#DITCHbook was created by Ditch That Textbook author Matt Miller. The chat focuses on innovative teaching ideas and disrupting standard textbook education.
Come join us NOW for an awesome #ditchbook chat #EdCamp style!
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Fun stuff! (S'mores optional ...)
Hello all! My name is Brittany and this is my first time here! I am an academic technology specialist and student at a university in Missouri. I'm chiming in from St. Louis tonight. #lulearns#ditchbook
Come join us NOW for an awesome #ditchbook chat #EdCamp style!
Suggest a topic or a question. We'll answer and discuss your topics/questions.
Fun stuff! (S'mores optional ...)
Hello all! I'm Erin Boersema from Michigan, future special education teacher. (this is my first twitter ed chat, thanks for having me!) #DitchBook#CEP416
@SEANJFAHEY Allyn here,1st time joining #ditchbook, high school teacher of many social science electives (psych, sociology, film studies, sometimes health)
Ok! Here. We. Go. #DitchBook
What topics would you like to discuss? Think about what would most benefit you right now.
See a topic you want to chat about, Jump on it! @jmattmiller
Ok! Here. We. Go. #DitchBook
What topics would you like to discuss? Think about what would most benefit you right now.
See a topic you want to chat about, Jump on it! @jmattmiller
Anyone have advice for transitioning from 12th grade to pre-k to 8? I teach ESL and it was easy with 12th graders. Only thing I have going for me is that I'm multilingual. #DitchBook
Have you figured it out? Could you be a mentor to other Ts who are in a similar situation as you were? Or could you ask your admin for more support in this? #DitchBook
Yes! I’ve used @Seesaw as my primary resource for flipping my classroom, in addition to the blended model. Setting clear expectations, consistent assignments, relevant feedback all play crucial roles when prepping for a flipped class! #Ditchbook
#ditchbook I might be able to help with a few tech tools with for those who are interested as well...Google, Quizlet Live, Gimkit, Kahoot, Plickers, Quizziz, gamification, Jenga in the classroom...
I saw the one 2nd grade teacher he shared about (I can't recall if it was #ditchpod or not) but wasn't a lot of info on that particular Anchor site... but intrigued for sure #DitchBook
Great idea, for sure! Had a great tip in a session with @tylertarver who suggested replacing your "bell ringer" with a YouTube of yourself (on screen) presenting the meat of your lesson while you take roll and do the administrative tasks. It's a way to clone yourself! #DitchBook
Ok! Here. We. Go. #DitchBook
What topics would you like to discuss? Think about what would most benefit you right now.
See a topic you want to chat about, Jump on it! @jmattmiller
Hi my name is Terri and this is my first time chatting. I teach 3rd grade in Iowa and am currently studying Library science to become a TL. #UIMedia18#DitchBook
I used Google Classroom a little bit this year as we were 1:1 with Chromebooks. I think I am just wanting to get my bearings of what apps I can effectively use with my third graders #ditchbook@KaylaBarbare@JuliePJones
In reply to
@TTmomTT, @SEANJFAHEY, @jmattmiller, @JuliePJones, @KaylaBarbare, @KaylaBarbare, @JuliePJones
If you do flip, keep in mind the equity side of things ...
Not every kid has access or the environment to focus, among other things. The last thing we want is to put a marginalized kid at a disadvantage. #DitchBook
I tried SeeSaw for the first time this year. LOVED it. Gave Ss ops to reflect/share/talk about their thinking in real time. Ps could see the work in progress! #DitchBook
Another cool topic to discuss! I wonder if there are any companies that would be willing to let you demo their furniture in hopes of selling to the district?! Would be awesome for you and your students! #DitchBook
I used my own shortcomings to help kids get better at the same things. The kids usually help more than admin, especially when we have so many shared experiences. #DitchBook
I wonder if @Flipgrid may be a way to do your newscast. I'm not sure who, but I know I 've seen something like this shared on the #flipgridfever wire #ditchbook
VoiceThread is so much fun! You can use it to peak their interest and then have students use it too. Great suggestion, @martianteacher#ditchbook#LUlearns
In reply to
@martianteacher, @voicethread, @martianteacher
Or, if your school or district is able to swing it financially, @Kajeet has some really neat portable Wi-Fi options, but cost has gotten in the way in our district. #DitchBook
If you do flip, keep in mind the equity side of things ...
