Join Me This Summer for Shake Up Learning’s Summer Learning Series!

This summer, Shake Up Learning is proud to present our Summer Learning Series with a total of 15 empowering sessions designed to elevate your teaching and integrate the latest educational technologies into your classroom.

This is going to be so fun, and so easy breezy! Instead of spending hours on end sitting in an all-day workshop, why not join us during a time that is convenient for you? Access our sessions from YouTube (with ads) or from the Shake Up Learning ALL ACCESS PD Pass (ad-free) and pick up your professional learning credit certificates!

We’ve gathered some of the most innovative and inspiring educators to guide you through a variety of topics that promise to invigorate your teaching methods and enhance your pedagogical practices.

Summer Learning Series Featured Sessions and Expert Insights

Jon Corippo will help you revolutionize your teaching approach with “Teach Better and Work Less for FREE with EduProtocols,” showing you how to maximize student engagement with minimal effort.

Tom Mullaney demystifies the often overwhelming world of AI in “AI Vocabulary For Teachers,” giving you the tools to understand and effectively implement AI technologies in your teaching.

In my own session, I (Kasey Bell) will take you through “My Cautious Approach to AI.” I’ll share my personal insights on the complex landscape of artificial intelligence in education, discussing the ethical, pedagogical, and developmental considerations that come with integrating AI into K-12 classrooms. Join me as we explore a balanced framework for responsibly harnessing AI’s potential, ensuring that it enriches learning experiences without compromising the integrity and well-being of students.

Kim Voge will simplify your teaching strategies in “Teaching: Simplified with Routines and the 4 C’s,” where she promotes a student-centered, efficient classroom environment.

Pam Hubler provides a creative toolkit in “Canva Creations: Elevating Education with Visual Magic,” offering innovative ways to engage students with visually compelling educational materials.

Susan Vincentz offers essential “Google Time Saving Tips for Efficiency,” perfect for educators looking to streamline their use of Google Tools.

Stephanie Howell energizes your classroom with “Amp Up Your Teaching,” introducing over 20 strategies to enhance student engagement and curiosity.

Full Schedule and Registration

We have a robust lineup that covers a broad spectrum of educational topics. Below is the full schedule of the 15 sessions, ensuring you can find topics that resonate with your educational needs and interests.

CLICK HERE to open the schedule in a new window.

How to Register

Are you ready to enjoy summer PD from the comfort of your home, your patio, or anywhere you want? Spots are filling up quickly, so be sure to secure your place today!

Registration is FREE! Just fill out the form below.

Join us at Shake Up Learning this summer to not just learn, but transform and invigorate your teaching. I look forward to exploring these exciting educational frontiers together!

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post PD on the Patio: Fun Sessions…anywhere you want! appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

Get ready for some fantastic news from Texthelp—your go-to for making learning accessible and joyful for every student.

Over the last decade, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with Texthelp on numerous occasions.

Time and again, they’ve proven themselves as a steadfast ally in our shared mission to make education accessible for all students. I deeply respect their dedication to developing practical, free resources for educators.

They’ve whipped up three incredible guides packed with expert tips to spice up your teaching.

From easy-peasy captioning tricks to making lessons visually vibrant and beyond, these resources are game-changers.

Whether you’re looking to enhance reading skills or make content more engaging for every learner, these guides have got you covered.

Dive in and watch your classroom transform into a place where learning knows no bounds.

This blog post is sponsored by Texthelp.

3 Essential Guides for Teachers: Adapting Instruction to Every Student Ability

by Mary Pembleton from Texthelp

As an accessible technology company, Texthelp is always looking for ways to support educators with the diverse learning needs in their classrooms.

To help, our content team recently asked five experts to share their best tips: a researcher, two teachers turned education journalists, an accessibility consultant, and one AT specialist.

Get the Guides!

They gave us excellent advice, and from it, we created three downloadable guides:

• A guide about inclusive reading instruction
• A guide to supporting English Language learners in general education classrooms
• A guide to essential accessibility practices in schools and classrooms.

…with more on the way.

These guides include advice for administrators and MTSS teams, loads of research studies, and lots of quick tips for educators who need simple ways to adapt grade-level instruction to the different levels of abilities, backgrounds, and needs in their classrooms.

Below are six of their best tips. To gain more, head over to the Texthelp website to get the complete guides delivered to your inbox.

1. Turn on captions when teaching as another way for students to take in information.

It’s easy, free, and super-supported by research. 

Turn on live captioning in Google Slides as a visual aid in the classroom, even if you aren’t using a slide deck to teach.

Who it benefits, and how:

• Learners who are deaf/hard of hearing by allowing them access to the content in an alternative way
• English Language Learners by helping with pronunciation, language acquisition, and comprehension
• Learners who are learning to read by increasing exposure to print and building literacy skills
• All learners by improving comprehension, attention, and memory of the video content

How to do it:

• To display the captions in a captioned video, simply click the “CC” button.
• To add live captions to any lesson you teach verbally, you can enable live captions with one quick adjustment in Google Slides.

Here’s how to set up live captions in a Google slide presentation: 

1. Ensure your computer’s microphone is on
2. Click or enable “Present” in Google Slides
3. At the bottom left of your screen, select “More options.”
4. Click “Captions Preferences”
5. Toggle captions on.

Now, when you speak, live captions will appear on your screen or smartboard.

For more information about live captioning options in Google Slides, visit the “Present slides with captions” section of the Google Help Center here.

2. Teach with a microphone. 

Remote Microphone Systems were created for people who have difficulties hearing, and are often used as an assistive technology in the classroom.

Casual microphone use by a classroom educator should never replace necessary assistive technology support. However, the voice amplification offered by any microphone could be a helpful tool for engaging students who have trouble with listening, students with autism, and lend a hand with classroom management.

Pair sound amplification with free live captioning in Google Slides, listed above, for added benefit. 

3. Have students record themselves reading, and listen back to it.

To help learners of all abilities with their reading skills, ask them to record themselves reading a text out loud and then listen back to it. This helps struggling readers, beginning readers, and ELLs improve their reading fluency. 

4. Use visuals to supplement instruction automatically. 

Including visuals in your instruction is a great way to build understanding in all learners, particularly EL Learners and learners with autism, who benefit from the easily understandable additional context of visuals.

To empower learners with one-click visuals while reading, try Read&Write’s visual dictionary tool. Learners can click on an unfamiliar word in a text, and the visual dictionary feature will give them a picture to help them understand it.

Related: How to Create a Dynamic Reading Experience

5. Give everyone the same required readings, and show students how to adjust the reading level.

Rewordify is a free tool that allows learners to automatically adjust the reading level in any text to adapt any digital content to their ability.

