Building an authentic community of #edtech developers and educators to help create better #edtech. Join our #edtechbridge chat monthly on the 2nd Wednesday at 8:00 p.m. ET!
Jenny / Raleigh, NC / former middle school teacher, now Senior Director at @_ProjectEd - While I didn’t participate in the original #edtechbridge chat, I was a wallflower & "listened in" often. What can I say? It took me a looooong time to warm up to Twitter...
Hey Everyone! My name is David Balmer. I am an educator in @wcpss in Raleigh, North Carolina. I was not involved with the #edtechbridge chat earlier but I’m very excited about joining in now. This topic and conversation has become very close to my heart as an educator.
Rachel, starting my 23rd year of teaching in Upstate NY. I was party of the original #EdTechBridge and even helped moderate once or twice. So glad it is back!
Howdy y'all! My name is Nadia and I work as the Digital Leaning Coordinator for @CobbSchools outside of Atlanta nice to Twitter meet you all! #edtechbridge
Intro: Welcome back to #EdTechBridge! Please introduce yourself with name, location, and role. And... Were you involved in the original #EdTechBridge chat (2014-2017)? If so, please share you're experiences. If not, What would you like to get out of this community?
William from Scotland, was an active member of #edtechbridge for the first 6 months, may as well join the first session of the @EdTechBridge reboot as I'm still up
Excited you are here! Knowing that you like to experiment with new platforms and are willing to beta test things, I think you'll like this chat! #edtechbridge
ntro: Hi everyone! Steve from NJ. I teach game design & development. I co-founded #EdTechBridge with @katyamuses based on our #sxswedu problem solving session looking at #EdTech / Educator divide. I've developed many wonderful relationships with #EdTech companies and educators
Amber Bruner Hortons Creek Elementary preK teacher and SAS Summer Teacher Team member, Cary, NC. First #edtechbridge chat. Looking forward to new ideas and insights. #sasteacherteam2018#hawksdoitdifferent
Q1: I feel like the main things #EdTech need to consider are Data Privacy, Teacher/Student Voice in actual needs of classrooms, flexibility and availability in various user platforms, and long term vision of the product and sustainability of it. #edtechbridge
Hi #edtechbridge! Welcome back from your hibernation. Scott here from NC working with @SASeducator collaborating with Ts to build the best #edtech we can dream up. We delightfully participated in the past and are so excited to see the chat back with lots of new folks already!
Q1: What are the pain points the product solves? Are there other solutions that exist? How is yours different? Was it developed w/ ongoing human-centered design & significant USER feedback (normally teachers & students in most edtech) from the beginning? #EdTechBridge
A1: When creating #EdTech products it should first be determined that the product is actually solving a problem that really exists. It is also important to ensure that the product is free of any biases (race, gender, etc.) #EdTechBridge
A1 - this what I tell IT instructors - start with a short coming in education ... where are teachers (like me) falling short. Bridge that gap. #EdTechBridge
A1 Resources available to teachers and students. Do the products reduce inequities or support them? Learning curve - how much time do Ts have to invest to be able to implement the tools in the classroom? #EdTechBridge
Q1: I feel like the main things #EdTech need to consider are Data Privacy, Teacher/Student Voice in actual needs of classrooms, flexibility and availability in various user platforms, and long term vision of the product and sustainability of it. #edtechbridge
Q1: I think one of the most important things in creating #edtech products are the student/teacher input. They are the ones that are using it so they need to have a say and make sure it's going to be successful in classrooms! #edtechbridge
A1: I think that in an industry gaining over a billion dollars, #edtech needs to come back to the classroom and focus on student learning outcomes instead of licensing, subscriptions, profits #EdTechBridge #
Hi everyone. Dylan from upstate NY. I teach Game Design & Development and am the Program Coordinator for a new PTECH... https://t.co/VYDGY8426t#EdTechBridge
A1 Does it really contribute to the learning or educational process? Does it follow best practices - don't just put something out to try and grab some market share. #EdTechBridge
A1: I think it's important to of course consider security with #edtech, but it is also important that companies provide a regular conduit for teacher feedback and testing to ensure meaningful development.W/o real-world testing, the tech is pointless.
#edtechbridge
Intro: Welcome back to #EdTechBridge! Please introduce yourself with name, location, and role. And... Were you involved in the original #EdTechBridge chat (2014-2017)? If so, please share you're experiences. If not, What would you like to get out of this community?
