So Proud!

Over these past three days, I have been reminded again as to how FORTUNATE I am to have such GREAT co-workers.  One of my favorite events to attend each year is the Christa McAuliffe Technology Conference, held in Manchester, NH. This year, I had asked three staff members if they were willing to present the technology tools that they were using in their classrooms. Without a hesitation they all agreed that it would be a very rewarding experience.  Bedford High School teachers really strive to make their curriculum relevant, current, and engaging; which is why I felt it was important for the following three educators to share their stories with others.

 On Tuesday, November 27, Jill Pearson presented on how she is communicating with high school students in the 21st century. She shared how social media sites such as Twitter, Edmodo, TodaysMeet, and Wikis are implemented in her curriculum. To view all of the resources that she shared, click HERE.  Jill can be found on Twitter @JPearsonfilm.

On Wednesday, November 28, Robby Zeller presented how he is not only collaborating with his students using Google Apps for Education, but more importantly, how he is doing it efficienctly.  Robby created a Google site that contains some information and samples of how he utilizes Google Apps in his curriculum; which can be found HERE.  Robby can also be found on Twitter @Monsieurzeller.

On Thursday, November 29, Karrie Welch presented how she is using the iPads in her Life Skills program.  She stressed that most of the apps, with the exception of two of them were free and that with one iPad, many important tasks can be accomplished.  All of Karrie's resources and Google Presentation can be found HERE.  Karrie is also on Twitter, @Karrielwelch

(Amanda Benware also presented on her own regarding Web 2.0 Tools she uses in her mathematics courses.  Andrew Digi and Kevin Munroe share some science lessons during their session on Monday night.  Ryan Keller and Linda Pomery shared their experience with using the Reading Plus Program this year; a program that helps students with their reading comprehension.  Even though I did not co-present with these staff members, I am just thrilled that they agreed/decided to also share their experiences with others!)

Bedford High School, sure had a GREAT representation at the conference!

In all three cases, participants commented how they enjoyed the presentation either through verbal or written feedback.  I could not have been any more proud of them.  Little do they know, I learned a great deal from them.  They have inspired me to continue doing what I do...that is to learn about what the next tool or app is or how to be more efficient with the tools that are already at our disposal.  I feed off of their energy and excitement!  Thanks for a great three days!

Taking Art Work to the 'Next Level'

It is not often that I get to help integrate technology in art classes but I was thrilled to work with two art classes so far this year (photograph and IB art).  Every year, some of our students are able to submit art work at the Deerfield Fair to be judged against other students across the state.  This year, we (to include Mrs. Hogan and Mrs. Tuttle) decided to take their art work to the next level by adding QR codes.

Students first quickly learned what a QR code was.  The purpose of this code for this particular project was to act as their voice for others to learn more about what the artwork represented.  How many times have you actually gone to an art gallery or art show and thought to yourself, 'What the heck was this artist thinking?' or 'I don't get it!'  By having a QR code next to the art work, people were able to use their mobile devices to scan and either read or listen about what the author had to say.  Below are two different approaches that students could take...

Written Reflection:
1.  Students write a reflection of the artwork using Google Docs
2.  Sharing permissions of document must be changed to 'anyone with the link'
3.  Copy the URL of the public Google Doc
4.  Paste URL at QR code generator website:  qrstuff.com
5.  Download the QR code to print

Audio Reflection:
1.  Students create a free account with Audioboo.com
2.  Practice the reflection before recording
3.  Record the audio file
4.  Copy the URL of the public audio file

5.  Paste URL at QR code generator website:  qrstuff.com
6.  Download the QR code to print
** NOTE:  It is important to note that the audio file cannot be longer than 3 minutes as that is all that is allowed in the free version of Audioboo.  This is a good practice for students to really think about what they are going to say and say it efficiently.

 

Word of caution...students will want to make sure that they shrink the size of the QR code so that the QR code does not overshadow their wonderful artwork.  You also do not want people to have to stand a half a mile away from the QR code so that they will be able to scan it!

  

This is just one quick example of how QR codes can be used in an educational setting.  If you are curious as to how you can integrate this time of tech tool, come on down and see me!  You just might be surprised as to what can be done...