Read&Write also offers a Rewordify feature, which allows students to adjust their reading levels wherever they are reading. 

6. Play an audiobook while having students read along from a physical text.

Complex texts and grade-level content benefit all learners, but are also not accessible to everyone. One way to normalize accommodations and make content accessible to everyone in class is to play an audiobook while students read along with a physical text.

Another benefit is that bimodal presentation, or providing both audio and written forms simultaneously boosts processing speed and information recall.

For additional ways to make learning more accessible to everyone in class, visit the Texthelp website’s Tier 1 is for Everyone page.

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post 3 Essential Guides for Teachers: Adapting Instruction to Every Student Ability appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

Excited for fresh, cost-free professional development opportunities? Look no further! Introducing Volume 4 of the Podcast PD Choice Board for Teachers!

Building on the success and feedback from previous volumes, we’re thrilled to offer this new edition as a tool to inspire and facilitate your journey through the world of podcasts for professional learning.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding, explore new strategies, or just find some inspiration, this choice board has something for every educator.

With the Shake Up Learning Show Podcast now boasting over two hundred episodes covering a wide array of educational topics, it’s the perfect time to launch Volume 4 of the Podcast PD Choice Board.

This latest choice board is designed to cater to a variety of interests and professional development needs, featuring an even broader selection of topics, including the latest in ai in education, google tools, and much more.

Whether you’re exploring these resources on your own, or you’re involved in providing professional development for others, this choice board is versatile enough to be adapted and utilized in many different contexts.

And for those who love customizing their PD tools, we’ve included a blank template, allowing you to tailor the choice board to fit your specific needs or those of your organization.

Explore, learn, and transform your professional practice with the Podcast PD Choice Board (Vol. 4)!

Did you miss our previous Podcast PD Choice Board releases?

• Volume 1
• Volume 2
• Volume 3

Podcast PD Choice Board Vol. 4 (FREE Template)

If you are new to choice boards (aka learning menus), be sure you get your FREE Guide to Digital Choice Boards and learn all about these wonderful tools for student choice and differentiation.

I love using choice boards in the classroom AND in professional learning experiences.

Below is the Podcast PD Choice Board Vol. 4 (made with Google Drawings) with many episodes from which to choose!

Click Here to Make a Copy | Use the Template

Don’t have Google? Download the PDF: Podcast PD Choice Board for Teachers (Vol. 4)

Podcast PD Choice Board Blank Template

If you’d like to create your own from scratch, I’ve created a blank template that you can use below.

Click Here to Make a Copy | Use the Template (best for mobile)

Want Credit for Listening to Podcasts?

We’ve got an exciting option for educators interested in receiving credit for their professional development hours through podcast listening! Join the ALL ACCESS PD Pass at Shake Up Learning. This exclusive pass offers a structured way to earn credit while you learn, making it perfect for teachers who want to document their PD efforts and apply them toward their professional growth.

The ALL ACCESS PD Pass provides a comprehensive and flexible learning experience, allowing you to choose from a wide range of topics and episodes that fit your interests and needs. By joining, you not only gain access to a wealth of knowledge but also the opportunity to earn recognition for your commitment to ongoing professional development.

Take your PD to the next level and ensure your learning is recognized. Join now and start earning credit for your podcast PD today!

With the ALL-ACCESS PD Pass, participants can access all of the Master Classes, Online Workshops, Podcast PD, and the Members-Only Library! (*excludes Google Certification Academies).

Includes:

• The AI-Powered Choice Boards Mini-Workshop
• The Google Classroom Master Class
• The Google Slides Master Class
• The Google Meet Master Class
• The Zoom Master Class
• The Dynamic Learning Workshop
• The Blended Learning with Google Workshop
• Includes access to ALL future master classes and workshops!
• Members-Only Library of ebooks and cheat sheets!
• Podcast PD (with credit certificates and new content each week!)
• More than 100 hours of PD credit (with more added soon)!
• More content added every year!
• LEARN MORE AND ENROLL!

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post Podcast PD Choice Board for Teachers Vol. 4 (FREE Download!) appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

Most teachers have never heard of the forgetting curve, first researched in the late 1800s by Frederic Ebbinghaus.

All teachers know that kids “lose” their academic skills over time (the summer slide?).

Jon Corippo has been riding the Ebbinghaus effect with spectacular success since 2001…scores go up 20 points daily, and retention is through the roof in his classes.

If you teach humans of any age in any subject, you need to know this pedagogy!

The Fast and Curious: A Teaching Strategy for 4X Retention

by guest author, Jon Corippo – 

If you visit any classroom in the world, you will see a version of this kind of workflow – students will do their assignment, on paper or digitally, or for a certain amount of time, usually 8-20 minutes. Teachers then “collect” the work, the collection process on paper taking from 1-3 minutes. Students then move to the next segment or leave class as the period is over or recess begins.

Does this sound familiar? Well, it turns out that this time-honored anachronism is just about the worst way you can teach. It’s comfortable, and it seems sensible, but the classic classwork model is out of sorts with what research says is the best way for humans to retain and lock learning into their long-term memory. And it turns out we actually have researched names for this learning that almost now educators are aware of in practice.

*Related: Eduprotocols: Customizable Lessons for Any Subject or Grade!

My learning on this subject started in 1999, yes, even before Y2K. I was getting ready to give my Latin Roots cumulative final for my 8th graders. We had been doing one unit per week, as is the norm. But this was the big show. Forty-five Latin roots all in one sitting. I knew that this test would result in a classic grade distribution (a bell curve). I decided to try something different with the goal of “busting the curve”.

Long story short: The lowest grade in the entire class was 83% percent, and the vast majority was 90% plus. I had no idea that I was actually using the Ebbinghaus effect and Ipsative learning in practice. In fact, I would hear neither of these terms for almost 20 years. Both were by accident.

Zoom forward twelve years. Still, before Kahoot, Gimkit, Quizizz or Blooket existed, and even Quizlet was just a flashcard tool. I had been working with some English teachers in San Jose, CA. To end the day, I asked if the teachers would like to try something with Latin Roots. They said, of course, they were English teachers, so they loved Latin Roots. So I launched them into an 11-question quiz into Socrative (I’d only done this on paper before), and they were stunned after the first round that they were only scoring 27% on average. How could this be?? They were English TEACHERS! I had played a little trick – these were more obscure Latin Roots from Michigan State. I asked if they would like to hear the answers. I quickly shared the most missed items (almost everyone had at least three correct) and then asked if they wanted to play again. 100% yes. They could not leave that score there.