A1. Thoughtful decisions need to be the driving force behind edtech creation. Qs to think about -- Does it solve a problem for students and educators? How can it be used to make what we currently have better (or introduce something we need a solution for)? #edtechbridge
A1: does it solve an actual need? Is it equitable for all students? Does it duplicate another platform? What's the learning curve? What's the cost?
#EdTechBridge
A1: Talk to LOTS of teachers, students, and parents. Find a need that it can expand on and improve. Don’t just be an add-on that gets domesticated into what is already going on in schools. #EdTechBridge
A1) Way too many products scale before they iterate their way to product-market fit... Many start-ups ramp up sales before the product is ready. Some spend too
much time on technology. Others build without getting customer feedback
#edtechbridge
Good evening! Mike from Northern VA. First time participant in #edtechbridge chat. Several interesting tweets caught my eye and I decided to take a few moments to see what's happening. Looking forward to a variety of #edtech topics and conversations.
A1: The problem the solution tries to solve. T & S feedback to continually improve. Federal/State law. industry/classroom trends. The heart of your mission and the purpose of #edtech. #edtechbridge
A1: Relevance and is this #edtech tool displacing something? Making sure that as we integrate some new fangled tool that it has a worthwhile place in our curriculum. It should replace not displace, maintaining continuity. #edtechbridge
A1: The problem the solution tries to solve. T & S feedback to continually improve. Federal/State law. industry/classroom trends. The heart of your mission and the purpose of #edtech. #edtechbridge
Q2: (Part 2) However, these direct opportunities, in my opinion do not always allow for relationship building unless done on a meaningful and consistent basis. #edtechbridge
I love seeing how we're basically all on the same page that #edtech needs to solve real problems, constantly iterate w/ real Ts and Ss as users, and serve Ts and Ss.
#edtechbridge
Cost! Yes! Tech integrators are being bled dry ... can the industry find another way to make money besides taking what little we make now? #edtechbridge
A1: does it solve an actual need? Is it equitable for all students? Does it duplicate another platform? What's the learning curve? What's the cost?
#EdTechBridge
A1: Cost, accessibility features, entertaining to keep student engaged and user friendly are a must when working with primary age students. #edtechbridge#edt5335
A1.3 is it mobile friendly? Many kids choose to use their phone to access what we are doing in class. I need to be mindful of that when choosing platforms for class.
#EdTechBridge
A2: Early and often! Of course there are ethical and legal implications to consider (@mikekleba is a leader on that topic), but I’m of the opinion the more educator (and student) input the better. If you build too much without it, you’re likely wasting $ and runway #EdTechBridge
Q2: (Part 1) I think there are many ways #EdTech can reach out to Teachers. One is through direct product feedback opportunities like focus groups, trial product demos, product evaluation surveys, etc. #edtechbridge
Q2: (Part 3) If #edtech wants to consult with teachers about their products, don’t start with your product in the conversation. Listen to the actual needs of the Ts & Ss, what is the problem they are trying to solve? What tool would best help students succeed? #EdTechBridge
A1. What does your EdTech product do that cannot already be done for a price or for free? Is your product/service a solution without a problem? (validate) Does anybody (other than you) want your solution? Do potential users perceive value? #EdTechBridge
Agree also with @lee_randi1 that developers need to create products by involving teachers & students in the process. Got best ideas to improve the ed booklets I wrote from students first and then teachers. #edtechbridge
Hey William!! Thanks for staying up with us. I know it’s late over there :) true about the getting ahead of themselves for sure. Iteration and feedback from stakeholders is so important #edtechbridge
A1) Way too many products scale before they iterate their way to product-market fit... Many start-ups ramp up sales before the product is ready. Some spend too
much time on technology. Others build without getting customer feedback
#edtechbridge
Q2: (Part 4) Work on building connections with the whole learning community and not just the $$$penders in the school/district. (Side note for #edtech Educators, Admins, and District officials are not as obliged to sales cold calls/emails as you think… just saying) #edtechbridge
A2 I have moving away from the ambassador idea and more toward advisory boards. Being an ambassador doesn’t mean anything anymore. @tinkercad does a great job listening to the board #edtechbridge
A2: Educators (and all stakeholders) need to be consulted. Look for ways to integrate their feedback. If you don’t listen and adjust to their needs, they’ll stop using the tech and it will go away. #EdTechBridge
A1: does it solve an actual need? Is it equitable for all students? Does it duplicate another platform? What's the learning curve? What's the cost?
