EdTechTeacher Summit Boston 2017: Full Schedule

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8:30am

This is Your Brain on Technology

Parents and teachers are often at odds with the children they care about most. There are misunderstandings about how to use our ubiquitous technology and how to properly balance quality face-to-face time with necessary screen time. If we want students to be able to stay focused at school and at home while using devices that provide constant temptation and distraction, we must teach them about the research behind multitasking. Learn about the latest findings on how the brain is affected when we use screen technology, and how we can use this information to empower our students to be more focused, creative, and engaged while they are learning. Find out what students say when they learn this way and how they feel about school when technology is a no longer a distraction, but rather a powerful learning tool.

Speakers

Kerry Gallagher

Digital Learning Specialist, St. John's Prep

Kerry Gallagher is a Digital Learning Specialist at St. John’s Prep in Danvers, Massachusetts and Director of K-12 Education for ConnectSafely.org in Palo Alto, California. Prior to taking on a full-time instructional technology role, Kerry taught middle and high school history... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 8:30am - 9:30am
Keynote Room

Keynote, Keynote

Intended Audience Beg, Int, Adv, MS, HS, Admin
Device NA

9:45am

Design Thinking and Project Based Learning with 3D Printing in the Classroom

3D printing has become an affordable medium for the classroom. In this workshop, we will look at using this new medium as an integral part of a project based, cooperative learning unit. The basics of 3D printing will be covered while all aspects of unit development and implementation will be shared. Specific areas we will explore include design for 3D printing using tablet devices, file management, the operation of three types of 3D printers, filament options, purchasing tips, curriculum design incorporating Google Classroom and Google Sites, and assessment authentic to the project.

Speakers

Alice Gentili

Visual Art Educator, Mendon Upton Regional Schools

Alice Gentili – Visual Art Educator and Department Chair, Mendon-Upton Schools BFA (Painting) Mass College of Art, Post Bacc (Elem Ed), MEd (Art) Framingham State, Instructional Tech Certificate, Google Certified Educator, Lifelong MakerUsing iPads in the art classroom for design... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 9:45am - 10:45am
Grandmaster Salon 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Presentation

Intended Audience Admin, Adv, HS, Int, MS
Device iPad

9:45am

Virtual Reality In EDU

With the rapidly changing landscape of Virtual Reality and the reality of classroom integration, this session will explore the implications of virtual reality in a classroom setting as well as a the tools and resources that are readily available to begin integrating this potentially transformative technology. From consumption to creation session attendees will walk away with both a framework and tools to begin exploring pre-created VR content and VR as a storytelling platform.

Speakers

Greg Kulowiec

Teacher, EdTech

An early adopter of mobile devices, Greg first integrated cell phones, and then iPads, into his high school history curricula. As an EdTechTeacher instructor, he works with schools across the country, presents at national conferences, and blogs regularly about the creative capabi... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 9:45am - 10:45am
Silver Ballroom 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Presentation

Intended Audience Int, Adv, MS, HS, Admin
Device iPad, Chromebook, BYOD, Smartphone (iOS/ Android)

9:45am

Google Add-Ons & Chrome Extensions for Research, Writing & Feedback

Discover some of the best Google Add-Ons and Extensions that provide an excellent array of research, writing and editing tools perfect for laptop, desktop, and Chromebook classrooms. Also learn strategies that promote more effective teacher feedback and guidance. Among the tools featured include: WriteWell for Google Docs, Google Explore, SAS Writing Reviser, VideoNot.es, Screencastify, and others. Examine how educators make the most of tools that extend Google capabilities.

Speakers

Tom Daccord

Director & Co-Founder, EdTechTeacher

Tom Daccord, Director and Co-Founder of EdTechTeacher, has worked with schools, colleges and educational organizations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East as an educational technology speaker and instructor. He has authored three books and writes regul... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 9:45am - 10:45am
Grandmaster Salon 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Presentation

Intended Audience Beg, Int
Device Chromebook, Laptop

9:45am

Using Social Media & Creating Your Educational Brand

Educators, Schools, Programs and Departments can either tell their own stories or let someone else tell those stories for them. They can highlight the work that exemplifies their mission, or they can put the power to choose the narrative into someone else's hands, and then find their work misconstrued or unfairly criticized. This session will explore a number of resources that allow educators to capitalize on the power of Social Media and celebrate the best in our classrooms, buildings, and districts.

Speakers

Jonathan Werner

Jonathan R. Werner is a Library & Instructional Technology Specialist at the Library and Learning Commons at Cape Elizabeth Middle School in Maine. He is the President of ISTE Librarians Network and a co-organizer of #1to1techat (Weds at 9PM EST). He also presents frequently and... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 9:45am - 10:45am
Silver Ballroom 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW

9:45am

Personalized Learning: A Story about Collaboration and Changing Outcomes for Students

This session will focus on the journey Holcomb Bridge MS (GA) took with FEV Tutor (Live 1:1 Virtual Tutoring - ( https://www.fevtutor.com/ ) to change outcomes for 8th grade math students on the Georgia Milestones. Students experienced personalized, 1:1, customized virtual tutoring via FEV. Join the session to learn about our process, FEV experience and next steps with 1:1 virtual tutoring.

Speakers

Daniel Hebert

Director of Academics and Partnerships, FEV Tutor

I have experience working in k-12 public education as a math teacher, instructional coach, and consultant. Currently, I work as FEV Tutor’s Director of Academics and Partnerships, collaborating with school and district partners to design and implement custom online tutoring progr... Read More →

Chris Shearer

Principal, Holcomb Bridge MS

I have been in education for 19 years; the past four years as principal of Holcomb Bridge. It is the most diverse middle school in Fulton County. With that diversity, come great opportunities. To capitalize on the opportunities, our goal is to move the needle for every student. W... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 9:45am - 10:45am
Silver Ballroom 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT, Presentation

9:45am

Rigorous Whimsy & Critical Creativity: Using Creative Expression to Demonstrate Authentic Understanding in Any Classroom

Transform flights of creative fancy via hashtags and doodles, mashups and portmanteaux, Oreo cookies and LEGO bricks into pathways for students to demonstrate content knowledge, critical thinking, and the problem solving that will serve them best no matter what their futures may bring. Structured to maximize takeaways and first hand experience, learn how explanation, rationale, and intentionality elevate our classrooms into places where students shift from passive riders to active adventurers.