We played again. 86%. They were still struggling on three. I reminded them of the correct answers. Want to play again? YES, they replied. We can get this. We are ENGLISH TEACHERS.

*Related: 15 Plug-and-Play Lesson Plans from Google

As the final round ended, we saw a class average score of 96% ( I think 2-3 questions were missed in total). I asked them how that felt. They were amazed that I had not “handed out” anything. They were amazed that there was no “set up” to the lesson and the direct instruction had been so brief. They were very satisfied with their growth, proud even. I pointed out the most important detail of all: the elapsed time from beginning to end was 14 minutes.

This was the birth of the EduProtocol called The Fast and Curious. I think it took another 2-3 years to give this process an actual name. I’ve done this exact same flow in over 400 classrooms and with groups as large as 120 second graders and up to 700 adults, all at once. The Fast and Curious Eduprotocol is like clockwork, entirely predictable in any class setting when the conditions are all met. It’s not been researched yet, but I consider it a phenomenon. Just like magnets are mysterious to us, we don’t know EXACTLY why it works, but when the conditions are met – we know what the result will be.

The Ebbinghaus Effect – The Forgetting Curve

Then, I bumped into the Ebbinghaus Effect by accident at about age 55. After over 20 years in education, I was Googling images to help explain repetitions. And there it was. Except it was called The Forgetting Curve. Also known as spaced repetitions. VERY popular in sports, fitness, and advertising. I think it’s underused in education because education speed and repetitions are frowned upon. But speed and reps are what power human attractions to Tetris, golf, and knitting. Luckily, I had already adopted a mindset of speed and reps in my class pedagogy, so I was able to see the beauty of The Forgetting Curve immediately. (To help shift your mindset, try reading 17 Ways Football is Better than High School by Herb Childress. Herb’s work explains why the same kids will not work in class and then go work super hard in football (or band or ag) one hour later. Circa 1998. We’ve known the answer for decades, but we can’t change the direction of the ship heading over the cliff.

The Ebbinghaus Effect says that if people do something four times over four days, their retention zooms from the low teens to the high 80% range. This is what happened on my Latin Roots quiz with my class: we did the test daily, with immediate feedback. So simple.

So here’s how I leverage the Ebbinghaus Effect/Forgetting Curve in my classroom:
Monday – here’s the quiz. Go. No pre-teach at all. Most classes will finish the first round in the 25-40% range. We’ve only been in class for 3 minutes. Then, I use the data immediately to read back the 3-5 most missed items. I try to give a mnemonic or an example of the missed items. Then we play again immediately. The score will typically bump up 20-25 points.

Tuesday – repeat.
Wednesday – repeat.
On Thursday, the class might be at 90%, and then we will do the final rep. Not there yet? We will play on Friday.

This phenomenon works in all subjects and grade levels. I’ve used it with 4-and-a-half-year-olds and school superintendents. I’ve had 400+ people who don’t speak Turkish at all move from 0% to 40% to 96% on Turkish foods in under 10 minutes.

Teachers will ask: aren’t they just memorizing? My response is that I’ve been waiting for my entire career to have kids memorize certain academic elements – and we’ve been trying all manner of failures on this: flashcards, memory games, crosswords, word searches, writing sentences, and more. The Fast and Curious is by far the best way for humans to memorize key/common terms and things like math facts. And they love playing it.

Here’s why kids aren’t gaining these skills in the normal “turn in your work” model. Humans crave feedback. And they want it fast. Why do we have all that sports data on screen now? Because people want to KNOW. And they want to know now. How fast was that pitch? How long was the hang time on that punt? What is the F1 car speed, when is he hitting the brake what’s his split lap time?

But in school – we put things in a box and wait. Sometimes, we never get a grade or any feedback. When we deny feedback, we interdict a basic human question: how did I do?

Ipsative Learning

I was doing the Fast and Curious in India, and Dr Sunita Gandhi said to me, “Well, isn’t this just ipsative learning? And I said….what’s that? She explained the basics of the idea. It’s learning from yourself. Just like in Solitaire. Or Pac-Man. You play. You get a score. You consider ways to get a better score. Then you play again. And again. You play over and over because you want a better score. What does the high score give you? Most of the time, nothing. It just feels good to be good – to beat the challenge.

I quickly realized that by not giving students immediate feedback, we were actually disenfranchising them from the game of school. No score, no curiosity. Their OCD never kicks in. Now that worksheet isn’t a quest – it’s a chore. As educators, we are not leveraging the ipsative nature of learning.

I returned to the classroom for one glorious year during the height of COVID. I had been doing a lot (hundreds) of Fast and Curious demos – but this class was a long-term study project. One of my students was very well known for his non-participation. He did nothing for the first four weeks of school – but slowly, I got his gamer side plugged into the games. He started playing; he rose up the ranks. At the end of the semester, we did the same 45-word Latin Roots quiz I used to do with my 8th graders. But now it was in Gimkit. On average, the students answered about 108 questions each on a quiz with 45 words. The class average was 92%. My non-participater ended up tops in the class – he’d answered 139 questions (doing the quiz almost three times in under 15 minutes), only missed five total questions, and beaten the entire class by thousands of dollars (you earn money in-game for going on winning streak and accumulating points).

Why don’t more teachers approach their class instruction this way? The Ebbinhaus Effect/Forgetting Curve and Ipsative learning are well known in all parts of our lives except for school. I believe we labor under the misconception that more time on a singular task is “better” learning when it turns out that 6 minutes a day is far more effective. I know that we think we need to grade “after school” on nights and weekends. It’s not actually the case. We assume that since educators are buried under mounds of paper, there’s no way we can do the assigned work three times more often; it’s just simply unthinkable.

Teachers will ask: Do kids retain information this way? Yes. In fact, they will retain it at a dramatically higher rate than seeing it once on a worksheet and then once on a test. Read up on The Ebbinghaus Effect – it’s been well-documented since the late 1800s.

We have massive amounts of teacher experience using the Fast and Curious pedagogical approach using our particular techniques to generate research-informed practices that are highly repeatable, as seen in the images accompanying this article.

If you are still reading this – try The Fast and Curious in any of your favorite CFU-type tools. Gimkit, Blooket, Wordwall.net, 99Math, and Quizizz are some of my favorites for this process. Give your kids (or adults) a random quiz on something they aren’t ready for. Go over their answers and play again. You’ll be amazed, and you’ll save a lot of work for yourself next week!

Looking ahead:
The EduProtocols Team is partnering with SG/DEVI Sansthan using these approaches with ALfA–Accelerating Learning for All, to take these pedagogies to schools in the United States.