#EdTechBridge
A2. Any good #edtech company has influencers or beta testers. At @icivics we have our #iCivicsEdNet which have helped us with anything from testing content to site redesign. Teachers voices are critical to making any good class tech tool. #edtechbridge
A1: Relevance is a huge factor for me. Does the tool help support a specific objective within instruction? For my Ss population, language options need to be considered within the design. Ease of usage, flexibility, compatibility, accessibility. #EdTechBridge
A2: anyway they can. They also need to include students. It's great if it's working for me, but if it isn't working for them, it isn't working. Period. #edtechbridge
A2 I am all for getting stuff for your classroom. You gotta hustle these days for new tools. But when it comes down to being about you and not the students. That is aweful. #EdTechBridge
A2 Contact forms. User or prospective user can make a comment directly to the company.
User forums: a user community is great for taking the pulse of the community, and for them to help one another as well. #EdTechBridge
Bring in-service teachers into the #edtech company to provide feedback on resources/products and see the development from start to finish! #edtechbridge#SASTeacherTeam
Agree also with @lee_randi1 that developers need to create products by involving teachers & students in the process. Got best ideas to improve the ed booklets I wrote from students first and then teachers. #edtechbridge
A2: #edtech companies should reach out to educators by hosting focus groups, trials, data reviews, meetups, twitter.. just to name a few to get input and compensating them wouldn't be so bad either!! #edtechbridge
We're happy to join in whenever we can!! Great people involved in this chat... and we also have a diverse team (educators included) who like to join in on these important convos!!! #EdTechBridge
A2.1: Bring in-service teachers into the #edtech company to provide feedback on resources/products and see the development from start to finish! #edtechbridge#SASTeacherTeam
A2. In addition to consulting educators at the start of the process, edtech creators should be willing to adapt their product to the needs of their audience. Something not going as planned in the classroom? Be receptive and think of ways to help fix that! #edtechbridge
A2.a Mailing lists: see user forums, but a little less convenient.
Account managers, and other personal relationships with users and communities.
Conference presentations - both as a presenter and attendee, and don't forget the informal discussions in the lounges. #EdTechBridge
A2: I feel they should visit schools/classrooms to 1) find out if what they’re selling will meet the mission & goals of school, 2) employ/pay educators for their input, 3) make the product(s) affordable, & 4) respect educators’ expertise. #EdTechBridge
Some ambassador programs have certainly gotten too big and more a function of everyone who uses the product and wants to be an ambassador. I think you have a good point. #edtechbridge
A2 I have moving away from the ambassador idea and more toward advisory boards. Being an ambassador doesn’t mean anything anymore. @tinkercad does a great job listening to the board #edtechbridge
Q2. From conception to delivery and beyond, users and other stakeholder can be involved. Some points being more essential than others for ideation, input and feedback. The innovation process is only enriched by diverse (but relevant) voices. #edtechbridge
A2. #edtech developers need to talk to teachers / students (and parents) to understand how this product may work in the classroom flow. How can teachers use product with data? with classroom management? with differing student abilities?
#edtechbridge
A2. It’s also great professional development for the teachers to test products, look at tools critically, and provide valuable feedback... #edtechbridge
A2 In every step of the process - start to finish. Too many ed tech tools are things developers thought would be cool without an understanding of what actually happens in the classroom. Resources should be research based and support student learning. #EdTechBridge
A2: As a part of an effective design process, educators need to have deep involvement in each phase of creation. In gathering the rationale for the design, how it is designed, testing, implementation & during any revisions. This group will give the green light! #EdTechBridge
What I mean is make it easy to integrate current curriculum. Instead of a written book report, use @WeVideo to create a video book report. We want product that allow us to teach what we need to teach. #EdTechBridge
A2 Edtech companies need to test out ideas and prototypes with teachers and especially students who will be the actual users. Focus sessions and one-on-one would be great to improve the product before it is released. #edtechbridge.
A3: This feels like a rhetorical question, no? No one is more equipped to provide feedback than an educator using or needing a product. Companies save money & time w/ educators’ valuable insight & experience; educators help sculpt a solution they really need. #edtechbridge
A2: Part of this too... is really ensuring that educators are compensated in some way for their honest feedback and for taking the time to provide it. They are already pressed for time the way it is! #edtechbridge
Having a great time in my current ambassador role and we see a lot of change being made based on our ideas and feedback…just saying. Do see how they can get to be an empty symbol. #EdTechBridge
A1: I feel like majority of these companies have non-educators, which makes the product(s) a gimmick. And if they are good products, they’re way too expensive. Then, systems pay those prices only to realize the products don’t meet their mission/goals. #EdTechBridge
A3: (Part 1) It is definitely a mutual, symbiotic relationship. Teachers learn the backside of software development, how to include things like Agile, Scrum, and design principles, etc in Project/Inquiry-based learning, how to stay connected on social media, etc. #edtechbridge
A3: Well, if it weren't for the educators we wouldn't be continuing to make products that solve a need for the classroom! We are helping each other out in both directions and everyone benefits! #edtechbridge
A3: I'd say that it is beneficial to the company because I'd they don't listen they won't remain relevant, which is a quick way to be a flash in the pan.