Creating Professional Slideshows in No Time with Animoto

Animoto is a great web 2.0 tool that allows you to create a professional looking slide show with very little effort.  What a bonus!  

Teachers are encouraged to create a free educational account, which grants the teacher the ability to create slideshows that are longer than 30 seconds.  Also, with this account, the teacher is able to give out 50 free student accounts so that students also have the ability to create longer Animotos for free.  It is important to know that the code expires within 30 days of activation of creating the account.  The teacher also has to reapply every 6 months.  What is also nice about this service, is the ability to download the video off of the internet so that you will always have your slideshows that you have created!

This web tool has been my 'go to tool' regarding anything relating to school functions.  Just recently, we had our Fall Pep Rally and I used this tool to create a slideshow for the school community to enjoy.  It is a great way to document any event!  Below is the Animoto that was created from our Pep Rally.





The World Religions Class, in the past, has even had to create their own Animoto when they took a field trip to Boston.  This was the students way of documenting the information that they learned over the course of the day.  It provided a fun way of showcasing that information.  

It is very easy to create an Animoto slideshow:

• Log into your account
• Choose a theme/background
• Choose music that will be played in the background
• Upload your pictures and videos (these videos are short - Animoto will only play 10 seconds of a video but you are able to choose what 10 seconds you want!)
• Include any text that you want
• Produce your video

Within no time, Animoto will send you an email letting you know that the video is produced.  You are then able to embed the video on any website, or let people know of your accomplishment through social media.  

If this sounds interesting for you, whether for professional or personal reasons, you should create a free account.  And as always, if you have any questions regarding this web 2.0 tool, just ask!

Creative Use of Technology for Open House

Mrs. Sarsfield, a spanish teacher, came in with a dilema regarding open house this year.  Due to the fact that the date was changed and that she now had an away game to attend, she was caught in a bind.  She did not want to be one of those teachers who just puts up a piece of paper on her door saying, 'I am sorry that I am not here.' and leave her email address for parents to contact her.

Instead, she wanted to some how 'tape herself' for the parents to view what she had to say.  Long story short, we decided that a web 2.0 tool would work great...Voki that is.  For those of you who do not know what Voki is, it is a website where you are able to create an avatar that speaks to the viewer.  Basically, you create the avatar, as well as the background.  Then, you can either type the text or speak the words that you want the avatar to say.  (We had some slight issues with the speaking component so Mrs. Sarsfield ended up typing all of the text).  The best part about it is when you move the mouse around, the eyes follow it!

There are some limitations to the free version but it was still worth the time and energy it took to making a Voki.  For instance, Mrs. Sarsfield could not use the original avatar that she made look like her, unless she wanted to pay for a teacher license.

Mrs. Sarsfield plans on providing strips of paper outside of her classroom encouraging her parents to visit her website to listen to the Voki that she created for each of her classes.  She provided a direct link as well as a QR code for parents.  (Mrs. Sarsfield took the embed code of each of the Vokis to place them on her website.)  Click HERE to view from her website

I think that this a GREAT way of using technology.  It shows the parents that Mrs. Sarsfield still does care and, in my mind, shows her creative and thoughtful side.  If you would like some thoughts on how you can use a bit of technology during open house, whether you will be there in person or not, just let me know! 

Have you tired a 'smore' lately?

This summer I was exposed to a new web 2.0 tool called Smore when I attended the ISTE conference in San Diego.  This tool reminds me of blogs in that information can be placed in a linear format.  This tool can be used to announce an activity or event, promote a product, or to just share information through a flyer format.  Sure there are tools out there already that can do the same thing Smore can, but it is a great option for students and teachers who tend to view things linearly and enjoy an easy template.  Smore has the ability to easily embed YouTube video, upload pictures and include text.  It is very easy to change the background and layout as well.  I also like how Smore lets you know how many times someone has viewed your Smore flyer.

