#EDthink Archive
Run by Texas educators Aaron Peña and Mandy Vasek, #EDThink is a great way for dynamic educators to share teaching strategies, educational resources, and more.
Sunday April 24, 2016
The consequences of tobacco use and re-use their knowledge to support education programs.
Hi everybody! I'm Aaron, a principal in TX. It's great to have you all here on
We only do well when we feel good. Ts think out of the box and Ss feel good when they self regulate. https://t.co/HPnc5Y3LK2
Hi everyone, I’m co-mod. of and admin from TX. Welcome all!
Dan, business teacher from St. Louis.
Dan, thx for joining this evening. Excited to hear from you. https://t.co/KUr8xNYaXR
Dan, business teacher from St. Louis.
Jennifer, instructional coach from Oregon
Catherine from Fresno CA. St to soon be Eng T. 2nd . How exciting! And it's a rainy Sunday over here☔️🌩
Hi Jennifer from Oregon. Glad you joined us tonight on https://t.co/7w7Liy4Z27
Jennifer, instructional coach from Oregon
Welcome back, Catherine! https://t.co/pmJyPBTx0v
Catherine from Fresno CA. St to soon be Eng T. 2nd . How exciting! And it's a rainy Sunday over here☔️🌩
Welcome back Catherine. Thx for all the shout-outs! https://t.co/lBkTUW2sfU
Catherine from Fresno CA. St to soon be Eng T. 2nd . How exciting! And it's a rainy Sunday over here☔️🌩
LT, Guild Elementary School principal; Gallatin, TN
Jerod, Dean of Students, tweeting from Magnolia, DE
It has been awhile, but I LOVE this chat! Good to "see" you too!
Jennifer, 4th grade teacher from Missouri
Love shout outs! They sure come in handy. I'm ready to innovate my mind👍🏻
Hello! I'm a 5th grade teacher in Montreal, Canada. Glad to join in for a brief time.
Hello Daphne! https://t.co/VJYLWVu0dP
Hello! I'm a 5th grade teacher in Montreal, Canada. Glad to join in for a brief time.
Hi and ! Sun finally came out at 7 pm. Better late than never! Michelle, OR
Grace, 3rd grade teacher from Texas.
Good evening! I'm glad to be here!
Hi, Daphne! Welcome to . Enjoy your evening with us. https://t.co/5jsjQ2jJlT
Hello! I'm a 5th grade teacher in Montreal, Canada. Glad to join in for a brief time.
Hi everyone! Kheila, innovation specialist from PA.
Daryl from MD, gonna hang out with my tweeps as long as I can :-)
Daryl, So glad you’re with us tonight. https://t.co/fIpR7JXKco
Daryl from MD, gonna hang out with my tweeps as long as I can :-)
Hi. Rishi from Milwaukee. Looking forward to learning from
Hi Thanks for leading tonight! Good to be back.
Hi all, Sarah from TX. I won't be here long tonight, but I look forward to catching up tomorrow!
Welcome, Sarah. https://t.co/4PwvOsLX9C
Hi all, Sarah from TX. I won't be here long tonight, but I look forward to catching up tomorrow!
Eric Rodriguez, DLC from Texas
A1: poverty simulation professional learning this summer so that my teachers truly have a deeper understanding of our students.
A1: I see the potential w/mobile-learning. We all have computers in our pockets. Lrning doesn't have to have a start and end. #
Wow! That sounds powerful! https://t.co/g1ZYdPJl2J
A1: poverty simulation professional learning this summer so that my teachers truly have a deeper understanding of our students.
I like this idea, Lance. Would love to get more information about it. https://t.co/QltpRuH8QO
A1: poverty simulation professional learning this summer so that my teachers truly have a deeper understanding of our students.
Our school runs our October In-service as an Edcamp. I like the freedom and choice in what and how I learn.
that's cool!! Would love to know more! https://t.co/3dHeqsLHqo
A1: poverty simulation professional learning this summer so that my teachers truly have a deeper understanding of our students.