#EdTechBridge
I am all about your #1. All edtech sales should be a consultative process. Edtech companies should have to report on progress related to school specific indicators – not just usage data/engagement. Engagement does not = learning! #edtechbridge
A2: Get creative! Host teacher residencies, Twitter chats, create a community around your product so educators feel comfortable being candid with feedback. If possible, hire teachers on as consultants or contractors. Think beyond ambassador programs.
#edtechbridge
A3. The benefit on this one is huge! Educators are the insiders edtech companies need to consult to make sure product creation makes practical sense. (Part 1) #edtechbridge
A3. Teachers benefit by having time to play w product and discover the possibilities/ get ideas. Companies benefit by improving their product from free beta testers. #edtechbridge
A3: In the words of @davidlbalmer it is a "symbiotic relationship" in which educators realize the process of developing an #edtech product and the company gaining insights into new initiatives or trends of education #edtechbridge
A3: Educators will be a part of making a product that they will actually use. Tech companies will then have the satisfaction of making a usable product, plus make some money. #edtechbridge#edt5335
A3. We recently released a snapshot about how Saratoga Union School District (CA) uses data to make smart edtech purchasing decisions. https://t.co/bByIsFK1Mq#edtechbridge (Part 2)
Yep... 100 connected educators advocating for ther fav tools and not realising that they are now doing the same as a full time sales person but then can't find the funds to get to a conference. Interesting times in a tough sector. #EdTechBridge
A3. Building relationships with educators makes you empathetic and accessible. You’re listening and that matters. It’s great for the teachers because you can provide professional opportunities they can’t get in their districts. #edtechbridge
A3: Taking a fantastic idea and allowing educators to infuse their expertise on child social-emotional & physical development + needs and the background knowledge of demands in the classroom to allow the tech experts to produce a valuable, worthwhile product. #edtechbridge
A3: without such collaboration there is no way to know whether the product will work. There's also no way to get the tools you need in the classroom. Teacher-Company collaboration leads to timely, effective #edtech on launch and then keeps getting better. #edtechbridge
Q3: The marriage between developers & users demonstrates a true understanding for why the product is the way it is. By using a variety of educators at all levels, any perspective can help to insure the needs for all users are going to be met with the final result. #EdTechBridge
A3: Teamwork makes the dream work! How can you sale a product without gaining input from the people who use the products? I’m not even against parent/student involvement/feedback. 🤔 #EdTechBridge
A3. Without the proper context (real-life data and insights from educators, students, districts, and systems), edtech isn't fully responsive to the problems that need to be solved. #edtechbridge
A3 #EdTech Companies need to understand educators and students. These are the market they are trying to fit. Product market fit is part of the earliest stages of any product effort. #EdTechBridge
A3 Teachers can learn more about corporate processes that can be used in our classrooms. We can also learn how to support effective tech development. We can share our knowledge about how students learn and what they need. #EdTechBridge
A3: In the words of @davidlbalmer it is a "symbiotic relationship" in which educators realize the process of developing an #edtech product and the company gaining insights into new initiatives or trends of education #edtechbridge
A3: Teamwork makes the dream work! How can you sale a product without gaining input from the people who use the products? I’m not even against parent/student involvement/feedback. 🤔 #EdTechBridge
A4 share with a company when you use a tool. Pics and videos are huge for campanies. That is how I made my contacts. Your story is their story. #EdTechBridge
A4: One idea... if that company (such as @nearpod does tonight!!) has a twitter chat, try and chime in! Also, reach out to them via social media to offer suggestions and connect. #edtechbridge
A4: Contact them. Not just to complain but also to tell them what’s right. Nothing is perfect and you might have to ‘hack’ somethings. Let them know about those so they can improve. #EdTechBridge
Yep... 100 connected educators advocating for ther fav tools and not realising that they are now doing the same as a full time sales person but then can't find the funds to get to a conference. Interesting times in a tough sector. #EdTechBridge
A4: Reach out!! Follow the companies on social media, look to become ambassadors, get involved with events they are hosting, volunteer at their booth at conferences! #edtech companies look for elite teachers! #edtechbridge
A3: They benefit from Companies making better products Ts actually use & Ts get a chance to see how tools are developed. Who knows? That T who was on your advisory board may develop the next, hot #edtech tools.
