YOU are invited to join the Blended Learning with Google Book Study!

I am #superexcited to announce the 2021 dates for the official book study of my book, Blended Learning with Google: Your Guide to Dynamic Teaching and Learning (Scroll down to the bottom to see ALL of the book studies for 2021!)

Blended Learning with Google was designed for book studies! I couldn’t just write a paper book. I had to make it an interactive experience and give you extra resources to go deeper and make reading the book a dynamic learning experience.

About the Book Study

When: This six-week book study will start on Feb. 11, 2021, and end on March 17, 2021. (See all 2020 book study dates at the bottom of this post.)

Miss the book study? We regularly update this page with new book study dates all the time so come back soon!

Where: This book study will take place in an exclusive POP-UP Facebook group that was created just for this study.

Feel free to participate in the discussion each Thursday when questions are posted, or asynchronously as is convenient for you and your time zone.

How: Each week, you will read 4 chapters (the chapters are short, like mini-chapters) and complete optional challenges.

What: I will post discussion questions from the book, and issue a challenge or choice of challenges related to that section of the book. We will share #booksnaps, ideas, lessons, failures and success, links, and a whole lotta ways to Shake Up Learning!

[Tweet “Join the Official #ShakeUpLearning book study! #edtech #edchat”]

READING SCHEDULE

Google Calendar

I’ve created a public Google Calendar with all of the deadlines so you can easily stay on top of your reading assignments. Just click on the “+Google Calendar button” in the bottom right to add it to your own Google Calendar.

Easy, peasy, lemon-squeezy, y’all!

Get the Handout!

In order to help you spread the word to other teachers in your school, your department, your team, or whoever you want to invite, I have created a handout that is printable and shareable!

CLICK HERE to Get the Handout! (coming soon)

Your Book Study To-Do List

• Purchase a copy of Blended Learning with Google.
• Sign up for email reminders.
• Join the Shake Up Learning Book Study Facebook Group. (You MUST answer the questions in order to be approved!)
• Feel free to share comments, questions, reflections, and #booksnaps ANYTIME in the group!
• Read chapters 1-4 BEFORE the book study start date.
• Access supplemental resources for each chapter here: ShakeUpLearningBook.com
• Join us or the first discussion questions and challenge, OR feel free to respond at whatever time is convenient for you!

Can You Get Credit?

Unfortunately, no, we cannot offer any credit hours for participating in the book study and keep it free. However, we have had groups from schools participate and monitor their own participation and give credit.

Would you be interested in getting credit for a small fee? Let us know in the comments!

2020 Shake Up Learning Book Studies

Please note, the Facebook groups for each of these will not be available until AFTER the previous round has ended. Come back to this page for the most current information.

1. Feb. 11-March 17, 2021
2. June 17-July 22, 2021
3. Oct. 7-Nov. 11, 2021

© 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 Join the Blended Learning with Google Book Study! (FREE) appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

HOW TO PASS THE GOOGLE CERTIFIED EDUCATOR EXAMS

Wondering how to pass the Google Certified Educator exams?

I get asked all the time, “How hard are the Google Certified Educator exams?” The answer depends on a lot of things, so I decided to put together this set of tips and tools to help you prepare.

Becoming a Google Certified Educator can be intimidating and confusing.

So to be sure you have the most accurate information, and that you know what to expect, I have put together these tips to help you pass the Google Certified Educator Exams.

These tips may seem simple at first glance, but be sure that you read all of the details in the 19-page download.

Most will tell you that the exams are not hard, but intricate, long, detailed and somewhat exhausting, and stressful.

I have compiled the best tips from educators that have passed the GCE exams and added tips from my own experience in the program.

GET YOUR FREE 19-PAGE PDF DOWNLOAD!

© 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 How to Pass the Google Certified Educator Exams (10 Tips!) appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

YOU are invited to join the Shake Up Learning Book Study!

I am #superexcited to announce the 2020 dates for the official book study of my book, Shake Up Learning: Practical Ideas to Move Learning From Static to Dynamic. (Scroll down to the bottom to see ALL of the book studies for 2020!)

The Shake Up Learning book was designed for book studies! I couldn’t just write a paper book. I had to make it an interactive experience and give you extra resources to go deeper and make reading the book a dynamic learning experience.

About the Book Study

When: This six-week book study will start on October 1, 2020, and end on November 5, 2020. (See all 2020 book study dates at the bottom of this post.)

Miss the book study? We regularly update this page with new book study dates all the time so come back soon!

Where: This book study will take place in an exclusive POP-UP Facebook group that was created just for this study.

Feel free to participate in the discussion each Thursday when questions are posted, or asynchronously as is convenient for you and your time zone.

How: Each week, you will read 4 chapters (the chapters are short, like mini-chapters) and complete optional challenges.

What: I will post discussion questions from the book, and issue a challenge or choice of challenges related to that section of the book. We will share #booksnaps, ideas, lessons, failures and success, links, and a whole lotta ways to Shake Up Learning!

[Tweet “Join the Official #ShakeUpLearning book study! #edtech #edchat”]

READING SCHEDULE

Google Calendar

I’ve created a public Google Calendar with all of the deadlines so you can easily stay on top of your reading assignments. Just click on the “+Google Calendar button” in the bottom right to add it to your own Google Calendar.

Easy, peasy, lemon-squeezy, y’all!

Get the Handout!

In order to help you spread the word to other teachers in your school, your department, your team, or whoever you want to invite, I have created a handout that is printable and shareable!

CLICK HERE to Get the Handout!

