Tuesday, September 20, 2016

Technology Newsletter for 9/20

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A Doodle so nice, I will mention it twice…


Google has announced the details of the Doodle 4 Google Contest. The theme for this year is, “What I see for the future…” Students are challenged to submit a Google Doodle, describing what they see coming for tomorrow. The winning submission receives a $30,000 scholarship and a $50,000 grant for the winner’s school. With the artistic talent we have in Floyd County Schools, there is no reason we can’t have a winner here!


If you have submissions, send them to your Instructional Tech Specialists as well as Google!

More information found here!


Geek Week is here!  There are great opportunities for student application of STEAM, view showcases, and participate in community activities.  Read the details by clicking here.  


Share a digital tip or tool at the September 29th Demo Slam!  Take a few minutes to share something great from your classroom for a chance to win a door prize!  More details here.


The cardboard challenge is coming in October.  Click here for the Cardboard Challenge Flyer.


We have created a MobyMax Guide for teachers.  Keep in mind that MobyMax support usually replies same day to many issues.


Floyd County Schools will be hosting a Twitter Chat on November 1st @ 8:30 pm using the hashtag #FloydPLN.  Learn more by exploring these resources: General Twitter Guide and What is a Twitter Chat?


GPB has upgraded its contract with Discovery Education to include student accounts and teacher tools.  You can access resources on the website and via this 10 step guide.

Apply for a classroom set of Chromebooks via the Grant Page by October 9th at 11:59 PM.


Google for Education - Nathan Medley
Do you love using technology in the classroom? If so you may be interested in getting Google Certified! Google offers two educator certifications so that you can show mastery at the level that's right for you. Use the content in the training center and your own teaching experience to best prepare you for the performance-based exams. Once you feel adequately prepared, exams are available online and the educator certifications can be achieved at any time.


Twitter- Jaki Day
Ok, this is about to get a little more wordy.  Yep, Twitter just announced that as of September 19th, it will no longer count @names in replies and media attachments; like GIFs, photos, videos, polls and quoted Tweets in the 140 characters you are allowed before they cut you off.  This doesn’t mean you can write a paragraph or your first novel on Twitter, but it does give you a little more wiggle room when you hit that Retweet, Quote Tweet or add media .  Consumerist Report


If you take a traditional worksheet (paper copy)  and convert it to a digital worksheet (Google Doc), are you really using technology effectively? While this approach may streamline your personal workflow it does not necessarily mean improved instruction and engagement for students. Effective integration of technology in the classroom should allow teachers to create a more academically challenging environment for students (TKES-Standard 8). As educators, we should keep in mind that technology is a powerful tool that can be used to create challenging and engaging learning experiences for students.
Let’s practice effective integration as a group! Check out this simple digital worksheet and make your suggestions as to how this simple digital worksheet could be transformed into a meaningful learning experience for students.


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Youtube Playlists:
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Classroom Tech       SharpSchool