Teachers and Administrators Using Technology - School Leadership 2.02024-03-19T01:46:01Zhttps://schoolleadership20.com/forum/categories/teachers-and-administrators/listForCategory?feed=yes&xn_auth=noIncorporating AI Art Generation in the Classroomtag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-03-04:1990010:Topic:3905212024-03-04T15:55:55.508ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<p></p>
<p><strong>Incorporating AI Art Generation in the Classroom</strong></p>
<p>Edutopia</p>
<p>Vicki Davis</p>
<p></p>
<p>In her article published on February 29, 2024, Vicki Davis explores the revolutionary impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) art generation tools in the realm of education and art creation. These tools, which have emerged as a new frontier for digital artistry, enable users to create complex images through AI-driven platforms such as Midjourney, Dall-E, Microsoft…</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Incorporating AI Art Generation in the Classroom</strong></p>
<p>Edutopia</p>
<p>Vicki Davis</p>
<p></p>
<p>In her article published on February 29, 2024, Vicki Davis explores the revolutionary impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) art generation tools in the realm of education and art creation. These tools, which have emerged as a new frontier for digital artistry, enable users to create complex images through AI-driven platforms such as Midjourney, Dall-E, Microsoft Copilot, Canva, Adobe Firefly, and Adobe Photoshop. Davis underscores the significance of equipping students with the necessary vocabulary and knowledge to utilize these tools effectively, thereby opening up a new world of artistic possibilities.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12395799058?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12395799058?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="300" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Illustration by Michael Keany/AI</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"></p>
<p>AI art generation tools rely on diffusion models trained on massive datasets to produce artwork based on textual prompts. This advancement means that understanding art's language has become crucial. Educators are positioned to empower students with a rich descriptive vocabulary for art, akin to how specificity improves interactions with smart home devices. Davis emphasizes the importance of detailed prompts in generating AI artwork, highlighting the necessity of human supervision in refining the AI's output to match the creator's vision.</p>
<p>However, Davis points out that while these tools offer unparalleled opportunities for creativity, they also necessitate a cautious approach. The subjective nature of terms like "beautiful" or "ugly" can lead to biases in AI-generated art, reflecting the data sets' limitations. As such, users must be aware of and capable of reporting any biases they encounter, a responsibility Davis instills in her middle and high school students.</p>
<p>The article also stresses the importance of art knowledge in the age of AI art generation. Familiarity with art history, well-known artists and artifacts, styles, and mediums enhances the effectiveness of prompts used to generate AI artwork. Davis notes that as AI art generation tools become more accessible, understanding these elements is more critical than ever.</p>
<p>Despite the potential concerns that AI art generation may devalue traditional artistry, Davis argues that this technology could lead to a greater appreciation for handcrafted art. She suggests that as more people become educated about art through AI, the demand for genuine, handcrafted pieces may increase. However, she also cautions against certain platforms like Midjourney for K-12 education due to the public nature of their creation processes.</p>
<p>Davis concludes by highlighting the essential role of art knowledge in navigating the AI art generation landscape. As these tools redefine how we create and engage with art, educators play a pivotal role in preparing students to harness AI's power responsibly and creatively, ensuring that the legacy of capturing the human experience through art continues with these new technological tools.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://www.edutopia.org/article/generative-ai-art-school?utm_content=linkpos3&utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=email&utm_source=tech-newsletter" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Original Article</a></p>
<p></p>
<p>------------------------------</p>
<p></p>
<p>Prepared with the assistance of AI software</p>
<p>OpenAI. (2024). <i>ChatGPT</i> (4) [Large language model]. <a href="https://chat.openai.com">https://chat.openai.com</a></p>
<p></p> ChatGPT Tips & Tricks for K-12 Educatorstag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-02-28:1990010:Topic:3906362024-02-28T16:42:43.788ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><b>ChatGPT Tips & Tricks for K-12 Educators</b></p>