Speakers

Dan Ryder

English teacher, Mt. Blue High School

Improviser, design thinker, educator, co-author of upcoming "Intention: Critical Creativity in the Classroom" from EdTech Books | | Learning, thinking, doing, creating, laughing, dading, husbanding, podcasting, blogging, Tweeting, improvising, directing, exploding, imploding a... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 9:45am - 10:45am
Grandmaster Salon 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT

9:45am

Studyo (Sponsored Session) College and life-readiness for students using Studyo

Being well organized is key to academic and life success in our day of projects and collaboration. Task management used to be in students’ hands: teachers would write tasks and due dates on the board which students would note down and manage in their paper planner.

Now, every digital platform out there is teacher centric and provides little room for students to own the process of managing their tasks and projects. Many schools still provide paper planners to compensate, but students tend to abandon them. Studyo provides modern task management tools which leverage the platforms teachers are already familiar with, such as Canvas, OnCampus and Google Classroom, with the added ability for students to manage, plan and subdivide provided tasks or add their own, developing their sense of responsibility, and building the executive function skills required in College and beyond.

Sponsors

Renaud Boisjoly

CEO, Studyo

Helping students build executive functioning skills with the Studyo planner!

Tuesday November 14, 2017 9:45am - 10:45am
Keynote Room

Sponsor Session

11:00am

Game Design in the Classroom: K-8 Game Design & Programming with Tablets & Smartphones

Game Design in the classroom provides students with opportunities to learn design processes, cultivate technology proficiency, and build computational thinking and coding competencies. There are many engaging platforms that students can use to become familiar with coding and game design processes, in addition to providing students and teachers with innovative digital storytelling opportunities. Several apps will be presented in this workshop, including Bloxels Builder, Sketch Nation, and Hopscotch. These applications, in addition to hands-on and curricular tools will be presented, which can be utilized in tandem with iPads or tablets to create exciting and relevant learning experiences for students. These tools are open-ended and flexible, which can be utilized by tech-savvy educators in any content area classroom.

Speakers

Robert Kalman

Digital Design & EdTech Educator, Ramsey Public Schools

Robert is a digital design and edtech educator at Smith Middle School in Ramsey, NJ. He is the Bloxels EDU Lead Ambassador, and an enthusiastic edtech consultant and presenter. Robert loves working with both students and educators to utilize engaging and powerful technologies, su... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 11:00am - 12:00pm
Grandmaster Salon 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT

11:00am

Fostering Creativity with iPad

Fostering Creativity with iPad shows educators how to engage students in the creative process using multiple iOS apps in a connected workflow. We will explore Apple’s creativity suite of apps and innovative ways to use them on the iPad.

Cultivate student curiosity and let creativity blossom with iPad. Versatile and mobile, iPad includes apps and features that let educators and their students write, record, sketch, and gather inspiration from others and the world around them. And when multiple apps and features come together in a connected workflow, educators and their students have all the tools needed to share compelling learning stories as poets, engineers, musicians, and filmmakers.

This session is designed to help educators show their students how they can use iPad to support creativity. It focuses on three phases of the creative process—brainstorming, gathering inspirational resources, and telling compelling stories—that can help make learning more meaningful for students. Educators will find this process helpful in establishing a structure that will foster creativity in their classrooms and allow their students the freedom to use iPad to express learning in innovative ways.

Speakers

Mason

EdTech Instructor, EdTechTeacher

Mason, M. Ed. is an Education Technology National Instructor at EdTechTeacher, Inc. and an Ed.D. student at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. He is passionate about helping educators transform teaching and learning through technology integration and closing the... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 11:00am - 12:00pm
Silver Ballroom 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Presentation

11:00am

So you have a Makerspace, now what!?

There is so much potential for makerspaces to spark innovative passions in education, but they are turning into a buzz word. Dive in deeper than the buzz word with us as we showcase some PBL ideas to integrate meaningfully.

Speakers

Kerry Cowell

Library Media Specialist, Dale Street School

@kcowell7 Media Specialist~ grades 4&5 #beproudbedale My hope is to inspire, support, and empower students & teachers to embrace innovation in order to help our world... Former classroom teacher (14 years)Passionate about: #designthinking #makerspace #futurereadyskills #digcit #e... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 11:00am - 12:00pm
Keynote Room

edtechNOW

11:00am

How Might We K-12: Empathy Fueled Problem Solving in Schools

Design thinking is a human-centered approach to problem solving. DT can be a cornerstone of an innovative classroom, a foundation for building creative confidence in students, and a catalyst for changing the culture of an entire school or organization. Most importantly, design thinking represents a shift in mindset -- a posture of possibilities, imaginative inquiry, and meaningful solutions.

Boost your own design thinking abilities by learning the fundamentals through active participation with other curious and talented educators. Learn concrete strategies to: -Foster the mindset of a successful design thinker within yourself and your organization -Apply design thinking strategies and methods, tools and protocols to your impact area -Redesign lessons currently in use to reflect your newly developed design thinking mindset

Speakers

Tim Hebda

Classroom Teacher & Dean of Professional Growth, Waynflete School

Tim has been teaching third, fourth, and fifth graders in Connecticut and Maine for 19 years. He is a leader in technology integration focusing on creativity, documentation, and empowering students. In addition to his classroom work, Tim is Dean of Professional Growth at Waynflet... Read More →

Dan Ryder

English teacher, Mt. Blue High School

Tuesday November 14, 2017 11:00am - 12:00pm
Grandmaster Salon 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT

11:00am

Local, Global & Digital: Digital Citizenship in Your Community

Using a community-driven approach to digital citizenship, this session will focus on the positive ways to educate and empower students to turn negatives into positives, transform students into designers, creative thinkers, global collaborators, problem solvers and justice-oriented digital citizens. The focus is on the working with educators, students and parents to help create solutions in local, global and digital communities.

Speakers

Dr. Marialice Curran

Founder & CEO, Digital Citizenship Institute

Dr. Marialice B.F.X. Curran is the founder and CEO of the Digital Citizenship Institute. As a mother and a connected educator, she has served as an associate professor, middle school teacher, principal and library media specialist. As a pioneer in digital citizenship, she develop... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 11:00am - 12:00pm
Silver Ballroom 2 (NEXT)

edTHOUGHT, Presentation

11:00am

Scaling Innovation: Action Steps for School and District Leaders

Developing and scaling transformative teaching and learning with technology requires a collaborative, strategic approach to innovation. Tom will provide guidance and examples of actions steps that leaders can take to leverage technology in ways that personalize instruction and promote deeper learning for all students.

