5-27-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Did you know Google Slides has the ability for the user to record a video right in the application?  That's right, no need to use Loom or any other extension.  Simply open your Google Slide presentation and look for the record button.  Click it, and record away!

Classroom Idea

Google Gemini is coming and we will have access for next year!  In case you have no idea what Google Gemini is.  It's like a super-smart assistant that can understand and create text, work with images and videos, and help with a variety of tasks. It's an upgrade from Google's previous AI, called Bard.

Key Features of Google Gemini:

1. Smart Language Skills: Gemini understands and generates text better, making it great for conversations and explanations.

2. Works with Different Formats: It can handle text, images, and videos all at once, making it very versatile.

3. Connects with Google Tools: It works well with Google’s other tools like Google Classroom and Google Docs.

4. Customizable: Gemini can be tailored to meet specific needs, making it useful for a variety of tasks.

How Teachers Can Use Google Gemini in the Classroom:

1. Personalized Learning: Create custom lesson plans and materials that fit each student’s needs and strengths.

2. Engaging Lessons: Use Gemini to make learning more interactive with dynamic quizzes, stories, and instant feedback.

3. Language Help: Assist with language learning through real-time translation, conversation practice, and grammar correction.

4. Automatic Grading: Save time by using Gemini to grade assignments and provide detailed, consistent feedback.

5. Resource Creation: Generate study guides, summaries, and explanatory videos to support student learning.

6. Student Support: Offer extra help outside of class with AI-driven tutoring and homework assistance.

7. Professional Growth: Access tailored resources for professional development, stay updated with educational trends, and get teaching tips from AI.

Using Google Gemini, teachers can make lessons more engaging, manage their workload better, and provide personalized support to their students, leading to a more effective and enjoyable teaching experience.5-20-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Whether you have a student with a disability or not, their Chromebook has accessibility tools that are available to all.  So why not have them turn them on and use the tools for online reading, assignments, quizzes, and tests?  Check out the following website to learn more Making Chromebooks Accessible for People with Disabilities

Classroom Idea

I know we are at the end of the year, but if you are looking for an idea on how to gamify your classroom checkout Matt Armstrong's story on how he implemented gamification all year long.  Work hard, play hard: One Teacher's journey implementing gamification all year long.

5-13-24

Tech Tip of the Week

For teacher's that will not be returning to the CFAUSD next year, we want to make sure you have all the information you need to manage your digital accounts and data effectively.

Here’s what happens with your accounts after you leave:

• 30 days post leave: Your accounts will be suspended.

• 60 days post leave: Any accounts not previously cleared will be permanently deleted.

If you have files on your H, I, or K drives that you’d like to keep, please make sure to transfer them to a personal flash drive. Unfortunately, the district is unable to provide a flash drive, but we can assist you in transferring your files if needed.

For Google users, you can preserve your data by using Google Takeout (https://takeout.google.com/). This tool allows you to download your data directly or transfer it to a personal Google account. Please note that personal Google accounts come with a default storage limit of 15 GB. If your data exceeds this limit, the transfer won't be successful unless additional storage is purchased.

Also, if you are an owner of a document that is shared by your department, please make sure you move that document to the Shared Drive (do not do a shortcut).  Once you move that document to the Shared Drive, ownership will transfer to the district.

If you need any more details or assistance with this process, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors!

Classroom Idea

As we near the end of the school year, it's the perfect time to not just survive but to thrive (Matt Miller).  Check out Ditch That Textbook's "End of the Year THRIVE-al (Not Survival) guide for tips, tricks, and resources that will help you maximize these last few days.  

For a full rundown of all the creative ideas, helpful resources, and useful links, be sore to visit the complete post.  Here's a sneak peek at some of the highlights:

• Google Expeditions is now Google Arts & Culture

• iCivics.org 

• Code.org

• Google Quick Draw

• Use Google Forms for Digital Escape Rooms

• Google's CS First Coding and Scratch

5-6-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Does your Smartboard screen or laptop blink or do you ever lose your Smart Ink Tools every once in a while?  There's a good chance your Docking Station needs to be reset.  All you have to do is unplug the power cord, wait two minutes for it to cycle and then plug it back in.  This should run updates and allow the station to work optimally.

Classroom Idea

Udio: AI Music Creation Platform

Music teachers or anyone looking to get creative in the classroom, check out Udio, the AI Music Generator. Udio creates music from text in various formats directly in your browser. This is a free online music generator that will transform your ideas into music. Checkout the song I created, it's a fun little twist on Alice Cooper's Schools Out for Summer.

FYI, students will not have access to this, but you can still develop a lesson to build your own song together. This could be a fun way to keep them engaged as we enter the month of May and move closer to summer break.

4-29-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Attention Edpuzzle users!  If you are inactive on Edpuzzle for 18 months, you're account gets wiped out.  This is Edpuzzle's process and we have no say in it.  So, we highly recommend you create playlists of your videos and share them with the other teachers in the school district so your videos do not go missing.  Or, if you or another teacher decide to leave the district, the account will get wiped out after 18 months.  

Classroom Idea

It's getting close to the end of the year and I know many of you give students certificates for all of their merits.  Well, FYI, Canva has so many amazing templates that are already created and ready for you edit to your liking and print.  Just click this link to Canva's Certificate Templates to get started.

4-22-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Tricia's Tech Tuesday Tidbits shared this cool trick to show a YouTube Video with no ads and none of the other "YouTube" distractions.  

Directions:

1. Take for instance this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IND5-OZxtNE

2. Change the link to: https://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=IND5-OZxtNE 

3. Notice I just added an underscore and added the word popup between watch and the question mark.  (_popup)

4. Give it a try! 

Classroom Idea

I'm circling back to at activity I found from Matt Miller from Ditch that Textbook that I really liked.  Imagine reading a story and visualizing it like a scene from a movie. Picture the setting, the characters, and the unfolding action. Now, what if you could bring these mental images to life and share them with others?

