Dr. J's Prescription 4 Tech
Empowering Educators:
Unleashing the Potential of AI with 3 Free Apps
In the dynamic world of education, where time is a precious commodity, educators often find themselves juggling various tasks, from grading papers to managing administrative duties. The good news is that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is stepping in to lend a helping hand. In this blog post, we'll explore three free types of AI apps designed to streamline tasks, personalize learning experiences, and enhance collaboration among educators.
Part 1: Streamlining Administrative Tasks with Grackle
In the realm of education, administrative tasks can be time-consuming and often take away from valuable teaching moments. Enter Grackle, a free (at this time) AI app that simplifies the process. From automating the grading of papers to tracking attendance and generating insightful reports, Grackle allows educators to reclaim time for what truly matters – crafting engaging lesson plans, building relationships, and fostering meaningful interactions with students. [https://www.grackledocs.com/use-cases/]
Part 2: Personalizing Learning Journeys with Adaptive AI
No two students are alike, and their learning experiences should reflect that diversity. That's where adaptive AI comes into play. These free AI apps employ advanced algorithms to assess individual learning styles, tailoring educational content to suit each student. Adaptive quizzes, interactive lessons, and personalized study plans are just a few features that make adaptive AI an invaluable tool for educators seeking a student-centric approach without the hassle of manual customization.
Examples of adaptive AI are:
Duolingo: a language learning app that creates a path that adjusts to your learning success. (I have used this in my own learning for Swedish, Spanish, and Dutch.
Quizlet: a study tool platform on most subjects and most levels. Individual or class accounts. (I have used this in my learning as well as with a teacher account.)
MyFitnessPal: nutrition and fitness app. Set your goals, the app provides personalized suggestions.
More resources:
Adaptive AI: Components, Use Cases, & Ethics, [https://www.splunk.com/en_us/blog/learn/adaptive-ai.html]
Explore 14 real-world use cases for adaptive AI
[https://www.techtarget.com/searchEnterpriseAI/tip/Explore-real-world-use-cases-for-adaptive-AI]
Part 3: Enhancing Collaboration with ClassConnect
In the digital age, collaboration is key to fostering a vibrant educational community. ClassConnect, a free AI app, serves as a central hub for resource management, simplifying curriculum planning and resource allocation. With features designed for real-time collaboration, educators can share insights, collectively optimize teaching efforts, and foster a sense of community. From lesson plan sharing to collaborative assessments, ClassConnect transforms how educators collaborate and share knowledge. The student experience is online K-12 education, free of charge.. [https://www.help.k12.com/s/article/ALDCA-What-s-Included]
Conclusion: Empower, Embrace, and Revolutionize
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, these three free AI apps – Grackle, adaptive AI, and ClassConnect – stand out as invaluable tools for educators. By leveraging the power of AI, educators can not only save time but also enhance the quality and personalization of their teaching. We encourage you to explore these apps, integrate them into your teaching toolkit, and witness the transformative impact they can have on your educational journey. Empower yourself, embrace innovation, and revolutionize education with these free AI apps.
Light Board Mini - Purpose and Use
During this time when teachers need to be prepared for distance learning - all the time. It is fun to use a light board: here is what I created.
This video was so encouraging to me because I could learn from Tina's experience. Thank you #TinaHuang
These are my takeaways: (in any order)
Stay curious
Expect errors - just fix them if you can!
Learn by doing projects - pick fun ones!
Surround yourself with a couple of folks for your team and solve together.
She is pretty encouraging.
It's that Reflection Time of Year Again...
December 12, 2020
As many of you know I am almost finished with my coursework for an MBA. It has been a challenge to be a college student at this time in history, this age, this place, this stage in my career...to say the least.
But now I am happy to be blessed with each day, and I have plans for tomorrow, but I'm enjoying where I am right now. My last assignment in every class in my program has ended with a reflection paper. I used to dread them - didn't have time to hash and re-hash what I learned or didn't learn. I was so impatient! The truth is reflection is where the learning actually occurs. When we process all those connections and impressions and "half-thought" thoughts the "Aha"s and "Eureka"s abound!