Ultimately, Ts should be driving the conversation.
#edtechbridge
A4: Don’t be afraid to reach out to company. If there is a product you love (or hate/want to improve), email them! Tweet them! They want your feedback. If it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, make sure you’re talking to their product team… not just the sales team. #edtechbridge
A4: One way to get involve with #EdTech companies is to continue to build relationships through the #EdTechBridge chat and community. Also, tweeting to and reaching out directly certainly works. #EdTech devs want to work with passionate educators!
A3. Building relationships with educators makes you empathetic and accessible. You’re listening and that matters. It’s great for the teachers because you can provide professional opportunities they can’t get in their districts. #edtechbridge
A4: With PBL, STEM, magnet schools, etc educators reaching out to #edtech industries to collaborate on the projects may be an entry point for discussion into crossing that #EdTechBridge
Love it... positive feedback, not just always contacting for the negative! Same with teachers really... love seeing educators contacting home just to connect & share the good :-) #edtechbridge
A4: Be active on twitter, social media in general. Offer yourself and your expertise, don't ask for free stuff, it'll come if it comes but you want to advance the technology right? If that's the main goal then spend your "free" time doing that for "free". #EdTechBridge
A3: Taking a fantastic idea and allowing educators to infuse their expertise on child social-emotional & physical development + needs and the background knowledge of demands in the classroom to allow the tech experts to produce a valuable, worthwhile product. #edtechbridge
A4. @icivics is always looking for influencers and hyper users... if you want to get involved... reach out to the companies you use heavily. Reach out to the tools you love. You use it. You know it. #edtech companies need & welcome feedback. #edtechbridge
I talk with them at conferences. But I am constantly hitting their social media accounts with pics and videos of students using their tool. Sometimes having a name helps. #EdTechBridge
In reply to
@mrsjennyherrera, @_ProjectEd, @mr_isaacs
A4 Go to conferences (ISTE, NYSCATE, etc) and get to know the vendors. Talk to the vendors of products you already have and tell them of your willingness to get involved. #edtechbridge
A4 Reach out! Be proactive! When you find a resource you love, send a note to the company thanking them. If you try a resource that has potential, share your insights. They want to know because that helps them make a better product. #EdTechBridge
I still really love being involved in some ambassador programs. When I can be active in the community it supports my interest to be with like minded folks. #edtechbridge
More positive feedback... showing their product in action with students! By sharing what works, you can continue to shape the direction of their growth :-) #edtechbridge
In reply to
@nathan_stevens, @mrsjennyherrera, @_ProjectEd, @mr_isaacs
A4: Interact, contact, inform, communicate needs, wants, & must-haves, and consistent feedback. Building relationships is important. Won’t get anywhere without them. Closed mouths won’t get fed. #edtechbridge
Putting me on the spot! Most are no longer at the front edge anymore but when flipped video interfaces fist came out or any of the audio responding. Those were nice. But they have to keep evolving or flexible for teachers to evolve it into more #edtechbridge
I agree with the offer your expertise. We just need to also make sure educators are not taken advantage of. Relationships should be mutually rewarding. #edtechbridge
Spent last year doing more positive feedback to home. Many were thrilled, some just liked it, some never responded but just one ‘thrilled’ parent makes up for a 100 that don’t respond. You might be sending them the only positive feedback they’ve gotten for the child.
A4: Attend tech conferences and visit the showroom. Network with developers. Participate in Twitter chats:) Volunteer as a guinea pig. #edtechbridge#edt5335
Not sure which question this would be but, it's helpful if they have an FAQ or help section. If they can't give me help when I'm learning it (if I need it) then I'm done.
#EdTechBridge
A4. Empowered educators make for better edtech. When teachers feel they have the ability to reach out and communicate with those providing edtech tools, they can give useful feedback & let tech companies know when something has gone awry, or when a new need arises. #edtechbridge
They *will* want to hear from yo!. If not, they aren't interested in high-quality #edtech. The product can always get better. If they think they are done, they aren't listening. #edtechbridge
A4: Don’t be afraid to reach out to company. If there is a product you love (or hate/want to improve), email them! Tweet them! They want your feedback. If it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, make sure you’re talking to their product team… not just the sales team. #edtechbridge
Hit more than just twitter. Use all the platforms that the companies are on. Also when you meet a rep get to know them. Not just their tool. Relationships matter #EdTechBridge
In reply to
@mr_isaacs, @mrsjennyherrera, @_ProjectEd
A2: Frank Abignale has a great Google talk related to this--we need to play Devil's advocate--ask ourselves how can this tool or #Edtech be misused. Establish what are the pitfalls and not just the glittery perks. #Snoop said: " [it] ain't easy!"