A1: faculty & staff are riding school buses through school zone in order to see the widely diverse neighborhoods of our students
Let's differentiate PD through Edcamps. It would be great to let teachers choose their learning with district-required PD.
PD avail. 24/7/365 online. Educators need experience learning from those outside our own walls. https://t.co/IcjEQ4sSU6
We do a lot of style PD in our district, too. It has been a hit with Ts. https://t.co/BMkOrCeymt
Our school runs our October In-service as an Edcamp. I like the freedom and choice in what and how I learn.
Jim, MS counselor from just down the road in Texas. Lurking and watching Astros tonight.
and I plan to lead our staff in in the fall.
A1: we have done scavenger hunts using new QR code scanners
A1 Being that educator where others look at you and say "you are something else". It's about being creative in the most crazy ways
Hi fellow Texan. Glad you’re here tonight. https://t.co/pvqRop9WMl
Jim, MS counselor from just down the road in Texas. Lurking and watching Astros tonight.
A1 T leader led a training on numeracy skills and then Ts tried the strategies the same day w/ Ss in the after school program
A1: flipped faculty meetings. I have heard, but not seen yet. Any ideas?
Freedom & choice! Two great things for PD! https://t.co/QEIvcc1KLB
Our school runs our October In-service as an Edcamp. I like the freedom and choice in what and how I learn.
A1 Edcamp style for all teacher in service days; save some money and learn from within
A1: When Ts are allowed to choose the topic of conversation powerful convos happen
Checking out . Andy from Oakbank, Manitoba
Engaging Ts in activities that we expect them to implement is important for successful PD
A1. Professional Development Innovative Grants give teachers release time to connect, learn and build for pedagogy.
Absolutely! Learning happens when the investment is theirs. https://t.co/VA0NiqnlLL
A1: When Ts are allowed to choose the topic of conversation powerful convos happen
A1: I have done an un-PD where teachers bring me what they want to learn and then do 1:1 learning.
A2 I'm a huge nature lover. So I plan on teaching at least once a week outside. Also have plans on making my Ss take nature selfies
A1: I enjoy when we visit classrooms for 5 min at a pop and teachers showcase a specific area of learning. Walk & learn.
I like the release time for Ts idea…but how?? Any ideas out there? https://t.co/GNPWb7HY0m
A1. Professional Development Innovative Grants give teachers release time to connect, learn and build for pedagogy.
EdCamps were certainly out-of-the-box! What do y'all think will be the next out of the box idea for PD?
Hey I'm Shaina, iTech from TX
A1 PD doesn't have to be everyone in one room at one time. District # has been a great way for Ts to share & collaborate.
Observing other Ts is #1 method of PD https://t.co/BAOkYcH3Yg
A1: I enjoy when we visit classrooms for 5 min at a pop and teachers showcase a specific area of learning. Walk & learn.
A1: SXSW style PD, expert Ts provide training on a variety of topics and Ts choose which sessions to attend that meet their need
A1 I think PD needs to start with whole school based on campus needs for common Lang. Then go into edcamps, coaching, diff., etc
Twttr can be a powerful Lrning tool! https://t.co/4XI70vWTiP
A1 PD doesn't have to be everyone in one room at one time. District # has been a great way for Ts to share & collaborate.
A1 Summer tech conference. Ts learning from Ts on new tech in the classroom
Yes, Kheila. What a way to make PD efficient. Way to go! https://t.co/yKMJxvK9e6
A1 PD doesn't have to be everyone in one room at one time. District # has been a great way for Ts to share & collaborate.
A1 - With all the technology, PD sessions on streamlining and standardizing delivery of work are critical
Paying for Ts time and substitue Ts
using Ts strengths is so valuable. After Pd that person is there to offer ongoing support!