Speakers

Tom Driscoll

Director of Digital Learning, Bristol Warren Regional School District

Tom Driscoll is the Director of Digital Learning for the Bristol Warren Regional School District in Rhode Island. Previously, Tom taught high school social studies for eight years in northeastern Connecticut. Tom also speaks at conferences, consults with school districts, and has... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 11:00am - 12:00pm
Silver Ballroom 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT, Presentation

Intended Audience Admin, Adv, HS, MS
Device NA

1:15pm

Bird is the Word: Project Based Learning in Action

Want to see a real-life example of Project-Based Learning? Come explore a cross curricular project and hear from science, ELA, and special education teachers. We will detail the process that our students went through in our classrooms to create a high-quality product. In the spring of 2107 the students on the 7 Green Team at Oak Middle School in Shrewsbury, MA partnered with the Mass Audubon Society at Broad Meadow Brook to create field guide materials for their annual fundraising event called the “Bird-a-Thon”. Each student was responsible for researching a bird that could be spotted during the event and creating informational materials about that bird. Students became experts on ecological relationships and the role that their bird plays in the ecosystem and expanded their research and literacy skills. Additionally, students engaged in the design thinking process to analyze existing field guides, assess the needs of the participants of the Bird-a-Thon, brainstorm, prototype, and ultimately create their own materials for the event. During this project students used a variety of apps and tools including: Google Slides to create a book and pamphlets, Google Docs to organize research, Notability to create images, and Adobe Spark to create websites. We will walk you through the process that our students followed and you will leave understanding how our students created a product that had a purpose beyond the school walls.

Speakers

Susan Andrews

Sue Andrews recently started her eleventh year teaching in the Shrewsbury Public School system. Currently, she teaches English language arts to 7th graders in a 1:1 iPad classroom. Her background in humanities and experience teaching history drives her to build bridges across con... Read More →

Elin Dolen

7th Grade Science Teacher, Oak Middle School

Elin Dolen is a 7th Grade Science teacher at Oak Middle School in Shrewsbury, where she is passionate about using the iPad and Project Based Learning to spark student curiosity. This is her 11th year teaching middle school science and her 4th year in a 1:1 iPad classroom.

Sarah Powers

Special Education Teacher, Oak Middle School

As a 7th Grade Special Education teacher, she has worked on a team of innovative teachers utilizing 1:1 technology and creating an inclusive and engaging environment for all learners.

Tuesday November 14, 2017 1:15pm - 2:15pm
Keynote Room

edtechNEXT, Presentation

Device NA

1:15pm

The Art of Reflection in the Classroom: Using Technology to Help Students Reflect and Build on their Learning

Formal opportunities for reflection allow us to pause, look back, and analyze the points we can and should improve upon as we move forward. Great teachers regularly engage in reflection, if our first lesson of the day did not go well, we reflect back on what needs improvement and adjust to ensure that the same mistakes do not happen again. If, as teachers, we use the power of reflection to improve student learning, then it should be important to promote reflection with our students. In this session we will explore how technology can help students in the reflection process. We will look at strategies, apps, and web tools that will assist students in the reflection process, and allow them to grow as learners.

Speakers

Ben Sondgeroth

Instructor, EdTechTeacher

Ben began his career as a social studies teacher in Morrison, IL where he initiated and lead the district’s iPad pilot program and redesigned his own curriculum. After four years of teaching, Ben assumed the role of Director of Technology for the Morrison School District. In th... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 1:15pm - 2:15pm
Silver Ballroom 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Presentation

Intended Audience Adv, Beg, HS, Int, MS
Device BYOD, Chromebook, iPad

1:15pm

MakerEd in the Library

We already have great research supporting the transformative power of Making in the Library. While every Makerspace is unique, with each space created with particular staff and students in mind, they all share a passion for hands-on learning. Some teacher-librarians emphasize the arts, while others explore robotics, the environment, or technology. This session will focus on providing a variety of resources and tips for attendees -- especially those created by MakerEd gurus Diana Rendina & Laura Fleming -- with a particular emphasis on using these spaces as integral parts of units and lessons and on creating opportunities for student assessment in these spaces.

Speakers

Jonathan Werner

Tuesday November 14, 2017 1:15pm - 2:15pm
Grandmaster Salon 2 (NEXT)

edtechNOW

1:15pm

Teaching Coding for the Non-Coding Teacher

Coding is the language of critical thinking and problem-solving. Even if you aren’t a computer scientist, you can still teach kids these important thinking skills through fun, simple activities while laying the foundation for computational thinking. Come learn some strategies for engaging all students in mastering this important new literacy.

Speakers

Douglas Kiang

Speaker / Educator, EdTechTeacher / Punahou

Douglas Kiang is a dynamic speaker, teacher, and workshop presenter with over twenty years of teaching experience in independent schools at every grade level. He currently teaches computer science and heads the technology resource teachers group at Punahou School in Honolulu, Haw... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 1:15pm - 2:15pm
Grandmaster Salon 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Hands-on

Intended Audience Admin, Adv, Beg, HS, Int, MS
Device Laptop

1:15pm

A Concrete Look At Personalized Learning

While we hear the words personalized learning tossed around quite often today, it seems that everyone has a different understanding of what this means for learners. For schools to truly hit the mark on this, we need to also ensure that we are personalizing learning opportunities for adult learners (staff). This session will discuss some of the concrete ways that schools are personalizing learning for all learners.

Speakers

Patrick Larkin

Assistant Superintendent for Learning, Burlington Public Schools

Assistant Superintendent for Learning in Burlington Public Schools (MA), NASSP National Digital Principal Award Winner (2012), Former MA Assistant Principal of the Year, Led First 1:1 iPad High School Implementation In MA.

Tuesday November 14, 2017 1:15pm - 2:15pm
Grandmaster Salon 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT, Presentation

1:15pm

Where are the girls? Gender Inclusion in EdTech

Including more girls and women in the edtech field is a complex problem, and mentors, coaches, teachers, allies, and advocates are essential collaborators in the solution. We’ll unpack some of the staggering statistics: fewer than 20% of AP computer science test-takers are female, females leave the tech industry at twice the rate as males, and fewer than 15% of bachelor's degree in computer science are awarded to women. Next we’ll explore what is working nationally to reverse this trend, and discuss local implementation of strategies. Educators working in schools and out of school to design elementary, middle, and high school learning opportunities that engage girls and women in tech are invited to join this session. Participants will also have time to share their own solutions, and network with others who are eager to tackle this critical issue.

Speakers

Johanna Prince

Dr. Johanna Prince is the Program Coordinator for a collaborative Masters of Education in Instructional Technology. She teaches online and blended graduate courses in digital age teaching and learning. She teaches a course called Studio in Computing for Learning, and is launchin... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 1:15pm - 2:15pm
Silver Ballroom 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT

1:15pm

Creating Interactive Learning Experiences for Elementary Classrooms with G Suite EDU

Our youngest students do NOT need to be left behind in the G Suite classroom. From writing and narrating a story to exploring new ideas to reflecting on their learning process in a digital portfolio, the Chromebook offers a variety of opportunities for engaging young learners. In this session, we will explore ways teachers can create interactive activities with Google Docs, Google Slides, Google Drawings, as well as audio recording and screencasting tools.