Your Book Study To-Do List

• Purchase a copy of Shake Up Learning.
• Sign up for email reminders.
• Join the Shake Up Learning Book Study Facebook Group. (You MUST answer the questions in order to be approved!)
• Feel free to share comments, questions, reflections, and #booksnaps ANYTIME in the group!
• Read chapters 1-4 BEFORE the book study start date.
• Access supplemental resources for each chapter here: ShakeUpLearningBook.com
• Join us or the first discussion questions and challenge, OR feel free to respond at whatever time is convenient for you!

Can You Get Credit?

Unfortunately, no, we cannot offer any credit hours for participating in the book study and keep it free. However, we have had groups from schools participate and monitor their own participation and give credit.

Would you be interested in getting credit for a small fee? Let us know in the comments!

2020 Shake Up Learning Book Studies

Please note, the Facebook groups for each of these will not be available until AFTER the previous round has ended. Come back to this page for the most current information.

1. Feb. 13-March 19, 2020
2. June 18-July 23, 2020
3. Oct. 1-Nov. 5, 2020

© 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 Join the Shake Up Learning Book Study! appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

YOU are invited to join this special Shake Up Learning Book Study for school leaders!

I am #superexcited to announce a special study of my book, Shake Up Learning: Practical Ideas to Move Learning From Static to Dynamic, for school leaders.

If you are an assistant principal, principal, superintendent, curriculum specialist, tech director, tech coach, instructional coach, or any other school leader, this book study is for you. I conduct many book studies throughout the year, but this is the first that will be designed specifically for school leaders.

As we look ahead toward the summer and the new normal after COVID-19, we need to come together as leaders to build capacity in our teachers, address the gaps and inequities, and move forward with meaningful digital learning.

The Shake Up Learning book was designed for book studies! I couldn’t just write a paper book. I had to make it an interactive experience and give you extra resources to go deeper and make reading the book a dynamic learning experience.

If you are a classroom teacher, you can find details about the other book studies HERE.

About the Book Study

When: This six-week book study will start on May 7, 2020, and end on June 11, 2020. 

Did you miss the book study for school leaders? Leave a comment and let us know you want us to schedule more!

Where: This book study will take place in a special POP-UP Facebook group that was created just for this study.

Feel free to participate in the discussion each Thursday when questions are posted, or asynchronously as is convenient for you and your time zone.

How: Each week you will read 4 chapters (the chapters are short, like mini-chapters) and complete optional challenges.

What: I will post discussion questions from the book, and issue a challenge or choice of challenges related to that section of the book. We will share #booksnaps, ideas, lessons, failures and success, links, and a whole lotta ways to Shake Up Learning!

[Tweet “Join the Official #ShakeUpLearning book study for School Leaders! #edtech #edchat”]

READING SCHEDULE

Google Calendar

I’ve created a public Google Calendar with all of the deadlines so you can easily stay on top of your reading assignments. Just click on the “+Google Calendar button” in the bottom right to add it to your own Google Calendar.

Easy, peasy, lemon-squeezy, y’all!

Your Book Study To-Do List

• Purchase a copy of Shake Up Learning.
• Join the Shake Up Learning Book Study Facebook Group. (You MUST answer the questions in order to be approved!)
• Feel free to share comments, questions, reflections, and #booksnaps ANYTIME in the group!
• Read chapters 1-4 BEFORE the book study start date.
• Access supplemental resources for each chapter here: ShakeUpLearningBook.com
• Join us for the first discussion questions and challenge, OR feel free to respond at whatever time is convenient for you!

© 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 Shake Up Learning Book Study for School Leaders! appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

To kick-off the next Shake Up Learning book study, I’m giving away 5 AUTOGRAPHED copies of my book!

The Shake Up Learning book study starts on Feb. 13, 2020. Get all the details here.

Fill out the form below to be entered in the contest to win a copy of Shake Up Learning!

Winners will be announced and contacted on Feb. 10, 2020.

© 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 Win a Copy of the Shake Up Learning Book! appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

How to Become a Google Certified Trainer

Who wants to become a Google Certified Trainer? I can help!

I have put together a new eBook to help explain the entire process and answer all of your questions: How to Become a Google Certified Trainer!

In this 26-page eBook, you will find a detailed explanation of the requirements, exam, and application requirements, answers to the most frequently asked questions, as well as additional videos and resources.

The ebook probably shouldn’t be free! It contains my best tips, ideas, and secrets that no one else will tell you about this process.

It is my mission to help as many educators as possible become Google Certified! Becoming a Google Certified Trainer was one of the best decisions I ever made.

This certification boosted my career, my learning, and my personal learning network.

Of all the certifications, this one has the potential to make the biggest impact on your career! It did for me!

If you want to join an elite group of specialized trainers for around the world, this certification is for you.

It’s not easy. You can’t do it overnight. You will have to work hard, build your resume, create amazing presentation materials and impress the folks over at Google. But I know exactly how to help you do that!

Get started today by downloading this ebook: How to Become a Google Certified Trainer!

[Tweet “How to Become a Google Certified Trainer (FREE eBook Download) #googleET #gsuiteedu #edtech”]

The Google Certified Trainer Program

“Google for Education Certified Trainers are passionate and driven education professionals with a desire to help others transform classrooms with technology. Whether you are a school’s go-to technologist, a stellar classroom teacher or an enterprising consultant, anyone is welcome to apply for membership in the program. Individuals with the following roles may be particularly good fits:

• Instructional Technology Coach/Specialist
• Teacher On Special Assignment
• ICT Director/Coordinator”

Download the eBook: How to Become a Google Certified Trainer

How to Become a Google Certified Trainer eBook

Download this FREE PDF eBook: How to Become a Google Certified Trainer. 26 pages of step-by-step information to walk you through all of the requirements, exams, and application process.