A1 MOOCs are a great way to access personal edification
A1 Bring in some students on PD days & do a mock class on stage in auditorium that's filled with misbehavior. Discuss strategies
Amen! I learned so much from visiting other teachers
this is a great idea and truly needed for ALL educators. Understanding your Ss needs is key!
I would say online, but that's what we are doing each Twitter chat : )
A1: a combination of collaboration with peers, choice and meeting personal needs( cooking, exercise) https://t.co/YQk7D9GObd
A2 Alternative seating has intrigued me, but haven't been able to implement it yet.
I agree. I'm hoping to bring this to my campus and district more this upcoming school year.
A1 a PD Buffet! Choices-- self serve with resources available as needed
A2: I prefer the European concept- easy to move, multi-purpose furniture. No front of room, S work adorns room or anchor charts
A2: no teacher desk; no student desks & very few tables: being used successfully in a K and 5th class.
A2. No assigned seating & configuration. I let my Ss arrange desks in creative shapes to give them ownership of the room
A2. Just getting into thinking about this more. Need to learn more: Can be powerful for Ss I think.
a1: I think we need to treat staff like great companies do - meaning trainings could be held off site.
Student driven PD---Ss teaching Ts...what they would like to see in the classrooms. It's not new but undeveloped.
A2: if I could, we would be sitting on the floor at points during the school year.
That sounds interesting. Do they mostly work on the floor? https://t.co/q70MXOM1T4
A2: no teacher desk; no student desks & very few tables: being used successfully in a K and 5th class.
A2 Trad. classrms aren’t conducive to meaningful, natural conversation. Need to set up so that the environment is collaborative.
A2 built in 4 short recess breaks. Flex seating bouncy balls, stools, dif height desks, access to standing or laying, clip boards,
A2 No DESK ROWS! I want to bring bean bags in, furniture, round tables, basically makes Ss feel like they are at home.
How does this work, Lance? https://t.co/H691JHGOdH
A2: no teacher desk; no student desks & very few tables: being used successfully in a K and 5th class.
this would be great! LOVE Style!!!!
A2: I just redid my office - standup desk, moveable chairs & tables that fold up. Same with classroom! https://t.co/K4vIw9LZOD
A2: I used to love being in a portable bldg that opened up right to a grassy area. We'd go outside a lot!
A2 I don't want to force kids to sit in an alternative manner, so how do I have a variety of options without breaking the bank?
just did one... Posted three topics with articles and resources. Teachers used discussion board to share their learning
A2 there need to be different areas - collab space, quiet space, individual space. Can't got black &white ... Need to meet all Ss
We have Ts doing some research with the extra, short recesses. Can’t wait to hear the results. https://t.co/6BR5wnndoN
A2 built in 4 short recess breaks. Flex seating bouncy balls, stools, dif height desks, access to standing or laying, clip boards,
School and District # is a great way to learn!
A2 environment needs to fit Ss. They need to have a choice. Make it flexible to fit learning. Alternative seating.
A2: Adding an element of flexible seating in the classroom, giving students choice in their work area (bean bags, floor, tables)
A1 brought Ss to help train teachers at an EdCamp. Win win
A2. We walk everyday. We even walked during a snow shower.
A2: I love the idea of flexible/movable furniture and lots of space-saving stuff to maximize the space.
Give Ss a VOICE & CHOICE! It's not MY classroom, it's OURS! https://t.co/wXetsOUf6j
A2. No assigned seating & configuration. I let my Ss arrange desks in creative shapes to give them ownership of the room
A2. Our current staff have done a great job getting rid of desks and rows. More tables and flexible seating arrangements.
I like having different workspace areas. https://t.co/fnCx27PzUq
A2 there need to be different areas - collab space, quiet space, individual space. Can't got black &white ... Need to meet all Ss
A2 I currently teach in a Chromebook lab that has pushed me to redefine my classroom space
...and some standing work areas! https://t.co/1VwFCtkjkd
A2 No DESK ROWS! I want to bring bean bags in, furniture, round tables, basically makes Ss feel like they are at home.