Caleb Wilson introduced a fascinating approach to help students delve into the vivid details of a story and transform them into prompts for AI-generated images. Here’s how you can implement this lesson in your classrooms:

1. Select a text for students to read.

2. Encourage students to pick out crucial details that set the scene.

3. Guide them to craft these details into a prompt for creating an AI-generated image.

4. Have students examine the produced image to see how well it captures the details from their prompt.

5. Students can then exchange images with peers for further analysis.

Caleb demonstrated this technique using the novel "Robinson Crusoe," where he highlighted specific details from the text, crafted a prompt, and generated images accordingly.

Additionally, Caleb suggests three enriching extensions to this activity:

• Character Visualization: Encourage students to visualize and create images of characters.

• Historical Context: Explore the historical setting of the story through images.

• Creative Writing: Use the images as a springboard for creative writing assignments.

This innovative approach not only enhances comprehension but also engages students creatively. Let’s give our students the tools to visualize literature in a whole new light!

Resource: Classroom AI 101: Imagining Story Setting with Text-Evidence Supported Prompting

Disclaimer: When using AI in the classroom, please ensure compliance with data privacy laws and district policies. Be mindful of the ethical implications and biases that may arise from AI use. Always prioritize the safety and privacy of student data. 

4-15-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Just a quick note on using Google Drive shortcuts: They link to files but don't secure access if the file owner leaves our district. Their files, including those you may have shortcuts to, will be deleted along with their account.

To maintain access to important files:

• Check file ownership: Ensure files are owned by current staff.

• Request ownership transfer: If a key file is owned by someone who may leave, have them transfer ownership to you or another active staff member.

• Make copies: If you can't transfer ownership, consider making copies of essential files.

These steps help keep your important files accessible at all times. Let me know if you need help with any of these actions!

Classroom Idea

Low and behold I found another great idea from Matt Miller from "Ditch that Textbook".  The following suggestion is for the beginning of the year, so make sure you shelve this in an important place to come back to next September.

If you haven't set yourself up with an account on some sort of AI platform, make sure you do that.  Then create or take your Student Interest Survey and upload or recreate it as a Google Form and share it with your students.

Now you can use these surveys to have your AI assistant and ask AI for ways to incorporate those student interests into teaching and learning.  Please note: do not use student names or provide your AI assistant with any identifiable information because that data will go to some sort database that may or may not be accessible depending on what their privacy policy is.  

Example: Use this for an individual or a group of students.  If the surveys explain you have a number of kids interested in Fortnite, as your AI assistant how you can incorporate Fortnite with your content that will provide high interest and engagement with your students4-8-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Just a reminder for high school teachers that plan to have substitute teachers - No DVD can be played with the Chromebook that is issued to the sub.  If you plan to have a DVD played the sub will need a Windows laptop that can be checked out from Amy Ambelang in the library.  Chromebook's nor Smartboards can play DVD's.  You may also talk to Amy Ambelang on accessing SWANK Streaming to see if there is a video on the platform you would like to share while you are gone.

Classroom Idea

With the next Solar Eclipse set for Monday, April 8th, checkout Tricia's Tech Tuesday activities she put together to share with your students.  

4-1-24

Tech Tip of the Week

You may have noticed there is a new icon in your taskbar of your Windows laptop. Recently, Microsoft launched their Copilot feature. New for Windows 11, Copilot is an AI-powered assistant that helps you get answer and inspirations from across the web, supports creativity and collaboration, and helps you focus on the task at hand.

Feel free to click the Copilot icon or press the Windows logo key + C for quick access, or simply ignore it or remove it (hover your cursor over your Taskbar, right click, and turn it off).

Click the link to learn more about Microsoft Windows Copilot

Classroom Idea

8 Ideas to Use Video to Engage Students

Let's face it, kids watch tons of videos on various social media sites like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.  I swear my son is constantly watching something from one of these platforms.  Obviously there is a high interest in watching videos to say the least.  So, why not embrace that and make it a learning experience by having your students choose to make a video from one of the following ideas.  I would personally use Canva's platform, but some other video creation platforms are Adobe Spark, Loom, Flipgrid, or WeVideo.

Video Ideas:

1. Unboxing Videos

2. Product Reviews

3. Makeup Tutorials

4. On the street interviews or reviews of businesses (Dave Portnoy's Pizza Reviews;)

5. Tours

6. How To Videos

7. Tips and Tricks for a Genius Hour

8. Q&A Videos

3-25-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Convert your Jamboard files to FigJam: The Jamboard-to-FigJam importer is live, and turns Jamboard files into editable FigJam files in just a few seconds. Stickies become stickies, shapes become shapes, and images become–well, you get the picture!  (David Curran from Figma Eduational Newsletter)

Classroom Idea

Beat the Bot

Here is a creative idea on using an AI Chatbot like Chat GPT in the classroom as a whole group activity.  It's called "Beat the Bot" an idea presented by Matt Miller from Ditch that... but educator, Crystal Uhiren put a twist on this activity.  Click the link to access her template and try it out with your students.  Basically, it works like this:

1. Students are sent or a copy of the "Beat the Bot" template is dispersed.

2. The teacher provides the student with a topic they have been discussing and should feel confident in their understanding.

3. The students write/type what their prompt is and then write/type what they think AI's response will be in the "prediction" box.

4. The teacher enters the prompt into the chatbot/AI and it will kick out it's response.

5. Students then summarize the jist of AI's response and then analyze the similarities and differences between their prediction of what AI was going to say to what AI actually did say and write/type it in the "Similarities & Differences" section.

6. Then the students complete the "Make Improvements: How Can You Improve the AI Response" section.

7. Then the students score How well AI responded and how they themselves responded.

This is a great activity to introduce a proper way on how to use AI Chatbots.

