Our mission for our 21st century chat is to create a positive 21st century learning environment for our students by sharing resources and ideas that has worked in our classrooms. Join us every Sunday from 8:00-9:00 PM (EST) on Twitter using the hashtag #21stedchat. All are welcome!
Hey #21stedchat! I'm a graduate student who's one semester away from completing my MAT in Special Education: Intellectual Disabilities at Converse College. Looking forward to this chat! #conversechat
Hi. I'm Becky, a third grade teacher from Granger, IA. I use a lot of your graphic organizers in my classroom. I'm excited to be a part of this chat. #21stedchat
Q1: With more of the standardized tests being written by the textbook companies one specifically...is it getting harder to ditch the textbook? #21stedchat#ditchbook
It is becoming harder to ditch the textbook in terms of teaching to the test. However, to have meaningful and engaging lessons, it is important for teachers to teach real-world examples, not to the textbook. #21stedchat
A1: It is becoming harder to ditch the textbook in terms of teaching to the test. However, to have meaningful and engaging lessons, it is important for teachers to teach real-world examples, not to the textbook. #21stedchat
Q1: With more of the standardized tests being written by the textbook companies one specifically...is it getting harder to ditch the textbook? #21stedchat#ditchbook
A1. No, if you are teach students to master content standards then you shouldn't have that problem. Textbooks have become resources not the be all, end all. #21stedchat
A1. I think this speaks to culture and philosophy - if you are driven by your test scores, it is likely more difficult. If you are focusing on preparing Ss for the future, it isn't quite as difficult #21stedchat
I am actually finding it easier to ditch the textbook as I find better and more engaging resources. They are learning more and having a better time in class without the textbook. #21stedchat
As a future Special Ed teacher I think it’s easier to ditch the textbook because we sometimes have to think outside the box/textbook in order to teach our students #21stedchat#conversechat
A1: I don’t believe so unless you are teaching to the test. There are so many resources to teach authentically and the number of tools increases every day #21stedchat
A1: with standardized tests being in such fluctuation right now I’m finding it easier to not stress about what “their” expected results are. Not feeling the pressure to teach to a test so I can be free to develop my own tasks, assessments and projects #21stedchat
Q1: With more of the standardized tests being written by the textbook companies one specifically...is it getting harder to ditch the textbook? #21stedchat#ditchbook
A1: While I was still teaching, I rarely used a textbook, but I do think they can be useful, particularly for Ts who need help with structure and lesson planning. #21stedchat
A1: I think teachers might just have to be a bit more creative in how they teach what is on the test. It might be more work and difficult at times, but in the end ditching the textbook could be the more engaging option for the students.
#ISUci454#21stedchat
A1: It is difficult to ditch the textbook if your focus is just test taking and memorization. If the goal is the whole student , it is easy to engage and empower students without a textbook . #21stedchat
A1: No. State standard requirements drive the content of lessons. I agree with @Edu_Thompson. Textbooks are more of a resource to aid instruction. #21stedchat#conversechat
A1: No. State standard requirements drive the content of lessons. I agree with @Edu_Thompson. Textbooks are more of a resource to aid instruction. #21stedchat#conversechat
Q2: Many districts "identities" and real estate values are tied to the test scores. How do we balance this pressure with preparing the Ss for the test and more importantly life. #21stedchat#ditchbook
I’ll be looking at the link later, but without it I would argue the opposite. So much of math textbooks don’t draw connections and applications to the real world, I would think well written teacher material would be more relevant and current to today’s events #21stedchat
Good point, but in today's age, there are so many additional resources a teacher should be using to supplement instruction. Must strike the appropriate balance. #21stedchat
A2. Contrary to common beliefs, it is possible to teach students in way that prepares them for the "test." Must be intentional in the resources and tools we use in the classroom.