Make friends with your custodian they know where all the good stuff is
A2: Thankful our district is awarding grants this yr, in part, based on classroom design!
great! Most learning occurs through discussion!
ooooh, that's the next ? coming up! https://t.co/2F5f8BOnUi
A2 I don't want to force kids to sit in an alternative manner, so how do I have a variety of options without breaking the bank?
Advice worth a million bucks! https://t.co/JBW4AiFiPb
Make friends with your custodian they know where all the good stuff is
lowered a table and added large covered pillows. Inexpensive and Ss loved it. Check out 2nd hand store and ask parents!
A3. All ears (eyes) on this one
A2 Tables, bean bags, rugs, lamps, couch...Ss choice. A Starbucks look.
A2. Furniture is mobile. It is pushed away, united and shaped according to the needs of the activity and Ss.
A3: use social media to ask for donations from community members... Old exercise bike? We will take it!
great point! Environment needs to be flexible for diff types of learning!
A2 Basically...I'd make most classrooms look like kindergarten rooms.
Q3 big comp. in the area really want to help! In Austin I asked companies,they bought electronics but ALSO sent employees to read!
we adopting a new LMs this fall and I can't wait to do this and have the platform to make it effective
A3: HaysCISD is so blessed to have an education foundation that awards Ts grant money to innovate! https://t.co/SUyGFQmRO5
A3 , grants, business and community members, anyone who will listen
That's a great idea! https://t.co/BCk3H56fXO
lowered a table and added large covered pillows. Inexpensive and Ss loved it. Check out 2nd hand store and ask parents!
A2 got rid of desks. Painted tables with whiteboard paint. Futon, dish chairs. No front of room or teacher desk best years ever
This sounds like a nation kind of idea. Go innovators! https://t.co/oWKDpTk9s6
A2 got rid of desks. Painted tables with whiteboard paint. Futon, dish chairs. No front of room or teacher desk best years ever
A3: is a great resource that helps Ts in need of funding 4 classroom projects
A3: scour the storage areas or just ask! Lots of times there are items available if you think creatively on how to use them
It would be great to see the K play concept continue and get more complex through the grades
will they come to Houston?
A3 Feeling thankful that my school has generous prof dev budget to find out of the box ideas. We are empowered to innovate.
A3 I love funding my ideas here on Twitter. It's the best resources to get feedback & not feel alone. Educators love collaborating
I started with kids parents work - then moved on to companies nearby! I have no shame! 😏
A3 is the best at funding great idea grants big and small also our PTA and parent support.
It’s amazing what can be found in storage pockets and closets. “One man’s junk is another’s treasures!” https://t.co/mcYA3SK5h8
A3: scour the storage areas or just ask! Lots of times there are items available if you think creatively on how to use them
A3. Ipads, charging carts, bus rides to our Nations capital...none would be feasible without our Home and School funding!
A3: a lot of our clubs & sports run concession stands. One sells practical items like cell phone chargers. We run a vb tournament.
A3: some of my Ts have used a gofundme to raise money for their classes.
Yes! And different learning zones around the room. https://t.co/eT7kxrRdLV
It would be great to see the K play concept continue and get more complex through the grades
A3 contact businesses in community- might be refurnishing their offices and donate to your classroom.
You've gotten to be willing to just ask! https://t.co/vbzrAB5nMh
I started with kids parents work - then moved on to companies nearby! I have no shame! 😏
Many companies desire to engage/support Ss & their work - it's just a matter of seeking out which ones. https://t.co/0JMYWKovuw
A3: I am fortunate to teach in a new school. We have deep counters-kids luv to sit up there or on carpeted floor or my gym mats.
These are great ideas being shared here on !