Speakers

Avra Robinson

Instructor & Director of Online Learning, EdTechTeacher

Avra is an instructor and Director of Online Learning for EdTechTeacher. She is an authorized Google Education Trainer, former Instructional Technology Coordinator, and elementary classroom teacher. Avra has spent over 20 years helping students and teachers discover exciting ways... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 1:15pm - 3:30pm
Silver Ballroom 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Hands-on

Device Chromebook, Laptop

2:30pm

Crack the Code - Learn Coding through Play

Through a series of non-tech games, help children learn why coding works. Two first grade teachers share their journey of experimentation and play with coding, and how they empowered students to collaborate and take risks before trying out their problem solving skills on iPad games, such as Scratch Jr. and Lightbot. Along the way, students reflected on their learning in their Think Books or by recording their thoughts in videos.

Speakers

Eve Eaton

Teacher, Sidwell Friends School

Eve Eaton teaches at Sidwell Friends School in Washington, DC. Over the past two years, she has worked to integrate iPads into her classroom. She has discovered practical ways to seamlessly integrate this technology into the curriculum and is interested in helping others learn from her mistakes. She currently teaches first grade at Sidwell Friends Lower School, after having taught fourth graders for well over a decade. Eve is a regular contributor to the... Read More →

Amie Wallace

Lower School Teacher, Sidwell Friends School

A newcomer to this generation’s tech world, Amie Wallace has co-taught with Eve Eaton at Sidwell Friends School for four years. After both working with and learning from Eve about introducing coding in our classroom, and attending the EdTech Teacher Summit in 2013, she clearly sa... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Silver Ballroom 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Presentation

2:30pm

Level Up With Gamification & Game-Based Learning

Tap into the power of gamification and game-design principles to increase engagement and enhanced learning experiences. Based upon both academic research (Professor Lee Sheldon of RPI and Joey Lee of Columbia University) as well as first-hand experience in education settings, Tom will share strategies to effectively leverage game design concepts such as leveling, mastery-based progressions, real-time feedback, leaderboards, and compelling narratives. Explore how you can leverage gamification and game-based design, too!

Speakers

Tom Driscoll

Director of Digital Learning, Bristol Warren Regional School District

Tuesday November 14, 2017 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Grandmaster Salon 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Hands-on

Intended Audience Admin, Adv, Elem, HS, Int, MS
Device BYOD, Chromebook, iPad, NA

2:30pm

Catch the Hyperdoc Fever

Seeking ways to engage and empower learners while teaching them lifelong skills can be hard with today’s classroom. My students were bored, reading similar stories from our reading program. I felt like there was so much more I could be teaching them each week, but I was tied to my guided reading group. I reshaped my literature block and breathed new life into the classroom while personalizing learning. By creating hyperdocs to go along with stories, students are now able to work at their own pace both independently and collaboratively. They are accessing the GSuite in exciting ways, smashing various tools together in one hyperdoc. The literature they are reading is brought to life, and learning experiences are not only enriching but also authentic. I am freed up to have conversations with kids about books. The energy in the classroom has shifted, and a community of learners is being built. Hyperdocs can be created in any content area or to teach specific skills such as research or digital citizenship. It is important to know this is not a digital worksheet, rather a pedagogical revolution that brings learning to life. In this session we will explore hyperdocs in the content areas K-12 that are already created, learn about the process to create hyperdocs, and then have some time for attendees to make their own hyperdocs to support learning in the classroom. Teachers will leave with ideas to implement the next school day! Atendees will see how to not only implement various GSuite tools, but discover a plethora of apps and extensions to support learning. Programs such as Flipgrid and BrainPOP will also be included.

Speakers

Rayna Freedman

Teacher of 5th graders/ITS, Mansfield Elementary Schools

Rayna Freedman is beginning her 18th year at the Jordan/Jackson Elementary School in Mansfield, MA. She has taught grades 3-5 and is an ITS. Rayna is MassCUE's President Elect and has been presenting at their conferences since 2010. Rayna has also presented at EdTech Teacher S... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Grandmaster Salon 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Hands-on, Presentation

Link to session resources https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1PIHi8It5Mk3Uxh2jW-7vOrQ2Q-P4U5pBdDpqmDNao48/edit?usp=sharing

2:30pm

Making that Matters: Projects for the Real World and Real Audiences

The growing Maker Movement has led to an increasing emphasis on hands-on, construction-oriented learning in schools today. While the “What” of maker education is now clear, the “How” is still emerging and, excitingly, ever evolving! Educators often express their desire for additional resources to implement making in their classroom. This session will address how one district, the Mendon-Upton Regional Schools, is approaching maker education through the development a maker culture that yields a process and products that are meaningful and relevant to students. Presenters will first discuss their underlying beliefs about maker education and the importance of growing a maker culture in one’s classroom and school. Next, they will outline the pedagogical practices and models that inform their planning process. MURSD educators integrate aspects of design thinking, Connected Learning, Personal Digital Inquiry and project-based earning to design, iterate, revise and share student work with the community. The session will conclude with examples of how students and teachers have created products that travel beyond classroom walls, around the world and even into outer space! Featured maker projects include Nipmuc Regional High School’s Raspberry Pi Composting Project and Weather Balloon PongSatelite launch, Miscoe Hill Middle School’s STEAM PBL Though Art, and the Memorial Elementary School’s Virtual Tour for Friends in San Sebastian, Spain and much more. Participants will leave the session with remixable plans that can be implemented in their own classrooms.

Speakers

Alice Gentili

Visual Art Educator, Mendon Upton Regional Schools

David Quinn

Director of Technology Integration, Mendon-Upton Regional School District

Dave Quinn is the Director of Technology Integration for the Mendon-Upton Regional School District. He is also a Ph.D. candidate in the University of Rhode Island / Rhode Island College Ph.D. in Education program and is researching teacher practices that utilize technology to su... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Silver Ballroom 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT

2:30pm

Teaching Media Literacy in an Era of Fake News

We hear a lot in the news about “fake news,” but that term, which was coined fairly recently, is really a symptom of some much larger problems, including the lack of media literacy in a digital age where information is instant. In fact, Stanford Graduate School of Education recently found that more than 80% of middle and high school students were unable to distinguish between advertisements and real news stories. As parents and educators, it’s our job to help our learners become more savvy consumers of information.

Based on ConnectSafely’s Parent and Educator Guide to Media Literacy and Fake News, this session will include advice from educators, journalists, media literacy experts, and emotional intelligence researchers on how to bring critical media literacy skills to your classroom/home so that our children are able to make informed decisions about the information that bombards them every day.