Eduprotocols and ALfA hold the potential for not only far better academics but also far better self-concept, away from comparison with others, and to create a more humane world as well through greater collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking.

If you are intrigued, you can see many more EduProtocols like this at EduProtocolsplus.com and choose from one of our five books on Amazon.

Get Eduprotocols!

Grab a copy of one of Jon’s Eduprotocols books!

About Jon Corippo

Jon shares, speaks and leads educational professional learning for educators internationally. Jon has been named a County Teacher of the Year, 2019 Top 100 Educational Influencer, an NBSA 20 to Watch Educator, an Apple Distinguished Educator, Google Certified Innovator. Jon is the co-author of The Eduprotocol Field Guide, and The Eduprotocol Field Guide Book 2 (both Amazon #1 best-sellers) and contributor to the Eduprotocols Math Edition (another #1 Amazon best-seller!).

Jon also wrote the conclusion for the #1 Best Seller 100 STOP Series first edition.

Jon created the CUE Rock Star series (Rock Star Teacher, Admin, and Specialty events) and, as the former Chief Academic Officer and Executive Director of CUE, led and designed highly effective professional learning for over 60,000 educators.

Learn more about Eduprotocols here.

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post The Fast and Curious: Use this Teaching Strategy for 4X Retention! appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

In part two of this enlightening episode, Sarah Kiefer continues to share her invaluable insights on maximizing the potential of Google Sheets in the K12 classroom.

I often refer to Google Slides as the Swiss Army Knife of the Google suite of tools.
But an often overlooked tool that can really super-power your classroom and your lesson plans is Google Sheets.

This is the secret sauce, y’all!

In the second part of this series, our very own Shake Up Learning team member, Sarah Kiefer, spills the beans on her top Google Sheets templates, nifty lesson ideas, and some seriously cool ways to team it up with Google Forms.
You don’t want to miss this gem!

And don’t forget to check out Sarah’s awesome Google Sheets presentation that she created WITH Google Sheets!

Did you miss Part 1 of this amazing series? CLICK HERE

Listen to this episode:

Google Sheets in the Classroom (Part 2)

Google Sheets has evolved far beyond being just a spreadsheet tool; it’s a dynamic platform packed with potential for educators. In part two of Sarah Kiefer’s insightful podcast interview, we explore some of the ways Google Sheets can revolutionize the classroom, empower students, and enhance learning experiences.

Throughout this podcast series, we are exploring Sarah’s Google Sheets presentation that she recently shared with CyFair ISD.

Below is Sarah’s presentation.

Use the template link below to make a copy and save it to your Google Drive. (You can thank us later!)

Get a copy of Sarah’s Google Sheet! Template Link

Making Data Less Daunting

While Google Sheets might appear overwhelming, especially for students, Sarah emphasizes the importance of understanding the basics before diving into complex tasks. When students can grasp the essentials like creating a pie graph to show how many classmates prefer the color blue, the true potential of Google Sheets becomes more apparent.

*Related: New Smart Canvas Features in Google Docs and Sheets

Versatility of Google Forms

Google Forms are a versatile tool for education. They aren’t just for data collection; they can facilitate a wide range of tasks. From collecting basic student information to enabling surveys and applications, Google Forms can be a teacher’s Swiss Army knife. We can use Google forms for a myriad of purposes, from gathering parent information to tracking behavioral incidents.

Collaborative Data Collection and Sharing

Sarah also delves into how Google Sheets can aid in collaborative data collection. By creating a log of parent-student interactions, teachers can record and share important information with colleagues, counselors, and other relevant parties. This collective approach eliminates the need for hallway or lunchroom conversations, ensuring that vital information is shared effectively and efficiently.

*Related: Get Started with Conditional Formatting in Google Sheets

Digital Checkbooks and Financial Literacy

One practical example shared is the use of Google Sheets to teach financial literacy. A fourth-grade teacher came up with a brilliant idea to replace the traditional paper checkbooks used in a city simulation activity with a digital version. The experiment involved students learning to record transactions, calculate balances, and understand the basics of personal finance. Sarah shows us how Google Sheets can make learning practical life skills more engaging.

Encouraging Research and Source Evaluation

An important aspect Sarah highlights is the need to teach students how to conduct proper research and evaluate online sources critically. While technology advances rapidly, the importance of source vetting remains unchanged. A collaborative Google Sheet activity is introduced, where students contribute links to credible sources and provide justifications for their choices (Curation with Google Sheets). This activity is a great way to foster critical thinking, as it encourages students to explain why they believe a source is reliable.

Versatility and Depth of Google Sheets

Sarah acknowledges that the capabilities of Google Sheets extend far beyond what can be covered in a single podcast (or even two!). Its depth and versatility make it a tool that can grow with educators and students as they become more comfortable and proficient. Users are encouraged to explore the full potential of Google Sheets, recognizing that it offers so much more than what initially meets the eye.

Resources and Further Exploration

Don’t forget to explore the wonderful resources, templates, and examples available on Sarah’s websites, techyoucando.com, and templatesforteachers.com.

Whether it’s using Google Sheets with little learners or collaborating on projects with colleagues, there’s something for everyone. It’s all about gradually integrating these tools into your teaching repertoire as you become more familiar and comfortable with them.

Google Sheets has the potential to be an indispensable educational tool. By mastering the basics, teachers can gradually explore more advanced features and open up endless possibilities for creative and effective teaching methods. Sarah shows us how Google Sheets can transform the learning experience, making it more engaging and efficient while preparing students for a tech-driven world.

About Sarah Kiefer

Sarah Kiefer is a classroom technology teacher in a new district. She has spent the last 7 years supporting students and teachers use technology in meaningful ways and 14 years in the classroom before that. Sarah is a wife and mom to three daughters and blogs at www.TechYouCanDo.com.

Current Certifications: Google Certified Educator Level 1, Google Certified Educator Level 2, Google Certified Coach, Google Certified Trainer, Google Certified Innovator, Wakelet & WeVideo Ambassador; Mote Certified Educator; Master Screencaster.

Sarah’s most popular presentation topics: Google tools, Schoology, WeVideo, Wakelet

Work with us!– Bring Sarah or one of the Shake Up Learning Trainers to your school or event.

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post Empowering K12 Classrooms with Google Sheets (Part 2) – SULS0207 appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

In this episode, join Shake Up Learning team member Sarah Kiefer and me for Part 1 of an in-depth discussion on Google Sheets.

We dive into innovative approaches to harnessing the power of Google Sheets in K12 education.

