Technology Resources

Where do I start?

That is a good question. There has never been so many choices in terms of the tools and strategies we use to integrate technology in the classroom. The range of choice provides powerful options for staff and students to enhance the classroom experience, but it can also feel overwhelming.

 This page addresses some of the questions staff typically have around technology integration. The answers are simply suggestions. Staff are encouraged to use their professional judgment when considering the use of technology. The most important consideration is whether the technology will enhance our classroom practice. In some cases the answer is 'no'.

FAQ/How to Resources



How does a resource get approved?


If a resource stores student data outside of Canada a Digital Resource Assessment must be completed by the region and signed by the regional director. In many cases, resources do not store student data and do not require a DRA. If you have questions as to whether a resource requires a DRA or would like to use a resource that requires a DRA but does not have one completed, email mark.richards@avrce.ca 


What funding is available for purchasing resources?


Resources that have a DRA completed can be purchased using Book Bureau funding at the school level.. The table found below lists resources provided bt the Department of Education, the AVRCE and those available at the school level.


Do i need permission to install software on my computer?


In many cases, software required by staff has been added to the software center and can be installed by the staff member by clicking on it. If software needs to be installed on a device and is not included in the software center, it will need to be installed by an AVRCE technician. Staff are able to add apps from the Chrome webstore and apps that have been approved from the Google Play store. Students are only able to add approved apps.



Am i allowed to use resources not listed?


Yes, there are many fantastic resources available today and we try to keep up with the ever growing options but can't possibly support all of them. Teachers are able to use their professional judgment when it comes to choosing resources. If a teacher has any questions regarding a resource they should reach out to mark.richards@avrce.ca 


How do i sign something out from the AVRCE Innovation Centre?


Simply go to our online booking site, pick the resource you would like to sign out, fill out the form and it will arrive in the school mail.


AVRCE IT How To Resources


Website containing resource on a wide variety of IT topics, including Wireless Connectivity, Cybersecurity and Account Management.


click here



Who can I ask for help?

Teacher Resources


Nearpod-Any teacher in the AVRCE is eligible to receive the Gold version of the software by completing the short form linked below using your gnspes account, teachers will become part of the AVRCE Nearpod account. NearPod Signup

Raz-Kids - AVRCE teachers who are teaching P-6 can sign up for the full version of Raz-Kids by contacting mark.richards@avrce.ca

CoSpaces - Any AVRCE teachers interested in using CoSpaces in their classroom can apply for a full licence by emailing  Mark.richards@gnspes.ca


Knowledghook

Knowledghook is a free online resource for Nova Scotia math teachers (grades 3-10). It is designed to support engaging formative assessment practices and provide resources to help identify and address common focus areas, errors, and misconceptions in student thinking.

See how it works (video overview of Knowledgehook)

Create your teacher account (use your gnspes email when creating an account)

Knowledgehook Teacher Training Session Recording: (AVRCE Summer Learning session)

EquatIO

EquatIO is an online tool that can help make learning accessible for all students. To learn more about this tool, check out the links below.

Nova Scotia Department of Education EquatIO User Resources

Nova Scotia Department of Education Read&Write for Google Chrome User Resources


AVRCE Approved/Recomended

Using the 'Cloud' in the Classroom

The technology that we engage with in the classroom is increasingly based on online resources. The tools we use, the files we create and store, and our classroom communication takes advantage of 'cloud' services to create a central online class environment.

 All staff and students have access to a Google for Education Account that allows the user to create, store, and organize files online. This is one of the most popular 'cloud' solutions and is available on most devices with an Internet connection. See our Google Apps for Education section for more information.


Connecting with social media

Social media is quickly becoming the communication vehicle of choice for students and parents, as you can communicate with large groups in any medium instantaneously. It is a powerful way to stay connected, but it also requires a great deal of responsibility because of its ability to reach users and leave a permanent digital footprint.

Using Social Media in the Classroom

The use of social networks like Twitter and Facebook can be important tools as fewer students and parents are using email and many are use to information being delivered via these tools, rather than searching through a website. We are still bound by the privacy laws in Nova Scotia (PIIDPA/FOIPOP) in terms of storing personal information, but we do currently have exemptions for Twitter and Facebook. As a teacher, you should be aware of the Acceptable Use of Social Media by Employee guidelines.

Using Social Media as a School

We rely more on online communications than ever before, and social media has a lot of potential to reach your community. As a school, it is important to plan your communication strategy and find the most effective set of tools to reach your audience. Social media is very effective, but you don't want to have too many options that require updating on a constant basis. So, embedding social media feeds on your website is one way to keep your website updated while keeping your social media feed active and connected to subscribers.


Creating a Classroom Web Presence

With millions of web pages going up every month, it is more important than ever to make a site that provides substance and engages the user. Students and parents have a growing expectation that schools and classrooms have a web presence, and teachers are seeing the benefit of blending the traditional and online classroom.

 Learning Management System (LMS):

If you want to have an interactive presence on the web where students can collaborate and contribute, then you need to use a system like Moodle or Google Classroom. Teachers in Nova Scotia have access to an LMS through the Nova Scotia Virtual School.

 Public Website

The more traditional approach, when you don't need students to interact online, is to create a web page. There are a number of options available for teachers and students. The most recent option is the use of Google Sites, which is part of the Google Apps for Education package.