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription and download How to Become a Google Certified Trainer eBook.

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FREE Webinar: How to Get Google Certified

Do you want to learn more about the certifications and what it takes to achieve each one?

Getting Google Certified can be daunting and confusing, so I put together this free webinar on How to Get Google Certified!

In this webinar, I will give you an overview of Google Certification, Google Certified Educator Level 1, Google Certified Educator Level 2, and Google Certified Trainer.

REGISTER for the Webinar

Google Certification Academies

I also teach online boot camps to walk you through all the skills and help you prepare for the exams. I have helped thousands of educators through these online, self-paced courses!

What’s Included in the Google Certification Courses?

Google Certified Educator Level 1 Academy

Everything you need to know to pass the exam and become a Google Certified Educator Level 1!

• 50 Video Lessons (hands-on learning with Kasey Bell)
• 20+ PDF Downloadable Study Material
• Lesson Checks
• Private Community & Study Group
• Testing Tips
• 12 hours of Professional Learning Credit
• BONUS 1: Includes the ENTIRE Google Classroom Master Class!
• BONUS 2: Level 1 Challenges (performance tasks designed to mimic the exam)
• and much more!
• Payment plans and scholarships available
• Bulk discounts! Get your whole school Google certified!
• Learn more and see the course curriculum

Google Certified Educator Level 2 Academy

Everything you need to know to pass the exam and become a Google Certified Educator Level 2!

• 40+ Video Lessons (hands-on learning with Kasey Bell)
• 20+ PDF Downloadable Study Material
• Lesson Checks
• Private Community & Study Group
• Testing Tips
• 12 hours of Professional Learning Credit
• BONUS: Level 2 Challenges (testing scenarios)
• and much more!
• Payment plans and scholarships available
• Learn more and see the course curriculum

Google Certified Trainer Academy

All You Need to Know to Prepare for the Trainer Skills Assessment and Application!

Becoming a Google Certified Trainer was one of the best decisions I ever made, and it transformed my learning and my career! This self-paced, online course includes EVERYTHING you need to know to pass the Trainer Skills Assessment AND complete the application requirements, including:

• 18 Video Lesson
• Private Community & Study Group
• Lesson Checks
• Exam Tips
• Application and Video Tips
• 12 Hours of Professional Learning Credit
• BONUS 1: How to Design Google PD That Works
• BONUS 2: How to Market Yourself as a Trainer
• BONUS 3: The Ultimate Google Certified Trainer Planner and Check List (27-page, downloadable ebook!)
• and much more!
• Payment plans and scholarships available
• Learn more and see the course curriculum

Pricing & Bundles

Below are the prices for individual licenses for each course. (Payment plans available.)

• Level 1 Academy: $329 (or two payments of $179)
• Level 2 Academy: $329 (or two payments of $179)
• Trainer: $329 (or two payments of $179)

Don’t Pay Out of Pocket!

Teachers shouldn’t have to pay out of their own pockets to get the professional learning and training they need.

On each of the course pages listed above you will find information about scholarships, as well as editable documents to “Make the Case” with your administrator to pay for your training.

SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES: Purchasing these courses helps support the HUNDREDS of free resources that Shake Up Learning provides–free ebooks, cheat sheets, podcasts, blog posts, lesson plans, templates, tips, tutorials, and more. Thank you for supporting Shake Up Learning. We are a small, woman-owned business whose mission is to serve teachers.

G Suite Training for Schools

We have many programs to help your teachers learn how to meaningfully integrate Google tools and the entire G Suite in the classroom. From online courses to books, to face-to-face training, we got you covered!

COVID-19 forced many teachers and schools to scramble to find tools to deliver online assignments, design digital learning experiences, and G Suite was the number one suite of tools to help make this a reality.

Just in time resources and learning will help teachers, students, and parents survive the crisis. When we return to the new normal, G Suite skills will help set the foundation for more dynamic and meaningful learning in the classroom.

Get your entire campus or district on board with G Suite! Help your teachers learn more about G Suite tools, Google Classroom, and meaningful technology integration strategies. You can even help all your teachers become Google Certified Educators!

GSuiteTrainingforSchools.com

Check out all of the FREE Google Certification Resources from Shake Up Learning!

© 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 How to Become a Google Certified Trainer (FREE eBook Download) appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

Google Certifications Explained!

This is your complete guide to all of the Google Certifications for Educators: Google Certified Educator, Level 1 & 2, Google Certified Trainer, and Google Certified Innovator.

This guide will help answer all of your questions and clarify the differences between all of the certification options.

In this 19-page handbook, you will find details on each certification, what is required to prepare, what exams are required, and details about the application process.

If you have ever considered becoming Google Certified, read this guide first! There are four different certifications to choose from, and this guide will help you figure out which one is right for you.

[Tweet “Wanna Get Google Certified? Learn All About it with this FREE Guide!”]

Becoming Google certified was a game-changer for my professional learning and my career. I want to help more teachers reach their goal of becoming Google Certified!

My goal is to empower teachers to transform the learning in their classrooms and become digital leaders.

I receive a lot of questions about the Google Certification programs. I developed this guide to help clarify the different certification options for educators. To be clear, I, Kasey Bell, do NOT grant any Google Certifications, nor do I work for Google.

What I do have to offer is my own knowledge and experience with the certification programs. I am a Google Certified Innovator and a Google Certified Trainer. I was also a course developer for Google for Education Teaching Center. I have helped hundreds of other teachers across the U.S. become Google Certified through training, workshops, and boot camps.