I decided to try this tool out in two different ways.  One was for a class that I co-taught with Mary Marotta @mmarotta on Mobile learning pertaining to apps for the iPad.  This Smore can be viewed HERE.  The second was for a beginning of the school year presentation to the staff about our network in the building and their responsibility regarding using the internet.  This Smore can be viewed HERE.  I also worked with Mrs. Cooney @BHSCooney, our Leadership teacher, with providing Smore as a possible web 2.0 tool option for a project on leadership traits.  To view one students' example, click here.

I do recommend at least looking at this tool to see if I might work for you!  As always, let me know if you have any questions regarding this tool!

EdCamp Boston 2012

EdCamp Boston

Yesterday, I attended my very first Edcamp Unconference in Boston at the Microsoft building in Cambridge with Matt McDonald @BHSMcD.  The building itself was beautiful and the views of the Charles river were even better.

I must say that I had a BLAST!  I absolutely loved the whole concept of an unconference.  For those of you who do not know what this is, it is a conference that is basically run by the participants who are attending.  There are not exhibitors trying to sell to you their products.








The coolest part of the conference is that the schedule of sessions is actually created right there on the spot.  It just so happened that I ended up co-presented with three people I meet from Plymouth South High School in MA.  We had a discussion about what Senior Project looks like at each school.  It was great to be able to bounce ideas off of each other.  Had a blast presenting with Allison @allisonshaver, Eric @erikmwalker and Kate @K8JHughes.

The day also provided a great means of meeting people that I have been following virtually for sometime as well as catching up with good friends and colleagues, like Mary Marotta @mmarotta and Lauren @LaurenMarotta27.

I highly recommend to all educators to attend one of these events.  It is a cool experience that I know I will participate in again.  Thanks to all of the organizers who made EdCamp Boston possible!

Have You ifttt Yet?

I heard about this web tool awhile ago but really did not do anything with it until this spring break.  ifttt is short for "If this, then that."  Click HERE for direct access to the website.  The concept is very simple.  In fact, the slogan on the main page of ifttt is "Put the internet to work for you!"  Basically, there are about 2 dozen 'channels' or accounts that you can choose from to connect to one another.  Such channels are Twitter, Blogger, Gmail, Evernote, Dropbox, Linkin, Google Reader, etc.  There are thousands of 'recipes' that you choose from to connect accounts together.  For instance, lets say anytime you have favorited a tweet from your Twitter account, you can have ifttt send that favorited tweet directly to your Evernote account for you to access at another time. (If I favorite a tweet, then send to Evernote). Another example would be, If I add a blog post to my blogger account, then tweet it out from my Twitter account automatically. Another one could be, if it will rain tomorrow, then send me an email. The possibilities are endless.  This application most definitely can do all of the work for you to make your life easier.  I HIGHLY recommend you check out this tool if you have not done so already. It really is awesome.

Did I Say That YOU Can Make Your Own APP?

This website came to my attention this week by Deb Rodd, a coworker of mine in the Bedford School District.  With this website, you are able to create a FREE web app that can be downloaded to any smart phone.  Thus, you will not find the apps that I created on the Apps store or the Android Market.  (That is not to say that I could not take it to the next level and pay money to make it an app.)  The best part?...A person does not need to have the iPhone or the Droid.  This app will work on any smart phone, iPod touch, iPad, or browser.  No one is left out!

HOW IT WORKS:

• You create a FREE account through mobile conduit.
• You determine the look and components of the app to share the necessary information you want to provide.
• You publish the App and provide the website for people to access the App.
• People determine how they want to view the App.
• They can Scan the QR code
• They can provide an email to download the App.
• They can add the App as a browser app.

Two apps have been created thus far.  We have the official BHS App as well as the BHS Tech Integration App.  To view and download these apps, click on the links below.

BHS App

This app provides users access to:

• Hagen's Blog
• Twitter Feeds (Bedford High School as well as BHSUnleashed)
• Bedford High School Facebook Page
• Daily Announcements
• School Information (as well as link to website)
• School Calendar
• BHS YouTube Channel

BHS Tech Integration App

This app provides BHS teachers access to:

• Sheil's twitter feed (public twitter feed used for instructional purposes)
• Tech Happenings Blog
• BHS Tech Website
• (And more to come)

This possibilities are endless with this COOL tool.  You can link Twitter and Facebook accounts, YouTube channel, Calendars, RSS feeds, as well as create custom pages.  Anyone who has the app can view the Twitter or Facebook feeds regardless if they have accounts on either platform.