Speakers

Kerry Gallagher

Digital Learning Specialist, St. John's Prep

Tuesday November 14, 2017 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Grandmaster Salon 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT, Presentation

3:45pm

Crafting Understanding: Minecraft as a Learning Tool

Think of Minecraft as students' canvas, able to capture conceptual understandings, worldviews, and creative whimsy. Through intentional use, Minecraft can be used to engage, extend, deepen, and connect learning in your impact area. We'll show you how we've used Minecraft in collaborative learning environments across a wide range of content areas and discuss how we have captured student learning. We will also let you give it a try and play with your own integration ideas.

Speakers

Tim Hebda

Classroom Teacher & Dean of Professional Growth, Waynflete School

Tuesday November 14, 2017 3:45pm - 4:45pm
Silver Ballroom 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Hands-on, Presentation

3:45pm

Abra-CODE-Abra: The Magic of Computational Thinking in the Elementary Classroom

Two Master Teachers from Natick, MA unlock the magic of Coding K-5. Explore hands-on opportunities for computational thinking and early programming in the general-ed classroom, using apps and robots, as well as offline activities fostering problem-solving skills and engineering through makerspaces. Both presenters are Code.org and Google certified educators who have presented on Innovation, Blended Learning, and Coding. The session will examine methods to bring coding concepts and language to the hands of young learners for accessibility and engagement, with a focus on curriculum integration and folding ISTE standards into everyday instruction. The session will showcase effective lessons and implementation with opportunity for participant hands-on exploration, including Sphero, Ozobot, Robot Mouse, Osmo, and Makey-Makey.

Speakers

Sarah Dahlheimer

3rd Grade, Natick Public Schools

Sarah Dahlheimer is a 3rd grade teacher at Bennett-Hemenway Elementary school in Natick. Certified BrainPOP Educator, Google Certified Educator, Plickers Ambassador, Prodigy Champion

Jed Stefanowicz

K-4 Digital Learning Coach-TOSA, Natick Public Schools

Jed Stefanowicz is an K-4 Digital Learning Coach, Grade 3 Master Teacher & Mentor from Natick Public Schools, 23 years. | He is a PLTW Lead Launch Teacher and Certified Educator/Ambassador for Code.org, Google, BrainPop, Prodigy, Plickers, and Makey-Makey. | Presenter: ISTE... Read More →

Tuesday November 14, 2017 3:45pm - 4:45pm
Grandmaster Salon 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Presentation

3:45pm

Texthelp (Sponsor Session) - Must-Have Literacy & Math Tools for G Suite

G Suite for Education puts powerful productivity and collaboration tools into the hands of students and teachers alike, no matter where they are or what type of device they’re using. And the availability of apps, extensions and add-ons provides students with even more support, personalization and means of engagement in their learning. But with thousands of these third party tools to choose from, it can be difficult to know which ones will truly support the needs of all your students.

This hands-on session will explore several of Texthelp’s suite of Google apps and extensions, including Read&Write and EquatIO, which can support students in their reading, writing, math and more. Participants will get to see these tools in action, with particular emphasis on how they can benefit all types of learners and support a UDL framework in the classroom.

Speakers

Kathleen Colburn

Tuesday November 14, 2017 3:45pm - 4:45pm
Keynote Room

Sponsor Session

9:15am

Explain Everything in a 3rd Dimension

It can be powerful when students create representations of their understanding using whiteboarding and screencasting. It has been up to teachers and other educational leaders to create the program and experiences within to support this form of multimodal expression. Next, we can consider new opportunities that are created when we allow them to break out of “traditional” 2-dimensional digital spaces. This interactive session will explore the intersection of whiteboarding, screencasting, and virtual environments.

Speakers

Dr. Reshan Richards

Adjunct Assistant Professor, Teachers College, Columbia University

Dr. Reshan Richards is faculty member at Columbia University and Chief Learning Officer at Explain Everything, which he co-founded. Reshan also teaches an entrepreneurship course at Montclair Kimberley Academy in NJ and is the co-author of Blending Leadership: Six Simple Beliefs... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 9:15am - 10:15am
Keynote Room

edtechNEXT, Presentation

9:15am

Looking for Knowledge? Google Your Brain!

Few empirical studies may be more detrimental to advancements of effective technology use in K-12 education than the Mueller and Oppenheimer (2014) as well as Carter, Greenberg, and Walker (2016) reports. Both empirical studies assert that students in lecture-style courses perform worse on assessments when allowed to use technology in the classroom. However, neither study mentions any instruction provided to students to help them capitalize on the tools in front of them! Too often, educators project their own reading and note taking habits onto their students, applying paper-based strategies to digital texts. However, what if we actually considered digital reading and note taking as a completely new task? When students can harness the power of tagging, searching, and sharing as a new way to approach how they interact with course content, they will be able to ask better questions, build stronger connections, and engage in deeper inquiry. Ultimately, students need to not only be able to search for knowledge across disparate sources, but also within their own brains.

Speakers

Beth Holland

Instructor & Doctoral Student, EdTechTeacher & John Hopkins

Beth Holland combines over 17 years of experience in mobile learning, K-12 education, and differentiated instruction to help teachers create innovative learning environments. She blogs regularly for Edutopia and EdTech Researcher at Education Week, presents at nationally and inte... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 9:15am - 10:15am
Silver Ballroom 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Presentation

Intended Audience Beg, Int, Av, MS, HS
Device NA

9:15am

Enhancing Productivity with iPad

Maximize learning time and help students focus on meaningful tasks using iPad. Powerful and versatile, iPad includes apps and features that let you and your students manage and prioritize everyday tasks. And when multiple apps and features come together in a connected workflow, you can show your students that they have all the tools they need to get and stay organized, streamline learning processes, and save time so they can be more engaged in learning.

Speakers

Mason

EdTech Instructor, EdTechTeacher

Wednesday November 15, 2017 9:15am - 10:15am
Grandmaster Salon 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Presentation

9:15am

Introduction to Utilizing G Suite EDU in the Classroom

Are you new to G Suite? Are you wondering how to get started? In this session, we will explore the potential for G Suite EDU in the classroom. From collaboration to creation, there are endless possibilities for students of all ages.