Before I write the last reflection for this course, indeed for this program, I have taken a look at the reflections of the past. I want to share one with you. The course was called Global Management. It was a fascinating class, in what was a remarkable, if not frightening year. I'm thankful we made it this far, thankful to the Lord for His care, and I'm thankful to you for reading.
Here is the link to a PDF of the reflection.
Get Inspired and Innovate!
I'm so honored to be a guest on Get Inspired and Innovate with Stephanie and Lance. Both are stellar educators, Google Educators and Innovators, and just all around great people.
They asked me to join their discussion about Collaboration back in August. I'm happy to share the podcast with you now. You can find their podcast on Anchor and other fine podcast venues. Here is the link to their Twitter account:
https://twitter.com/InspAndInn/status/1326654939326779392?s=20
Season 2...Chat with Sandy and Karen Podcast
June 11, 2022
This one is on education - everything tech, learning, and some commentary. Listen in as Sandy Bansal and I discuss our education-related experiences. We may not always agree, but we bring our own perspectives together to support learning: Sandy's perspective is from Europe (she has taught in Italy and Sweden) and Karen's perspective is from America (she has taught in Texas public school and higher education). Both of us are Google Innovator Certified and love to teach with technology.
We also want to encourage girls to tackle STEM/STEAM and all things coding!
We will soon be interviewing others and perhaps discussing some TED Talks we find intriguing. So come and join us!
August 24, 2020
I was so honored to host a Twitter Chat with WeVideo in August! The best part about it is the topic - Blended Learning!
Today is the day! Blended Learning chat. This will be my second Twitter chat ever! Join me, I want to hear what you have to say!
@WeVideo Twitter Chat:
Blended Learning,
Monday, August 24th.
4:00 - 4:45 PM PT
The whole idea of a Twitter chat is a quick exchange of ideas on a common topic. I chose Blended Learning because of its timely application. Many of our schools have hybrid learning plans, which use technology integration and face-to-face teaching in some sort of blend. From what I have learned in the classroom and facilitating blended learning cohorts, teachers will need to use their technology skills and teaching skills simultaneously - which is not an easy feat. I appreciate WeVideo for bringing this idea to the forefront. They also have provided quite a lot of resources and ideas for teachers to use digital storytelling and video creation in their facilitation and student lessons. Check out this chat if you are interested. #Whatsyourstory @WeVideo
July 18, 2020
Wakelet is an incredible tool. Think of it as Pinterest, only better and without the advertisements. I applied to become a Wakelet Ambassador today. I hope I am accepted. If not, I'm still using the product, because I can collect and organize so much, basically anything on the internet. So here is a summary of my Wakelet Journey.
Check out Wakelet. You will be glad you did. Here are some of my collections.
Another reason to love this program is I can embed it into my website!
July 12, 2020
I love this story because it shows how an interest in fashion design...can lead you to a career in a completely different field.
When we teach students to achieve, and work at something they love, it will lead them to greatness.
I believe all work is important to us as humans. Here is one human's story of her work.
Cheers, Paula Cain.
July 6, 2020
If you only had 2 hours to get ready for the fall semester reopening. What would you choose to teach your educator friends?
If I only had two hours to learn something that would last me all year and make me a better teacher, what would it be? Many items come to mind. I would have to fall back on the four C's, and any tools that support them. I am highly influenced by G’Suite for education, so I'm going to start with that. Most of the educational tools on my list have to do with internet connection, so I suppose that is the largest facilitator. But tools are only temporary, they have to support the things that will last.
Collaboration - I've said for a long time that the collaboration piece of G’Suite for Education revolutionized education. It touched the ability for students to communicate with each other, their teacher, and the world. In this day and age we need to learn how to collaborate with each other to solve the problems that will be coming. The idea of two or more people collaborating on an idea while working from home breaks down barriers. It connects us when we are quarantined. I unites us in a common goal of learning. Allows us to listen to each other. You have to learn to respect others when you collaborate with them.
Communication - I'm going to first talk about Google Docs and the ability that we have to communicate: write, comment, alert people of changes to our document, and share that same content on websites, mail, and other social media. Another tool that I think is valuable for communication is Flipgrid. Flipgrid is a communication program that allows everyone to communicate with everyone else through video. If I cannot write, I can still use it because I can speak into the camera. If I cannot speak, I can still use text or sign language to communicate. The big, green plus sign is easy to use.