<p><b><span>by Alexis Wiggins, February 21, 2024</span></b></p>
<p><b><span>(Thanks to <a href="https://marshallmemo.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Marshall Memo</a> for pointing us to this resource.)</span></b></p>
<p></p>
<p><b><span>Alexis Wiggins has generated a set of prompts for using ChatGPT in a wide variety of school settings. </span></b></p>
<p></p>
<p><b><span>This list encompasses a range of…</span></b></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><b>ChatGPT Tips & Tricks for K-12 Educators</b></p>
<p><b><span>by Alexis Wiggins, February 21, 2024</span></b></p>
<p><b><span>(Thanks to <a href="https://marshallmemo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Marshall Memo</a> for pointing us to this resource.)</span></b></p>
<p></p>
<p><b><span>Alexis Wiggins has generated a set of prompts for using ChatGPT in a wide variety of school settings. </span></b></p>
<p></p>
<p><b><span>This list encompasses a range of educational tasks and projects across various subjects and grade levels, focusing on curriculum development, assessment design, class activities, student collaboration, personalized learning, professional development, language learning, student counseling and advising, art and creativity, physical education, and the formulation of essential questions.</span></b></p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kkjx7SH0mMA8eRiibHOTDa-Gfn92RxISeiYrfwFiS1E/edit" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read more...</a></p>
<p></p>
<p></p> Tech Tools Can Provide Premade Flashcards For Students. That’s Not a Good Thing, Says New Researchtag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-02-21:1990010:Topic:3901972024-02-21T14:28:14.254ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<p></p>
<h1>Tech Tools Can Provide Premade Flashcards For Students. That’s Not a Good Thing, Says New Research</h1>
<div class="byline-social"><div class="byline"><div class="slice-container slice-author-byline authorByline-FqCSaLqcfSjpJym94Qz6EV slice-container-authorByline" id="slice-container-authorByline-FqCSaLqcfSjpJym94Qz6EV"><div class="author-byline author-byline--basic-layout"><div class="author-byline__authors">By<span> …</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p></p>
<h1>Tech Tools Can Provide Premade Flashcards For Students. That’s Not a Good Thing, Says New Research</h1>
<div class="byline-social"><div class="byline"><div id="slice-container-authorByline-FqCSaLqcfSjpJym94Qz6EV" class="slice-container slice-author-byline authorByline-FqCSaLqcfSjpJym94Qz6EV slice-container-authorByline"><div class="author-byline author-byline--basic-layout"><div class="author-byline__authors">By<span> </span><span class="author-byline__author-name"><a href="https://www.techlearning.com/author/erik-ofgang" target="_self" class="link author-byline__link">Erik Ofgang</a></span></div>
<div class="author-byline__authors"><span class="author-byline__author-name">Techlearning.com</span></div>
<div class="author-byline__authors"></div>
<div class="author-byline__authors"><p>New research highlighted in an article by Erik Ofgang for <em>Tech & Learning</em> underscores the advantages of student-generated flashcards over premade sets for enhancing learning outcomes. The study, led by Steven C. Pan and published in the <em>Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition</em>, found that undergraduate participants who created their own flashcards exhibited notably better performance on tests — in some instances, their scores were about 10% higher, equating to roughly a letter grade improvement. In a particular experiment, this self-creation method led to a 25% better performance compared to those who studied using premade flashcards.</p>
<p>The effectiveness of creating one's own flashcards is attributed to engaging in generative learning activities, which involve curating, organizing, or elaborating on the material to be learned. This process facilitates additional cognitive processing of information, thereby enhancing learning. In contrast, students using premade flashcards tend to adopt a more passive learning approach, missing out on the benefits of generative learning.</p>
<p>Pan, director of the Learning Sciences Laboratory at the National University of Singapore, argues that relying on premade flashcards deprives students of valuable learning opportunities. Despite the convenience of digital tools and AI-generated flashcards, which promise more study time by reducing flashcard creation time, this research suggests that such an approach might be counterproductive. Pan recommends that students should instead focus on generating their own flashcards, even when using digital platforms like Quizlet, to ensure effective learning.</p>
<p>Moreover, the quality of premade digital flashcards can be inconsistent, with some containing inaccuracies or misinformation. Creating flashcards allows for better quality control. While the paper versus digital flashcard debate continues, the critical factor for learning efficacy remains whether students generate the flashcard content themselves.</p>
