i3 Monthly Update
Student Collaboration
Commonly Used Student Collaboration Tech Tools
This month’s focus aims to encourage peer interactions through technology tools. Teachers foster independent and collaborative learning in group settings.
An example of this in the elementary classroom could be during station rotations, the teacher designing an activity where students collaborate with their peers to generate a demonstration of learning like a shared graphic organizer.
Did you know some commonly used tech tools that support student collaboration are Google Docs, Google Slides, and Google Jamboard?
Book Creator is a digital book-making tool with limitless options, suitable for students of all grade levels. Book Creator allows students - and teachers - to create digital books independently or by collaborating with peers. It's available for both iPad and the web (including Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge).
Students join the class library using a code (or a link), and then any books they create can be accessed by the teacher and added to the class library to share with classmates.
Before students create their first book, it's helpful for them to read the basic tutorial. They then tap the plus sign or New Book icon on the main screen, choose a book shape or template, and then tap the plus icon to add photos, videos, and typed words to the cover page, first page, and so on. Simply swipe to move content around the page and resize or rotate it as desired.
Under the "i" tab, students will find many options for adjusting or deleting items. Every time they want to add something, they just tap the plus sign again. Make the book simple or take advantage of a large number of fancy bells and whistles.
Watch the video above to see some of the possibilities in action! The links below provide guidance in getting started.
Resources:
Have you used Adobe Express?
The tutorial video on the left is a great overview for the beginner interested in using Adobe Express.
One benefit of using Adobe Express is that educators and students are able to use the program without needing to pay for the service! To create your own free teacher account, click here.
You are doing so much every day! Our teachers have grown in using technology in the classroom over the past several years. Are you sharing your successes? Post your triumphs!
Create an "X" account (formerly Twitter) for your professional self. Please add your information to this Google Sheet and advocate for your classroom!
Share with me: @dghtymusicrocks, with the school: @DES_Hornets, and with the Digital Learning Team: @DigitalGISD. Common hashtags used by GISD accounts are #theGISDeffect, #GarlandUSA, #ChooseGarlandISD, and #ExperienceTheMagic.
Want to be caught being techy? Email me I'd love to come by your classroom, take some pics, and share your successes!