A3 I like vintage so I think I would do some thrift shopping, get donations, and garage sale hunting :)
Awesome! Never thought of asking parent's companies!
Rooms that promote frequent movemt & brain breaks. Ck out I love it so much!!!! Makes you feel good and think better.
A3 our elem PTO is amazing & helps Ts. Donors choose. Scholastic points can be used for wobble stools.
I didn't know about the Scholastic points! Great idea! https://t.co/uBh8lnaSnR
A3 our elem PTO is amazing & helps Ts. Donors choose. Scholastic points can be used for wobble stools.
I believe older schools can replicate some of the ideas found in newer school. https://t.co/LgTIW8Ykt0
A3: I am fortunate to teach in a new school. We have deep counters-kids luv to sit up there or on carpeted floor or my gym mats.
A3: Don't forget about Box Tops for Education!
A4 On my last Assessment, Ss could cut out images and charts and stick it to their responses. They loved cutting up the "test".
Sad to leave early - but have gained a lot of insight! Thank you for leading and
A3: Our awesome parent club funds fieldtrips, for class materials & even snacks this yr!
worst thing to happen is they say no- but some will say Yes!! That makes it worth it.
A4 ask Ss how they want to show mastery-videos, Ebooks, posters, make it hands on and applied knowledge not rite memory
A4: all have an internal grading tool that makes grading fast and easy
A3: Many classes have a parent or two who are carpenters or builders.
And better yet…instant feedback. https://t.co/Hb88dLZwTt
A4: all have an internal grading tool that makes grading fast and easy
A4. Open ended questions that require application of knowledge. Answer a modern dilemma as a Confucian or Daoist.
Yes, when I first transferred I actually missed the homey environment of my 1950s school!
A4: Rubrics that have been created collaboratively by the T and Ss.
A4: out school system is moving to standards-based report cards for K-2 for the SY 2016-17 and for 3rd grade in 2017-18
A4: digital portfolios are the best for assessment/reflection Ss showing growth
A4 Ss and I co-constructed a rubric for their blog entries and for how to answer a question
I just found out about . Looking forward to checking it out.
I really am excited to learn more about digital portfolios. I think the idea is fantastic. Possible future chat topic?
I would like to design 1 room in my school - like a computer lab - that is 21st century that T can sign up to use.
A5 loved seeing how Ts are using Classkick to help formally or informally asses
We've been using one with kids for the past few years. Not for assessment/marks. As a way to share with parents.
A4: I have been trying to guide Ss in peer evaluation using rubrics. They value peer voices & I get better product after revision!
Virtual field trips are no longer futuristic. We can go anywhere and anytime. https://t.co/Sv7nYJoIuw
A4: digital portfolios are the best for assessment/reflection Ss showing growth
Check out for more info and ideas on how to use
A4. Why don't we assess cognitive thinking and affective learning that happens on field trips?! https://t.co/l5sZnq2GBB
A4 inspired by . Ask a question. Research it. Show me how you answered it. No limits. I help Ss refine the Q & let them go.
Coming in late...I will just pop around. There are some great ideas being shared.
Hello Michelle! https://t.co/D9XFFPxxRw
Coming in late...I will just pop around. There are some great ideas being shared.
What are some out-of-the-box ideas for actual lessons you've done or have seen?
A4: This month is poetry month. I display a poem, Ss learn from it, and write. Almost zero teaching, yet lots of product & fun!
A5: Teach about simple machines using real-life stuff like bikes, ramps, etc. Then have Ss build some out of recycled material.
A5: Putting the objective in kid friendly language. Making sure Ss understand the end goal
A5, Let 'em play. Make it relevant.
It is extremely important to know the expected outcome. Thanks for sharing, Jennifer. https://t.co/agcsNH4xHN
A5: Putting the objective in kid friendly language. Making sure Ss understand the end goal
Q6 (final ?) coming in 1 min
A5: Frame obj in real terms. Ex: Compare 2 texts of same subj. That's what u naturally do when writing research papers.