We explore Sarah’s outstanding Google Sheets presentation, a tool crafted to enrich educators and students by strengthening their foundational grasp of Sheets and elevating their classroom learning experiences.

And stay tuned for Part 2 of this jam-packed series!

Listen to the full podcast episode:

This episode is sponsored by Kognity.

I’m so excited to take part in Engage by Kognity happening on November 9th! This full-day online event is packed with inspirational speakers and great sessions. Engage is created for anyone and everyone involved in High School Science Education and offers three different session tracks. The Science Pedagogy track, the Elevate Teaching track as well as a Leadership track. Make sure to catch my session: The Teacher’s Guide to Choice Boards: Empower & Engage Students! Also, don’t worry if you can’t attend live, you’ll get access to the recordings as well. If you sign up at kognity.com/engage using my code SHAKEUPLEARNING you can attend completely for free!

Empowering K12 Classrooms with Google Sheets (Part 1)

Google Sheets is often overlooked by educators and students, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach teaching and learning. In this episode, Sarah Kiefer shares her passion for using Google Sheets in the classroom and how it can be a game-changer. This blog post will take you through some key insights from the podcast and show you how to harness the full potential of Google Sheets in your teaching.

*Related: FREE Templates for Teachers: Where to Find Them and How to Create Them

Redefining Google Sheets

Google Sheets often conjures images of data collection and number crunching, which may not seem very exciting to most educators and students. However, Sarah Kiefer believes that Google Sheets can be a versatile and engaging tool for all ages. It’s not just about data; it’s about how you use it.

Sarah Kiefer had the opportunity to present on Google Sheets at a recent conference. Instead of creating a traditional slide deck, she decided to build her presentation entirely within a Google Sheet. This choice allowed her to showcase the versatility of Google Sheets beyond data collection. With this unique approach, she demonstrated that Google Sheets can be a dynamic tool for creating engaging classroom activities.

Get a copy of Sarah’s Google Sheet! Template Link

Creating a Google Sheets Presentation

The presentation Sarah created within Google Sheets is a testament to the application’s capabilities. She started with a cover sheet that resembled a typical presentation slide. She merged cells, inserted images, and added links, showcasing that Google Sheets can be as visually appealing and functional as other Google applications.

Mastering the Basics

Sarah understands that not everyone is familiar with the terminology and features in Google Sheets. That’s why she dedicated a tab to the basics, offering a comprehensive glossary of essential terms, toolbars, and tabs. This resource can serve as a cheat sheet for those new to Google Sheets or as a reference point for students.

*Related: 15+ Ways for Teachers to Use Google Sheets in the Classroom

Data Capture with Google Sheets

One common use of Google Sheets is data capture. Sarah shared a template used in her previous school district to collect and analyze data for incoming kindergarteners. The data capture sheet made it easy for teachers to input student information, and it could be accessed by grade-level teams and administrators. Google Sheets simplifies data management and provides a centralized location for collaborative efforts.

Google Forms Integration

Google Forms are often underutilized in conjunction with Google Sheets. Sarah highlighted the power of Google Forms for collecting data from students or team members. She emphasized the importance of planning your form to get the data you want and highlighted how Google Forms’ recent improvements make data visualization even more accessible.

Expanding the Possibilities

While Google Sheets excels at managing data, it offers much more. The presentation explores advanced functions like personalized email, Flippity activities, and creating to-do lists within Google Sheets. These features demonstrate the endless possibilities of Google Sheets for classroom activities.

More Coming in Part 2!

We couldn’t fit it all into ONE episode and blog post, so don’t miss the second half of Sarah’s ideas and resources!

Unleash the power of Google Sheets in your classroom and see the positive impact it can have on teaching and learning.

About Sarah Kiefer

Sarah Kiefer is a classroom technology teacher in a new district. She has spent the last 7 years supporting students and teachers use technology in meaningful ways and 14 years in the classroom before that. Sarah is a wife and mom to three daughters and blogs at www.TechYouCanDo.com.

Current Certifications: Google Certified Educator Level 1, Google Certified Educator Level 2, Google Certified Coach, Google Certified Trainer, Google Certified Innovator, Wakelet & WeVideo Ambassador; Mote Certified Educator; Master Screencaster.

Sarah’s most popular presentation topics: Google tools, Schoology, WeVideo, Wakelet

Work with us!– Bring Sarah or one of the Shake Up Learning Trainers to your school or event.

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post Empowering K12 Classrooms with Google Sheets (Part 1) – SULS0206 appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

In this episode, join Kasey in a captivating conversation with David L. Jackson, a seasoned education professional with a rich and diverse background spanning from classroom teaching to curriculum design and professional development leadership.

Discover the wealth of free online learning courses for educators offered through Verizon Innovative Learning HQ.

Also, gain insights into the upcoming Elevating Innovation Virtual Conference taking place next month, promising exciting opportunities for professional development.

Don’t let these outstanding PD prospects pass you by!

This episode is sponsored by Verizon.

To inspire tomorrow’s brightest minds, educators need today’s best tools. Introducing Verizon Innovative Learning HQ, an easy-to-use, free, online portal that empowers K-12 educators to bring new ways of learning into the classroom. The site offers hundreds of free standards-based ready to teach lesson plans, immersive educational experiences, and professional development courses to help educators learn new skills, feel more confident with technology integration, and have the opportunity to earn research-backed micro-credentials. FREE. New curricula is available from partners including Discovery Education, McGraw Hill, and NYU Also, don’t miss their professional development virtual conference with Digital Promise, Elevating Innovation, on November 7th, helping educators explore ways to integrate tech in the classroom. It’s all part of Verizon’s commitment to help close the digital divide. Start your journey at Verizon.com/shakeup. Visit the webinar page for more info and to register for Elevating Innovation.

Elevating Innovation in Education

In a world where education is constantly evolving, it’s crucial for educators to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations. One way to do this is by attending conferences and professional development opportunities, and one such event that’s making waves in the education community is the “Elevating Innovation Virtual Conference.” I had the privilege of speaking with David L. Jackson, the Associate Director of Learning Delivery at Digital Promise, about this exciting event and his unique journey in education.

*Related: Solving Mysteries on Mars: TimePod AR

David’s Journey

David’s journey in education is nothing short of remarkable. Raised by Jamaican immigrant parents, he was instilled with a deep appreciation for the value of education from a young age. His parents believed that education was the key to a better future, and they ensured that David prioritized reading, writing, and math. However, as he grew older, he began to question his place in the education system.

His perspective changed when he received a scholarship to attend Syracuse University, a transformative experience that broadened his horizons and ignited his passion for education. During his time studying abroad in Paris, he delved into the study of African-American literature and observed the differences in the education system between Paris and his hometown Miami, Florida. This experience reinforced his desire to make a difference in the lives of students who shared his background.