<p>For educators, Pan’s findings emphasize the importance of encouraging students to create their own flashcards and to paraphrase information rather than copying it verbatim from textbooks. This method not only promotes a deeper understanding of the material but also facilitates active learning and retention. Teachers can leverage these insights to guide students in employing more effective study techniques that capitalize on the cognitive benefits of self-generated learning tools.</p>
<p>Source: Ofgang, E. (n.d.). <em>Tech & Learning</em>. <a target="_new" href="https://www.techlearning.com/">Original Article URL</a></p>
<p></p>
<p>------------------------------</p>
<p></p>
<p>Prepared with the assistance of AI software</p>
<p>OpenAI. (2024). <i>ChatGPT</i> (4) [Large language model]. <a href="https://chat.openai.com">https://chat.openai.com</a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div> ChatGPT 101 - Getting started with ChatGPTtag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-02-20:1990010:Topic:3902772024-02-20T15:56:17.066ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<p></p>
<div class="discussion"><div class="description"><div class="xg_user_generated"><h2>Getting started with ChatGPT</h2>
<p>From an article by Eric Barker</p>
<p></p>
<p>Getting started with ChatGPT can be a game-changer for educators, but it often requires moving past initial hurdles and understanding how to effectively communicate with this advanced AI. The key to unlocking ChatGPT's potential lies in using GPT-4, approaching interactions with clear intent, and mastering the art of…</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p></p>
<div class="discussion"><div class="description"><div class="xg_user_generated"><h2>Getting started with ChatGPT</h2>
<p>From an article by Eric Barker</p>
<p></p>
<p>Getting started with ChatGPT can be a game-changer for educators, but it often requires moving past initial hurdles and understanding how to effectively communicate with this advanced AI. The key to unlocking ChatGPT's potential lies in using GPT-4, approaching interactions with clear intent, and mastering the art of prompting. This approach not only enhances the user experience but also ensures that the output is closely aligned with the user's needs.</p>
<p>Firstly, selecting GPT-4, whether through a paid subscription or available platforms like Bing, is crucial due to its advanced capabilities. Next, users are encouraged to approach ChatGPT with a specific problem or task in mind, rather than generic inquiries. This specificity helps in generating more tailored and useful responses.</p>
<p>The concept of "prompting" is fundamental in interacting with ChatGPT. The way questions or tasks are framed can significantly influence the quality of the response. Here are several strategies to refine prompts for better outcomes:</p>
<ol>
<li><p><strong>Define the Role:</strong> Assigning a persona to ChatGPT, such as a marketing expert or a fitness coach, can guide it to provide responses from the perspective of that role, making the advice more relevant and specialized.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Clarify Your Identity and Goals:</strong> Offering details about yourself and your objectives enables ChatGPT to customize its responses further. Whether it's about personal fitness goals or the intended audience of a presentation, such clarity results in more applicable advice.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Demand Specificity:</strong> Unlike traditional search engines, ChatGPT thrives on detailed prompts. The more specific the request, the more precise and useful the output. This principle applies whether seeking advice on puppy training or looking for specialized medical recommendations.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Preferred Response Format:</strong> Indicating the desired format of the response (e.g., bullet points, essay, step-by-step guide) helps shape the output to your needs. Including what to omit can also streamline the response to focus on what's truly important.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Provide Context:</strong> Longer, context-rich prompts are more effective. They allow ChatGPT to understand the prompt's depth and respond with the appropriate complexity or simplicity.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Iterative Process:</strong> Viewing interactions with ChatGPT as a dialogue rather than a one-off query can lead to progressively refined results. Feedback and follow-up questions encourage a collaborative process, drawing closer to the ideal outcome with each exchange.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>For educators, understanding and applying these strategies can transform ChatGPT from a mere novelty into a potent tool for drafting documents, generating teaching materials, assisting with research, or even developing new educational projects. Embracing ChatGPT as a collaborative partner in the educational process opens up a world of possibilities for enhancing teaching and learning experiences.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>Source:<span> </span><a href="https://bakadesuyo.com/2024/02/chatgpt/" target="_self">Original URL</a></p>