I have synthesized the information about all of the Google Certification options into an easy-to-follow guide. This handbook was designed to help you determine which certification(s) are right for you. You will also find additional resources linked within this guide, as well as resources on my website: https://shakeuplearning.com/google-certifications/.

This guide will give you all the details you need to decide which Google Certification is the best for you! Fill out the form below to get your FREE copy!

Google Certification Courses Open Nov. 19th!

Online Google Boot Camps–BUT BETTER!

All 3 Courses Will Open on November 19!

Mark your calendars! These courses (Level 1, Level 2, and Trainer) will open for limited enrollment on Nov. 19, 2019, and will close on Dec. 3, 2019. (It will not open again until May!)

Work on certification during your summer break!

What’s Included in the Google Certification Courses?

Google Certified Educator Level 1 Academy

Everything you need to know to pass the exam and become a Google Certified Educator Level 1!

• 50 Video Lessons (hands-on learning with Kasey Bell)
• 20+ PDF Downloadable Study Material
• Lesson Checks
• Private Community & Study Group
• Testing Tips
• Level 1 Challenges (testing scenarios)
• BONUS: Includes the ENTIRE Google Classroom Master Class!
• and much more!
• Learn more and see the course curriculum

Google Certified Educator Level 2 Academy

Everything you need to know to pass the exam and become a Google Certified Educator Level 2!

• 40+ Video Lessons (hands-on learning with Kasey Bell)
• 20+ PDF Downloadable Study Material
• Lesson Checks
• Private Community & Study Group
• Testing Tips
• Level 2 Challenges (testing scenarios)
• and much more!
• Learn more and see the course curriculum

Google Certified Trainer Academy

Completely updated and redesigned for 2019!

All You Need to Know to Prepare for the Trainer Skills Assessment and Application!

Becoming a Google Certified Trainer was one of the best decisions I ever made, and it transformed my learning and my career! This self-paced, online course includes EVERYTHING you need to know to pass the Trainer Skills Assessment AND complete the application requirements, including:

• 18 Video Lessons
• Private Community and Study Group
• The Ultimate Google Certified Trainer Planner and Checklist
• Exam Tips
• Application and Video Tips
• PD Credit Certificate (12 hours)
• BONUS 1: How to Design Google PD That Works
• BONUS 2: How to Market Yourself as a Trainer
• Learn more and see the course curriculum

Pricing & Bundles

Below are the prices for individual licenses for each course. (Payment plans available.)

• Level 1 Academy: $329 (or two payments of $179)
• Level 2 Academy: $329 (or two payments of $179)
• Trainer: $329 (or two payments of $179)

Campus and District licenses available! (Click here to inquire.)

Request to pay with a purchase order.

BUT WAIT…THERE’S MORE!

Opening all of these courses at once also gives you another advantage–bundling! If you want to purchase multiple courses at once, you can save BIG TIME!

I’m also introducing some new bulk licensing options, so you can find more affordable ways to meet the needs of your campus or district.

NOTE: To purchase a bundle, you must purchase from the bundle page.

Here’s how it works (click on the links to purchase a bundle):

• Level 1 and Level 2 Bundle: $558 (SAVE $100)
• Level 2 and Trainer Bundle: $558 (SAVE $100)
• Level 1, Level 2, and Trainer Bundle: $737 (SAVE $250)

Request to pay with a purchase order

Check out all of the FREE Google Certification Resources from Shake Up Learning!

© 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 FREE eBook: The Complete Guide to Google Certifications appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

© 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 Shake Up Learning Book by Kasey Bell appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

I said it. Google is a Gateway Tool!

For a lot of teachers who are reluctant to try integrating technology or using devices, Google is simply a stepping stone, like a gateway tool if you will. It’s easily addictive and can lead to more confidence with digital tools. But that’s all it takes–simply a taste of what the wonderful twenty-first century has to offer and you can see the light turn on.

Yes, you probably know that I talk a lot about the awesomeness of Google and the G Suite for Education tools. In fact, I bet a lot of you just clicked on the link to this post because Google was in the title.

The truth is that there are hundreds of amazing digital tools that can help teachers design dynamic learning experiences for students.

But you have to admit, Google did change the game. Digital tools, like G Suite, that are available 24/7 and give us easy access to communicate, collaborate, create, and demonstrate thinking and learning (Was the the 4 C’s? I think it was!) have shown us how to move past using digital tools as substitutes for pen, paper, textbooks, and worksheets.

[Tweet “”Google is like a gateway tool for Teachers. It’s easily addictive and can lead to more confidence with digital tools.” – Kasey Bell”]

An Opportunity for Dynamic Learning

Don’t misunderstand me. Technology is not a panacea to our educational woes, but it has opened the doors for a new kind of learning. If guided with purpose toward the learning goals, we can use all of the tools at our disposal (technical or not) to maximize learning in our classrooms and help prepare students for an ever-changing postmodern world.

There are no silver bullets, no magic formulas, no acronyms that work for every teacher in every classroom. Teaching is much more of an art form. A one-size-fits-all education doesn’t work for today’s world. We have to push the boundaries of what we thought was possible and let go of static, one-and-done, activities and assignments.

But what technology can offer is an opportunity–an opportunity often missed time and time again. Technology gives us new ways to communicate, collaborate, personalize, adapt, differentiate, and share our thinking, and it has opened the door for Dynamic Learning!

