FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about the Paper to Digital Initiative


How do I use the Paper to Digital materials?

  • Decide on the project that you want your students to complete. This could be something from the curriculum or your own original idea. Then, using the matix for that project decide what platform(s) would work best for your students. Things to consider:

    • What devices they will be using to complete the project?

    • What types of elements do I want the students to include?

    • What platforms are the students already familiar with?

    • Will students be working collaboratively on the project?

  • Finally, utilize the task cards as needed. They can be used as is, or make a copy and modify as needed for your students.

Can I make a copy of the documents?

  • You can make a copy of any of the documents embedded in the site; however, we recommend you check back here periodically for updates to the matrices and task cards. To make a copy:

    • Make sure you are logged into your AACPS Google account.

    • Click the icon in the upper right hand corner of the document to open it in another window.

    • Select File.

    • Select "Make a copy."

Should all student projects be done digitally?

  • We are not advocating for all student projects to be done digitally. Paper and pencil projects are also important; they develop important skills for students of all levels and digital projects are not always practical for a variety of reasons. A mixture of both options is ideal.

I have an idea for a project that isn't listed. Who do I contact?

If you have an idea for a project type not listed, please complete this form and your suggestion will be considered.

Questions about the Platforms

Task cards are great, but I need more support and instruction to learn a new platform. Is there training available on any of these?

  • Search for "Instructional Technology" or the name of the platform (ie-Google, Microsoft, Wixie, Discovery Education, etc) on Unified Talent (the new ERO).

The same platforms are used over and over again on the matrices. Aren't there other tools that can be used?

  • The platforms were chosen purposely because they are all approved in AACPS and have demonstrated longevity. Additionally, instructional time can be saved by using the same or similar programs as students don't need to be taught how to use them.

Why are some platforms listed for a specific grade level and not others?

  • At the time of the video recordings the district only purchased Wixie licenses for K-8 students. This was the reason for this restriction. The district now offers licenses for ALL students including HS.

  • The Adobe Creative Cloud suite is only purchased for MS and HS staff and students.

  • If the platform is listed for high school students only it is because something in the site's terms of service or privacy policy states that students 13 and under are not to use the site.

I want my students to use one of the online platforms. How can they access it?

  • The following applications can be reached using Classlink:

    • Discovery Education

    • Google Workspace applications (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drawings, Forms, MyMaps, and Sites)

    • Math Learning Apps (elementary and middle)

    • Microsoft Office 365 (***IMPORTANT- Not all features are available online.)

    • WeVideo

    • Wixie

  • Additional applications can be added to a students' Classlink page IF it is present in the AACPS Classlink Library. Two examples are Adobe CCE and Google Earth.

  • All other applications can be shared through Brightspace for students to access. Please do not have students type a website address into the web browser as this is a violation of the AACPS Student Handbook.

SMART Notebook isn't on my home computer, but I want to create a template for my students. Can I get SMART Notebook on my personal computer?

  • For information on downloading Smart Notebook on your home computer, please go to Classlink --> Teacher Intro to Digital Tools --> Application Support --> Lumio , it is the first link on the left under SMART Notebook.

What is Wixie?

  • Wixie is the web based whiteboard program that is accessible on all devices (app required for iPad). It is a tool that allows the blending of text and voice recording with original artwork and images so that students can creatively demonstrate understanding of concepts.

How do we access Wixie?

  • All AACPS teachers and students have Wixie accounts. Simply select the icon from the Classlink page to access.