Speakers

Avra Robinson

Instructor & Director of Online Learning, EdTechTeacher

Wednesday November 15, 2017 9:15am - 10:15am
Silver Ballroom 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Presentation

Intended Audience Beg
Device Chromebook, Laptop

9:15am

Girls & STEM: Inclusion, Equity, and Action

Are there ways that work to interest more girls in STEM, and keep them interested? How can K-12 schools and informal learning organizations address a gender disparity problem that impacts not just schools, but colleges, jobs, and every walk of life? This session will explore research, resources, and best practices to involve girls of all ages in STEM. Participants will learn about the potential to bring new tools and technology to learning spaces to support hands-on learning across all grades and curriculum – plus areas that are of particular interest to girls, such as inventions that help people, sewable electronics, e-textiles, bio-materials, citizen science, and community projects. Hands-on projects and tools can engage girls (and all learners) in STEM activities that matter. We will explore how the collaborative, tinkering nature of global revolutions like the maker movement, open source, and project-based learning dovetails with girls ability to work collaboratively and in a connected way.

Speakers

Sylvia Martinez

Author and Independent Education Consultant, Constructing Modern Knowledge

Sylvia is co-author of “Invent To Learn: Making, Tinkering, and Engineering the Classroom”, a new book advocating authentic learning using modern technology, real world design principles, and hands-on experiences. The book has been hailed as the “Bible of the Maker Movement... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 9:15am - 10:15am
Grandmaster Salon 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT, Presentation

9:15am

Mindset, Skillset, Toolkit: Leveraging Online Spaces for Meaningful PD

How do we best prepare educators to navigate a changing learning landscape? This workshop will demonstrate how Global Online Academy has leveraged online learning spaces to engage educators and model the skills they'll need to become designers of exciting, student-driven learning experiences. Participants will have hands-on experience with activities in three phases: 1) Nurturing a designer's mindset 2) Developing a designer's skillset and 3) Practicing with a designer's toolkit. Each participant will leave with best practices in online and blended PD, activities they can replicate with their colleagues, and hands-on time with a tech tool that appeals to educators of all types.

Speakers

Eric Hudson

Director of Teaching and Learning, Global Online Academy

Eric Hudson is the Director of Teaching and Learning at Global Online Academy. He leads GOA’s student program, a global consortium of 70 independent schools that offers innovative, relationships-based online courses to member school students, courses designed and taught by memb... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 9:15am - 10:15am
Silver Ballroom 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT, Presentation

9:15am

Foster Creativity in your Classroom using Chrome Apps and Extensions

G Suite for Education and Chrome Extensions provide creative and collaborative learning opportunities for laptop, desktop, and Chromebook classrooms. Learn some of the best uses of Google Drive Add-Ons and explore helpful Chrome apps and extensions. Among the tools featured are Soundtrap, Kami, VideoNot.es, Screencastify, and many others! Examine how educators make the most of tools that extend Google capabilities and plan effectively for integration strategies.

Speakers

Ben Sondgeroth

Instructor, EdTechTeacher

Wednesday November 15, 2017 9:15am - 11:30am
Grandmaster Salon 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Hands-on

Intended Audience Adv, Big, HS, Int, MS
Device BYOD, Chromebook

10:30am

The Wearable Classroom: How Wearable Technology is Transforming Learning

Come discover how Apple Watch, FitBit, Google Cardboard, and other wearable devices are changing the way we view the world, and how the world views us. Explore how we can use data to affect learning outcomes, as well as the potential implications for privacy and security of data in a world where data is collected and tracked persistently and transparently.

Speakers

Douglas Kiang

Speaker / Educator, EdTechTeacher / Punahou

Wednesday November 15, 2017 10:30am - 11:30am
Silver Ballroom 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Presentation

Intended Audience Beg, Int, Adv, MS, HS, Admin
Device NA

10:30am

Entrepreneurship & Innovation in EDU

How do we inspire and prepare students with vital 21st century skills and to think differently? Join this hands-on workshop to explore how entrepreneurship and innovation can be used in your classroom and school to empower students and personalize learning. Blake will share key resources and strategies used in k12 programs that develop the entrepreneurial mindset and skill set, as well as discuss challenges many educators (and students) face when implementing this work. Leave this session energized with ideas that can immediately be applied in your classroom!

Speakers

Blake Sims

Founder & CEO, Epiic Solutions

Blake is a dynamic educator and entrepreneur dedicated to providing unique learning experiences that challenge and inspire k12 students and educators. Her teaching experience in Chicago Public and internationally, along with her work at Harvard Graduate School of Education cataly... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 10:30am - 11:30am
Grandmaster Salon 2 (NEXT)

edtechNOW, Hands-on

10:30am

Flipped Learning in the Mathematics Classroom

For districts just beginning a 1:1 program, flipped learning is a great model to get started with integrating technology in the Mathematics Classroom. Participants will learn the process for creating a flipped learning environment and be given examples of how this can be used in the Mathematics classroom to guide student mastery of concepts.

Speakers

Stephanie Iacadoro

Mathematics Supervisor, grades 6-12, Duxbury Public Schools

Stephanie is the Mathematics Supervisor for grades 6-12 in a 1:1 Macbook district. In her role she supports curriculum development, professional development, and the evaluation of Mathematics Educators. Stephanie's experience and training include competency based learning, perfor... Read More →

Brandon Josselyn

Wednesday November 15, 2017 10:30am - 11:30am
Silver Ballroom 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Presentation

10:30am

Sketchnoting in the Classroom

Sketchnoting, also call visual notetaking, allows students to creatively organize their thoughts using sketches. Visual notetaking targets the auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learners as all three areas are utilized. Whether taking notes the traditional way and then creating a sketchnoted version, or sketching notes during a lecture, with sketchnotes students showcase their personalized understanding of the content. Learn how to teach students the basics of sketchnoting, how to create a structure that can be used for the process, and practice creating a sketchnote of your own in this session. Apps and tools that can be used for digital sketchnoting will also be covered. (If you are bringing an iOS or Android tablet, please install Autodesk Sketchbook. If you have a touchscreen laptop, Chromebook, or Surface, you will be using an online site. If you would rather sketchnote without technology, please bring a plain piece of paper, a pencil and a few colored pencils.)

Speakers

Kathy Schrock

Educational Technologist, Kathy Schrock's kackl!

Kathy Schrock has been a school district Director of Technology, an instructional technology specialist, and a middle school, academic, museum, and public library librarian. She is currently an online adjunct graduate-level professor for Wilkes University (PA) and an independent... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 10:30am - 11:30am
Grandmaster Salon 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Hands-on

Link to session resources http://www.schrockguide.net/sketchnoting.html

10:30am

Advancing Creative Mindsets

Are you wrestling with these questions: Now what? What can we do with these devices? How do you encourage staff to innovate? How do you reflect? How do we make sure we are not just using "expensive pieces of paper"? How do you proceed? We will walk participants through our process of answering this essential question - "How Can We Cultivate and Curate the Progression of Student Learning and Growth?" This session is aimed towards both building-based secondary-level educators, administrators, and district administrators who are exploring or are involved in the implementation of a mobile learning initiative. Through the voice of administrators, teachers and students, participants will experience first hand how Blake Middle School engaged students and educators in the transformation from a computer lab/wireless cart model to the 1:1 environment.