<p></p>
<p>------------------------------</p>
<p></p>
<p>Prepared with the assistance of AI software</p>
<p>OpenAI. (2024).<span> </span><i>ChatGPT</i><span> </span>(4) [Large language model].<span> </span><a href="https://chat.openai.com/">https://chat.openai.com</a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="left-panel"><div class="likebox likebox-ning"><div class="ning-like"></div>
</div>
</div>
<dl id="cf" class="discussion noindent">
<dd></dd>
</dl> ChatGPT 101 - What ChatGPT Is Really Good Fortag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-02-20:1990010:Topic:3904392024-02-20T15:51:24.496ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<p></p>
<p></p>
<h2>What ChatGPT Is Really Good For</h2>
<p>From an article by Eric Barker</p>
<p></p>
<p>The article "What ChatGPT Is Really Good For" delves into the multifaceted applications of ChatGPT beyond its common misperception as merely a search engine alternative. It emphasizes that ChatGPT's true value lies in its ability to act as a dynamic, smart assistant capable of performing a wide range of tasks that facilitate creativity, productivity, and learning.</p>
<p><strong>1) Writing…</strong></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<h2>What ChatGPT Is Really Good For</h2>
<p>From an article by Eric Barker</p>
<p></p>
<p>The article "What ChatGPT Is Really Good For" delves into the multifaceted applications of ChatGPT beyond its common misperception as merely a search engine alternative. It emphasizes that ChatGPT's true value lies in its ability to act as a dynamic, smart assistant capable of performing a wide range of tasks that facilitate creativity, productivity, and learning.</p>
<p><strong>1) Writing Assistance:</strong> ChatGPT excels in generating rough drafts for various professional documents, including reports, emails, presentations, resumes, and cover letters. It can tailor content to specific tones, balancing professionalism with approachability. Beyond generating content, ChatGPT serves as a brainstorming partner, decision-making aid, research assistant, and writing improver, offering grammar checks and stylistic adjustments.</p>
<p><strong>2) Summarizing Complex Information:</strong> The tool can provide concise overviews of lengthy or intricate documents, simplifying complex topics for easier understanding. Users can request summaries of specific lengths and ask follow-up questions for deeper insights into the summarized content.</p>
<p><strong>3) Recommendations:</strong> ChatGPT can suggest books, movies, and music based on detailed user preferences, allowing for highly personalized recommendations that cater to individual tastes and interests.</p>
<p><strong>4) A Mentor for Learning:</strong> ChatGPT stands out as a learning enhancer, offering interactive teaching in foreign languages, improving negotiation skills, and preparing users for job interviews. It acts as a knowledgeable companion for students and lifelong learners alike, providing accessible and tailored educational support.</p>
<p><strong>5) Project Assistance:</strong> From culinary creativity based on available ingredients to DIY project guidance and travel planning, ChatGPT is a versatile helper for a variety of personal and hobbyist endeavors. It offers practical advice and innovative solutions for everyday challenges and new ventures.</p>
<p>The article concludes by encouraging readers to embrace ChatGPT as a tool for enhancing various aspects of personal and professional life. By understanding its capabilities beyond simple information retrieval, users can leverage ChatGPT's potential to streamline tasks, foster learning, and stimulate creativity. The first steps to utilizing ChatGPT effectively involve recognizing its role as an assistant that's ready to support a wide array of tasks, urging users to explore its functionalities to fully benefit from this advanced AI technology.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>Source:<span> </span><a href="https://bakadesuyo.com/2024/02/chatgpt/" target="_self">Original URL</a></p>
<p></p>
<p>------------------------------</p>
<p></p>
<p>Prepared with the assistance of AI software</p>
<p>OpenAI. (2024).<span> </span><i>ChatGPT</i><span> </span>(4) [Large language model].<span> </span><a href="https://chat.openai.com/">https://chat.openai.com</a></p> ChatGPT 101 - What is it?tag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-02-20:1990010:Topic:3901902024-02-20T15:45:55.629ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<h2>What Is ChatGPT?</h2>