3-18-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Magically reopen a closed tab — Ever close a tab accidentally and think, “Noooooo! What was I thinking?!?” Use this shortcut (Ctrl/Cmd = Shift + T = Reopen a tab) to resurrect closed tabs from the dead! It’ll even keep the back history. "Ditch..."

Classroom Idea

Checkout Ditch that Textbook's 20 Ways to Use Padlet in the Classroom.

3-4-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Click the Phish!!!  People are still not clicking the Phish when they are sent an Infosec Phishing Simulation email.  If your not sure what I'm talking about, watch the CFAUSD Phishing Video.

Classroom Idea

Expand Your Lessons with Choice Boards

Choice boards are interactive tools offering a range of activities or resources for students, tailored to their interests or needs. They're great for independent learning, free time, or as extension activities.  Choice boards allow students to explore their interests, cater to diverse learning styles, differentiate instruction, and engage early finishers, provide enrichment, or keep students active during downtime. Some tips for effective use would be for exploration/free time that include:

• • Include multimedia like videos, audio, images.

  • Add essential questions or learning objectives.

  • Incorporate collaborative activities, interactive images, and hyperlinks in Google Docs or Padlet.

Resources:

Check out our interactive, free-time choice board to see an example. 

Personalize Learning with Explore Boards. 

Consider a progressive choice board 

Choice Boards/Explore Boards curated collection here 

2-26-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Any content you share with your students, look to keep it short, concise, and not wordy.  There are some AI tools out there to aid you in this process like Chat GPT, BARD, or Magic School AI.

Classroom Idea

Here is a low tech idea.  Did you know Canva has Mindfulness Coloring Worksheets that you can print for free?  Click this link and choose whatever coloring worksheet you want to share with your students.

2-19-24

Tech Tip of the Week

I apologize if you already knew this one, but there are some staff that are not aware someone can link 🔗a text to highlight — If you want to send students or colleagues to a specific spot on a website in Chrome just highlight the text then right-click and click the link to text. This creates a link to that exact spot when it's clicked.

Classroom Ideas

Use Google Sites for student portfolios.

2-12-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Pin your tabs in Chrome!  Why you might ask?  More organization and accessibility, saves space, prevents accidental closure, reduces clutter, and allows for focus and productivity.  Pinning tabs is a simple yet effective way to streamline your web browsing experience, particularly if you find yourself working with multiple tabs on a regular basis.

How to pin a tab in Chrome: Right click on the tab, select "Pin Tab".

Classroom Ideas

I'm simply copying and pasting from Matt Miller from Ditch that Textbook, enjoy creating a Jeopardy-Style review game.

"Playing Jeopardy on a PowerPoint or Google Slides presentation has been a staple in many classes. That’s why our Jeopardy review template is one of our most popular. We even updated it a while back to make it simpler to use. You can copy it into your own Google Drive to customize it with your questions and answers. Then keep track of the score on a whiteboard/chalkboard, on paper, or through some other means.  Easy peasy right?  Let’s make it even easier!

Have Magic School AI write your questions for you!

Here’s how:

1. Go to https://app.magicschool.ai/tools/jeopardy

2. Choose your grade level

3. Add your topic, standard, or objective(s)

4. Create your categories (optional)

5. Click “generate”

6. Cut and paste the answers and questions into the template

7. Play!

Jeopardy game template links

Google Slides Jeopardy template

PowerPoint Jeopardy template

Canva Quiz Show template"

2-5-24

Tech Tip of the Week

If you are updated to Windows 11, take advantage of the Clipboard.  The new udpates to Windows 11 Clipboard allows a user to hold up to 20 items that can be pasted into yoru projects you are working on.  Simply click the Windows Key + V and choose which item you need.

Classroom Ideas

Checkout Google's Applied Digital Skills page for various ideas on how to celebrate Black History Month.

1-29-24

Tech Tip of the Week

With our most recent "Early Dismissal" a couple of weeks ago, make sure you have your lesson videos ready.  In case you didn't know, we have a subscription to Edpuzzle.  This is a great platform to assign students videos and answer questions during the video.  With their new AI adoption, you can have it generate questions for you, or, simply add short answer questions and have AI grade it for you.  Don't forget to look over AI's grading, as it's probably not perfect.

Classroom Ideas

Create a 2024 Vision Board

Spark student excitement and goal-setting with Create a Vision Board lesson. In this creative exercise, students use Google Drawings to inspire and motivate themselves to achieve their goals or new year resolutions.

1-22-24

Tech Tip of the Week

HS Teachers, we are at the end of the quarter and that means you will need to Cross-List your sections and sync your Canvas Gradebook to Infinite Campus.  Click the link to the CFAUSD Canvas FAQ document or contact the Help Desk #5555 or helpdesk@chipfalls.org

Classroom Ideas

Make a Family Newsletter

In Make a Family Newsletter, students can showcase their holiday adventures, writing skills, and creativity by crafting a lively newsletter in Google Docs.

1-15-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Are you thinking about using a web or app in the classroom, but are not sure if it is on the district's approved list?  Click the link to the CFAUSD App/Software and Online Service Approval document to check and see.

Classroom Ideas

Create a Sea Battle with Sheets

Sail into 2024 with a splash! Wage a Sea Battle adds a thrilling dimension to learning and creating. Students create a navy-themed guessing game in Google Sheets.

1-8-24

Tech Tip of the Week

Use Dyknow's "Send Message" feature to send your students to a website.  Just copy and paste the link to the website in a customized message into Dyknow and click send.

Classroom Ideas

Take your students on a virtual/360 tour to Mars.  NASA's Curiosity Rover in partnership with Google created an amazing experience you can bring to your classroom big screen.

1-3-24

Tech Tip of the Week

May your holidays be merry and bright, and your data stay safe every day and night. Remember, if an email seems out of sight, it might just be a phishing plight. Let's keep our info locked up tight, and avoid those smishing and vishing bites. Happy Holidays to all, and to all a cyber-safe night! 