By following four core principles (Program Development, Classroom/Curriculum Implementation/Integration, Professional Development, and Reflection/Evaluation), students and educators from Blake Middle School have brought an engaging student-centered model to fruition. This session will zoom in on two of these core principles… Classroom/Curriculum Implementation/Integration (Student/Teacher demonstrations across curricula demonstrating the applications of the program; Fostering creativity/redefinition and reflections/curation via student portfolios) Professional Development Structure (ETT, common planning, internal structures, appropriate staffing)

Participants will walk away with a framework to help address these questions, highlighting our approach to thematic professional development, a culture of collaboration, student creativity, purposeful learning, and digital citizenry. We will exhibit our methods of transparency and communication with the parents and greater community, philosophy of mistakes, and professional development model. The lessons we learned, and approach we took as a team to enhance the learning for our students, will hopefully help with sharing our approach, successes, mistakes, and process of growth.

Speakers

Jason Heim

Science Teacher, T.A. Blake Middle School, Medfield Public Schools

Jason is an eighth grade science teacher at Blake Middle School in Medfield, MA and is an edtech enthusiast. His passion and leadership skills have helped lead a culture of creative and collaborative students and adults.

Diane Horvath

Technology Integration Specialist, Blake Middle School

Diane is the Technology Integration Specialist at Blake Middle School who believes in living in BETA! She has a strong desire to continually evolve and spark opportunities for creativity, connectivity and innovation to students. Her current spotlight is on blending technology + d... Read More →

Nat Vaugh

Principal, Blake Middle School

Nat Vaughn is the principal at Blake Middle School in Medfield, MA. His strong advocacy of fostering an environment of collaboration and creativity with students, teachers and parents, coupled with his core values of communication and transparency, have been key elements in foste... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 10:30am - 11:30am
Silver Ballroom 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT

10:30am

Artificial Intelligence & EdTech

With Articificial Intelligence poised to have an impact in many facets of our society, it is critical that we begin to consider and explore the implications for AI in education and the classroom. The session will explore the current state of AI and will be an entry point to begin the discussion about where AI is going in education in the near future.

Speakers

Greg Kulowiec

Teacher, EdTech

Wednesday November 15, 2017 10:30am - 11:30am
Grandmaster Salon 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT, Presentation

Intended Audience Int, Adv, MS, HS, Admin
Device NA

12:45pm

Exploring Augmented Reality in EDU

The easily accessed computer vision of smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices is a growing phenomenon inside schools and out. The power of the camera spans from photography and video, to quick and easy digitalization, to QR code readers, to various forms of augmented reality. These ocular recognition technologies can create opportunities for students to make connections between the physical and digital worlds, and to create engaging and interactive physical and digital projects. This session will expose attendees to a number of augmented reality technologies, and leave educators with practical ideas for incorporating student-created AR projects in their classrooms.

Speakers

Robert Kalman

Digital Design & EdTech Educator, Ramsey Public Schools

Wednesday November 15, 2017 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Silver Ballroom 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT

12:45pm

STEAM You Can Wear: Personalize Design Experiences with Coding and Electronics

An LED, battery, and conductive thread can bring principles of electronics and engineering to learners of all ages. Interactive jewelry, bookmarks, and stuffed toys become a vehicle for making powerful ideas accessible to a diverse population of learners. Learn how to combine computer science with these “soft circuits” or “e-Textiles” to make singing stuffed animals, animated t-shirts, jackets with directional signals, or backpacks with burglar alarms with the addition of the Lilypad Arduino or Flora microcontroller. Design, STEM, arts, and crafts come together with these easily accessible technologies for all.

Speakers

Sylvia Martinez

Author and Independent Education Consultant, Constructing Modern Knowledge

Wednesday November 15, 2017 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Grandmaster Salon 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT, Presentation

12:45pm

iPads & Video AppSmashing

App-Smashing is the process of using multiple apps to create, modify, remix, edit and publish content that could not have been created with just one app. Integrating the power and flexibility of the iPad iOS, appsmashing with video in particular provides students and teachers the ability to create truly remarkable content on an iPad. In this session, participants will learn app-smash possibilities with a small but versatile app toolkit that facilitates student-created content. Apps used will include, but are not limited to, iMovie, Explain Everything, Tellagami, Shadow Puppet Edu, Green Screen and Book Creator.

Speakers

Tom Daccord

Director & Co-Founder, EdTechTeacher

Wednesday November 15, 2017 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Grandmaster Salon 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Presentation

Intended Audience Int, Adv
Device iPad

12:45pm

Experience the Student Designed Live Action Portfolio: Open Studio

In this hands-on workshop, you will experience what it is like to participate in a student-led open studio. It was born out of a desire to have a more integrated approach to curricular development. Classroom teachers began working collaboratively with technology integrationists, librarians, learning specialists, and art teachers to change their thematic curriculum to a student-centered approach. Students used the design thinking process to create a new format for presenting their learning to the larger school community. The process began by researching other open studios in the Boston area and developing a prototype for a new form of assembly. The open studio replaced the traditional on-stage performance and became a live-action portfolio. Students engaged guests of all ages from our community in interactive activities, presenting their third-grade journey through artifacts and original creations, and sharing the lessons they had learned about themselves as learners. The students defined their open studio as a “student-centered, creative atmosphere where we share and reflect on our experiences and journey through third grade.” See examples from the open studio and talk to the teachers that were involved. There will be time for questions and answers, as well as tips for implementation in your school.

Speakers

Sue Fisher

EurekaLab Coach, Meadowbrook School of Weston

Wednesday November 15, 2017 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Silver Ballroom 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT, Hands-on

12:45pm

It’s Time to Find Your Ed Tech Passion

How do you identify your edtech passion? Kathy can help! She will showcase the aspects of educational technology used to support meaningful teaching and learning she cares deeply about. She will provide a wide array of practices, pedagogies, and thought-provoking uses of technology by educators and students. From cool gadgets to embedding technology, and everything in-between, you will come away with a plan of how you can focus on “doing what you love” in the edtech arena.

Speakers

Kathy Schrock

Educational Technologist, Kathy Schrock's kackl!