This application can be used for multiple purposes.  Teachers could create their own app to provide students a quick way of finding necessary information for their class.  If a teacher were to take this approach, he/she would have to keep in mind the importance of not linking personal accounts to the App.

To get started, visit the website.  Beware however, as it will take an entire evening of your time!

If you have any questions regarding this cool tool, you know where to find me.  A possible training will be in the near future for anyone interested.

Comic Making...

We all love comic strips and apparently students at BHS do as well.  Over the past couple of weeks students have been creating their own comic strips in their classes with the help of a program called Comic Life.  With this program, students are able to create a comic feel by easily adding color, text bubbles, pictures, and more.  The great thing about this program is that you can make as many pages as you want for the comic.


In Ms. Ciras's class, students were asked to write a story in Spanish.  Rather than having them just type the story and turn in the essay, she had the students use their creativity to turn that story into an engaging comic strip.  Some students actually drew their own pics and used Photo Booth to take a picture of their picture.  These images where then added to the comic strip.  While I might not be an expect in speaking and understanding spanish, this project was a great way of seeing students express their creativity.  Below is a screen shot of on groups comic strip.

In Mrs. Cooney's Psychology class, students used comic life to create a poster on a particular disorder. In this case, not all students were necessarily using the program to create a comic stripc.  Some used the program as a means of making a digital poster.  This was an alternative to using Glogster.  I am not saying that Comic Life is better than Glogster, it is just a different alternative.

Lastly, I have been using Comic Life for creating instructions on using particular software.  At times, documented instructions can look and appear boring.  This program would be a great alternative and more engaging for people in following instructions.  And if you are worried that not everyone has this program, you could always during your Comic Life product into a PDF so that everyone is able to open your masterpiece.

If you have never used the program before, I encourage you to at least try it.  You will be surprised at how easy it is to use the program.  For those of you who are iPad owners, you can also buy their app for $4.99.  I think I just might do it.

Again, if you would like help using the program or getting ideas, you know where you find me.

Back Channeling in the Educational Setting

Last week, Mrs. Pearson decided to take a chance and explore implementing a back channel into her lesson.  For those of you who are unfamiliar with back channeling, it is a place for participants to communicate with each other in real time.  This conversation happens in the background while participants are listening to a lecture, lesson, or presentation.  Back channels tend to be popular at some presentations at a conference.

As a result of this, Mrs. Pearson and I decided to attempt back channeling during one of her lessons.  We decided to use TodaysMeet, a back channel service.  Click HERE to view the actual website.  Mrs. Pearson created her back channel in minutes.

Students were tasked to watch a particular film in the film studies class.  Rather than students taking their own notes, they were tasked to participate in a back channel and take notes as a whole class.  In the channel, students were to ask any questions that they had as well as include information that they found in the movie that was important to remember.  To help with the process, students were informed how to include information.

Depending on what they saw, depended on how they started their comment.  If they saw something pertaining to stereotyping, they started the message with ST:.  If they saw an overlaying message, they started the statement with MS:.  This really helped seeing as though they only had 140 characters for each comment.  Also, this will help when the class goes back to view the transcript as they are able to search through the comments with ease.  Students will need to do this as they have to reflect on the movie by writing their own paper.

There are positives and negatives to using this service.

Advantages:

• No account is needed
• No invitation is needed
• Easy access to back channel (only need the URL)
• Has a twitter feel to it (140 character messages)
• Information is updated in real time
• Students are used to social media
• Creator of the back channel determines how long the channel stays active
• A transcript is saved during the entire time the channel is open.
• Participants to go back to channel at any time.

Disadvantages:

• No account is needed which means that anyone can enter and add information to the channel if they have the URL.  This means they could 'act' as someone else without anyone knowing
• If you forget the URL, you are unable to get back to the channel
• Need internet access

Mrs. Pearson and I were very surprised and happy at how well this lesson went.  Students were engaged the whole time.  It even turned into a 'competition' as each student wanted to get their thoughts in before anyone else.  We also felt as though students were paying more attention to the movie since they were watching/reading the channel as well.  We both were very proud of the students.