12-18-23

Tech Tip of the Week

Attention all Jamboard users!  In case you haven't heard, Google recently announced they are phasing Jamboard out by the end of 2024.  Fortunately, Figma will be taking the place of Jamboard and will offer the amazing tools for free.  Check out Control Alt Achieve's post from November 20th on how to import your Jamboard files into FigJam 

Classroom Ideas

If you read the Tech Tip of the Week, you should check out Figjam and see how it can have a home in your classroom.  Normally I'd provide you with some ideas here, but Matt Miller from "Ditch..." has the perfect website to checkout.  "How to use FigJam in the Classroom: 20 Ideas + Templates." Enjoy! 

12-11-23

Tech Tip of the Week

Check out Magic School Ai's new 3.0 Tutorial

Classroom Ideas

If you plan to have conversations with your students regarding the use of AI, I highly recommend checking out this webinar by Matt Miller author of "Ditch That Textbook".  Matt does an amazing job of getting you to think about how to leverage this tool as a positive thing, rather than pretend it is not there, nor does it have any room in education.  Because, let's be honest.  AI is here and it's not going anywhere.  We must have conversations with our students as there is a good chance they will probably use it in some capacity.  

The Future of Classwork with AI Webinar (free)

12-4-23

Tech Tip of the Week

Talk to your children, other family members, friends, etc. about how to keep your sensitive information safe from potential hackers, phishing , smishing, and vishing threats.  Use the following points: 

• Be Suspicious of Unsolicited Communications: Hackers often use phishing emails or messages that appear legitimate. Always verify the source before clicking on links or downloading attachments.

• Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create complex passwords that mix letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts.

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification beyond just a password.

• Regularly Update Software and Systems: Keep all software, including antivirus programs, up-to-date to protect against the latest threats.

• Educate Yourself and Colleagues: Stay informed about common phishing tactics and share information on recognizing suspicious activities.

• Back Up Important Data: Regularly back up sensitive information to a secure location, such as an encrypted external hard drive or cloud service.

• Limit Access to Sensitive Information: Only grant access to sensitive data to those who absolutely need it and regularly review access permissions.

Classroom Ideas

Have you heard of Magic School AI?  If not, check it out.  It's an innovative platform designed to significantly ease the workload of educators. It leverages artificial intelligence to provide a range of tools and services that cater to various aspects of teaching and educational administration. Here are some key features and benefits of Magic School AI for teachers:

• Lesson Planning Assistance: Magic School AI offers AI-driven tools to help teachers in lesson planning. This feature enables educators to design effective and engaging lesson plans more efficiently​​​​.

• Differentiation and Assessment Writing: The platform aids in differentiating instruction to cater to diverse student needs and also assists in writing assessments and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This capability helps in personalizing learning experiences for students and streamlines the process of assessment creation​​​​.

• Streamlining Workload: One of the main aims of Magic School AI is to reduce teacher burnout. It allows teachers to focus more on the human aspect of teaching by automating administrative tasks. This reduction in workload can help teachers to invest more time and energy in direct student interaction and personalized teaching​​​​.

• Over 50 AI Tools: Magic School AI provides more than 50 different tools that assist teachers in various aspects of teaching. These include designing instruction, offering feedback to students, and other administrative tasks, thereby offering a comprehensive suite of tools to address various educational needs​​.

• Enhancing Productivity and Communication: The platform is designed to enhance productivity, optimize planning, improve communication, and support special education needs. By streamlining these areas, teachers can better manage their time and resources​​.

• Academic Support Tools: Teachers can use Magic School AI to practice standardized tests like SATs, grade assignments, and guide students' academic growth. This feature supports academic excellence and helps in tracking student progress effectively​​.

11-20-23

Tech Tip of the Week

Stay Vigilant with Emails:

• Start from the Top: Begin reviewing your emails from the top and work your way down.

• Beware of Phishing: Be cautious of phishing and smishing scams. These often occur when users aren’t fully attentive and inadvertently follow harmful instructions in the messages.

• Protect Your Information: Never input sensitive information directly through an email link. If you're prompted for such details, visit the official website independently, log in, and proceed securely from there.

• Watch for IT Alerts: Reviewing emails systematically can help you spot important alerts from our IT Department, such as warnings about potential spam or phishing emails.

Stay safe and informed!

Classroom Ideas

Do your students struggle with study skills?  Checkout these Edpuzzle videos you can assign for grades 6-12:

• Note Taking

• Time Management

• Organization

• Test-Taking Strategies

11-13-23

Tech Tip of the Week

Two Factor Authentication (2FA) is coming soon for all staff.  If you are not using it yet for your own personal accounts, you should.  You can never be too safe.

Classroom Ideas

Turn Class Content into AI Adventure Stories by Matt Miller from "Ditch That Textbook" 

Do you remember Choose Your Own Adventure books?

After reading a few pages, you would choose between two options for the protagonist. You then turned to the page with the continuation of the story based on that choice you had made. Each book had several possible endings -- all based on your choices as a reader.

As a kid, I absolutely LOVED these books.

Good news: These types of stories can engage your students in the classroom content you teach if you weave that content in.

Great news: AI assistants like ChatGPT can create them for you -- and guide students through the story.

I learned about how AI can create these types of stories from Earl Yager from El Paso ISD in Texas. He shared how he was using them, and I started to explore.

After some trial and error, I came up with this prompt for an AI assistant like ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, or Google Bard.

You can use it, too, by adjusting the elements in bold to reflect what your students are learning.

 Here's my prompt (that you can copy/paste):

I'd like you create a text adventure game for me. I'm studying history in high school. I'd like it to explore Mesopotamia and help me explore important people, events, and concepts in its geography and language. Create it like a historically accurate story, teaching me about Mesopotamia while I'm interacting with it. Give me three paragraphs of story at a time. Then, stop and ask me to make a decision. Continue the story in a way that's consistent with the decision I've made. Ideally, I'd like about 6 prompts before the story ends. When the story ends, ask me a few questions that help me reflect on what I've learned.

