#INeLearn Archive
The #INeLearn hashtag is used for both asynchronous sharing and synchronous conversations. Include #INeLearn in your tweets if you want to share resources or questions with Indiana educators and school leaders. Asynchronously, the #INeLearn hashtag provides educators across the state of Indiana a central space for sharing. On Thursday evenings beginning at 8 CST/9 EST when you use the #INeLearn hashtag, you are joining a live conversation--the #INeLearn Twitter Chat. For one hour, we interact in real time having a virtual discussion.
Thursday April 14, 2016
Welcome to tonight’s chat. This is the first in a series of chats for the 2nd Thurs of each month.
Tonight’s chat will focus on building support for . We will be considering lots of stakeholder groups.
Q0: Go ahead and introduce yourself to the group and share your interest in blended learning before we get started with Q1.
Chevin from Gary my interest in blended learning is so strong I can crush cans with it... lol
Pam O'Risky, eLearning Coach for MSD of MV. Looking at more blended learning to fit the needs of students.
Chris Young. Technology Integration from New Pal. Blended Learning allows me to be employed in my role. :)
Chris Tucker, assistant principal at Western Boone HS. Looking for ideas to present to teachers.
Now that's what I'm talking about! lol
We hope you join us for chat. Make sure to include in your tweets! is moderating.
Tech Int. Coordinator MSD of Steuben. Currently doing a study with Ts on Blended Learning.
Good to see you tonight Pam! :)
Now that's a throw down! Good to see you,
Megan from Indy. Director of tech integration. Excited to learn new ideas for blended learning.
Haha, that's a good reason to be invested. It's in my title too, so I'm pretty jazzed about it. ;-)
Awesome, the convo Michele has planned will definitely provide that!
Hopefully our chat tonight about building support will be helpful to you!
Sarah Margeson, TSC coordinator of connected learning. I second that
Is that an online class you designed, ?
Tiffany from . allows for all preferred learning modalities!
Presentation Accepted! Excited to be presenting at Blended Learning Forum ‘16. See you there. https://t.co/dEdy1qmFdK
Q1: What is the importance of an articulate message when communicating about blended learning in your district?
You should join our chat now. We are starting a series. Seems right up your alley.
Hi all, Michelle with the INeLearn team. I was blending learning before it had a label. Excited for this new series for PLN!
Kind of. It is a blended PD on blended learning. We have some F2F and I try to touch base with members weekly.
what's the best way to follow the feed? By the ?
Yep! Just do a search for and be sure to include the hashtag on all of your tweets during the chat.
R1 I think the best way to articulate it is by modeling and piloting the process
follow the hashtag and you are in!
R1 its important to model and pilot so it becomes real for teachers
A1 for us it's all about myth busting and creating a united message for our 800 Ts
If you want to see the layout sometime, we could do a hangout in the future.
another tip is to select More Options and select All Tweets Here are some other newcomer tips https://t.co/Au8vtUuEVl
Great! Always up for a chat about technology
R1 In many ways blended learning offers more freedom, so responsible use, timelines, and accountability need communicated
R1: It's important to articulate that learning isn't all or nothing. We can't negate best practices by singling out initiatives.
Agreed. It's so important that we are all "speaking the same language." Clear vision and message are key.
A1: Needs to be some clearly defined elements. There are many facets. Main purpose is to leverage the learning time with students.
Joining late. Grading quizzes & lurking.... that's my story and I'm sticking to it. For now.
Chantell, Tech Director from Angola. Want 2 support all members of district in our transition 2 opportunities of blended learning.
Exactly. Similar to what said, we've gotta keep the main thing the main thing!
R1 I think most people think of it as a trend that will fade away, so being able to explain the rationale and practice is vital
. and I often discuss how blended learning is a buzzword, yet s ary and unknown. Important to keep the focus on learning
And I'm looking forward to seeing you at the this weekend! Who else will be there?
I agree. Yet so much of blended learning is the same as the differentiated instruction training I received years ago.
Most of us, if not all, can agree on the importance of a unified, clear message. Our Qs will help us w/ articulating that message
Q2: Taken from this article… https://t.co/6TUPla2Ryx What is the first thing you say when asked, “Why blended learning?”
R1 It's important to articulate the purpose very clearly for Ts, Ss, and Ps. Everyone needs to be on same pg of expectations.