[Tweet “”Technology is NOT a Solution. It is an Opportunity!” – Kasey Bell”]

Dynamic Learning is simply a way to think differently about learning, a way to help us plan and implement meaningful learning experiences for our students. Every lesson will not bring about innovation. Every lesson will not magically integrate every standard and all of the four c’s. But the Dynamic Learning Framework can help us to see the bigger picture, to find balance, and give our classroom metabolism a boost!

What is Dynamic Learning?

Dynamic learning is characterized by constant change and activity. This learning takes place organically, growing and evolving through more unconventional means, with the learner collaborating, creating, and communicating to demonstrate progress and mastery. Dynamic Learning also extends beyond the boundaries of a traditional school day, beyond the physical location of the classroom, beyond using tools as digital substitutes, or even the traditional notion of hard-and-fast due dates.

Dynamic Learning Tools?

Nope! If you were hoping for some pretty infographic with a list of tools that are going to magically turn your lessons into dynamic lessons, you missed the point.

You will never see me publish an infographic of dynamic learning tools. A digital tool is not inherently dynamic. It is the student’s use of tools and the ways it’s used to create and demonstrate learning that is dynamic. Dynamic learning might include the use of digital tools, or it might not. Technology is not a requirement for dynamic learning, but it can make dynamic learning possible.

[Tweet “”A digital tool is not inherently dynamic. It is the student’s use of tools and the ways it’s used to create and demonstrate learning that is dynamic.” – Kasey Bell”]

Rethinking Assignments – To PDF or Not to PDF

A common question I receive is about how to upload PDFs to the cloud and annotate or fill them out digitally. Now, I want you to contemplate this carefully. There is always a little gray area, so I try not to immediately assume what the end goal might be. I always follow up with questions of my own to see what type of PDF document they want to use with students.

More often than not, teachers want to convert their worksheets to digital worksheets, which is not dynamic at all. This is using new tools to do old things. It’s like using twentieth-century logic in twenty-first-century situations. Again, there’s a bit of a mindset shift that must take place as you begin to think more dynamically. There may be valuable questions on that PDF, but is it worth giving up the ability to collaborate and create? Can you still integrate any of the Four Cs— critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and/or creativity?

We must think differently about the assignments. As I said, there is always some gray area. I’m sure someone reading this is getting upset about now. That’s okay. There are always exceptions. As a reading teacher, I know marking up text is an important skill and even a required skill for some assessments. I’m not saying all PDFs are bad. I just want you to ask yourself a few questions before you decide:

• What is the end goal?
• What are the learning targets?
• Is this the ONLY approach to teaching this skill or content?
• Are there any ways to integrate the Four Cs?

Rethinking Assignments – Don’t Blame the Tools.

I received a question from a teacher on social media that really illustrated to me the purpose in rethinking assignments. To protect the innocent, I will summarize the question:

“In the past, I’ve had students create Google Slides presentations and share them with me for a project. This week I assigned the same project and have several students who are showing signs they are probably copying work from former students. How can we prevent this from happening?”

The first few answers from followers were revealing. Everyone was focused on the cheating. Cheating was the culprit, the problem. Someone even suggested the teacher stop using tools like Google Slides, where it’s so easy to share and copy and paste.

They were focused on the wrong issue. Yes, cheating can be a problem, but the problem here was the assignment. The teacher was taking an old assignment, used year after year, something that originated in PowerPoint and blaming students for copied responses.

My response was to think differently about the assignment because it was as flat as West Texas.

If it’s something that can be easily duplicated, we need to consider more original product types, incorporate choice of topic and/or tool, and require reflection where they explain their ideas and reflect on learning.

[Tweet “”If it’s something that can be easily duplicated, we need to consider more original product types, incorporate choice of topic and/or tool, and require reflection where they explain their ideas and reflect on learning.” – Kasey Bell”]

Now, if you are reading this and shaking your head yes in agreement, you are a member of the choir. You get it. Unfortunately, many teachers have no idea that learning has changed or that they can stop delivering lectures and packets every day. Are you doing your part to reach the educators who don’t get it?

Want to learn more idea like this? You will love my new book!

Shake Up Learning by Kasey Bell

Check out my new book, Shake Up Learning: Practical Ideas to Move Learning From Static to Dynamic.

About the Shake Up Learning Book

Technology is not a magic solution for education. It is an opportunity! An opportunity to shake things up, to connect and grow, and to create dynamic learning experiences for our students!

In this three-part book, you will explore WHY it’s time to Shake Up Learning, WHAT changes we can make in our classrooms to support dynamic learning experiences, and HOW to plan meaningful lessons for your classroom.

Shake Up Learning is a powerful guide and planning tool to help educators at all grade levels make the most of technology. Educator and blogger Kasey Bell guides you through the process of using technology and proven techniques to make learning dynamic.

You’ll discover . . .

• Practical strategies to help move from static teaching to dynamic learning
• Straightforward and easy-to-use templates for crafting engaging learning opportunities
• Tips and tricks for fearless implementation of powerful lesson plans
• Advice for moving from one-and-done activities to learning that evolves and inspires throughout the school year—and beyond!

AVAILABLE NOW ON AMAZON

Be DYNAMIC and SHAKE UP LEARNING in Your Classroom This Year!

But wait…There’s more!

With this book, I have also created several interactive resources, templates, and downloads, all available on ShakeUpLearningBook.com.

• Get the FREE Shake Up Learning Quickstart Guide
• An online community
• Discussion Questions, Chapter Actions, and Embedded Resources for all 20 Chapters!
• An interactive companion website to help you continue and deepen the learning
• A lesson plan database (submit and search for dynamic lesson plans)
• Tons of free resources, videos, templates, and downloads, all available on the website: ShakeUpLearningBook.com.