Here's a link to the full transcript of my story.

 Here are some ways I could see this being used:

• Display your AI assistant on a projector/interactive display and run the prompt there for the whole class to see.

• If your students are old enough to use an AI assistant like ChatGPT (and have parent/guardian consent), they can copy and run the prompt on their own devices.

• Use AI to help you develop a branching story like this and copy the text to a choice story in Google Slides (link to tutorial post).

• Ask students to analyze the story for accuracy or improvements to the experience.

 One more fun teaching idea with AI and storytelling: Indiana educator Heather Bogan shared a fun twist on learning about the Revolutionary War. She had an AI assistant create a story in gossip magazine style highlighting all of the events that led to the war. It talked about the drama of the Proclamation of 1763, a charismatic troublemaker (Ben Franklin), and the American colonists' petitions (like "fiery love letters").

Disclaimer: This is copied and pasted from Matt Miller's most recent newsletter Thursday, November 9th 2023

11-6-23

Tech Tip of the Week

Operational Change to Windows Devices

Dear CFAUSD Staff,

I am reaching out with important instructions for an operational update regarding district technology devices. As you know, our school district relies heavily on technology to educate our students and to support our system. As a result, it is essential that our devices are running the latest software and security updates.

The “Why”

Software updates often include new features and functionality, but they also include important security patches. These patches address known vulnerabilities in the software that could be exploited by attackers. Software updates can also improve the performance and reliability of your devices. Older versions of software may have bugs or glitches that can cause your devices to run slowly or crash unexpectedly. By keeping devices up-to-date, we help to protect them from malware, viruses, and other cyber threats and help to ensure that your devices are running smoothly and efficiently.

The Fix

Starting on Friday, November 3rd at 3PM, the EdTech Department will resume responsibility for pushing out updates to all Windows OS devices on the district network: laptops, desktops, and anything else running the Windows OS. These updates will include any security patches and bug fixes that you may not have applied previously. *Heads-Up: If you have not been installing updates on your school-issued Windows devices, the update on Friday 11/3 could be fairly sizable and take an hour or longer.

What Do I Need to Do?

These are the crucial pieces for updates to occur:

• Computer is plugged in

• Computer is turned on

• User is logged in

• Internet connection is established

The district's internet connection should be faster than most (if not all) home networks, which means updates will download to your devices faster here than at home. However: if you want to run the updates at home instead, you can absolutely do that! Your laptop will do it automatically as soon as it is plugged in, turned on, logged in, and connected to the internet. Just let it sit there and run everything!

Moving Forward After 11/3

Small weekly updates may not require a reboot. Larger updates will take place once a month and will require a reboot. Any updates that need to run will do so at 3:00 PM on a Friday, minimizing impact to instruction. If your computer is not connected to the internet at 3:00 PM on a Friday when updates are rolled out, they will download and then install the next time your device has internet access, including: if your device connects while at home over the weekend OR if you do not use your device until Monday morning. We always recommend that you reboot your computer at your earliest convenience if/when prompted by your device.

For Those That Want More Control

If you would like to run your own updates before we push them out each week and on your own schedule, you can find instructions using the following links: Windows 10 / Windows 11 Running your own updates may minimize the impact when we push out updates on Fridays.

We understand that some of you may be hesitant because the process can be time-consuming or disruptive depending on the size and/or number of updates. However: by keeping your devices up to date, we are all helping to protect yourself, your students, and our school district. If you have any questions or concerns about software updates, please do not hesitate to contact the EdTech Department.

Thank you, and enjoy your weekend!

Scott Marty, M.Ed.

Classroom Ideas

Let's talk about ISTE Standard 1.7 Global Collaborator.  According to our DLA data, as a district we struggle collectively with having our students understand what it means to be a Global Collaborator.  ISTE defines this standard: students use digital tools to broaden their perspectives and enrich their learning by collaborating with others and working effectively in teams locally and globally.  The idea here is to get our students to connect with others (students, classrooms, guest speakers, etc.) locally and globally.  Any time they have the chance to learn from their peers, experts, and community members is a win for everyone, as they can examine issues and problems from multiple viewpoints through the use of technology.  For instance, since Covid, our schools have closed the doors to outsiders.  Granted it has improved, but since then, the use of Zoom and Google Meet has really taken off and bridged that gap to allow outsiders into the classroom.  

With that said, I found a great idea by Matt Miller, Ditch that Textbook, called "Mystery Location Calls".  Basically, your class will do a Google Meet with another class and perform a geography guessing game.  Students go back and forth asking various questions similar to the game 20 Questions until a class figures out where there opponent is from.  This activity is great opportunity for students to learn more about the other side of the world, country, state, or city (depending on how geopgraphically crazy you want to get).  This also allows them to work on their problem-solving and teamwork skills, and make new friends in the process. 

Click the link to access more resources to Mystery Location Calls .  I'm available for support as well if you are interested.

10-30-23

Tech Tip of the Week

Follow the instructions below for you and your students in order have your Chrome Browser running in tip-top shape and increase security:

Clearing Browsing History (Do this a minimum of once/month)

Go to the Chrome menu , click More Tools, click “Clear browsing data...”, check all the boxes. Select a time period from the drop down. (All Time is the most effective) Click the “Clear browsing data” button.

Run the Chrome Safety Check (Do this a minimum of once/month)

Once you have cleared your browsing history, you will be taken to the settings page where you will see a blue box that says "Check Now". Click that and it will check for any extension issues, look for weak passwords, and update the Chrome Browser. Once the update is complete it may need to relaunch the browser, click the blue "Relaunch" button.

Turn on Memory Saver (This only needs to be done once)

Go to the Chrome menu , click More Tools, click "Performance" and turn on "Memory Saver". 