Jumping in late tonight for . Catching up quickly
exactly. I did it with "packets" before I could get my kids to devices. But oooh, once I did!
R2 I would say that we are preparing students for future success. Our lives are blended. Our learning models should reflect that.
R2 blended learning because it helps Ss become career ready (buzz word alert)
R2: Increased student engagement, critical thinking, collaboration, and learning.
R2: Because not all needs can be met with traditional learning
For me it was about maximizing my time F2F w/ students. I ask the Ts, "have you ever wanted just ten more minutes with a class"
R2 also because it brings the world to the classroom and creates global citizens
I think about this often as I had Ss rotate on computers to blog. Among other tasks and sm. groups. and conferences
R2 Tech offers new options+opps for learning, differentiation, +personalization. Blended helps us take full advantage of them
+1 Utilizing aspects of online learning is not about getting rid of the T but rather making the best use of their time
R2: Why ? Because not all needs can be met with only traditional learning.
R2: The main thing I promote is how it allows Ss to collaborate and helps with communication.
R2 cont. if I'm defending why blended learning for teachers' PD.. A teacher's time is valuable and it provides flexibility.
R2: Why? Because there is more opportunity and potential than ever before. Why not?
Spreading my brain cells in like four different directions, but I'm here.
R2 Have you ever wished you could duplicate yourself & b able to take part in 5 different activities at once? Blended teachers can
I've been trying to promote this more by pushing teachers to redefine the classroom with tech.
A2: I love the idea of personalized learning. Blended learning takes the learning to the Ss in their environment.
For the next couple questions, let’s talk about tailoring our message about blended learning to our audience to gain support.
R2 For me it's all about being student-driven which provides instant engagement and authenticity of work.
Q3: How are you (or would you) gain support for from leadership (cabinet, school board, principals, etc.)?
has helped our Ts differentiate to all the needs they see in the classroom
Yes! We can be more intentional and more efficient with our time together when we blend! https://t.co/AvWVJJfyv4
For me it was about maximizing my time F2F w/ students. I ask the Ts, "have you ever wanted just ten more minutes with a class"
Why not was my gut response too! Why not blended learning? Anyone? https://t.co/bDmSV5Iyo9
R2: Why? Because there is more opportunity and potential than ever before. Why not?
R3: Model it. Have them experience it. Try a practice experience. Let them taste the potential.
R3 I've always been one of the early adopters in my building, so I never looked for support, I just made it happen.
That's the idea, . Depending on your integration of tools there are so many potential layers Student voice too.
R3 This is difficult. Just looking for answers here...
Don't have time 4 full chat 2nite. Q though... My Ss just finished researching tech in schools. [1/2]
The fear I hear involves the "wrong" way to do blended. Worry about good intentions but poor implementation
R3: Principal and I see the value in . Ts and other admin are seeing the value in it as well
I'm a huge fan of pilot groups! Grab some resilient teachers and let them loose!
R3 Give examples of how it can help all of our stakeholders.
Can I share their presentation videos with you all next week? They need an authentic audience!! [2/2]
R3: Show it off and celebrate success.
R3 In district, I don't have to do much for support. With our LMS, it's the expectation. The real challenge is keeping buy in.
I definitely use pilot groups and then have them teach the teachers during PD sessions. It's worked well!
Good point. A "why not" could be poor implementation. It's not about putting kids in front of computers https://t.co/tXYTvAIkl0
The fear I hear involves the "wrong" way to do blended. Worry about good intentions but poor implementation
R3: For us, our CIA team got a hold of Blended by and sparks started flying! It was exciting.
R3: Show how BL will keep students enrolled and engaged in our schools
Hey can you help us out for tonight's chat? Respond to poll below. It all starts at 10pm! https://t.co/InzvJ4MubP
Tonights chat is about homework. So we want to know, Which bests describes your view on HW?
In our district we have different cohorts that are moving at different speeds to allow for growth and ?s within
R3 Show the potential! Model! Offer blended PD, share research, articles, resources. Student testimonials can be powerful too!
Who's buy in is lacking or waning, ?
Additionally, the best online learning paired w the best F2F teaching is only most effective when the two support eachother
You mean we shouldn't meet for an hour after school going through a set of slides?
we should talk later-maybe something to share with the community?