Shake Up Learning QUICKSTART GUIDE

Join the email list to get the latest information about the Shake Up Learning Book AND Get the FREE 20-Page Quickstart Guide that will help you Shake Up Learning in your classroom this year!

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

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We use this field to detect spam bots. If you fill this in, you will be marked as a spammer.

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© 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 Google is a Gateway Tool appeared first on Shake Up Learning.

My Top 20 Tech Tips for Teachers!

As a digital learning coach with more than fourteen years working in instructional technology, I have learned quite a few ways to help teachers integrate technology. I have compiled my Top 20 Tech Tips for Teachers into this handy infographic, which you can download below.

I find myself answering the same questions, dilemmas, and excuses over and over again. For those of you who have been integrating technology for a while, some of these may seem obvious. But we have too many teachers, even new teachers fresh out of college, with no idea how to utilize digital tools to increase student learning.

I want to inspire you to push the boundaries of traditional learning, but I also want to be someone who can keep it real and give you ideas to help you shake up learning in your classroom. Below are digital learning tips that any teacher can use in their classroom.

I  blogged some of these tips during my first year as a blogger. In 2014, I kept it to my top ten, a la David Letterman style. Later, my very talented friend, Sylvia Duckworth, created an infographic of the tips. My list of tips keeps growing, and it is actually much longer than twenty, but for the purposes of a blog post, I gotta keep it (somewhat) brief. Let me tell you, that was a struggle!!

You will probably notice that most of these tips are NOT about tech tools specifically, but how to maximize their use to improve student learning.

I share these tips (AND MORE) in my new book, Shake Up Learning: Practical Ideas to Move Learning from Static to Dynamic. This book is all about learning, pushing boundaries, and helping teachers learn how to create dynamic learning experiences.

Now, on with the show, y’all!

[Tweet “Top 20 Tech Tips for Teachers! #shakeuplearning #edtech #gsuiteedu #teaching #k12”]

The Shake Up Learning Show Podcast

Check out the podcast version of this post!

20 Tech Tips for Teachers

I could talk about these tips all day with in-depth detail, but to keep this from growing into another accidental eBook, I will just give you a brief description. If you want to dig deeper, check out the additional links and resources provided, as well as the Shake Up Learning book!

DOWNLOAD THE PDF INFOGRAPHIC: Top 20 Tech Tips for Teachers

1. Shift Your Mindset

Mindset is the biggest battle to overcoming technology fears as well. I hear this phrase all the time, “I’m just not good with technology?” Make up your mind to be positive. The classroom is full of obstacles; technology is no different. Maybe you aren’t as quick to learn with technology as your peers, but never let that become an excuse. If your mind is holding you back, you have some internal work to do. Take the time to reflect on your current mindset and approach technology with a positive and flexible attitude.

2. Take Risks

The magic happens outside of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to step out and try new things in the classroom. Model risk-taking in your classroom. Let your students know when you fail or make a mistake so that they understand that is okay. Find ways to push students out of their comfort zones, give them new ideas, perspectives, and ways to approach a problem that can help them see the value in failing forward. Taking a risk during the learning process is a gamble, but one that can pay off big time. The difference is that a risk in the classroom may not guarantee success, but if truly guided with purpose toward the learning goals can garner valuable learning along the way.

3. Start With the Why

When you are planning a digital learning experience, be goal oriented! Begin with your learning outcomes, not the technology. This idea is perhaps the most important tip of all. Everything we do as teachers should always come down student learning and doing what’s best for kids. Just because you are using technology doesn’t ensure you are meeting any objectives or learning outcomes. If you cannot explain how the digital tool enhances or improves the learning experience, you are just using technology for technology’s sake. If this is the case, start over!

I can’t tell you how many conversations I’ve had with teachers that have started with this question,”How can I use [insert digital tool name] in my classroom?” The question should never be how to “fit” this awesome new tool into your learning experience. The question is always, “What are the desired student outcomes? What do you want them to understand and be able to do?” Then you find the best tools in your toolbox to help you get there.

4. Get Tech in Student’s Hands

Modeling is great, especially when it comes to technology use, but it is way more important to get technology into the hands of learners. Often times and with good reason, teachers can become overprotective of the technology in their classroom. Sticky fingers and clumsy hands can make you resistant, especially if it something you purchased with your own money. But if you really want to see an impact, that technology needs to be in your learner’s’ hands. Give them guidelines, show them proper use, then trust them. I see this a lot in situations like a one iPad classroom, or even when SmartBoards were popping up everywhere. The teacher became super savvy with the new technology, and the learners were engaged and excited to see something new, but don’t forget our purpose. Get technology in the hands of learners, even at the cost of giving up control.

5. Shop for Tools Like You Are On Amazon

There are so many devices, digital tools, learning ideas and gadgets to choose from in the twenty-first century that it can be overwhelming. Too many choices is a good problem to have! When it comes to the digital tools that you have discretion over, shop for your learners like you are on Amazon! You may actually be on Amazon, the App Store, Google Play, the Chrome Web Store, etc. Read reviews, talk to friends, get ideas from blogs and social media. Shopping is no longer a blind act. We can gather information on just about any idea or product, and we should find out what other teachers recommend. Find out what you can before you ever click download! Find out what you can before you decide to use it on your device and in your classroom.

6. Don’t Get Swept Away By New Tools

I am very guilty of this one! It’s easy to get swept away by new digital tools. I am often an early adopter and the first to sign-up to try something new; but if you are always trying to integrate something new, you run the risk of focusing too much on the tool and not enough on the learning. Give new tools time grow and evolve. Often times you will find that new tools that start off as free, could suddenly require a fee the day you decide to integrate into your classroom. Or worse, the company went under, and the tool is no longer accessible. New tools and ideas are part of what makes the 21st century so exciting, but we must be cautious when jumping into something new that hasn’t been proven or tested.