Not every kid has access or the environment to focus, among other things. The last thing we want is to put a marginalized kid at a disadvantage. #DitchBook
Ok! Here. We. Go. #DitchBook
What topics would you like to discuss? Think about what would most benefit you right now.
See a topic you want to chat about, Jump on it! @jmattmiller
Seesaw has been my saving grace for the past three years. Now, I’m using @Seesaw as part of my dissertation for Doctorate! It’s a EFFECTIVE way to increase student engagement! #Ditchbook
Does your school have meet & greet time? When Ps come in, they'll see your room and you can have a face to face convo about it, which is probably easier than written out #DitchBook
Awesome... thanks... we've done our "own" in the past and just recorded and put up on our class site (old) but intrigued by the Anchor app idea. Just concerned about privacy, permissions, etc. #DitchBook
#ditchbook this is my first year in a true 1:1 school, how do manage the time of creating Google forms, etc.
for the 1st time? Shortcuts to make the process faster?
I’m transitioning from an ELA teacher to Technology Integration Specialist this year! I want to know more about how badging is done for teachers to increase effective technology use. I’ve done some research but looking for more ideas on how to set up and organize it! #DitchBook
Thanks! I am going to try to keep my hyperdocs consistent and integrate more feedback since I'm also tying in standards-based learning too! Lots of #teachergoals for next year! #ditchbook
If you do flip, keep in mind the equity side of things ...
Not every kid has access or the environment to focus, among other things. The last thing we want is to put a marginalized kid at a disadvantage. #DitchBook
I'm a little afraid to do the self-paced approach with the group coming in. Some wouldn't accomplish anything. Need to think about the model more and read more about it, I guess. #ditchbook
In reply to
@ELAwithMrs_J, @SteinbrinkLaura, @gcouros
That was an awesome episode!! The students contributed to the interview and were excellent as well! Also awesome that this is happening in Iowa! #DitchBook
In reply to
@jmattmiller, @hartel30, @a_fenstermaker, @WeVideo, @Flipgrid
Yes! I've been messing around with Screencast-O-Matic which is similar. Google Forms is great when you throw in some conditional formatting too. #ditchbook
Feedback took time for me. I had to allow myself not to give simple responses. I learned, and continue to learn to provide more meaningful responses w/ feedback #Ditchbook
I spent 90% of the time teaching colloquial English to 12th graders so it might be an easier transition that I thought. Always believed that spoken English would get them further than teaching essay writing anyway. #DitchBook
Start small. Do stools instead of some of the chairs. Lower some of the tables or take the legs off so students can sit on the floor or a chair cushion. Have clipboards available so Ss can lay on the floor and write.#DitchBook
No. But it sure would be cool!! Talk to @Shalynsteward8. I know she just ordered some stuff for her library. Maybe she can get you the hookup on the company she used to ask for classroom samples.....#DitchBook
I have my desks in an auditoum curve shape most of the time. I've also labelled my desks with playing cards- all the 6s form a group of 4, red and black make a pair, makes it easier to put desks back in place. #ditchbook
Yes!! I used seesaw last year too and opened it up to the parents as well! The students posted items that they we were working on and explained it all to the parents via the recording piece or the written part. Also loved having S do instruc vid Amazing feedback from the parents!
For teachers: what has your principal done to best support you in your journey to moving to 1:1 or incorporating technology in the classroom? How has he or she helped you to be successful?
I had to just jump in. Made some mistakes. Threw out a couple of early assignments because I was too ambitious. Learned to LABEL everything on Classroom. #ditchbook
Indeed it is. I find that saying "this is hard for me too" makes it much more real. Students can see that everything is a work in progress and success can happen at any point in the process. #ditchbook
Ok! Here. We. Go. #DitchBook
What topics would you like to discuss? Think about what would most benefit you right now.
