Teacher Workshops
Below are some descriptions of teacher workshops I have taught. Workshops that have an underlined name are hyperlinks to the slideshow from that workshop. If your school is interested having me present a workshop on any of the following topics contact me at: jacob.granahan@gcj2.k12.wi.us
@MrGranahan (twitter)
2/19/20
Brookwood STEM classes overview & program maze game CESA 2
8/7/19
EV3 LEGO Robotics Seeds of Health
1/21/19
11/10/18
10/22/18
8/24/18 Delavan Christian School
5/5/18-WTI Spring Conference
2/27/18
1/23/18
11/28/17
Programming with Scratch (CESA 2)
10/16/17 -WTI Fall
WTI STEAM & Coding Presentation
8/14/17
3D PrintingMakerspaces and 3D printing is a popular topic at many schools. I wanted an organized curriculum that did not simply have the students printing found files. I want my students to be producers and contributors to technology, not simply consumers. The curriculum I created teaches students the basic skills of creating their own 3D files. Each project focuses on specific engineering and design skills. Many of the projects are based on real world application of 3D printers in the business world. So are you looking to integrate a 3D printer into your curriculum or makerspace? This workshop will provide you with the basic knowledge and skills, and resources needed to successfully implement 3D printing in your school.
LEGO Mindstorms EV3 RoboticsRobotics is a great way to introduce students to engineering and technology. LEGO EV3 robotics combines the familiarity of building with LEGOS, and a drag and drop programming language similar to Scratch to create functional robots. No prior technology or programming experience is required. Ignite student engagement and energize learning through real-life problem solving. Robotics combines engineering, technology, and mathematics concepts with soft skills, such as creative thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and communication skills, boosting 21st-century learning skills.
Scratch 2 Programming- Are you looking for a way to teach programming skills to students? Have you heard about the hour of code movement and wondered what coding you can do with your students? Scratch 2 could be your answer. Whether you are looking to develop an elective course or an after school program, come and learn what Scratch 2 has to offer.
Scratch 2 is a free, child friendly program that is designed for kids ages 8 to 16+, that allows users to program interactive stories, games, and animations. Scratch 2 is a flash based program that works equally well on PC, Mac, and Chromebooks.
“Scratch 2 helps young people learn to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively — essential skills for life in the 21st century.” http://scratch.mit.edu/about/
iTunes U This course answers the question of why would I want my own iTunes U course? In this course I teach the basics of creating your own iTunes U course. Step-by-step directions are given on how to create a course. If your students have 1:1 iPads, creating courses on iTunes U is something you really should consider. Courses can be private so only your students use the course and its resources, or you can make your course public so anyone in the world can enroll. iTunes U is a free resource provided by Apple, so why not take advantage of it?
Everyone knows how to use Gmail for sending and receiving email. Did you know your Gmail can do so much more? This course will teach you how to use features of Gmail you probably did not know you even had. Presentation, word documents, spreadsheets, forms and more are all built into your current Gmail. Did you know you can use Gmail to create a paperless option for your students? Have you ever answered a survey online, or electronically contacted a company through an online form? You can easily make your own online activities for your students. All this and more will be presented in this course.
Google SitesThis course covers the basics of creating a Google site, layout of site, and the editing features. A completed basic teacher Google site designed for student/parent reference is the goal of this course. The presentation includes step-by-step basic directions to create a basic site, with instructor guidance for a polished final product.
Older topics
What is a WikiA wiki is a simple collection of web pages that allow its users to create and edit the web pages using any web browser. This workshop will teach you how to create a free wiki. Participants will also learn how to manage the wiki, create users, and see examples of wiki use for education.
Beginning Creating AppsThe rationale and basics to creating your own apps. This course does not involve writing code, an online program called Studybyapp is used to create the itunes apps. Topics covered include but are not limited to the app design and creation process, as well as some resources and suggestions to use when creating your own itunes app. Our Brookwood Middle School store on iTunes now has 4 apps available that I created, with more in development.
Beginning/Intermediate/Advanced SmartboardThis course covers the basics of using a smartboard to intermediate skills such as erase to reveal, layer usage, linking media, creating smart response lessons, and tips and tricks to make interactive multimedia lessons. Basic trouble shooting and additional resources will also be shared.
If you have any questions please contact me at