Critical thinking - I think this is a key skill that will serve humans as they go about their lives in whatever area they pursue. Critical thinking is learning how to learn. Many times educators tell students to study, but we don't show them how. Any skills that have to do with showing the thinking process is going to help students understand that they are thinking. Google Slides is one way for students to create maps of their learning, non-linear and linear. Students need to understand how they learn, then apply that knowledge to problems they face in their lives.
Creativity - Creativity comes in many forms that do not always include a crayon, paintbrush or a sculpting tool. If I am working on an engine I need creativity to think of a plausible solution or innovation to that engine. If I am a detective, I need creativity to imagine different ways to keep people safe or find a criminal. If I am a chef or a home cook, I need creativity to create recipes or make them better. Creativity can be as simple as using a washcloth to create a baby doll for your grandchild. Or as complex as finding a new formula for medication. Creativity is essential to keeping us human. I believe it's what sets us apart from other animals.
Educators have a huge challenge to plan for the unplannable and unknown circumstances in the fall. What kind of solutions do you have? If you only had two hours to get ready for the fall semester, what are the most important tools you would use to help the teachers or educators that depend on you? This is my top 5 list in any order:
Google Docs or Slides
Google Classroom
Flipgrid
Google Forms
Curriculum Content on Google Drive
June 17, 2020
The link above leads to a presentation site I created to show the highlights of the Digital Citizenship curriculum.
Now more than ever, students need to understand they are digital citizens, they have a voice, and they have a responsibility to think of others. This curriculum, Be Internet Awesome, specifies 5 different areas where students can learn about Digital Citizenship.
Be Internet Smart - Share with Care
Be Internet Alert - Don't Fall for Fake
Be Internet Strong - Secure your Secrets
Be Internet Kind - It's Cool to be Kind
Be Internet Brave - When in Doubt, Talk it Out
The brilliance of using technology to teach these useful life skills is students learn technology skills as they create products showing their learning. They learn the skill to learn the lesson.
Google has also created a game to reinforce the lessons learned in the curriculum.
Interland: https://beinternetawesome.withgoogle.com/en_us/interland
Check it out. Here is the link to the Be Internet Awesome site: https://beinternetawesome.withgoogle.com/en_us/
June 17, 2020
TED Discussion Host
I am in the midst of hosting a two-day conversation over a TED Talk, one of the most insightful talks for me. Simon Sinek's How Great Leaders Inspire Action has always resonated with me because it made me realize why certain leaders inspire me.
Because of this, I investigate the 'Why' behind every new venture or adventure. Not only does it make the experience more meaningful, it encourages one to move on, keep going. Understanding the 'Why' will also inspire others to follow with you.
Check out TED.com. You will be glad you did.
April 24, 2020
Gmail Quick Tip #1
Use labels to quickly organize your emails.
April 1, 2020
Sharing some excellent work by @lieberrian, Kristina Holzweiss. She is a WeVideo Ambassador and librarian. She also is an encourager of student voice, which is the highest compliment I know. Enjoy her Book Creator product called "Amplifying Student Voice with WeVideo."
Check out these resources mentioned above:
WeVideo https://www.wevideo.com/
Book Creator https://bookcreator.com/
Kristina Holzweiss Twitter feed https://twitter.com/lieberrian
March 30, 2020
I wrote an article on LinkedIn today, thank you Carlos Galvez.
Notes from Carlos Galvez (@clos_gm), March 27, 2020 We are all on different locations in the timeline of COVID-19 Pandemic. As some of us are planning for online learning, it is good to learn from the experiences of others who have walked where we are about to tread.www.linkedin.com/pulse/lessons-learned-after-8-weeks-virtual-school-dr-karen-jackson/?published=tMarch 18, 2020
Google Arts and Culture
During this time of change, take some time to focus on beauty. Google's Arts and Culture site is a remarkable resource for the beauty and innovation that can be found in our world.
Learning Idea:
Start a reflection blog or notebook about the images and content you see on this page. Write every day. Describe your feelings, thoughts and perceptions. See if you can reach a goal you set for yourself. Share your thoughts with a family member or friend, start a conversation.
March 9, 2020
Stories on a Train
Episode 4 is up! Come join us on the Texas Eagle and visit with Laverne. Everyone has a story to tell.