A5. Build trust with Ss from day 1. If you know the different learners in the room and what motivates them, any lesson is possible
A5: Use cooking to teach concepts like measurement, etc.
Using to record Ss or Ts presenting is fun, engaging, and can instantly become a learning or feedback tool.
there are never any final questions...just new ideas leading to new questions!
A6: I really want to try using some online funding websites to fund small school projects. Those were great tips!
A4 ESGI is an app/website to make assessments.It tracks Ss progress.I talk is an app where Ss can practice & submit Rdg fluency
LOL! Great point! https://t.co/SmdvE00Yow
there are never any final questions...just new ideas leading to new questions!
No more math and LA classes. Teach those subjects within others. May reduce some stigma with 'those classes'.
No more math and LA classes. Teach those subjects within others. May reduce some stigma with 'those classes'.
A6: Not sure what my obstacle is-organization? Need to connect my class w/ an expert or another classroom.
A6 Has anyone used Adobe Voice?
I really want to investigate student portfolios more...
I will be contacting more companies for funding and not let the possibility of them saying no stop me.
A6. No more math and LA classes? Teach those subjects within others. May reduce some stigma with 'those classes'.
A6. No more math and LA classes? Teach those subjects within others. May reduce some stigma with 'those classes'.
A6: breaking down recess into smaller chunks of time, spread throughout the school day: 3 @ 15 minutes rather than 30 consecutive
There's some promising research on this! https://t.co/IiZTlRSxT6
A6: breaking down recess into smaller chunks of time, spread throughout the school day: 3 @ 15 minutes rather than 30 consecutive
A5 Learning about rescuing sea turtles and visiting the rehabilitation , and release center at
Agree...but feel confined based on sped support. Solution? https://t.co/CVNEjuYTGV
A6. No more math and LA classes? Teach those subjects within others. May reduce some stigma with 'those classes'.
Thx for all the feedback, input, & collaboration on . Join again next week! Don't forget-follow your newest fans from this chat.
I'd like Ts to just make these happen within their class when it works. Don't wait for recess.
I have started using it and just introduced it in 4th gr. Ss loved it. Allows for a lot of creativity.
Thanks for chatting with us here tonight on ! Don't forget to follow your fellow here tonight and grow your PLN!
Good question. That's a pie in the sky kind of idea. Don't think it would happen soon.
Thanks, Sarah. How about this? Would you consider hosting an chat covering this topic? https://t.co/T3bjGfzqg5
I'm glad to help if you have questions about
Thanks for the great collaboration
Wow! 30 minute recess? When I had Friday Fun my kids didn't know how to play for 30 min. Boo!
So much for going to bed early! pulled me in, and I learned a lot, once again!
Thanks for hosting. This was a thoughtful way to close out Sunday evening.
What type of device are the Ss using?
Some master scheduler ought to know the answer. Not me!
This may be just what students need. great ideas.. https://t.co/fiTyHDjb4H
A2 built in 4 short recess breaks. Flex seating bouncy balls, stools, dif height desks, access to standing or laying, clip boards,
We’re always looking for guest mods. on . DM or Would love you 2 be our guest mod. https://t.co/qAiEvnzrKn
Thanks for the great collaboration
Scheduling is a big part for sure. Gaining support for this kind of change would be difficult. Pretty major shift.
Thanks all! Invigorating chat. Any one want to force me 2 connect my 4th graders with your class? https://t.co/a0L9yHcUyv
Great chat this evening. Many out of the box ideas. TY
Before going to bed, give yourself a 60 second fix. Students use it to self regulate in class. It works! https://t.co/HPnc5XMaSu
People forget how we all learn prior to public or private school. https://t.co/YZTlfS7CUx
All the more reason to provide recess on a daily basis and to remember that play is important, too, for children! : )
Have a great night . Thank you for the stimulating out of the box ideas!
