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...