This course will introduce teachers to a variety of software tools and technologies that can be utilized to reach students in new ways in the classroom. Participants will explore software tools, technologies, and concepts related to 3D design, computational thinking, computer science and coding, and / or physical computing. Through instruction and hands-on direct experience, participants will develop knowledge and skills related to: (1) “technology” as a tool for teaching rather than a topic for teaching; (2) implementation of technology tools in a variety of subjects and content areas; (3) methods for supporting creativity in technology heavy subjects; (4) computational thinking and computer science as a cornerstone of modern education in a 21st century world.
This course is divided into four tracks focused on four different technology topics: 3D Design, Computational Thinking, Coding, and Circuits and Coding. Participants in this course will select a track of their choice to work through completing learning activities and a final, culminating, project to demonstrate their learning. Each track features hands-on exploration of software, and, in some cases, hardware tools and technologies, activity and lesson ideas for integrating the technology into curriculum, and lots of supporting resources for additional learning and deeper understanding.
The course is designed to look at technology as a tool for teaching vs technology as its own stand-alone topic. This means that we will be helping you think of ways that technology can be authentically integrated throughout your curriculum, not just in a technology class or subject area.
Develop learning activities utilizing software and hardware tools and technologies to engage learners in new ways.
Integrate technology into learning areas beyond traditional STEM focused areas.
Implement & analyze STEM learning experiences regarding their focus on Maryland State Curriculum Standards for Mathematics, Science, Technology, & Engineering–Grades K-8 (MSDE)
Each track is designed to encompass an estimated 15 hours of learning and application activities, the equivalent of one (1) Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credit
Participants who complete and submit all of the required activities and projects of a track will earn CPD credit
Activities, reflections, and projects will be submitted through Google Forms and will be reviewed by course instructors for credit approval
As an accompaniment to this course, your school has been provided with three (3) Tech Carts containing hardware devices as well as companion materials and electronic components for use with students. It is recommended that teachers follow the activities and resources found in the Circuits and Coding track for information and education on these devices.
There are two (2) Makey Makey carts and one (1) Circuit Playground Express cart. Each cart features a class set (and then some, 40 kits in total in each cart) of devices and the materials and components to support beginner and guided projects found in the related resources and course content.
For more information about the carts, please watch this video:
The following PDFs include images and detailed information about what is included in each of the carts:
Please feel free to download and print as needed.
Please select one of the following tracks to pursue. The pages that are linked below contain all of the lesson content (videos, links, submission forms) for each track.