#21stedchat
Q2: Many districts "identities" and real estate values are tied to the test scores. How do we balance this pressure with preparing the Ss for the test and more importantly life. #21stedchat#ditchbook
A2. I am a broken record tonight because test scores will come if you are teaching mastery of content so the real estate etc will be just find. Students are more than a test score too #21stedchat
A2: It’s tough. As educators, we want data, and we want to know where students are, but attaching scores on an invalid standardized test isn’t the answer. Many Ps agree too...they don’t want kids over-tested #21stedchat
When CCSS first came out, I wrote my own but now there are some excellent resources that connect STEM & real life story lines w/o sacrificing content or flow. I didn't know what I didn't know #21stedchat
Exactly! When teachers are able to use the craft, and "own their teaching," they craft engaging lessons. This leads to better mastery and understanding. #21stedchat
A2: I don’t even want to consider the test in this scenario. Ss MUST know they are valued as an integral member of our society and future regardless of their test scores, zip codes or family history. We need them to know WE BELIEVE that too #students1st#21stedchat
Q2: Many districts "identities" and real estate values are tied to the test scores. How do we balance this pressure with preparing the Ss for the test and more importantly life. #21stedchat#ditchbook
A1. I think it will be without a doubt much more difficult to "ditch the books" because of the importance of these tests, but it is important as educators to teach kids about real life situations. You cant get that from a book. #ISUci454#21stedchat
A1: I remembered when we ditched the textbook a few years back. So many Ps were dumbfounded & were up in arms to bring them back. Nevertheless, admin was adamant & supported Ts w/ this move. #21stedchat
Definitely, but it's a rare T that just uses a textbook. I just don't want to ostracize Ts who choose (or are required) to use textbooks in their classrooms. We want voice and choice for Ss, and Ts deserve the same. #21stedchat
I think it's all going to come down to who adapts quickest to future oriented/modeled classrooms. Clearly not text driven classrooms anymore. I forget where I heard this... But, that one company is losing money because of changes in the markets and classrooms. #21stedchat
A2: When teachers use methods that engage students, the students will be more receptive and work to master the content. Test scores will result from content mastery, but we have to remember that test scores don't represent all knowledge. #21stedchat
I think that we should always be working to help our students be problem solvers. I think that if we do this well they will score well on their standardized tests because they will have the skills necessary to break down the problem and persevere in solving it. #21stedchat
A1: I remembered when we ditched the textbook a few years back. So many Ps were dumbfounded & were up in arms to bring them back. Nevertheless, admin was adamant & supported Ts w/ this move. #21stedchat
A2. When kids are taught to think and problem solve based on learning choices personalized to their needs and preferences, they will master and know the content forever and will blow the test out of the water. #21stedchat
A2: It would be easier if the tests tested students on life lessons like changing tires and managing bank accounts. Students would be more prepared for life after high school.
#ISUci454#21stedchat
I was in Washington DC last Spring talking to Senators and Reps. They stated they need something that shows their policies are working. #21stedchat :-|
A2: Teachers can balance the pressure with being intentional with how we present the information . It might take more time but the outcome will be all worth it #21stedchat
A2: As a teacher, you can't control the demographics and economic status of your students. You can teach mastery of standards, necessary life functioning skills within a community, and "how" to take a standardized test. #21stedchat#conversechat
Work with your students to make your own digital textbooks that can be constantly revised and updated. My Create Your Own Textbooks - Digital Textbooks page https://t.co/mgJHF8pXre#21stEdChat
Ps need to know whether their Ss are getting what they need from the system. When State assessments differ, Ps don't know until ACT when it's too late to do much. #21stedchat
A2:As a future teacher, I hope to teach my students the required standards that allow students to engage with each other that will result in understand the testing material better. But also understand that testing doesn't cover all learning growth #21stedchat
A2: I also think it's important to teach the students' that their worth as an individual and a student is not decided by a particular test. #21stedchat#conversechat
That’s the problem. They’re legislating policies that don’t work. How about involving the experts from the beginning? Now it’s worse with an EdSec that doesn’t believe in public education! #21stedchat
A2. I believe that if you are a passionate teacher, and love what you do, the students will see that and want to learn. If students want to learn the test scores will come. Find ways to get your kids interested in learning. #ISUci454#21stedchat
Yes to this! I'm in a group that reviews Ts in the nat'l exam here. My gosh. The questions that they pose are useless in the classroom. The nat'l exam is multiple choice. SMH. #21stedchat
this is another topic for another time... but there is a distinct correlation in the rise of ADHD diagnosis and medications and the rise of standardized tests #21stedchat
A3: Use an LMS to organize some content, but encourage students to create and co-construct content as well. The best content will be created together. If we do all of the creation and direct all of the learning - we might as well have kept the text book
#21stedchat
A3: Takes a ton of work. Using #PBL and allowing students to create products for an authentic audience, having choice, setting goals and tracking their own progress #21stedchat
A3: Research, planning, and a scope and sequence that makes sense to the students and teachers. If the content fits together like a puzzle students will become confused but if it is organized in a sequence, things would go smoother.