David eventually returned to his alma mater to teach, offering students a positive role model deeply committed to their education. Over the years, he taught various grade levels, including time in alternative education. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic compelled him to reflect on his impact on education. He sought to merge his passions and make a meaningful change in the ever-evolving digital education landscape.

Through a serendipitous discovery, he came across Digital Promise and felt an immediate connection. The organization’s mission resonated with him, prompting him to transition from the classroom to a role where he could be an agent of change in education.

Verizon Innovative Learning HQ: Micro-Credentials for Educators

David’s current role at Digital Promise involves managing the delivery of products at the Verizon Innovative Learning HQ. This platform offers educators a unique opportunity to earn micro-credentials and enhance their teaching and learning skills. Micro-credentials are a means to demonstrate competency in a specific skill or skill set. They are a testament to an educator’s expertise and dedication to professional development.

The Verizon Innovative Learning HQ provides a wide range of professional development opportunities that focus on leveraging technology while ensuring equitable and engaging learning experiences for students. Educators can select micro-credentials that align with their interests, needs, and career goals, allowing them to further their professional development at their own pace.

One of the most significant benefits of these micro-credentials is that they often qualify for continuing education units (CEUs) in various school districts. They provide an avenue for educators to enhance their teaching skills, improve student outcomes, and explore new teaching methodologies—all for free.

Get your FREE Verizon Innovative Learning HQ Account here.

Elevating Innovation Virtual Conference

The Elevating Innovation Virtual Conference is a unique event that brings together educators, school leaders, district officials, and experts in the field to explore the latest educational trends, share best practices, and connect with peers. The event serves as a collaborative space for individuals committed to enhancing the educational experience for students.

The conference aims to inspire and invigorate educators by providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to innovate in their classrooms. The free virtual conference takes place on November 7th, 2023, from 11 AM to 4 PM. However, if you’re unable to attend the live event, don’t worry! All sessions will be recorded and made available on the Verizon Innovative Learning HQ for free.

Register for the Elevating Innovation Conference here.

Conference Highlights

The Elevating Innovation Virtual Conference features a diverse lineup of speakers and partners, offering a wide array of topics and insights. Attendees can expect to gain fresh perspectives on a variety of educational areas, from AI in education to leadership and coaching. Here are some highlights:

1. AI in Education: Dive into the world of artificial intelligence and its role in enhancing education. Monica Burns, an expert in the field, will shed light on how AI can transform learning.
2. Leadership and Coaching: Explore the principles of effective leadership and coaching in education. Learn from experienced educators and leaders about strategies to foster growth and success.
3. Student Engagement: Discover innovative methods to engage and motivate students. Discover how technology can be leveraged to create dynamic and interactive learning experiences.
4. Collaborative Learning: Connect with fellow educators and professionals to share ideas, resources, and best practices. Collaborative learning is a key focus of the conference, and attendees will have the opportunity to interact with their peers.
5. Transformation and Innovation: Embrace innovation and learn about the latest trends and tools that can transform your teaching and impact students positively.

If you’re passionate about education and eager to take your teaching to the next level, these resources are a great place to start. Don’t miss the chance to join the Elevating Innovation Virtual Conference and explore the ever-evolving world of education.

*Related: The Teacher’s Guide to Professional Book Studies

About David L. Jackson

“When faced with learning something new, I approach with a ‘can’t lose’ mentality. Learning new things can be very rewarding yet stressful in the same breath. It’s essential that before tackling a new endeavor, you prepare as best you can. Prepare for the journey and get ready to embrace the outcome.”

David L. Jackson exists in the margin, intending to make education a more equitable space for students and teachers who will shape the future. David comes to Digital Promise with a plethora of diverse experience in the education sector, both conventional and non-conventional (juvenile services). He started his journey in the classroom teaching reading, world history, and speech and debate, and later moved into redesigning and writing curriculum for several secondary school programs, including law and African-American literature. In the classroom, David has worked with every grade on the secondary spectrum from grades 6-12. Outside of school, he specializes in leadership, emotional, and professional development, working with students across the United States in hands-on workshops and seminars. Jackson has an interminable passion for knowledge and ensuring everyone has an opportunity to learn and better their community.

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post Elevating Innovation – SULS0205 appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

In this episode, I’m chatting with Pam Hubler, a valued Shake Up Learning team member, about Chromebook accessibility tools for all learners.

Together, we dive into the remarkable accessibility features of Chromebooks that you absolutely must explore.

Discover the art of tailoring Chromebook accessibility tools to your needs, harness the power of text-to-speech functionality, master display settings, make the most of keyboard shortcuts, fine-tune cursor settings, explore the world of captions, dictation, and so much more!

Pam also shares her Chromebook Accessibility presentation (embedded below).

Listen to this podcast episode below.

Chromebook Accessibility Tools for ALL Learners

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, Chromebooks have become a popular choice for both students and educators.

Their affordability, ease of use, and portability make them a versatile tool for learning.

What’s more, Chromebooks offer a wide array of accessibility tools that cater to the diverse needs of students, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to excel in the digital age.


In this podcast episode and blog post, Pam Hubler will guide us through the Chromebook accessibility tools that can benefit all learners, regardless of their abilities or challenges.

Pam recently delivered a presentation on this topic! Her slides are available here (and embedded below).

Turn on Accessibility Features on Chromebooks

Step 1: Find accessibility features

1. At the bottom right, select the time. Or press Alt + Shift + s.
2. Select Settings    Accessibility.
   • Optional: To have quick access to accessibility features, turn on Always show accessibility options in the system menu.

Step 2: Turn on a feature

ChromeVox Screen Reader

ChromeVox is a built-in screen reader that transforms text into speech, allowing visually impaired students to navigate the web and access digital content. This tool is fully integrated into the Chrome operating system, providing text-to-speech capabilities that can be customized to suit individual preferences. By using ChromeVox, visually impaired learners can engage with online resources, read articles, and access textbooks with ease.

Press Ctrl+Alt+Z to toggle ChromeVox on or off.

Select-to-Speak

Select-to-Speak is an extension available for Chrome that can read selected text aloud. This feature is beneficial for learners who need assistance in comprehending written content. By highlighting the text they want to hear, students can improve their reading comprehension and auditory learning skills.

Magnification and Zoom

Chromebooks offer a built-in magnification tool that allows users to zoom in on the screen, making text and graphics more accessible for those with visual impairments. This feature helps students with low vision read content, view images, and interact with web applications comfortably.