Power off device  (Do this a minimum of once a week, ideally nightly)

Thank you for your time and if you need any further information, let us know.

Classroom Ideas

I found a great idea for teachers that are willing to take a chance and let the students run with it, or, teachers are for the tech savvy that are looking to challenge their students.  Check it out!

For quite some time now, Google Maps has helped us in so many ways.  Then Google Earth came along, that allowed users to view various areas in the world in 3D.  Then virtual goggles were created to allow users an immersive experience within Google Earth.  Well, have you ever thought to have your students create their own virtual walking tour using Google Maps or Google Earth?  Try it, I dare you!  Then take it to the next level and have the kids screen record their virtual tour and share it with whomever.  Instructions can be found here: Google Maps Walking Tours with Street View and Screencastify (Loom or the native screen recorder on the student Chromebook will work instead of Screencastify).  

Once the video has been created, have the students edit it in Canva.

10-23-23

Tech Tip of the Week

Videos won't play with Google Slides?  Transition them to a Lumio Presentation and start using that.  

Classroom Ideas

4 Googley Halloween Activities with Eric Curts from ControlAltAchieve.com 

10-16-23

Tech Tip of the Week

Go into your Gmail settings and turn on "Ask before displaying external images" setting. Hackers can sometimes use image loading that could potentially track your email activity.   

Classroom Ideas

Checkout MagicSchool.ai  and you are welcome!

10-9-23

Tech Tip of the Week

"Don't rely solely on AI detectors to determine if student work is done by AI, and going back to paper and pencil should not be the only option. Talk to your students about appropriate times to use AI for support. While it would be ideal for students to complete 100% of the work themselves, this is no longer feasible unless the students are doing an assessment with a Dyknow Blocking Plan engaged. If you have students demonstrate work, it is crucial to discuss the acceptable use of AI.

For example, the next step down from having students do 100% of the work might be having the student write all the content but seek feedback from AI on how to improve the paper. Is this any different from having someone edit your paper? In my opinion, no — we all do that, and it is a part of the writing process. However, now we are introducing a supercomputer that can complete the task in seconds, eliminating the need to bother another person. Another option could be a student creating their own writing and then consulting AI for ideas on how to improve. Alternatively, the student might gather stats/research through AI but produce the writing themselves. This is not far from what we do for a research report. The only thing in question is where AI is obtaining the source. I could keep working backward, but I highly recommend checking out Matt Miller's Classroom AI Use: What's Cheating? What's Ok? Infographic, as he and Holly Clark work their way back to AI creating everything.

If you're not going to have these conversations with your students, it might be time to change how you have students explain their understanding. Typing a paragraph summary is as simple as asking Chat GPT to do it for them. While some students know it's wrong, and there are certainly kids out there who would never do this, there are others that will. Having this conversation or having a teacher model the proper use of AI will rub off on the kids and set a much-needed expectation to produce their own original work.

How might someone change how to have students explain their understanding? Have students create multimedia presentations, creative videos, and find ways to move away from typing paragraphs. I'm not saying never have them type a response, but change it up from time to time. Change is good!"

A perfect example of a great way to demonstrate to students how to use AI when typing a paper is demonstrated in the above article.  I typed the article and then copied and pasted it into Chat GPT and asked it to proofread it for me.  It did so and within seconds had a proofread version of the article.  I then asked Chat GPT if there was anything it might add to the article to make it better?  Chat GPT replied with clarifying my intro by denfining what an AI Detector is as many people may not be familiar with that term.  It also thought I should address potential concerns or counterarguments about AI in education to add depth to the discussion.  There were 6 other great ideas Chat GPT had to offer, but I think you get the point.

Classroom Ideas

If you were not able to attend the Tech Coach Virtual Mini session "AI Cand do What?!!" Here is a link to the webinar we watched, "The Future of Classwork with AI".  And click the link to the resource page of a continuing list of AI Tools for Educators.

10-2-23

Tech Tip of the Week

In case you are not aware, but AI is now available with PDFs.  Yes, Chat With PDF.ai humanizes text in PDF form that allows the user to interact with the document.  Ask questions, extract data, and gain insights from a PDF and use Chat With PDF.ai as your assistant you have always been looking for.  Our content filter has this currently blocked for students, however, that doesn't mean they can't still access this from another device.  

Why am I sharing this tool?  Well, like I said above, it can be a great tool to save you time as you can enter about any size of document into the AI program.  Let's say you are accessing the school districts board docs and trying to find a certain section.  Just upload the pdf into Chat With PDF.ai, ask it to find a certain section and it will take you directly to it.  Or, maybe you need it provide you with a summary of some sort.  Or, maybe you are working on your Masters or National Boards and are given a PDF as a resource.  Here is one more tool to use to make your life easier.  You're welcome ;)

Classroom Ideas

Disclaimer: The Tech Department currently has no plans to purchase licenses for the tool mentioned below. This information is provided as an idea to explore for your classroom or to discuss during your PLC meetings when creating online assessments.

Eric Curts, renowned for his edtech newsletter "Control Alt Achieve," recently shared an AI Quiz Generator Tool called Conker. This tool is accessible to staff and offers a free version allowing you to create up to 5 quizzes. The free version permits you to include up to 10 questions, ranging from multiple-choice to fill in the blank, read and respond, or mixed formats. Choose your grade level and easily insert reading material of up to 1200 words that will appear with the assessment if you prefer.

After generating an assessment, Conker enables you to review and edit the questions and answers generated by AI. Additionally, it provides 5 sharing options: link sharing, an Embed Code, QR Code, Print, or integration into a Google Form.

As students take the assessment, you can instantly gather feedback as the AI grades the test for you. It's worth noting there's an "Explore" tool granting access to a library of quizzes generated on various topics. You also have the flexibility to modify these assessments to meet your specific needs.

If you are interested in learning more, click the link to Eric Curt's 30 minute how to video on Conker.  

