Classroom Blogs:
I have never used or seen a classroom blog or website before and, honestly, thought they would be an extra “job” for me to do. However, after this presentation, I would really like to utilize them in my future. Because SD5 has already approved “Seesaw,” I feel it would be beneficial for me to explore this platform a little more. However, “Class Dojo” initially captured my eye as it appeared child friendly and cute. I enjoyed this presentation very much and plan to use it in the future. Here are the 4 platforms they discussed and some of the key features of each:
Making Classroom’s Inclusive using Technology:
The presentation touched on three different ways you can use technology to create a more inclusive classroom. I am familiar with Teams and Zoom but am unfamiliar with the other two suggestions. As an elementary teacher, I don’t see myself using Teams or Zoom very often but I may use Nearpod or Immersive Reader but I need to research them both more. Immersive reader could be a good platform/extension to use in an elementary setting but I’m still on the fence about it.
- Virtual Classrooms, such as Zoom/Teams, Blackboard, and Google Classroom
– Pro’s: Can be used any time, anywhere, can move at your own pace, can re-watch/listen/review the content, every student can have a voice by typing responses (great for those that are shy/unable to communicate in person).
– Con’s: can be time consuming to learn, students need devices to access the technology which may not be available. - Immersive Reader
– Pro’s: offers extra support for struggling readers, can change background colour (to help dyslexia, etc), colour code parts of speach (ie: nouns, verbs, etc.), translation (for esl students), choose the reading speed, there’s a Google Chrome extension,
– Con’s: students can become dependent on the technology, Microsoft Office is expensive, - Nearpod
– “Real-time insights into student understanding through interactive lessons, interactive videos, gamification, and activities — all in a single platform.” – Nearpod Website
– Pro’s: white board available on screen, virtual field trip presentation, assessment options, multiple ways to engage with students, student-paced instruction, supports immersive reader, allows audio submissions, require student answers, student can take notes, assign assignments through Google Classrooms, can add a co-teacher, view and receive report of student responses.
– Con’s: Requires individual technology, devices may be a distraction, does not support Canva,
– Risks: Presentation and assessment is online, American-based material.
Supporting Diverse Learners with Technology:
This presentation highlighted four very different technologies that can be used to support diverse learners. Some were really expensive/advanced technologies and others were free, simple apps for very young children. My biggest take away is that technology comes in many price points and in many forms and useful for all ages.
Seeing AI (an app):
- An app on your phone that describes the people, text and objects within the camera view.
- Pro’s: free, speak to text, easy to use, scans documents and creates a digital/workable document, really helpful for students with
- Con’s: digital sounding voice
Eye Gaze Technology:
- Works by tracking eye movemnts
- Pro’s: really beneficial for students who have physical limitations (ie: cerebral palsy), easy to use, allows independence, can help with diagnosing eye problems, educational games, typing, etc, great for all ages (toddlers to adults find it incredibly useful).
- Con’s: VERY expensive (thousands of dollars)
Immersive Reader:
- “Immersive Reader provides options for a comfortable and easy to process experience by allowing you to listen to the text read aloud or adjust how text appears by modifying spacing, color and more.” – Microsoft Team
- Pro’s: free
- Con’s: need headphones,
Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame Street (Ages 2-5):
“This is a resource app for you to share with your child to help teach skills such as problem solving, self-control, planning, and task persistence. Laugh and learn as you help a Sesame Street monster friend calm down and solve everyday challenges. This bilingual (English and Spanish), research-based app helps your child learn Sesame’s “Breathe, Think, Do” strategy for problem-solving. Tap and touch to help the monster friend take deep breaths, think of plans, and try them out! Your child will enjoy silly animations and playful interactions as she is exposed to important emotional vocabulary, a calm breathing technique, personalized encouragements, and more!” – From the Apple app store