Yes... Easy to fall back into what is comfortable.... For the teacher. https://t.co/vcdnuczrHn
R3 In district, I don't have to do much for support. With our LMS, it's the expectation. The real challenge is keeping buy in.
Who or what needs to be involved when garnering support from leadership?
LOL! Or cram info in 1 session and expect mastery and results right?
Or meet f2f to learn about how to do ? https://t.co/WDyGKwuRk1
You mean we shouldn't meet for an hour after school going through a set of slides?
Interesting, . Is the content customized or is just the timing differentiated?
leadership must model the process in order for the Ts to buy in.
This is the perfect segway to our next question.... :) https://t.co/fS5YpZcvvw
leadership must model the process in order for the Ts to buy in.
Q4: What do your teachers need to buy-in to this learning strategy? What supports can you provide?
my Ts need a patience from me and admin. I support by answering emails within an hour (even while trying to teach)
each cohort has different schools working at different paces.. So it's about timing..
Need supportive teacher leaders to demonstrate the possibilities...the benefits.
I always tell my husband I really work customer service. Classroom visits, online resources, printed resources, while group pd
R4: I've tried to focus on how can make Ts life easier. I'm there for all Qs they have
Whoops...forgot the A4. :)
Ideally, leaders of all levels (Ss, tech, parents, Ts, principals, board) should be pushing ALL leadership 2 support
R4. My best blended learning training occurs when I deliver content that is not technology related using my tech tools & pedagogy!
R4 My biggest buy-in as a T was knowing I could catch my Ss' misunderstanding early on and not 48hrs later when I graded papers
R4: We've developed teacher leaders to help Ts who need that help. And I've made badges to set goals for Ts to aim for.
R4 as a coach, the best way to help Ts is to know what tools/tricks can make their wish list possible-feedback, collab, etc
Also answering phone calls and emails quickly. I'm a YES WE CAN kind of gal! Yes we can make this work, yes we can help, etc
R4 Ts need to see it as not "1 more thing" but a means to do all they want/must do more efficiently or better. Time save=buy in
Q5: How do you envision involving the community into your blended learning initiatives? Is their support necessary?
R4: Last PD some Ts ears def perked up when they saw the Ss engagement in our Gr 9 Bio Ts class. She's piloting GC w/.
R4: As a Ts I like feeling like I have freedom to do what feels best for my Ss and really really knowing what that is right away
R5: Their support is necessary. It isn't how they learned. Great opportunities exist with open house nights/family tech nights.
R5: Trying to get stickers for our initiative so they can put our logo on their business if they have wifi for students
We're lucky to have in our community. We involved parents, community members, as well as Purdue students! Great resources
R5 The community is a hard sell. 20th century mentality pushes back hard. The support is needed tho, for Ss buy in
R5: IowaBIG has this nailed. Community members offer problems, Ss select a challenge & work on solution. Authentic PBL.
Often times Blended Learning initiative follows 1:1 implementation & gets lost in translation https://t.co/lXtAVYPPcU
Q5: How do you envision involving the community into your blended learning initiatives? Is their support necessary?
Also, press releases! Make the community proud of what you're doing for students
R5: We make sure to use Twitter to share the cool things we're doing
R5 Ps/comm must undertand how tech is used for learning, many still see as a toy. Need 2 invite in, host P tech nights, etc
Yep. You did it again, . Sucked me in. Put so much firepower in one chat & I can't stay away. Quizzes can wait.
businesses and local colleges are helping Ts "sell" blended learning to Ss with different programs and initiatives
Love this! https://t.co/pcGgSCgdQJ
R5: Trying to get stickers for our initiative so they can put our logo on their business if they have wifi for students
A5 Help families make the transfer from parents' experience to the new norms-no more progress report/data 24/7 win for parents!
R5 It's necessary for success, which relates back to question 1 and 2.. They why is important. We should do more involvement.
Yay! Mission accomplished! https://t.co/VjIkv8RdkE
Yep. You did it again, . Sucked me in. Put so much firepower in one chat & I can't stay away. Quizzes can wait.
LOL, when your PLN makes you put the pen down!
Agreed. It's an area that can be easily overlooked but it's so critical. Exciting to see so many folks addressing it
Let’s work together to craft some “elevator pitches” for based on the audience we are addressing.