<p>From an article by Eric Barker</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>ChatGPT, standing for "Generative Pretrained Transformer," represents a significant leap in AI technology, akin to a "mega-brainy AI" that has absorbed vast amounts of internet information to respond to queries with remarkable accuracy. Originating from the 2017 paper "Attention is All You Need," the technology's foundation is its ability to focus on the crucial elements of a sentence to predict…</p>
<h2>What Is ChatGPT?</h2>
<p>From an article by Eric Barker</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>ChatGPT, standing for "Generative Pretrained Transformer," represents a significant leap in AI technology, akin to a "mega-brainy AI" that has absorbed vast amounts of internet information to respond to queries with remarkable accuracy. Originating from the 2017 paper "Attention is All You Need," the technology's foundation is its ability to focus on the crucial elements of a sentence to predict subsequent words, a concept that sounds simple yet proves exceptionally powerful in application. By ingesting an enormous dataset, ChatGPT mimics having read and understood the breadth of human knowledge, akin to blending every Amazon book into a conversational smoothie.</p>
<p>Despite its impressive capabilities, ChatGPT is not without its flaws, particularly its tendency to "hallucinate" or generate incorrect information. However, this shortcoming is often overshadowed by its vast potential and utility, especially when compared to human error rates in information processing and news reporting. While not a substitute for professional advice in critical matters like heart surgery, ChatGPT's internet access allows it to verify its responses, enhancing its reliability. The technology's value extends beyond mere information retrieval; understanding and leveraging its full potential can transform it into a powerful tool for a wide range of applications.</p>
<p>Source: <a href="https://bakadesuyo.com/2024/02/chatgpt/" target="_self">Original URL</a></p>
<p></p>
<p>------------------------------</p>
<p></p>
<p>Prepared with the assistance of AI software</p>
<p>OpenAI. (2024). <i>ChatGPT</i> (4) [Large language model]. <a href="https://chat.openai.com">https://chat.openai.com</a></p> Want to Develop a Side Gig? Your Teaching Skills Can Helptag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-02-16:1990010:Topic:3904312024-02-16T19:35:39.424ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<p>Want to Develop a Side Gig? Your Teaching Skills Can Help</p>
<p></p>
<p>Andrew Wild's article, published on February 13, 2024, in Edutopia, explores how teaching and entrepreneurship share common skills and qualities. Wild, who ventured into starting a vegan deli slice business after 17 years in education, found that his teaching experience equipped him with invaluable skills for entrepreneurship. He outlines ten teacher qualities and skills that are transferable to the entrepreneurial…</p>
<p>Want to Develop a Side Gig? Your Teaching Skills Can Help</p>
<p></p>
<p>Andrew Wild's article, published on February 13, 2024, in Edutopia, explores how teaching and entrepreneurship share common skills and qualities. Wild, who ventured into starting a vegan deli slice business after 17 years in education, found that his teaching experience equipped him with invaluable skills for entrepreneurship. He outlines ten teacher qualities and skills that are transferable to the entrepreneurial world, illustrating the synergy between education and business innovation.</p>
<ol>
<li><p><strong>Centered on Values</strong>: Teachers' commitment to nurturing a safe and productive learning environment and improving students’ skills parallels the entrepreneurial spirit of solving problems to make the world a better place. Teachers' ability to communicate their "why" is crucial in both realms.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Educating Others</strong>: The core skill of teaching—facilitating learning—is essential for entrepreneurs who need to educate customers about their products or services. Wild's use of QR codes to provide product usage information exemplifies this overlap.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Marketing</strong>: Teachers' experience in making learning appealing by connecting with students’ interests and identities translates into effectively marketing products to diverse customer bases. Wild’s creation of a plant-based superhero logo is a testament to leveraging popular culture for branding.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Persistence</strong>: The resilience teachers develop in the face of educational challenges is a critical asset in entrepreneurship, where setbacks are common. Wild shares his own experience of overcoming a product development challenge through persistence.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Being a Learner</strong>: Teachers' commitment to lifelong learning and growth mindset is invaluable in entrepreneurship, where new challenges and learning opportunities abound.