7. Be Consistent

When technology changes so fast, and new digital tools become available every minute, it can be tempting to try something new in your classroom every day, but learners need consistency. We all know how frustrating it can be to try something new that requires additional set-up time and then doesn’t really do everything you had hoped. Risk-taking with new tools is great, but not every day, that would risk too much instructional time. Stick with your tried and true tools, that your learners already know how to use. Then sprinkle in the new stuff! Be consistent so that your students have an opportunity to learn in-depth, focus on the learning goals, and become savvy with the best digital tools. Balance tried and true tools with sprinkles of new stuff to keep it interesting. You don’t want to be so consistent that it becomes predictable and mundane.

8. Don’t Integrate Too Many Tools At Once

Start small. Along with being consistent, resist the urge to integrate too many digital tools all at once. App-smashing is fun if guided by purpose, but if you try to do too much at once, you risk shifting the focus to the tool and just using technology for technology’s sake. If you love tech like I do, it can be easy to keep adding more ideas and tools to your lesson. But you should gradually build your student’s digital toolbox. It doesn’t have to happen in one day!

9. Don’t Be Afraid to Let Your Students Teach You!

Our students have a lot of knowledge and skills, especially when it comes to technology. Long gone are the days of the teacher being the gatekeepers of knowledge. It’s okay if you don’t know the answer when it comes to the technology, and students will love the chance to help teach you! As you are designing your learning experience, and you wonder about how a digital tool works or if there an app for that, ask a student! And even if they do not know the answer, they will be willing to help you figure it out!

The other thing that I love about talking to students about technology is they always show me something new, some new app, some new trick, that my adult world hasn’t seen yet. A lot of our students have their finger on the pulse of what’s hot, what’s right now, and while that may not always have a direct implication in the classroom, it could! Don’t immediately dismiss a tool because you think it isn’t educational. They will prove you wrong every time!

10. Utilize Student Tech Experts

It’s a myth to assume that every student is comfortable with technology. We still have a huge digital divide. But there are experts among us in our classrooms that can help bridge that gap. So not only should you leverage students to help you learn new digital skills, but you should also use them as go-to experts for other students in your classroom. This kind of leadership can be a very empowering experience for students. It can also help those with inclinations toward technology to explore their passions and interests, and it can definitely help get more girls and young women interested in technology as well.

Depending on how many savvy students you have in your class, this could be a permanent role or group, or even a rotating job for students in your class. Be careful though; you don’t want to force this role on any student who is uncomfortable or shy. At least initially, this should be a volunteer role. This idea can also be taken a step further by establishing a student help desk, genius bar, or Chrome Squad for your school. (Learn more about developing a student tech team for your school from this blog post series: The Chrome Squad.)

11. Ask Three Before Me

In my classroom, I would often deliver small group instruction while the rest of the class worked on other assignments, stations or learning menus. It became difficult to manage questions while I was working with my small group. Some learners just naturally go to the teacher with every little problem, and often times, these questions are easily answered by other learners in the classroom or found online. By implementing the, “ask three before me,” strategy my learners helped each other problem solve and complete their tasks and assignments, while I focused on my small group. This, of course, works well when digital tools are involved. If a student forgets how to log in, or where the rubric is saved, they can easily ask another student instead of interrupting the teacher. TIP: You can also make YouTube and/or Google Search one of the “three,” options to ask for help.

12. Use Digital Tools FOR Learning

When technology integration began to enter our classrooms, and a dedicated computer lab was all the rage, most used it as time to type a paper, do some research, or to create some type of end product like a PowerPoint or Brochure. But with so much technology at our disposal, and hopefully the end of trips to the shared computer lab, teachers should be integrating technology and digital tools throughout the learning cycle. Let’s maximize these tools to engage students from beginning to end and beyond, not just summative products.

13. Use New Tools to Do New Things

Think beyond using digital tools to complete only traditional assignments such as papers and reports. Use digital tools to do new things. Just going paperless or digital isn’t enough. Use some of these new tools to go further, go deeper and extend your students’ learning. Reach beyond what you think a digital tool can do and should be used for, and challenge your students to demonstrate their learning in a new way.

Use digital tools beyond their original purpose. For instance, did you know that you can create an eBook with Google Slides? Presentation applications alone can be used for many more things than just a presentation. As my friend Alice Keeler says, “I don’t use Google Slides to GIVE information, I use Google Slides to GET information from students.” Matt and I even did an episode of the Google Teacher Tribe Podcast on this topic: Google Slides Can Do Whaattt??!!. Think about how you and your students can get creative and use new digital tools in unexpected ways.

14. Give Students Voice & Choice

Giving students voice and choice is a vital component to creating student ownership of learning. There are many ways to do this. This may be as simple as giving them a choice in the digital tool they use to demonstrate their learning, or it could involve more student voice and choice like incorporating Genius Hour into your curriculum. For me, learning menus (aka choice boards) helped me to find easy ways to give students more choice in their assignments and provide a more flexible learning path. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but you will be pleasantly surprised at the outcome and the depth of understanding when you give students a little extra room to make their own decisions in their learning.

15. Get Organized

One of the best things you can do as a facilitator of digital learning is to organize the information, directions, objectives, and resources online for your learners. Giving learners ONE central location or website will make your life so much easier and will allow learners to focus on the learning tasks—and to help you keep this learning experience as paperless as possible! This is their one-stop-shop! Consider using Google Classroom, WordPress, Blogger, Google Sites, Weebly, or Wix as your classroom hub.