#EdTechBridge
I have to say - it’s been out for a while but I really like @goformative because of its ability to literally put all my tech into one spot - it’s becoming my go to interphase (thanks to @iliketech for pushing me that way) #edtechbridge
In reply to
@mrsjennyherrera, @goformative, @iliketech
I send 5 positive emails home a day and I get a lot of "I don't know what any of that means" (especially in #digcit) when I'm explaining what we are doing in class and how we are going beyond our four walls but they appreciate the update and the positive emails. #edtechbridge
In reply to
@PhilipPulley, @PledgeCents, @EdTechBridge
Totally fair. Let's just be aware of companies that seem to be taking advantage of our peers. Otherwise I do believe it will ultimately become mutually beneficial. #edtechbridge
Equity, though, is a very bad idea unless you are looking to create an in depth long term relationship with the company. Equity is a legal obligation on the companies part, and required administration and tracking. It's not a trivial thing. #EdTechBridge
In reply to
@nathan_stevens, @EdTech_Stories, @mr_isaacs
A4: Attend tech conferences and visit the showroom. Interact/network with tech makers there. Volunteer to be a guinea pig. Participate in Twitter chats:) #edtechbridge#edt5335
A5: I’m wary of companies reaching out to “influencers” & giving free things in return, but I’m adamant that educators should always be compensated for their precious time and insight. Perhaps through the district? Maybe the best way is through a neutral 3rd party? #edtechbridge
A5: #EdTech companies often have ambassador programs and connect with educators using their products. These are great people for devs to reach out to for product ideas. Also the #EdTechBridge chat is a great way to develop relationships with passionate educators!
Love that you have a goal for each day.... and honestly, just getting those positive notes is such a good thing. Maybe even opens a door for conversation with their kiddo about what those things mean :-) #edtechbridge
In reply to
@MrsMurat, @PhilipPulley, @EdTechBridge
A1. I’m Bekah. I’m learning to code after teaching for 10 years in the humanities (college). I live in SE OH, and I was not involved in the original chat. #EdTechBridge
A5: Looking at data from top users and giving these educators "shout outs" with their admins or superintendents. They not only feel so proud but can look to them as leaders and influencers of the product #edtechbridge
Be in chats. Offer ideas and don’t push your tool. @EDUcre8ive does a great job with this. Offers insight with a quick video often using wevideo #EdTechBridge
A4: #Educators can reach out and #BeTheOne that sparks positive growth and communication--social media is a great tool for that. Now more than ever there is increased accessibilty. @Schoology and @nearpod are responsive. #EdTechBridge
Absolutely! Most parents are a little freaked out at the beginning of the year since they are used to only hearing from school when something bad happened... especially at the HS level. #edtechbridge
In reply to
@PledgeCents, @PhilipPulley, @EdTechBridge
A5: I think if #edtech started showing up to things like a local #edcamp or meet up like #RTPEdTech Meet up, with no intention to sell but rather just learn, making connections with teacher and learning comminity members so much easier. #edtechbridge
A5: An easy place to start, watch the forums and groups for your product. But don’t just lurk, let them know you are there. Engage them and acknowledge their ideas. #EdTechBridge
A3. Looking at this from an educator who’a moving into tech, I think it’s most important to see what the goals of the educator are for the course, and more generally, the school as well. This can help to define the space and functionality. #EdTechBridge
A5. That’s my job... 🙋🏾♀️I literally follow teachers I admire on Twitter. I listen to their tweets. I also read the feedback and support tickets. And collect user stories while boothing. When I find a teacher I love they’re in my tribe forever. #edtechbridge
I agree. In fact, I submitted a SxSW EDU panel on the topic of corporate social responsibility in EdTech for just this reason. I think companies have a responsibility to their stakeholders! #EdTechBridgehttps://t.co/YOQwXbXNJT
A5 Ed TEch companies offer PD opportunities, focus groups, have online communities, and attend education conferences. But teachers have to look outside the four walls of their classroom or school building to pursue those relationships. #EdTechBridge
That would be tricky since edcamps are supposed to be vendor free. They would have to go solely as a participant, but I hear you. They need to be in our space listening to what we need. #edtechbridge
