Communication & Learning Platforms
Communicating with students will be critical during this time. There are many services that allow for 2-way communication between the school and home. To keep it simple, we have limited it to just a few, not to mention the use of telephones. Also included are some Learning Management Systems and 1-way information methods.
Web-Based Video/Audio
Zoom is a video communication platform. The big advantage of this over other products like Skype or Hangout is that only the host needs an account. Participants need only join a meeting with a code and let the Zoom player install. Additionally Zoom is providing free accounts for schools during this outbreak.
Google Meet
"With easy-to-join video calls, you can connect face-to-face with team members around the world. Hangouts Meet is included with G Suite and G Suite for Education."
✋ Google Meet Getting Started Resources Page
Online Platforms
Google Classroom
Google Classroom-"Classroom helps students and teachers organize assignments, boost collaboration, and foster better communication."
"Quick Start" Videos - These 3-5 minute mini-lessons are designed to give a "just the facts" overview of setting up your classes in Google Classroom.
Video #1 - How do I access Google Classroom and create my classes?
Video #2 - How do I add students to my Google Classroom courses?
Video #3 - How do I create and assign Classwork to my students?
Video #4 - How do I use the Classroom Stream?
Video #5 - How do I access and adjust the Classroom Settings?
Video #6 - How do I add a Google Meet link to my stream to add live video?
Next Steps: Click here for information on building your online classroom curriculum
SMART Learning Suite
The SMART Learning Suite Online is available to everyone who has paid for the annual SMART subscription. Users can also sign in through Google - (BEST WAY, the district will have to activate the option in the Google Console). Students can then join your SMART Learning Suite Online class. What can it do?
Display to all of the student devices any SMART Notebook, PowerPoint or PDF you uploaded to your SMART Learning Suite Online class. NEW, import Google stuff too! Options within this include:
Turn pages into either individual or collaborative work spaces.
Can be teacher lead or student paced.
Utilize the built in SMART Labs without having to create them in a SMART Notebook. Students would each practice with the labs you set up individually on their devices.
Create tests and quizzes online with the built in SMART assessment lab. Students would answer these questions on their devices.
"Make beautiful boards, documents, and web pages that are easy to read and fun to contribute to."
"Demonstrate and share learning - Seesaw helps educators engage all learners, transform family engagement, and save time."
"Advance What's Possible - Schoology brings together the best K-12 learning management system with assessment management to improve student performance, foster collaboration, and personalize learning."