Stories on a Train Podcast RSS Feed
January 26, 2020
It's almost here!
There are some awesome conferences out there. It seems like people just love to gather and celebrate, exchange ideas, and get revived in the process. I've been going to TCEA since 2000, when my teaching position became more "tech oriented". My how times have changed. Technology was a foreign thing to most classrooms: we took our students to the computer lab to "Do Computers" or "Play Computers". Very few people could predict the ubiquity that would occur with personal devices, 1:1, 2:1, COW scenarios, etc. All the while, the technology has become more invisible. Now, it's not about the technology, it's about the learning with dynamic tools that adapt to our own learning. Where will we be in twenty more years? Let's go find out!
Texas Computer Education Association. (#TCEA2020, #TCEA) I plan to present three sessions and Volunteer 8 hours! Odds are I will probably see you there. Go ahead and register, you will love the authentic and diverse offerings. Here is the link to sign up: https://convention.tcea.org/
Here are my sessions:
January 10, 2020
Resolution Wisdom
New Year resolutions are an important cultural activity. Not because they cause us to change all that much. Most of the time, we do not even keep them or accomplish them. They are important because they cause us to reflect on the important things. The reflection is where we decide to even care, or try, or change. That is step one. Step two starts with this beautiful, adorable young woman (very young woman) who in a kind and sweet way tells us how to accomplish the things that are important to us. Is she the one who came up with this sage advice? Probably not, but the writing is easy to understand and her delivery is so sweet and kind...I just hope you enjoy this as much as I did.
Thank you Tingman (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Ht_7PQ1G4UIPhjSkF-phw) and Paul Tripp
November 20, 2019
I took the Change Intelligence (CQ) Assessment last month. It was a requirement for my MBA course, then we responded about the results on the Discussion Board. This was a great exercise of learning about myself, putting on my big girl pants and dealing with life.
After I received my results for the Change Intelligence (CQ) assessment, I glanced at it, but I couldn't read it right away. I felt embarrassed and a bit irritated, firmly in denial. After I came to my senses this evening, I determined to write this post. As an adult, and an MBA student, I remembered why I started this program: to grow. Here I am, it's time to be honest and find strength in vulnerability. I am reminded by the words that Joss Whedon spoke at a commencement ceremony (Whedon, 2013):
You will be so many things, and the one thing that I wish I’d known and want to say is, don’t just be yourself. Be all of yourselves. Don’t just live. Be that other thing connected to death. Be life. Live all of your life. Understand it, see it, appreciate it. And have fun.
This inspired me. In an effort to embrace my whole self, I will give a description of my findings.
Surprised? No, not really surprised because I know I get caught up in events, movements, and projects. I know that when I am in love with an idea, I want everyone around me to be in it with me. When I believe in change, I'm all in. That’s why I think my marriage has been good for me because my husband is a voice of reason to my wild enthusiasm. He is very thoughtful and pragmatic. He knows just the right questions to ask me when I come up with ideas. Professionally, I have been on teams where our strengths complemented each other.
The painful part of the assessment for me is one of the insights, “While the Champion is generally verbally adept and persuasive, at times motivation can be perceived as manipulation” (CQ-Change Intelligence Report, 2019, p. 3). I know, it is difficult for me to take no for an answer, so I tend to look for plan B, or even plan C to get things accomplished. I also tend to over-commit myself to activities, and end up with some sleepless nights to get it all done.
I was not firmly in any one of the categories, but I was lower in the “Hands” capacity, which I hope gives me the perspective to lead with the “Heart” and “Head” (Trautlein, 2019, p. 3). The lower levels in my "Hands", a 38 score, shows I need to pay attention to tactics and training. This was enlightening for me because many times I can’t see how to do something, but I know it’s going to be great when I get there.
Overall, this was an accurate reflection of my approach to change. Although it is not logical, I tend to seek change and look forward to it. My goal is to use the tools that I have been given, hopefully with enough wisdom to know which situation calls for a specific skill. I want to build my capacity for change management and develop the skills I need to support my “Head” and “Heart” with my “Hands”.
References
Trautlein, B. (2013). Change intelligence: Use the power of CQ to lead change that sticks. Austin, TX: Greenleaf Book Group.