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Navigating Systems</strong>: Teachers' experience with educational systems, such as licensure and regulations, prepares them to navigate the complex legal and regulatory landscapes of starting and running a business.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Developing Rapport</strong>: The ability to quickly establish trust and find common ground, crucial in teaching, is equally important in building business relationships with collaborators and customers.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Connections in the Community</strong>: Teachers' roles in their communities provide them with a network that can support entrepreneurial endeavors. Wild credits feedback from colleagues in the early stages of his business as instrumental.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Planning</strong>: The planning skills teachers use to design curriculum and assess progress are directly applicable to business planning, including revenue projections and strategy adjustments.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Content Knowledge</strong>: Subject expertise can directly inform product development. Wild's background in science education was pivotal in his experimentation with recipes and scaling his business.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>Wild concludes that educators possess a rich skill set that naturally extends to entrepreneurship. Whether embarking on a new career or a side project, teachers are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the business world and contribute meaningfully to innovation and problem-solving.</p>
<p>Source: Wild, Andrew. "How Teaching Builds Entrepreneurial Skills." Edutopia. February 13, 2024. <a href="https://www.edutopia.org/article/teaching-builds-entrepreneurship-skills?utm_content=linkpos2&utm_campaign=weekly-2024-02-14&utm_medium=email&utm_source=edu-newsletter" target="_self">Original URL</a></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>------------------------------</p>
<p></p>
<p>Prepared with the assistance of AI software</p>
<p>OpenAI. (2024). <i>ChatGPT</i> (4) [Large language model]. <a href="https://chat.openai.com">https://chat.openai.com</a></p> CommonLit Reviewtag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-02-16:1990010:Topic:3901832024-02-16T19:28:54.068ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<p><span>The post CommonLit Review appeared first on Educators Technology.</span></p>
<p></p>
<p>Med Kharbach's review of CommonLit, published on February 16, 2024, presents an in-depth look at the educational platform designed to enhance literacy skills among students in grades 3-12. CommonLit stands out as a comprehensive resource for teachers and parents aiming to bolster reading, writing, speaking, and problem-solving abilities in students. This review outlines the platform's key features,…</p>
<p><span>The post CommonLit Review appeared first on Educators Technology.</span></p>
<p></p>
<p>Med Kharbach's review of CommonLit, published on February 16, 2024, presents an in-depth look at the educational platform designed to enhance literacy skills among students in grades 3-12. CommonLit stands out as a comprehensive resource for teachers and parents aiming to bolster reading, writing, speaking, and problem-solving abilities in students. This review outlines the platform's key features, its extensive library, assignment creation capabilities, and interactive tools, all aimed at accelerating literacy development.</p>
<p>CommonLit is celebrated for its integration with popular educational tools such as Clever, ClassLink, Canvas, and Google Classroom, making it a seamless addition to existing classroom technologies. The platform is built around a mission to unlock every child's potential through literacy, offering a cohesive solution that combines curriculum, assessment, and professional development into a single, user-friendly platform. Teachers can create digital classrooms tailored to their specific needs, enabling personalized instruction and assessment.</p>
<p>The platform's library is a treasure trove of educational content, organized to cater to diverse learning needs and preferences. It offers texts across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and historical documents, ensuring that students can explore a wide array of literary forms. Additionally, the content is aligned with state and national educational standards, such as the Common Core, facilitating its integration into curricula and ensuring compliance with educational benchmarks.</p>
<p>Creating assignments on CommonLit is straightforward, allowing teachers to customize reading experiences for their students. Educators can assign texts to entire classes or individual students, tailor assessment questions to align with learning objectives, and set due dates to manage timelines. The platform also offers the option to customize Annotation Tasks, giving students an interactive way to engage with texts.</p>