Press Ctrl+ to zoom in and Ctrl- to zoom out.

High-Contrast Mode

A high-contrast mode is a valuable tool for students with visual impairments or color blindness. By adjusting the display to increase contrast, this feature enhances readability and helps users distinguish between text and background colors more effectively.

Chromebook Keyboard Shortcuts

Chromebooks come with a range of keyboard shortcuts that make navigating the interface easier for students with physical disabilities. These shortcuts can replace complex mouse operations and help learners with mobility challenges efficiently control their devices.

To find keyboard shortcuts in your Chromebook:

1. At the bottom right, select the time.
2. Select Settings .
3. Scroll, then select Keyboard.
4. Select View keyboard shortcuts.

Popular shortcuts

Dictate

Anywhere you can type on screen you can now press the search key + d and the option to voice type will appear!

Voice Typing

Voice Typing is an integrated tool in the Google Docs application that allows students to dictate text instead of typing it manually. This feature benefits individuals with motor impairments or learning disabilities like dyslexia. Voice Typing can significantly reduce the barriers students face when trying to express their thoughts in writing.

Go to  Tools>Voice Typing to enable in your Docs and Slides.

*Related: How to Voice Type in Google Docs (Speech-to-Text Dictation)

*Related: 7 Reasons You Need to Try Voice Typing in Google Docs

Read&Write for Google Chrome

Read&Write is an extension available in the Chrome Web Store that provides comprehensive support for learners with diverse needs. It offers features like text-to-speech, word prediction, and language translation, which are helpful for students with reading difficulties, language barriers, or learning disabilities.

*Related: How to Create a Dynamic Reading Experience

Chrome Accessibility Tutorial Videos

Below is a YouTube playlist of 20 videos. (Most of these are old, but the features remain the same–only better.)

Chromebooks are not just a cost-effective option for educational institutions but also a powerful platform for accommodating the needs of all learners.

The accessibility tools built into the Chrome web browser and operating system, as well as extensions and applications available in the Chrome Web Store, empower students with various abilities and challenges to succeed in their educational journeys.

By leveraging these tools, educators can create inclusive learning environments where every student can thrive, regardless of their unique requirements.

The future of education is digital, and Chromebook accessibility tools are helping ensure that this future is inclusive and accessible to all.

About Pam Hubler

Pam is an Innovative Learning Coordinator in Charleston, South Carolina, with 26 years in education.  She is passionate about professional development, technology integration, and building a strong culture in schools.

Follow Pam on Twitter: @specialtechie

Work with Pam or other Shake Up Learning team members: Work with Us

See Pam’s other guest blog posts and appearances on Shake Up Learning

• 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Google Meet
• Google Challenges for Teachers! (FREE Template by Pam Hubler)
• #PottyPD: How to Make the Most of a Captive Audience
• Student “Play of the Week” with Google Slides (FREE Template)
• Google Tips for Instructional Coaches and Tech Coaches
• Google Success Story: Pam Hubler, Google Certified Trainer

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post Chromebook Accessibility Tools for ALL Learners – SULS0204 appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

In this episode, I’m chatting with Chris McKenna, the founder of Protect Young Eyes.

Chris has some powerful insights into the effects of the online world on kids.

It’s not their fault.

It’s hard being a kid in this world.

Kids are faced with adult-level content, technology addictions, and distractions like never before.

Find out why Chris thinks that cell phones don’t belong in schools, why we should delay access, and how to better protect our students (and children) in a technology-driven world.

Listen to the full podcast episode.

Online Safety for Students at School (and at home)

Online safety for children is a very important topic and something that many teachers, school leaders, and parents will find helpful.

Chris McKenna has some fascinating information that will help us better prepare students for the future and protect them online.

As a teacher and parent, I have felt called to do more to help protect our children.

While exciting and shiny, technology has also led to some disturbing behaviors, mental health problems, and addictions in children.

As an edtech advocate, I don’t want to ignore the elephant in the room but bring the essential topics to the forefront so we can do what’s best for kids.

While I want to use technology for good (and to improve learning and engagement), I also want us to be aware of what is happening to our students.

What is Protect Young Eyes?

PYE shows families, schools, and churches how to create safer digital spaces. They do this through their website resources, presentations, and a private learning community where you can “go slow” and learn with other like-minded families and schools #delayistheway.

*Related: 10 Reasons to Think Before You Share Photos of Children Online

Classroom Behaviors

Many teachers are leaving the classroom because of unprecedented student behaviors. Some believe these behaviors are at least partly due to the tremendous amount of time spent on screens, games, and disconnected from human interaction and regulating their emotions.

Teachers who have been teaching for decades will tell you that kids now are different. Their behavior is different. Their emotions are different. Their mental health is different.

Chris believes it is tremendously difficult for most children to use technology that wasn’t built for their developing minds.

Chris suggests that we delay as much as possible–technology introduction, giving kids their own devices, and especially giving kids access to things like social media.

“There are very few children that I want to put into any digital space and just say “good luck,” because none of them were designed with them in mind” – Chris McKenna.

It’s Not Their Fault

Our first response to kids struggling to put away their phones and devices should be, “It’s not your fault.”

The fourteen-year-old version of most of us would do the exact same thing.

Chris says we should know and understand that while teaching kids today is tough, it’s even more challenging to be a kid in today’s world.

*Related: Protecting Students in a Digital World

Get Phones Out of Schools

In an article from The Atlantic by Jonathan Haidt, he says, “They impede learning, stunt relationships, and lessen belonging. They should be banned.”

Many teachers believe they are competing with phones for their students’ attention.

Chris says he could write an entire book based on the Instagram comments from teachers about the article (embedded below).

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Family Digital Safety ExpertChris McKenna (@protectyoungeyes)

Balance Risk and Reward

Only when technologies are held to different standards and guidelines for children, like many other countries outside the U.S., and there are harsh penalties for non-compliance, Chris believes that the risks that technology presents to our most vulnerable are not worth the reward.

10 Best Practices for a Tech-Ready School

Chris has ten best practices for a Tech-Ready School:

1. Create a technology purpose statement.
2. Use a classroom implementation model.
3. Create age/grade learning outcomes or standards.
4. Execute a balanced professional development plan.
5. Use a student code of conduct or acceptable use policy.
6. Implement and oversee a robust school network monitoring program.
7. Implement an incident response system.
8. Incorporate a digital wellness curriculum for students.
9. Provide digital wellness education for families.
10. Implement an “away for the day” personal device policy.

Continuous Improvement

Significant changes do not happen overnight. We must continue to learn, research, and implement best practices to do what’s best for our students and children.