See a topic you want to chat about, Jump on it! @jmattmiller
I’ve seen teachers with tables use yoga balls or wobble seats instead of regular chairs. I’ve also seen tables on bed risers for standing rather than sitting. #DitchBook
Start small. I would not recommend “bouncy balls” to begin with.
Would recommend going to Family Dollar & FiveBelow for some amazing deals on Flexible seating.
Be prepared to provide the purpose of flexible seating to parents and admin. #Ditchbook
Rule 1: prioritize relationships and building trust over pedagogy and Ed Tech. #ditchbook it doesn’t matter how good your ideas are or how deep your knowledges, if they don’t want to listen to you, you’re screwed!
Set up point value, make question mandatory. Then duplicate the question and change the Q&A over and over. Also, I found it easier to use the TAB button more than using the mouse #DitchBook
Yes, our school went 1:1 this past year and our principal provided our schools own technology conference at our school for high school and middle school teachers to learn and share about technology. Really awesome! #ditchbook
In reply to
@MissMcCalley, @SEANJFAHEY, @jmattmiller
Definitely worth a shot! I'd be game to try some options as well. Let's make it happen, captain! (In the words of one our awesome counselors at Sudlow, Ms. Thomas). #DitchBook
Do a little at a time. Don't think you have to create everything the first year. Also, find already created material that you can use. Many people share their activities on a blog. Check for a hashtag for your content. #DitchBook
You probably have. It’s been around for quite some time. It has most definitely stood the test of time. I truly believe some current tech tools modeled their designs from VT. They are somewhat pioneers for collaboration in schools/businesses. #DitchBook
I currently have a high table I made, some low tables and crate seats, I have some desks, some I want to put on bed risers, a camping chair, and some lap trays. #ditchbook
We once had a code to get free candy out of a vending machine at a hotel to make up for a room mixup. I made a Reese kit kat sandwich. It was heaven. #ditchbook
In reply to
@emosier3, @jmattmiller, @SteinbrinkLaura, @mrshowell24
Oh! I've also used one of my lower shelves to double as a bench and brought a table near by to lean on for writing and in some of the chairs added sensory cushions. ...And, rocking chairs and beach chairs #DitchBook
Flexible seating gives Ss so much choice! However, make sure you set clear expectations for Ss. Remind them it isn't a free-for-all. It's still school. They can't live up to your expectations if you don't tell them what they are.
@teaching_power#Ditchbook
create a form with all your basic preferences set, collecting email, password section if needed, themes & question count. title them TEMPLATE-10Q-MC or the like. Then make a copy when you make quiz with content cuz the fluff pretty will be set #ditchbook
I started out with rows & brought in the flexible seats gradually! It was fun to see the joy on students’ faces on Monday mornings when there’s a new addition! They never knew what to expect! Thinking how to start off next year too #ditchbook
I've been interested for several years but it always seemed like a MS/HS type thing not elementary. But have seen more apps making it easier and even some lower grades doing it. Think it would be excellent to push my 3rd graders creativity and thought process #DitchBook
There is a Chrome extension called Move It that pops up with a window every X minutes and has you do a very basic physical activity. Meant to reduce eye strain and sedentary behavior. #DitchBook
In reply to
@KaylaBarbare, @MissMcCalley, @SEANJFAHEY, @jmattmiller
Talking about Podcasts in the classroom tonight #edCamp style with #DitchBook. Great resource for student podcasting. Why your students need a podcast: How to do it fast and free https://t.co/F6OqLgOkoO via @jmattmiller
Come join us NOW for an awesome #ditchbook chat #EdCamp style!
Suggest a topic or a question. We'll answer and discuss your topics/questions.
Fun stuff! (S'mores optional ...)
Ah- thanks! This summer I’m starting to build relationships through some team building opportunities within the school. Great rule, it’s going into my journal! #Ditchbook
I published it to iTunes! The ss share With me and i check it then if it’s good upload it if not they redo it! My goals is to get high school students involved and have them do the finial check and give feedback! #ditchbook
#ditchbook Jumping in a little late. Amber Clemons. 7th grade math in central TX. I’ve been using a #blendedlearning approach for 2 years now. Love it!