Not interested in Conker, checkout 10 other AI Quiz Generators not including Chat GPT.

Tech Tip of the Week

9-25-23

Device Care 101

1. Keep It Clean: First things first, let's keep those screens and keyboards clean. use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe away fingerprints and dust. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the screen.

2. Charging Etiquette: Always charge your device when the battery drops below 20%. However, don't leave it plugged in all the time; this can affect battery longevity. Unplug it once it's fully charged (Unless you are using it to power or display to your smartboard or external screen.)

3. Ventilation Matters: Ensure there's proper ventilation. Don't use your device on soft surfaces like beds or couches, as it can block the vents and cause it to overheat. Dell Laptop users, remember to always shutdown your device as it runs hot.

Classroom Ideas

Google Read and Write is Free for All Educators

I recommend adding the Google Read and Write Chrome Extension.  As a teacher you can sign up on Texthelp's website to confirm your educator account and they will grant you premium access.  

Click the link to the video I made for our paraeducators to gain access to Google Read and Write.  I skipped through the beginning that doesn't pertain to you, but starting at 1:15 it takes you to the Google Read and Write Free for Teachers website, where you can enter your information and simply follow the instructions on the website or just follow along with the video until about 3:00.  Then you will just need to add the Google Read and Write Chrome Extension from the Chrome Webstore, Pin and open the extension, grant GR&W access to your Google Account and you are good to go.  

If you have any questions, or need my support, please let me know.

Tech Tip of the Week

9-15-23

Keyboard Shortcuts to save  you time

• Windows Clipboard History = Windows + V

• Project/Cast = Windows + K

• Expand/Restore Icon = Windows + Z

• Copy = Ctrl +C

• Paste = Ctrl + V

• Lock Screen = Windows + L

• Print = Ctrl + P

• Access Quick Settings = Windows + A

• Redo = Ctrl + Y

• Refresh = Ctrl + R

• Save = Ctrl + S

• Screenshot (Desktop) = PrtScn

• Screenshot (Window) = Alt + PrtScn

• Select All = Ctrl + A

• Snip & Sketch = Windows + Shift + S

• Task Manager = Ctrl + Shift + Esc

• Voice Type = Windows + H

Classroom Ideas

Here is a great article from Matt from "Ditch that Textbook"  AI in the Classroom: What's Cheating? What's OK?

In this article, Matt analyzes Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and how classwork is about to change because of this.  He covers how we as teachers can preserve academic integrity, how to decide what is cheating and what is not.  He also provides some ideas on how to leverage this tool in the classroom to benefit not only the teacher, but the students as well. 

Tech Tip of the Week 5.15.23-5.19.23

If you are person leaving the district or retiring at the end of the year and you want to take the lesson plans and activities you worked so hard creating, checkout Google Takeout.   Google Takeout is a handy service offered by Google that lets you download and save your data from various Google products. It's like creating a backup of your information, including stuff from Gmail, Google Drive, Google Photos, YouTube, and more.

When you use Google Takeout, you can pick which Google services you want to include in the export and even customize the format of the exported data. It's great for keeping a local copy of your data, moving it to another service, or simply having a personal backup.

Using Google Takeout is easy. Just choose the data you want and the options for how you want it exported. Then, Google Takeout will gather everything and create downloadable files for you. You can also have the files sent directly to other cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive.

Keep in mind that Google Takeout is mainly meant for individual users who want to back up their own data, rather than for migrating or syncing data between Google services and other systems. It's a simple and reliable way to keep your important information safe and accessible.

Classroom Ideas:

Try using an AI Model like Chat GPT to type up a couple of emails for you.  Try it out and see what you think.

Tech Tip of the Week 5.8.23-5.12.23

Here is another tip that has nothing to do with education, but I know there are some Snapchat users here.  Maybe you noticed you have a new feature in Snapchat.  Yes, Snapchat thought everyone that doesn't pay for their services should have a new friend called "My AI".  As you have also noticed, you cannot remove that guy.  But wait, you can.  Just follow these instructions:

1. Click on your profile picture

2. Settings

3. Scroll to Feedback and click "I have a suggestion"

4. I'm not sure if you have to click "Friends" , "Profile", or something else, but try "Friends" 

5. Then type in remove "My AI" and feel free to add whatever else you would like to say to them.

It may a take a few days for them to see it as it's feedback, but this should remove "My AI" from your account.

Classroom Ideas:

Cara has been working on finding images and clip art for teachers to have quick and easy access to.  Check out her Collections:

• Clip Art Sources

• Sources for Free Images

Tech Tip of the Week 5.1.23-5.5.23

This tip has nothing to do with teaching, but with summer coming up and some of you may do some traveling across seas, check this out.  Did you know you can convert currency right in the address bar of your Chrome Browser of your phone by typing the amount of whatever currency you need converted to dollars and you'll see the conversion appear right away?  Yes, as the currency exchange rate constantly changes, using this method will give you the real-time exchange rate.

Classroom Ideas:

Given the increasing prevalence of AI in education, it's remarkable how teachers now have an array of powerful tools at their disposal. These resources have the potential to revolutionize teaching practices and streamline classroom management. One particular area where AI has excelled is in combating plagiarism and upholding academic integrity. Thanks to AI-powered websites and tools, teachers can now effortlessly determine whether students' work is original, the result of AI-generated content, or copied from external sources. These advanced plagiarism detection systems employ sophisticated algorithms to analyze work against databases, empowering educators to uphold academic honesty while delivering valuable feedback to students. Below are a list of AI websites that are readily available to teachers.

1. Turnitin: Turnitin is a widely recognized plagiarism detection tool used by educational institutions. It compares students' submitted work against a vast database of academic papers, websites, and other sources to identify potential matches and similarities.

2. Grammarly: While primarily known for its grammar and writing assistance, Grammarly also offers a plagiarism checker feature. It can help teachers identify potential instances of plagiarism by comparing students' work against a vast database of sources.