This one location is what I like to call, “The One Link to Rule Them All!” Don’t over complicate your classroom. Make it easy for you and your students. Use this central, “hub,” to give students everything they need: information about assignments, additional resources, enrichment activities, due dates, links to important school and campus information and web pages, classroom procedures, class rules, syllabus–anything and everything should go in your one-stop-shop and b organized for easy navigation.

16. Package Your Online Assignments

Don’t miss out on one of the BEST things about managing assignments online! When you create an assignment online using your preferred tool, be that Google Classroom, Canvas, Edmodo, Blackboard, Google Docs, Google Sites, Hyperdocs, whatever…give learners ALL of the information online. Give them detailed directions, the rubric, the due date, detail collaborative expectations, where and how to turn it in, what to do if they finish early, EVERYTHING you can think of! This will save you so much time answering questions. Learn about the ten things to include in your assignment package.

It is also convenient for absent work and demanding parents. This can also serve as documentation, a record of your lesson plans. You can fine-tune it and revise as you see fit throughout the assignment.

17. Don’t Assess the Bells and Whistles; Content is King

Technology can bring some excitement and engagement to student products and projects. But when it comes to assessing student work, always remember to go back to those learning goals. What was the original purpose of the lesson? Was it to include three animations in a PowerPoint? I hope not! The fun little extras, the bells, and whistles can give something special to a project, but that is most likely not your end goal.

Steer clear of rubrics that rely strictly on numbers, like the number of slides, the number of pictures, etc. Instead, use a rubric that focuses on the content and skills that the lesson was designed to teach.

18. Publish for a Global Audience

Every student should have the opportunity to publish for a global audience on a regular basis. Find ways to flatten the walls of your classroom and allow learners to publish their work, their writing, their videos, their projects, their creations, or even a full e-portfolio online. This will change the quality of their work and help them build a positive online presence. See my previous post, Every Student Should Publish for the World for more ideas and tools.

19. Always Have a Plan B

I say this one ALL THE TIME! No matter how much you prepare ahead of time for any lesson, even the ones that don’t involve technology, things do not always go as planned. We have all experienced those times when the technology doesn’t cooperate: the Internet connection or wifi is down, the website you were using crashed, the video you were going to play is blocked, the digital tool you planned to use is no longer free. It happens to all of us! That is why it is crucial to not only think on your feet, but to also have a Plan B. Plan B doesn’t mean a completely new lesson plan, but it does mean knowing what you will do if the lesson just isn’t working out. Sometimes this means going back to pen and paper. Sometimes this means going back to a tried and true tool like Google Docs. Being flexible is nothing new if you are a teacher, integrating technology is no different. Be prepared to transition to Plan B before you lose an entire instructional period.

20. Share Your Voice

I am a firm believer in sharing your story, your reflections, and your journey, and this is something we can also cultivate in students. This is a different type of sharing than sharing for collaboration and feedback. This is about sharing something more personal: the story of your learning. Reflection is an important part of the learning process, and when you are bold enough to share an honest reflection about your fears, what went well, or where you failed, it helps students cultivate a growth mindset. They begin to understand that the process, the good, the bad, and the ugly were all part of the learning journey. Help students to document their learning, reflect, and share with the world continuously.

Want to learn more idea like this? You will love my new book!

Shake Up Learning by Kasey Bell

Check out my new book, Shake Up Learning: Practical Ideas to Move Learning From Static to Dynamic.

About the Shake Up Learning Book

Technology is not a magic solution for education. It is an opportunity! An opportunity to shake things up, to connect and grow, and to create dynamic learning experiences for our students!

In this three-part book, you will explore WHY it’s time to Shake Up Learning, WHAT changes we can make in our classrooms to support dynamic learning experiences, and HOW to plan meaningful lessons for your classroom.

Shake Up Learning is a powerful guide and planning tool to help educators at all grade levels make the most of technology. Educator and blogger Kasey Bell guides you through the process of using technology and proven techniques to make learning dynamic.

You’ll discover . . .

• Practical strategies to help move from static teaching to dynamic learning
• Straightforward and easy-to-use templates for crafting engaging learning opportunities
• Tips and tricks for fearless implementation of powerful lesson plans
• Advice for moving from one-and-done activities to learning that evolves and inspires throughout the school year—and beyond!

AVAILABLE NOW ON AMAZON

Be DYNAMIC and SHAKE UP LEARNING in Your Classroom This Year!

But wait…There’s more!

With this book, I have also created several interactive resources, templates, and downloads, all available on ShakeUpLearningBook.com.

• Get the FREE Shake Up Learning Quickstart Guide
• An online community
• Discussion Questions, Chapter Actions, and Embedded Resources for all 20 Chapters!
• An interactive companion website to help you continue and deepen the learning
• A lesson plan database (submit and search for dynamic lesson plans)
• Tons of free resources, videos, templates, and downloads, all available on the website: ShakeUpLearningBook.com.

Shake Up Learning QUICKSTART GUIDE

Join the email list to get the latest information about the Shake Up Learning Book AND Get the FREE 20-Page Quickstart Guide that will help you Shake Up Learning in your classroom this year!

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

First Name

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We use this field to detect spam bots. If you fill this in, you will be marked as a spammer.

I'd like to receive the free email course. GET THE QUICKSTART GUIDE! We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time. Powered by ConvertKit

© 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 Top 20 Tech Tips for Teachers appeared first on Shake Up Learning.