Some great ways principals can support teachers:
- Give them autonomy in their learning
- Help them share their classroom successes
- Give LOTS of examples of how it could be done
- Have F2F check-ins to help battle struggles #DitchBook
Rule 1: prioritize relationships and building trust over pedagogy and Ed Tech. #ditchbook it doesn’t matter how good your ideas are or how deep your knowledges, if they don’t want to listen to you, you’re screwed!
I have seating I’m just trying to figure out the best way to start. I was thinking of having everything set up day 1 and “Name tags” Set up then moving them the first week so Ss try different seats and we talk and create rules. #DitchBook
🤗- great! I felt like I needed to start off with listening more versus “talking”. Since I’m in a new school/district, don’t you think it would be wise to learn by listening? And then start talking more ? #Ditchbook
My HS radio class did some of the best sessions by interviewing elementary kids. We loved doing "would you rather" questions (have super speed or super strength) and parents love it. #DitchBook (You could be more educational than we were. Ours was for entertainment on air.)
I'd love to know how comfortable you feel teaching Social Emotional Skills? What support , if any do you feel would help to implement SEL into your class? #DitchBook
A colleague tried #flexseating. Used donated furniture, rugs, lamps, to make it look like his grandma’s living room back in England (his words). Good feedback from parents, bad from cleaning staff. #ditchbook
There are teachers in my district who use @Flipgrid to analyze basic sports skills i.e. dribbling practice, serving practice, etc. Then, view videos @ end of learning to show visual improvement. Many other ways to use this outstanding tool in PE as well! #DitchBook#FlipgridFever
In reply to
@KaylaBarbare, @SEANJFAHEY, @jmattmiller, @Flipgrid
I have some flexible seating. Ss have to show expeted behaviors to earn it. Often my flex seating is clipboards and they sit anywhere in the room. #DitchBook
Students also need to be made aware of and reminded that the flexible seating is to enhance their learning. If their preferred seating isn't helping them learn, then the choice is not a productive one. #DitchBook
Yes, this conference will occur every year with some of the same PD content for new/new to the district teachers and more advanced PD’s will be provided for veteran teachers. #ditchbook
In reply to
@MissMcCalley, @SEANJFAHEY, @jmattmiller
They have some AWESOME things for flexible seating! Take a drive tomorrow! #Ditchbook take a pic of the beginning and end result of your classroom! Would love to see
I also think giving support and meeting ts where they are! 10% of your staff will try anything, the rest will come along by the word of mouth of those 10%, then the rest eventually! Meet your staff where they are and use those top 10% to help spread the positivity! #Ditchbook
In reply to
@jmattmiller, @MissMcCalley, @SEANJFAHEY
Last year I had my kids create the first seating arrangement including the seating plan. Worked well for a month before I had to start tweaking and kids really took ownership of the room #ditchbook
There is a Chrome extension called Move It that pops up with a window every X minutes and has you do a very basic physical activity. Meant to reduce eye strain and sedentary behavior. #DitchBook
In reply to
@KaylaBarbare, @SEANJFAHEY, @jmattmiller
Did this before last year. Ss had a grid to introduce themselves to each other and I gave the parents a second code that was personal to only them and their child. Nice way to break the ice and to ease nerves... #FlipgridFever#DitchBook
Interesting ... didn't think of it from the cleaning staff perspective. I'd be willing to deal with their grumbling if it was good for kids in the end, though ... #DitchBook
I let Ss sit at my table if I wasn't working w. a grp there. They were great at respecting my space, whether organized or messy. And, I taught kindy 😉 you just need to be specific & set expectations. Give them choice & empower them & they'll shine #ditchbook
#ditchbook I use heavy duty packing tape to tape the cards to the corner. Also, I have a second deck of cards to randomly select Ss. If I draw 4 of hearts, and you're in that seat, you get cold-called. I don't use face cards. 40 students, 10 groups of 4.
In reply to
@jmattmiller, @Rdene915, @teaching_power
Ok...Great chat everybody!
And technically #ditchbook ends at this time, but don't let that stop you! Feel free to keep going or step out if you need to. @jmattmiller