Love how we could basically give each other's answers for whole chat tonight, since we discuss the same Qs every day:)
Q6: Craft a 140 character message about what is and why it is worthwhile.
I recall Ps upset abt Ss' work rejected by Ts for wrong file ext. Translation: when we were Ss we labeled our work or trashcan
is providing for the individual needs of student and utilizing tech to do so. Ts gather data to direct learning.
Learning: More time to explore learning, greater personal autonomy, more efficient communication..fewer papercuts
R6 Blended learning can be flexible, but accountable. Smart, but engaging. Efficient, but rigorous. It's the present & the future.
Wait! It's about LEARNING and not because we want kids on computers??? !!
Q7: Next: Write a short message communicating the benefits of to teachers. Why is this not just “the next thing?”
Blended learning is the chance to expand your Ss' learning experiences through tech to prepare them for life after school
R6 BL helps us keep the focus on learning. We're better able to meet Ss needs, offer support/enrichment. Ss get more T time w/BL
R7 Ts reduces shoulder pain... fewer bags full of papers to haul home.
R7: allows Ts to differentiate learning. It engages Ss in interactive lessons. Ss love using the tech as well!
It's the support and enrichment that makes BL so compelling! https://t.co/OQRQzE8iZ4
R6 BL helps us keep the focus on learning. We're better able to meet Ss needs, offer support/enrichment. Ss get more T time w/BL
Grading is WAY easier to manage and organize for sure!
Watch out, she's on a roll now! Real Teacher Talk-know your audience! https://t.co/RM0RqzsYjo
R7 Ts reduces shoulder pain... fewer bags full of papers to haul home.
R6 Blended learning is using tech add better interactions with my St in and outside the classroom
R7: I know I'm sick of the "Right Squiggles In The Right Places For A Letter On A Piece Of Paper" Game. How about you?
R7 Blended lets you be more efficient and intentional w/all the amazing instruction you're already delivering!
R7. Hey T! Wish you could clone yourself, & give Ss a greater understanding of your concepts? Follow me to blended learning town!
R7 improves communication better communication = Better St Understanding = Better education
Blended learning sets the stage to combine the social and virtual world in a way that fosters true understanding of content
R6 Blended learning is for differentiation, student engagement, & future prep. It's life.
Exactly how I use it!! Mr. S how do I ...... Have you watched the video and screen-cast!
Q8: Do we need to gain support from students? If so, how?
R6 BLle should mean the end of feeling like class is a waste of time. Get straight. Go forward. Move ahead. Now blend it
R7 Class sizes 30+ St to 1 T use to increase the 1
R8: They're the ones that matter. It would be foolish not to gain their support.
R8 We always need to build relationships w/ Ss. Support will follow. Blended learning can add ownership to Ss.
R8 Support from students is gained the same way it always has been. Connect with them. Make it meaningful. Make it engaging.
If you're serious about blended learning, consider attending Warren Blended Learning Forum '16 https://t.co/xMNO9H5kND Summer
Are your students excited about ? Do we see any push-back?
R8 yes and no some love the tech but don't want it everyday. They LOVE interacting with the Ts and each other face to face
R8 Sometimes. Blended makes it even harder to play the "game" of school. Need Ss to focus on learning, not hoop jumping
I want to copy my R6 answer to R8. No more all class review! End of boredom cause you learned it last yr. https://t.co/oKSF066Nr0
Q8: Do we need to gain support from students? If so, how?
R8 they see their Ps and older siblings in online classes and think that's what is happening. Explaining it all is important
Blended Learning absolutely does take the schooling out of learning! End of Chat! https://t.co/pvWNFTbix3
R8 Sometimes. Blended makes it even harder to play the "game" of school. Need Ss to focus on learning, not hoop jumping
sometimes a girl has to schedule a Tweet. I knew this was one that needed to be shared
R8 Like a real blinder, Starting can be rough but can end nice and smooth if done well, Sts may need to eased in to the routine
Thanks to for leading tonight. Next week is Digital Leadership with & Co. But be back next 2nd Tues for more BL
W/ blended learning Ts cover more than 1 standard in 1 class. Ss cover multilple standards & classes https://t.co/DEyEoyBZyt
R8 Sometimes. Blended makes it even harder to play the "game" of school. Need Ss to focus on learning, not hoop jumping
Hey , we're talking homework on next! Come on over!