Regardless if you are wondering how this could be implemented into your curriculum or already have an idea, I ask that you see me first.  It is important that students hear some important information regarding the back channel.  Students must clearly understand that the channel is open to anyone and must participate appropriately.

This is a great web 2.0 tool that you will find engages students!

iMovie Galore

Over the past couple of weeks, I have been involved movie making with students through the application iMovie.  The best part was the fact that these projects were being implemented in multiple disciplines.  Read up on who our bulldogs are doing in their classes.  Who knows?  You might get inspired...

Projects

World Languages
Third year American Sign Language students were tasked with creating an iMovie showcasing a particular famous deaf person.  While some students had created an iMovie product before, this was their first time making one in this fashion.  Students had to sign the entire time.  In addition, they were not able to have any sound effects in the back ground.  In a way, this project took away the 'extras' and truly forced them in being creative in other means.  In addition, students had to make sure that they were not signing too quickly for the eyesight on the laptops and were wearing colors that allowed the viewer to see all of their motions.  This project was done individually.

French II classes were creating movies to convince people to visit their region of France.  They had to do some research prior to filming to get an understanding of what was important about their region.  Filming was completed and students quickly learned how to edit their clips using iMovie.  This was a group project.

Science
For their midterm, the forensics class had to create a movie looking into a forensics file.  Students had to again do some research and look at a crime scene to figure things out.  These students learned about how to create a green screen in PhotoBooth to make it look like they were someplace else.  With one particular scene, one group even convinced me that they were actually someplace else.  What was cool was the fact that some groups were able to also film some of their scenes using either their iPod touch or iPhone.  Students did not have to rely on using equipment from the library.  Students did however need a quick lesson as to how to get the clips from their devices to the laptop computer.  This was a group project.

Wellness
The Extreme Sports class filmed themselves while they were experimenting and ride on trails over the course of the semester.  On sunny days, these students would film each other doing tricks and riding by taking different shots.  These clips were then mashed together to produce a final product on days that was not good enough to ride outside.


In each of these cases, there was engagement.  Students were excited and truly wanted to create some great products.  Students even learned new tools with film editing.  If I had to bet, the movies will be one of those memories that they will have coming out of these courses.  While it can take up a lot of instructional time to create good movie products, in the long run, I find it worthwhile.

I must admit that I really did not know much about iMovie prior to taking this job, as making movies really was not my passion.  I myself learned a lot from helping each of these classes.  Who knows, maybe I will be coming a big movie star...

If you would like to chat about how you can implement a project like this in your class, you know where to find me.  Also, on the my tech website, you are able to find instructions that Kerri made that walk you through how to use iMovie.

New Year - New Goals

It sure has been a while since I have last blogged...Almost two months to be exact.  Regardless, seeing as though it is a new year, it is time for me to focus on some goals to work towards.  There are three main technology tools that I truly want to undertake for the remaining of the school year.

1.  Explore Googles
While I consider myself as one of Google's cheerleaders, there are still some aspects of Google that I am not fully confident in.  I would like to explore some of the gadgets and charts in Google Spreadsheets as well as looking more into what can be accomplished in Google Sites.  I also would like to showcase student work through the use of Google Sites for the school.

2.  Explore iPads
I purchased my first iPad last August and only now am I actually using my iPad.  More and more staff members at BHS have their own.  This has now forced me to look into the capabilities that this device has for educational purposes.  This will be a huge task, but one that I really look for to.

3.  Infographics
Last November, I attend the Christa McAuliffe conference in Manchester.  One of the sessions that I attended pertained to infographics.  I had never heard of these prior to this session.  Over the past couple of weeks, I have seen more and more of them on the web.  While these infographics look challenging, I feel as though they are worthwhile.

So, I challenge you to giving yourself a technology goal between now and the end of the school year.  What is your focus going to be?  (Don't forget, I can help you with reach your goal!)

Hope all have been enjoying the beginning of 2012.