool should be. If you do any reading along this line you know people are passionate about their choice of device. Honestly the device is last thing to be considered. Just…
I am putting the finishing touches on presentation materials for the upcoming MassCUE 2013 conference. If you are in the area and able to attend it is a well run and worth your time. I always walk away having learned new skills and strategies to promote deep learning. I learn a lot and it keeps me thinking and reflecting on my instructional practice for months to come. This year I am co-presenting with Kristin Cannistraro at teacher of the visually…
As we are all well aware iOS 7 was released earlier this week. Change is inevitable; it is pure excitement and joy for some but not always easy for others. As any provider of tech support knows our focus is on the later. Apparently we know all the answers even though we are seeing the new iOS for the first time as well. Thankfully there are those excited to explore and test out the iOS and share their findings. Can’t…
Teachers tend to be hoarders. We collect stuff and information that may be useful in some project or lesson in the future. My husband and I were discussing how we use to have file cabinets full of photocopies and articles torn out of Nature and Scientific American. We had boxes of cardboard rolls, tin cans and jars. I understood how to organized my paper files and physical things. There was really only paper in file cabinets, and books and videos…
My guess is we all had a teacher who required us to take notes a particular way. I remember one teacher who made us take two column notes. I did not like having to fold my pages and frankly I have trouble reading my own handwriting, this method was not for me. I appreciated knowing there are different strategies for taking notes, organizing and maximizing workflow but ultimately the choice should be mine. I feel the same way about all…
Over the last two weeks I have had the opportunity to attend some workshops on the iPad in general and for use with those who have special needs. I have come away more solidified in my vision of the use of iPads in schools The iPad is a game changer when it comes to supporting differentiated instruction and universal design in learning. I know there are other devices out there but Apple made a commitment to accessibility a long time ago and continues to…
Next week I will be attending the MassCUE/METAA Technology Symposium. While there I will hear Angela Maiers‘ morning keynote. I have heard Angela speak before and am always inspired and encouraged. In the afternoon I will hear Robert Evans for the first time. I will be facilitating a session during the day on creating digital texts, the focus on developing a strategy for making it happen. There are a wide variety of sesssion on offer and I look forward to the day….