What conversations need to happen in your classroom? in your school?

Leave a comment below with your thoughts.

About Chris McKenna

Former consultant and youth ministry director. Author of resources for families and churches on digital safety and pornography. His 2019 US Senate testimony catalyzed new online child protection laws and earned PYE the Dignity Defense Alert Award. Now an advisor to legislators and global tech companies on policies and feature improvements. The PYE team performs hundreds of presentations globally and was featured in the Childhood 2.0 movie. Chris is married to Andrea, enjoys family road trips, nature, running, and candy, and is a father to four.

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post Online Safety for Students at School (and at home) – SULS0203 appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

In this episode, Kasey chats with Immersive Content Director Phil Birchinall from Discovery Education.

Phil shares the TimePod Adventures AR app, where students can virtually journey through time and space to Mars while solving challenges ranging from “fixing” their TimePod to discovering water on the planet.

This is a super cool app that encourages problem-based learning and STEM skills for students.

I wish this app had been around when I was a kid!

Listen to this article.

This episode is sponsored by Verizon Innovative Learning HQ.

To inspire tomorrow’s brightest minds, educators need today’s best tools. Introducing Verizon Innovative Learning HQ, an easy-to-use, free online portal that empowers K-12 educators to bring new ways of learning into the classroom. The site offers tools for all educators regardless of the technology available to them, including hundreds of free standards-based ready-to-teach lesson plans, immersive educational experiences, and professional development courses to help educators learn new skills, feel more confident with technology integration, and have the opportunity to earn research-backed micro-credentials. FREE. This back-to-school season, new curricula are available from partners including Discovery Education, McGraw Hill, and NYU. Also, new professional development courses and lesson plans focused on esports and game design. It’s all part of Verizon’s commitment to help close the digital divide. Start your journey at verizon.com/shakeup.

Solving Mysteries on Mars: TimePod AR

Welcome to Mars, y’all!

During my chat about TimePod with Phil, I felt like I was back in fourth grade–geeking out over Space Camp and everything space-related.

This is some seriously cool stuff!

It’s World Space Week!

Did you know? The United Nations General Assembly declared October 4th-10th World Space Week, an international celebration of science and technology.

Every year, space agencies, companies, museums, schools, and more hold space education and outreach events to commemorate World Space Week.

Using the power of AR/VR and immersive technology, teachers have the ability to bring space to life for their students.

What is TimePod Adventures?

TimePod Adventures is an augmented reality mobile app available on iOS and Android devices.

“Take the TimePod on a journey across time and space to Mars in 2024 to help solve a series of crises as Earth begins its full colonization of the red planet. You will be helped along by ADA (Autonomous Digital Assistant), who has traveled with the TimePod across millennia. As you encounter challenges, invite your friends to help you and even remotely control the TimePod wherever they are. Episode 1-Intro Sequence will get you familiarized with the TimePod, TimeFrames and ADA, as you fix the TimePod and arrive on Mars! In Episode 2-Water students will work to discover water on the planet. Students will work through questions to help them think through how to best utilize and secure water on Mars.

TimePod Adventures is an Augmented Reality app with multiplayer elements allowing multiple users to take part wherever they are through a browser.”

But wait, there’s more!

TimePod is part of Verizon Innovative Learning HQ, and you can access free lesson ideas and much more through their free, online portal.

*Related: Inspiring Students with AR All Year Long 

Through TimePod app created in partnership with Discovery Education and Verizon, students are able to virtually journey through time and space to Mars while solving challenges ranging from “fixing” their TimePod to discovering water on the planet.

• Subjects: math, science, engineering
• Age group: K-12
• Technology needed: iPhone or iPad

The app leverages augmented reality and encourages design thinking and STEM learning to engage students in both space and future STEM careers.

Lessons for the app are accessible for free via Verizon Innovative Learning HQ.


Here are 5 TimePod Lessons to try (elementary, middle, and high school).

• Lesson: Junior Explorers (lower elementary) – In this activity, students will investigate the concept of exploration. They begin by sorting images related to exploration and discovery, which will lead to a discussion about where exploration can take place—on Earth and beyond
• Lesson: Explorer Responsibilities (upper elementary) – In this activity, students will explore Mars and reflect on the questions evoked by their discoveries. In preparation for their journey, students will share the ideas they associate with exploration and brainstorm some of the places left for humans to explore. After investigating Mars during their virtual experience, students will discuss guided questions that dig into the significance of the discovery.
• Lesson: Spotlight on Tourism (middle school) – This activity will lead students to reflect on the possibility of ecotourism on Mars. Students will begin by exploring the concept of everyday tourism as they collaborate to brainstorm the potential costs and benefits of tourism related to a place’s economy, culture, and environment. After exploring Mars during the virtual exploration, students will shift their focus to tourism on Mars. They will read an article to learn more about ecotourism and will ultimately be challenged to develop a sustainable plan for ecotourism on Mars.
• Lesson: Martian Ecotourism (high school) – In this activity, students will investigate ecotourism on Earth and then apply it to tourism on Mars. After learning about the concept of ecotourism, students will perform a jigsaw reading about real-life examples of ecotourism in communities around the world. As students read, they will look for costs and benefits related to the economy, social/cultural factors, and the environment. They will apply what they’ve learned to discuss whether they believe ecotourism has the potential to be predominantly positive or negative. After exploring Mars during the virtual exploration, students will imagine they are summoned by a special meeting of the governments who signed the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, which governs peaceful space exploration.
• Lesson: Life on Mars (middle school) – In this activity, students will explore the diverse signs of life that can be hidden in water. After reading articles and creating a news report to help them understand the significance of water on Mars, they will observe pond water under a microscope as they search for single-celled and multi-celled organisms. They will then select an organism to research more in-depth as they further consider the role that each organism plays in its ecosystem. The session will wrap up with a class discussion around whether scientists should further study the water on Mars for signs of life.

What do you think? Are you excited to take your students to Mars?

*Related: 10 AR Math Lessons You Need to See

About Phil Birchinall

Twitter: @philbirchinall

Location: East Cheshire, United Kingdom 

Title: Senior Director, Immersive Content @ Discovery Education

Phil has been an educator and award-winning EdTech innovation leader for over 30 years, creating and delivering high-impact content into the classroom. In 2022, he was named one of the pioneers of immersive learning and has led regional and national education and innovation initiatives in the UK and globally. Phil was a co-founder of the award-winning immersive company Inspyro, which was acquired by Discovery Education in 2019.

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

The post Solving Mysteries on Mars: TimePod AR – SULS0202 appeared first on Shake Up Learning.