A5: #edtech companies have launched hackathons with area schools to solve problems, attended school career fairs, social media presence to "like" educators using their products and SWAG! #edtechbridge
A5. Companies must have someone who wants to serve teachers looking for teachers. When you’re obsessed with service you seek voices and input to improve your #edtech product. #edtechbridge
@EdTechBridge Howdy bridge. Greg in Chattanooga Coordinator of instructional technology... hung out with the last now I’m going to try the reboot. Great convo and practical advice kept me. #edtechbridge
A4. The learners benefit by having good content that’s given to them in a way that makes learning enjoyable and simple. There’s nothing worse than good content on a jumbled page or terrible content on a well designed page. #EdTechBridge
If you show up to an edcamp, bring support to the unconference. Help goes along way. That is worth more than making folks fustrated that you are pushing a tool #EdTechBridge
A3 - 5 (ish): I do think that it is important for educators to invest in #edtech that they do like though and is making a positive impact with student growth. It can't always be free and if its good we need to buy into it. #edtechbridge
A4: I would love to see the process reversed & have the #edtech companies reach out to teachers. If more teachers were aware that companies were interested in hearing from them to help in the design process, I'm confident teachers would jump at the chance to help. #edtechbridge
A5: Contact campus/district technology head and ask to come do a demonstration on campus. Get the tech in the hands of the teachers. #edtechbridge#edt5335
Tech companies also need to realize that money in education is not anywhere near equitable. Are they taking that into consideration and making their product accessible to eager teachers who work in districts that can't afford big expensive products?
#EdTechBridge
Q6: In those moments when the tech doesn’t work, ask Ss to write product feedback. Teach them about user stories, how to have a voice, how to make suggestions & not just complain, & then really SEND their feedback. For younger kids, maybe that’s a class letter. #edtechbridge
Be in chats. Offer ideas and don’t push your tool. @EDUcre8ive does a great job with this. Offers insight with a quick video often using wevideo #EdTechBridge
A2 &3 ) Companies should connect in Ed spaces and allow teachers to be beta testers and then give them@the tech. This way they can get true data on their work and create early adopters. #EdTechBridge
Q6: I bring students with me to EdCamps, conferences and have also had them in on GHOs with EdTech companies before. My Ss also do app & extension reviews. They've been contacted by many different developers about their feedback.
#EdTechBridge
A6: Making it a teachable moment is key! Have students write reviews, letters or skype if possible. When they really see their voices being heard it makes a huge difference #edtechbridge
A5: I think if #edtech started showing up to things like a local #edcamp or meet up like #RTPEdTech Meet up, with no intention to sell but rather just learn, making connections with teacher and learning comminity members so much easier. #edtechbridge
A5. Idk how, but publishers always sent me postcards, booklets, etc. for textbook adoptions. I loved it. I reviewed so much content. If there’s a way to integrate a sample of a product or to see a sample that could be integrated into my house, I would love that. #EdTechBridge
A6. I recently learned of an interesting program called @Prepr. They create programs in schools that enable teachers to turn their classrooms into innovation labs. I haven't seen one in action yet, but I think that's a pretty cool idea that has interesting potential #EdTechBridge
A6: Have design thinking days or hackathons in class to have the Ss dissect what works, offer solutions for what doesn't, etc. Make it a teachable moment (and a crazy fun lesson)!
#edtechbridge
A6: students should be seeing what processes, skills, and individuals are in #edtech! Simulate the roles in the classroom, develop #agileined, field trip to the company for presentations of student projects or panel discussions #EdTechBridge
A4&5 ) #EdTech companiesand educators need to get out of their solos and find places to connect. They are called echo chambers for a reason. #EdTechBridge
Tech companies also need to realize that money in education is not anywhere near equitable. Are they taking that into consideration and making their product accessible to eager teachers who work in districts that can't afford big expensive products?