<p>Interactive features further enhance the student reading experience on CommonLit. The Annotate feature allows students to highlight text and jot down thoughts directly on the material, fostering a deeper connection and understanding. The Discussion feature enables students to engage with peers over thought-provoking questions related to the text, enhancing comprehension and analytical skills. Additionally, translation capabilities and a read-aloud feature make the content accessible to all students, regardless of their learning preferences or language proficiency.</p>
<p>In conclusion, CommonLit emerges as a potent tool for educators seeking to enrich their literacy curriculum and engage students in interactive, standards-aligned learning experiences. Its extensive library, customizable assignments, and interactive features position it as an invaluable resource for enhancing literacy and critical thinking skills across a broad spectrum of grade levels.</p>
<p>Source: Kharbach, Med. "CommonLit Review." Educators Technology, February 16, 2024.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.educatorstechnology.com/2024/02/commonlit-review.html" target="_self">Original URL</a></p>
<p></p>
<p>------------------------------</p>
<p></p>
<p>Prepared with the assistance of AI software</p>
<p>OpenAI. (2024). <i>ChatGPT</i> (4) [Large language model]. <a href="https://chat.openai.com">https://chat.openai.com</a></p> Best Apps for Special Educationtag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-02-06:1990010:Topic:3901342024-02-06T18:24:05.298ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<p></p>
<p><strong>Title:</strong> Best Apps for Special Education</p>
<p><strong>Author:</strong> Med Kharbach, PhD</p>
<p><strong>Published:</strong> February 5, 2024</p>
<p><strong>Source:<a href="https://www.educatorstechnology.com/2024/02/apps-for-special-education.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">[Original URL]</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>Med Kharbach, PhD, delves into the realm of special education, highlighting the transformative role of technology through a…</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Title:</strong> Best Apps for Special Education</p>
<p><strong>Author:</strong> Med Kharbach, PhD</p>
<p><strong>Published:</strong> February 5, 2024</p>
<p><strong>Source:<a href="https://www.educatorstechnology.com/2024/02/apps-for-special-education.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[Original URL]</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>Med Kharbach, PhD, delves into the realm of special education, highlighting the transformative role of technology through a curated list of standout apps designed to support learners with special needs. Recognizing the diverse learning styles and abilities within this demographic, Kharbach emphasizes the importance of leveraging these apps as partners in the educational journey, fostering communication, comprehension, and creativity.</p>
<p>The article begins by acknowledging the significant impact of technology in special education, noting its capacity to provide customized support and open new pathways for learning. Kharbach, drawing from personal experience as an educational researcher and advocate for technology in education, presents a comprehensive list of apps tailored to meet the unique needs of students with special needs.</p>
<p>The curated list includes a range of apps addressing various aspects of special education, from augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools to interactive learning platforms. Each app is described in detail, highlighting its features, benefits, and suitability for different learning environments.</p>
<p>Notable apps featured in the list include Proloquo2Go for intuitive communication solutions, Speech Blubs for interactive speech therapy, and Otter for real-time transcription and collaboration. Additionally, Kharbach introduces apps like Seeing AI for individuals with visual impairments, Starfall for interactive learning, and Khan Academy Kids for a vast collection of educational activities.</p>
<p>The article underscores the importance of these apps in promoting inclusivity, engagement, and personalized learning experiences for students with special needs. By harnessing the power of technology, educators, parents, and therapists can provide tailored support, foster independence, and create a positive and engaging learning environment.</p>
<p>In conclusion, Kharbach emphasizes the transformative potential of these apps in reshaping the special education landscape, breaking barriers, and paving the way for inclusive education. As technology continues to evolve, these innovative tools offer limitless learning possibilities, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to flourish and succeed.</p>
<p></p>
<p>--------</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>This summary was created with the assistance of AI software.</p> Tech Strategies to Create Stronger Readerstag:schoolleadership20.com,2024-02-05:1990010:Topic:3900922024-02-05T17:47:35.911ZMichael Keanyhttps://schoolleadership20.com/profile/MichaelKeany91