Wednesday November 15, 2017 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Silver Ballroom 1 (NOW)

edTHOUGHT, Presentation

Link to session resources http://www.schrockguide.net/passion.html

12:45pm

Nearpod (Sponsor Session) - Engage, Motivate, and Excite Your Students with Interactive Lessons

Nearpod empowers teachers to facilitate lessons in a way that will spark students’ curiosity, excitement, and motivation. Teachers can share multimedia activities, receive real-time feedback, and instantly gauge student understanding. In this session, you will learn how to incorporate this powerful tool in your classroom, and leave with an interactive lesson to share with your students/colleagues tomorrow. Please create a FREE Teacher Account at Nearpod.com before the workshop.

Speakers

Christian Hansen

Wednesday November 15, 2017 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Keynote Room

Sponsor Session

12:45pm

Using Improvement Science to Build a Roadmap for Innovation

Improvement science provides a road map for change. Whether you are years into your 1:1 journey or just beginning the process, its principles support the "triple aims" of educational improvement: improved effectiveness, greater efficiency, and enhanced engagement. In this fast-paced, hands-on institute, will explore the theories, tenets, and tools behind improvement science so that participants will leave with concrete ideas, strategies, and tools to continue leading change.

Speakers

Beth Holland

Instructor & Doctoral Student, EdTechTeacher & John Hopkins

Wednesday November 15, 2017 12:45pm - 3:00pm
Grandmaster Salon 3 (THOUGHT)

edtechNEXT, Hands-on

Intended Audience Admin
Device NA

2:00pm

Computational Thinking - Leveraging the Excitement and Engagement of Robot Play!

Discover how elementary students can interact with a variety of robots to develop computational thinking skills, perseverance, and coding fluency. Participants will learn how the engagement and excitement of robot play can be leveraged to teach important skills such as collaboration, problem solving, and communication. Learn how teachers connect tech tools to everyday classroom experiences and curricula.

Speakers

Robyn McKenney

K - 5 Tech Coordinator, Waterford Public Schools

Robyn is a K-5 Tech Coach at Waterford Public Schools in CT. She has a Master’s in Education Tech and has worked to integrate technology at the Elementary, Middle School, High School, and District Level. Robyn works with teachers and students to facilitate the purposeful integr... Read More →

Whitney Wadecki

Teacher, Waterford Public Schools

Whitney graduated from the University of Connecticut in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science from the Neag School of Education and also received a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Connecticut in 2014. She began her teaching career in the Fall of 2014... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Silver Ballroom 2 (NEXT)

edtechNEXT

2:00pm

Flatten Your Classroom: Knock Down the Walls of Your Classroom and Let your Students Engage the World

In this session, you will learn how to use Google Maps, Cardboard, and Expeditions, live webcams, and virtual field trips to show your children the world. You will also learn how to use Skype and Google Hangouts to help your students make connections to other classrooms, authors, scientists, and government leaders!

Speakers

Veronique Roberts

Arthur Santos

Dist. Tech Integration Specialist, Lowell Public Schools

Kara Wilkins

District Technology Integration Specialist, Lowell Public Schools

Kara Wilkins spent eighteen years teaching special education and social studies to 7th and 8th graders. She is currently a District Technology Integration Specialist for the Lowell Public Schools. She is a Google Certified Educator, an Apple Teacher, and a 2015 Local PBS Digita... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Grandmaster Salon 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW

2:00pm

Science for All!: Using IPads and Osmos to Open the doors to Vocabulary, Background Knowledge and Equity.

For English Language Learners (ELLs), science can be a confusing mass of unknown vocabulary and unclear instruction. In today's elementary classrooms, science instruction is delivered primarily through English Language Arts and requires children, regardless of their English language literacy, to comprehend grade-level materials. This effectively closes the door to science literacy for children who are still learning English. This can also have a broad impact on whole communities with high numbers of ELLs, leaving them without access to the science knowledge and skills that can empower. Additionally, it can shut out young learners from possible futures in stable and rewarding STEM fields. Science instruction without support, solely through ELA, is an issue of equity. This presentation will share a program created by University Education Faculty and Title I classroom teachers to support ELL and special education students in the use of iPad apps and Osmos. Our goal for the collaboration was to make science fun and accessible to 4th and 5th graders while at the same time building vocabulary and providing background knowledge. We will share our successes and a few lessons learned. IPad Apps and strategies for integrating Osmos to support ELLs and special education students in the classroom will also be shared.

Speakers

Heather Pacheco Guffrey

Assistant Professor, Bridgewater State University

Heather Pacheco-Guffrey is an Assistant Professor at Bridgewater State University. There, she teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in science, technology and engineering for pre- and in-service teachers. She works extensively with local communities to support districts as they work to transition to the new Massachusetts Science, Technology and Engineering standards and Practices. Dr... Read More →

Jeanne Ingle

Assistant Professor, Bridgewater State University

Dr. Jeanne Carey Ingle is a recent arrival to Bridgewater State Univ. faculty after many years as an elementary teacher. She teaches courses in educational technology, intro to ed and social inequality in education. She loves working with teachers and students on tech integratio... Read More →

Wednesday November 15, 2017 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Silver Ballroom 1 (NOW)

edtechNOW, Presentation

2:00pm

Building Ideal Schools - Deepening Understanding through Reflecting and Making

Combining Maker Ed and thinking routines, two first grade teachers share their experience delving into a study of school community. The teachers will share how they helped students deepen their understanding of a topic through questioning, experimenting, reflecting, and making! After students had the opportunity to study their own school community, they were asked to reflect on their understanding through video blogs, painted reflection journals, Think Books, and iBooks. Students shared their understanding of the interdependence of a school community by creating a physical model of their ideal school. This unit was shared as a part of an Exhibition of Teacher and Student Learning - a DC-PZ event.

Speakers

Eve Eaton

Teacher, Sidwell Friends School

Amie Wallace

Lower School Teacher, Sidwell Friends School

Wednesday November 15, 2017 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Grandmaster Salon 2 (NEXT)

edTHOUGHT

2:00pm

Maple Magic: Project Based Learning, Design Thinking and Maple Syrup Production

Through the lens of a multi-grade middle school science project, explore how project based learning and design thinking can bring science to life. Students used the tools of the makerspace and deep technology integration along side traditional maple production methods to explore the science, math and engineering behind maple syrup. Together we'll compare project based learning and design thinking, and identify when each is most appropriate.

Speakers

Jonathan Schmid

Director of Innovation & Technology, The Meadowbrook School of Weston

Jonathan Schmid is the Director of Innovation & Technology at The Meadowbrook School of Weston, Massachusetts, which was recently recognized as an exemplar school by the Partnership for 21st Century Learning. Jonathan led the team behind the EurekaLab, a makerspace at The Meadow... Read More →

Rachel Shuler

Meadowbrook School of Weston, MA: Middle School Science Teacher & Department Chair

Wednesday November 15, 2017 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Silver Ballroom 3 (THOUGHT)

edTHOUGHT