Technology and Learning

Yesterday, we had Dave Eisenmann , a technology director and speaker from Minnetonka come to our school and talk to our 7-12 graders about technology, being safe and smart online, and leaving a positive digital print.  HE WAS FABULOUS!  He didn't lecture the kids, he didn't tell them they are doing dumb things and stop.  He encouraged them to continue to use the technology for positive things and outcomes. He started out by explaining to kids that technology is like a game or slot machine; it has the addiction piece to it, which makes it hard to stop using and put it down.  We have to make a conscious effort to be present where we are, and put away the technology once in a while. He further went on to remind the kids of the changes that are taking place and that technology is the way everything is and pretty much how everything works.  It was neat because he used polls throughout the presentation for kids to answer, and I think they were surprised b...

I had my monthly tech integration session at Lakes Country in Fergus yesterday and learned about a few new sites:)!!  They are ones I haven't seen so I thought I might share: 1. Dollar Street : This site is a compilation of photos take from different countries at different socioeconomic levels.  You will notice that there's a slider going from left (poorest) to right (richest).  You can choose "what" you would want to see, and it will filter out and show you based on monthly income.  This was an EYE OPENER!!  What a great way to "show" kids what they have and what others do or don't as well. 2. Classroom Screen : I know at first this one seems like, "Why would I use that?"  BUT, after playing with it for a while I REALLY like it and find that I would constantly have it on my screen in my room while the kids were working independently!!  You can have a timer, use a random name chooser, show the clock, have a stop light, sound level, etc....

I have totally forgotten about this website until TODAY - so I hope you are STILL USING IT!  DO NOT forget about Apps Gone Free !  This website lists apps daily that are free for a limited time.  This is a great way to get apps and check out particular ones before you think they might be worth purchasing, OR to just get for free for your personal devices - remember to check it daily - as clearly I haven't in a while;)! Happy Thursday all, Mrs I:)