#EdTechBridge
A5: See A2 If you are engaging Ts throughout the process you are looking to every channel possible. We love our Summer Institute, but we use all forms of dig communication. In person focus groups, usability & resarech studies, conferences, ecamps, PD, meetups & more #edtechbridge
Q6: In those moments when the tech doesn’t work, ask Ss to write product feedback. Teach them about user stories, how to have a voice, how to make suggestions & not just complain, & then really SEND their feedback. For younger kids, maybe that’s a class letter. #edtechbridge
A6. Students can participate in several ways. Passively, through the data that their results provide when using edtech in the classroom. Actively, through their feedback and experiences. Also, don't assume all Ss inherently understand how to use edtech. (Part 1) #edtechbridge
A6 Ts need t be open to what students are using/interested in and find ways to incorportate that. Helping students reach out to tech companies with ideas would be a great way to teach them how the ed tech development process works. It always starts with an idea. #EdtechBridge
A6 Especially for the K-12 teacher, a bit of design experience with focus on understanding and working with other people's viewpoints, desires and opinions can help the educator bring the learners position to the design process. #EdTechBridge
A4&5 ) #EdTech companiesand educators need to get out of their solos and find places to connect. They are called echo chambers for a reason. #EdTechBridge
A6. Some students take to certain tech quickly and easily but may struggle with others. Educators should actively seek out their voices and make sure they're comfortable with the tools they've been given. #edtechbridge
A6. I taught literature and professional writing. I showed students the many ways to learn. We had a lot of multimodal learning. That keeps it fresh, interesting, and applicable to their lives. But use up to date tech. If you’re using old tools, you lose cred #EdTechBridge
A6. I introduce early stage products to my students (pre-service teachers) all the time. We practice evaluating EdTech products this way – a skill, I believe, all teachers should have. #EdTechBridge
A6 Especially in 9-16 students should be encouraged to participate directly. Bug reports, problems, and of course positive experiences are welcome :) #EdTechBridge
As educator at a sch ntwk that builds edtech, learned hard lessons from co-creation w/ companies & spinning off approaches. Now going nonprofit route for the tool while working w/ sch ntwk in parallel. Any advice for this approach? #edtechbridge
A6: I think using things like Agile and Scrums in PBL and lesson/unit design helps bring students into the process. It helps them see that these processes aren't just there to build cool games / entertainment but are valid in their learning as well. #edtechbridge
Outro: Thanks for joining us! Please re-introduce yourself with name, locatio, role, and what topic you would like to see discussed in a future #EdTechBridge chat?
A6. Beta testing! We ask our teachers to play new games with their class and provide feedback. It’s so helpful for us... it’s so fun for them. #edtechbridge
A6. Students are the point.
If it does not help students learn a concept (including practice or deeper dives), then students need to explain that to companies and why. Maybe as simple as color changes to make it appealing. #edtechbridge
Jenny / Raleigh, NC / former middle school teacher, now Senior Director at @_ProjectEd - I’d like to dig more deeply into students and student voice - the last Q made me think about our highschool interns & how valuable they were at @_ProjectEd#edtechbridge
I had to miss #edtechbridge tonight, but I have it in my calendar for September! You can take the woman out of #edtech, but you can't force her to stop Twitter hangin' with her favorite teachers...? Especially when @mr_isaacs is hosting
A6: #WakeEdSummerSTEM from @wakeedpa is a great model connecting classrooms with local businesses to learn how all types of sausage (not just #edtech sausage) are made connecting classroom processes to business practices. #edtechbridge
Outro: steve from NJ. I teach game design and love working with #edtech companies. I think the idea of ethics when collaborating would be a good future topic #edtechbridge
I'm Randi from Raleigh, NC - Account Manager with @IXLLearning. Would love to see some questions in the future for helping educators obtain positions in the edtech industry as they look to leave the classroom. Thanks for a great chat! #edtechbridge
A1: Is it prescriptive learning or adaptive? How does it measure progress towards mastery? Do teachers get real time USABLE data? Is it cost effective for students and schools to access? #edtechbridge
Robbie in Atlanta. I’d been interested in a convo about how teachers communicate w students, esp. in a 1:1 environment. Email? Remind? F2F only? #edtechbridge
I don't know a lot about it yet but I believe it starts with extensive teacher training in innovation methodologies before any labs can begin. Ts facilitate innovation. To your point, I believe there is an online community component where they are supported. #edtechbridge
Thanks so much for joining us tonight for the #EdTechBridge reboot. We are super excited to be back. Join us for the next chat on Wednesday, Sept 12 at 8pm ET and the 2nd Wednesday of every month moving forward!
Thanks so much for joining us tonight for the #EdTechBridge reboot. We are super excited to be back. Join us for the next chat on Wednesday, Sept 12 at 8pm ET and the 2nd Wednesday of every month moving forward!
Outro: Michael in Raleigh, NC / high school teacher of the human story / loved this #edtechbridge chat and look forward to more about how #edtech will begin to use #AIinEd
Yes. I think it puts Students in the driver's seat of learning and enables the teacher to actually facilitate the learning process, not just the content delivery. #edtechbridge
Amber Bruner, Cary, NC. PreK teacher at Hortons Creek, Curriculum Pathways Teacher Insitute member. Would love a chats focused on equity and in ed tech and the role of ed tech in supporting social emotional learning. #edtechbridge