3. Copyscape: Copyscape is an online plagiarism checker commonly used for web content. It can help teachers detect if students have copied content from the internet by comparing their work against billions of web pages.

4. Unicheck: Unicheck is another popular plagiarism detection tool used in education. It scans students' work against various online sources and academic databases to identify potential matches and similarities.

5. Plagscan: Plagscan is an AI-driven plagiarism detection software that can analyze students' work for possible plagiarism. It compares the submitted content against a vast database of academic papers, websites, and other sources.

It's important to note that while these tools can be helpful in detecting potential instances of plagiarism, the final judgment and interpretation of the results should be done by the teacher. They provide indications and matches, but it's up to the educator to review the results and make informed decisions regarding the authenticity of the work.

This was half written by AI and half Luke Short, but maybe it was more AI ;)

Tech Tip of the Week 4.24.23-4.28.23

Google Classroom users, checkout the new Practice Sets feature.  Click the links to learn more and watch the tutorial video.

• Google's Skills Shop

• Google Workspace Updates Blog

• Control Alt Achieve

• The Chromebook Classroom

• Introducing Practice Sets in the Classroom Video

Classroom Ideas:

See the information about Practice Sets above.  You're welcome!

Tech Tip of the Week 4.17-4.21.23

Is your computer running slow?  Well, there's a good chance it's not your computer and just your browser.  So, clear your cookies and cache and run the Chrome Safety Check and your browser will be running like it's brand new.

Classroom Ideas:

Here's a little nostalgia for you.  Show or have your students experience the various versions of MacOS from the 80s, 90s, and the year 2000 right from their browser by click the link to Infinite Mac.  This is a great way to show students how far we have come with technology and computing.

Tech Tip of the Week 4.10-4.14.23

Ask another teacher from your school, grade level, subject, or someone that might be interested in spicing  it up a bit in the classroom to do a podcast for a lesson.  Feel free to incorporate the Flipped Classroom Model or turn the lesson into a collaborative activity that puts you as the facilitator for the lesson.  

Classroom Ideas:

As an educator, we constantly look for resources to improve our craft in order to engage our students.  In the past, books have been the norm.  But, it's 2023 and the times have changed.  Books will always remain constant and an amazing resource, however, students have Chromebooks that literally allow them 24/7 access to a bazillion books.  Here's a list of online resources generated by Matt from Ditch that Textbook that you can add to your Google Classroom, Zep World, Canvas, or Website.

• Smithsonian Learning Lab

• Smithsonian History Explorer

• National Archives

• PBS LearningMedia

• Google Arts and Culture

• KhanAcademy 

• CommonLit

• Library of Congress

• US Government Open Data Set

• National Geographic

Tech Tip of the Week 4.3.23-4.7.23

Use Dyknow to quickly push out websites to students. 

Classroom Ideas:

Canva recently launched Canva Docs.  Canva Docs are similar to Google Docs, but allow you to use a little bit of magic to make it pop.  Take your boring old docs and make them incredibly aesthetically pleasing with the use of Canva Docs.  Click the link to learn more: Design Visual Docs

Tech Tip of the Week 3.13.23-3.17.23

Click the link to this website that explains and provides screenshots on how to take screenshots on any device.

Classroom Ideas:

I think I'm going to start a series of reasons why teachers should start using Canva for Education.  Yup, this will be the first of many!  Let's start with, did you know that Canva now offers a free account for educators, and it integrates with Google Classroom and Canvas?  Yes, that is correct!  So, to start, click this link to sign up for a free Canva for Education account and get your account verified.  Once you've done that, let's keep it simple and let's create a multi-media slideshow.  Under the "What will you design today?" type in "presentation".  Choose your template and start creating.  

This is a great way to take your simple Google Slideshows/PPTs and spice them up with something way more visually appealing for you and your students.  Plus, with all the templates to choose from, there are so many presentations that already have various content you may be looking for already in the presentation.  You can also add YouTube videos, upload your own video and photo content, and choose from thousands of elements that are available in Canva.  All of this is easily searchable within the Canva platform itself.  Which makes everyone work seamlessly.  

Tech Tip of the Week 3.6.23-3.10.23

Elementary teachers, have your students change the pace (speed) of their Geodes videos to help them understand the content better.

Classroom Ideas:

Elementary teachers, have you found some amazing videos on YouTube, but the district won't let elementary students watch them?  Well, create an Edpuzzle account and link it to your Google Classroom and start assigning some of these amazing videos you have found on YouTube.  Yes, elementary students will be able to watch YouTube videos through the Edpuzzle platform.  Contact Luke Short #2216 or Cara Schueller #2587 for more information.

Tech Tip of the Week 2.27.23-3.3.23

Webinar: ChatGPT... Threat or Opportunity? Unfortunately the webinar has passed, but if you register anyway, I believe they will send you the recording. 

Classroom Ideas:

15 Writing Projects with Book Creator:  Book Creator is the tool that promotes writing creativity, problem solving, and allows to go beyond 5 paragraphs.  Empower your students through Book Creator!

Tech Tip of the Week 2.20.23-2.24.23

How many of you love to present with Google Slides?  Awesome, awesome!  Well, did you know this trick?  If you want to recapture your students' attention during your Google Slide Presentation, just click the W key on the keyboard to make your screen go white.  Or, click the B key to make it go black.  You're welcome ;)

Classroom Ideas

Have your students create videos in the classroom, here's why...

• Creative Videos (Commercials, Public Announcements, Trailers, Stop Motion Animation)

• Digital Storytelling

• Students explain their learning and practice their writing, speaking, listening, and research skills

• Students are given a voice to express themselves

• Avoid embarrassing and stressful live presentations

• Video creation is incredibly techie

• Make homework more interesting & meaningful

• Gifs

• Collaborative Group Projects

• Student Film Fair