<p></p>
<p><strong>Title: "6 Tech Strategies to Create Stronger Readers"</strong></p>
<p>Published on February 2, 2024, by Stephen Noonoo on Edutopia, this article delves into technology-based strategies that educators can employ to enhance literacy skills, engage reluctant readers, and cater to the diverse needs of students. The original article can be accessed through the detailed URL: […</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Title: "6 Tech Strategies to Create Stronger Readers"</strong></p>
<p>Published on February 2, 2024, by Stephen Noonoo on Edutopia, this article delves into technology-based strategies that educators can employ to enhance literacy skills, engage reluctant readers, and cater to the diverse needs of students. The original article can be accessed through the detailed URL: [<a href="https://www.edutopia.org/article/6-tech-strategies-to-create-stronger-readers?utm_content=linkpos1&utm_campaign=monthly-2024-02-04&utm_medium=email&utm_source=edu-tech-newsletter" target="_blank" rel="noopener">URL Here</a>].</p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong> In a world dominated by digital distractions, the article explores six tech-based strategies for educators to foster stronger readers. Drawing on the insights of various experts, these strategies aim to motivate students, facilitate deeper comprehension, and level the playing field among learners with varying abilities.</p>
<ol>
<li><p><strong>Blended Learning for Motivation:</strong> High school English teacher Shelby Scoffield adopts a blended station rotation model to engage students in reading novels. Through group activities like annotating text, creating character profiles, and uploading video reviews using Flipgrid, students interact with both traditional and digital elements. The approach leverages technology to cater to diverse learning preferences, fostering student buy-in and academic growth.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Ear Reading for Reluctant Readers:</strong> Kimberly Rues, an elementary school librarian, advocates for "ear reading" using quality audiobooks as an effective tool. This method enables struggling or initially disinterested readers to follow along with the printed book while enhancing comprehension and reading fluency. Research supports the benefits of audiobooks in stimulating cognitive processes, making them a valuable resource for literacy development.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>AI for Text Leveling:</strong> High school teacher Kristen Starnes employs AI text levelers, such as Diffit and MagicSchool AI, to cater to students with varying reading levels. These tools quickly adapt challenging passages to different grade levels, providing vocabulary lists and comprehension assessments. AI text leveling not only saves time but also aids multilingual learners by translating materials, offering a more inclusive learning experience.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Collaborative Annotation Tools:</strong> Collaborative annotation tools like Scrible and Hypothesis enable students to engage deeply with texts by marking them up individually or collaboratively. By fostering interaction with the text, students create an internal dialogue, enhancing comprehension and critical analysis. Educators like Lauren Gehr use guided prompts to structure the annotation process, encouraging students to share insights and learn from peers.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Deconstructing Digital Reading Habits:</strong> Educator Jennifer Wood emphasizes the importance of understanding digital reading habits, such as the "F-pattern" or "Z-pattern" eye movements. By introducing these patterns to students and reflecting on their impact, educators can help students become aware of their reading behaviors. Lessons can be adapted to incorporate collaborative tools like Google Docs, ensuring a seamless transition between print and digital reading.</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Assistive Learning Tools for Scaffolded Reading:</strong> Assistive learning tools, including text-to-speech readers like ReachDeck, offer accessibility support for students with disabilities. These tools enhance students' perceptions of reading and independence. Visual timers are recommended to aid students with executive functioning challenges, providing a visual representation of time and reducing anxiety during tasks.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>In conclusion, the article advocates for a balanced integration of technology to create stronger readers, emphasizing the synergy between traditional and digital approaches. By leveraging these strategies, educators can address diverse learning needs, promote literacy skills, and foster a love for reading in students.</p>
<p></p>
<p>--------</p>
<p></p>
<p>This summary was created with the assistance of AI software.</p>