Trautlein, B. A. (2019). CQ-Change Intelligence Assessment Report-Karen Jackson (pp. 1–12). Change Catalysts, LLC.
Whedon, J. (2013, May 26). Joss Whedon, Graduation Wisdom. Retrieved November 19,2019, fromhttps://www.graduationwisdom.com/speeches/0126-Joss-Whedon-Inspirational-Commencement-Address-Wesleyan-2013.htm.
November 8, 2019
Teacher Success Summit was a wonderful experience. I signed up to listen to presentations from some awesome presenters. Many of the names you will recognize. I liked how it was organized:
The Schedule was posted in advance, so I knew what to expect.
Each day, a new list of presentations became available. I could watch them at my leisure. It was free for one day, then locked for everyone except those who purchased lifetime access. They can visit the site again and again to get the inspiration and content they want. The lifetime access is $97.00 now, but for 70 sessions, that is a valuable price. If you would like to purchase the lifetime access, here is the link:
You will find:
Unique, high quality professional development from nationally known thought leaders.
Agency for participants - I chose what I needed.
Free, robust access - with lifetime access if I wanted to pay the reasonable fee.
I thoroughly enjoyed this model of PD. Chuck Poole (@cpoole27) did an excellent job of creating this professional development.
September, 15, 2019
Episode 3 of Stories on a Train -
Find it on Anchor, and anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!
https://anchor.fm/dr-karen-jackson/episodes/Stories-on-a-Train--Episode-3--Not-Telling-e5ctqb
Find me on Twitter!
Conferences
February 3 - 7, 2020
Come and join me in Texas!!
Session 1: Design + MakerSpace = Much More than Just a Craft Station, Tuesday, February 4, 2020
Session 2: Take Time to Explore the Fantastic Flipgrid, Wednesday, February 5, 2020
Session 3: Make your Google Site interActive! Thursday, February 6, 2020
June 23 - June 27, 2019
ISTE - International Society for Technology in Education
G'Suite4Me!
As a result of this session, educators will be able to participate and plan a Teacher Agency Experience for their own campus or district. The questioning strategies and basic framework will be explained and evaluated as the participants go through the experience. The participants will be organized by their interests into Jump Teams, given time to explore a topic or tool, then come together with other Teams to share their new knowledge.
A survey of interests and learning topics will be used, to gather data. (Google Forms)
Opportunities for research and exploration will be provided to each Jump Team. ( With some sample ideas for scaffolding).
Time will be given - the most important component
Our celebration of learning or, making mistakes, or failure will be our evidence of success.
June 2019
ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) www.iste.org
G'Suite4Me! Professional Development designed to give teachers voice and choice in their learning.
February 4 - February 7, 2019
Texas Computer Educator Association, San Antonio, Texas
Four Sessions!
January 31 - February 1, 2019
Texas Classroom Teacher Association
Speak up! Don't let teaching just "happen" to you or your students.
2018 - 2019
Here we are at the end of August already. I remember saying to my self in June, "We are almost half way to Christmas" - but that was 3 years ago! Each year seems to go faster and faster, which is exciting, wonderful, and annoying all at the same time. I love the promise of the new school year. I love the smell of a new pack of paper and brand-new crayons. The classrooms have all been cleaned, the floors polished, and teachers have meticulously applied the summer staff development knowledge they have gained. Yes, it is going to be a good year, it can be. Let's decide to be encouraging coaches, inspiring teachers, comforting counselors, and courageous leaders. Our students are counting on us, and through them, we get to touch the future.
2017 - 2018
Each school year starts with great ideas, lots of preparation, and a good bit of stress.
Remember what is good for students and be good to yourself. What do you want to learn this year? What has meaning for you? If you decide this, then you will have impact on others. Happy New Year.
2016 - 2017
Temple ISD Lego Robotics teams, bound for State! Job well done to students and sponsor, Ms. Roberts!
Pre-2016
I've started several blogs, here are just a few. Sometimes I add thoughts or articles. Penny for Your Thoughts
http://karrieweb2004.edublogs.org/
Tech Journey is one of my very, very first blog attempts. Edublogs has been a useful learning tool.
Social Media:
Welcome to my site! Contact me on Twitter if you have any questions about desigining professional development or learning.