#ISUci454#21stedchat
A2-When students engage in well designed hands-on learning activities with clearly defined objectives we can prepare students for tests while still emphasizing engagement #21stedchat
A3. It's all delivered via Google Classroom. There are occasional paper based resources. Links/webpages, Primary Sources all via GC. Google apps used via GC. Have begun to curate a collection of @edpuzzle videos (some screencasted). #21stedchat
A3. We create backward unit plans based on standards. Then create pathways for students using lots of different resources based on what will help students master the specific standard e are addressing. Canvas is our LMS. #21stedchat
Like you said, don't like to speak in absolutes. I never had any. Maybe it's more my personality. I preferred being engaged outside the book. My observation as a professional is that textbook dependent teachers struggle with engagement. #21stedchat
A3: Since I'm a prospective educator, my instruction and class time will revolve around differentiating instruction for individual students according to their IEP goals. If anybody has any resources that may help with organizing my classroom, I'm all ears. #21stedchat#converse
A3. my goal in my MS Science class is to create an environment that promotes curiosity and creativity, and that's how I plan... I take a topic and put together things that, hopefully, will ignite and engage Ss #21stedchat
We use #GoogleClassroom, make student portfolios, move around a lot, find problems and try to design solutions, etc... Kids have to WANT to be in your room if you are going to be effective #21stedchat
A3: I like the idea of using #PBL to help students guide their own learning and have them use @padlet or wiki for learning materials #21stedchat#conversechat
A3: using padlet ,@Seesaw and @Flipgrid . Students get to practicing finding/using their own voice . It’s great for immediate feedback and reflection throughout the year. #21stedchat
Yes, you are correct. There are some textbook-loving teachers who struggle with engagement; how can we help them begin to use engagement strategies? #21stedchat
Q3b: Are teachers moving toward Google Classroom away from @Schoology and @edmodo . IMO I see many of you here using GClassroom rather than those. #21stedchat
A3. Edmodo is a great resource. Its easy and is very organized. Seesaw is also great. Its important for students to do reflection throughout the whole year. They can look back and see their improvements. #ISUci454#21stedchat
there is such ease with Google Classroom... and so many available tools. We use google tools for almost everything, including creating our student portfolios #21stedchat
Q3b: As a graduate student, my professors have predominantly used Google Classroom. If it's appropriate to my classroom setting, I plan on using it. #21stedchat#conversechat
Ss put together student-created work that demonstrate their understanding/mastery of concepts. They can submit via folders, binders, or online, and Ts can assess through conversations (interviews) or rubrics. #21stedchat
A3b. I like the ease of use of Google Classroom. Our district encourages CANVAS, but I don't think that it is user friendly especially for elementary students. #21stedchat
So great because it easily integrates with all Google apps. Many web based tools also allow for one step Google sign in which is great for students. The work flow is simple. Easy for Ss. East for Ts. #21stedchat
I use it everyday. Start with bellwork, integrate tons of apps (peardeck, edpuzzle, quizziz...even our social studies online textbook links to Google Classroom. Parents receive notifications daily or weekly. It's an awesome @GoogleForEdu tool #21stedchat
A4. I use @DiscoveryEd Techbooks some in Science. We are 1:1 with MacBooks, so there are a variety of resources to use... such as @NASA resources #21stedchat
A4. Use a ton of Google Maps/StreetView in Gegoraphy, @EdPuzzle, allow for student discovery of resources when I don't provide a collection of solid sources. Students often create using the different Google Apps, @AdobeSpark , @Flipgrid. #21stedchat
Q4: In a special education classroom, I'll use whatever resources are necessary to help students meet their IEP goals and build independence skills. #21stedchat#conversechat
A4. I use @DiscoveryEd Techbooks some in Science. We are 1:1 with MacBooks, so there are a variety of resources to use... such as @NASA resources #21stedchat
One of my colleagues, @Ygoteach is a @PearDeck maestro! It's very cool once you get the hang of it. Another colleague loves @nearpod. I like to play with it all. :-) #21stedchat
In reply to
@mr_middle_2, @Kfornoff2, @GoogleForEdu, @Ygoteach, @PearDeck, @nearpod
A4: I like the idea of using @flipgrid and trying to #gamify my classroom but I will most likely try to find something that will work well with meeting a student’s IEP goals #21stedchat#conversechat
We have used in our school for independent study. I'm impressed by what the program can assess, but we found that all material was very surface level. #21stedchat
A5. I've dabbled in OER, but have not used on the regular. I like the idea of it. Seems like it is growing and becoming more comprehensive. #21stedchat
A3: Many of my professors have used google classroom & I love it! I use google for everything- google docs, gmail, etc. so it helps to have close access to everything. #21stedchat
I use it when I need to monitor every Ss approach. I can see who's doing what from my desk, "Hey Chris, did you see that negative sign?" without wasting time running around the room. #21stedchat
In reply to
@nnekamcgee, @mr_middle_2, @Kfornoff2, @GoogleForEdu, @Ygoteach, @PearDeck, @nearpod
For those who aren't familiar, OER = Open Education Resources. Essentially all resources are part of the public domain? Not sure if that is legally correct, but there are many less copyright issues. Sharing is caring with OER. #21stedchat
Thank you for joining #21stedchat chat tonight. Join us next week as we discuss the topic: Shifting thinking from compliance to engagement for both students and educators. Sunday 8:00pm EST.
Q6: I'm going to do some research on the resources I've seen mentioned. Always stoked to find new resources that will help me better engage my students and organize my classroom. #21stedchat#conversechat
I don't know who initially shared this, but Denver Public Schools is definitely rocking the tech tools and apps game, particularly when it comes to FERPA compliance, etc. Check it out. https://t.co/cLYQ8ZmroP#21stedchat
A6: There are numerous LMS tools that can be integrated into the classroom. Teachers do not need textbooks to be effective, it is all about how they reach students. Hands-on learning and engaging students will ensure students are learning the most. #21stedchat
A6: There are a TON of resources available to teachers so that they can ditch the textbook and focus on creating content to facilitate student learning. I’m glad I joined this chat! #21stedchat#conversechat
We will be wrapping up #21stedchat in a few minutes but make sure you follow people you have found tonight. Preservice teacher we enjoy your input and please come back each week!
Thank you for joining #21stedchat chat tonight. Join us next week as we discuss the topic: Shifting thinking from compliance to engagement for both students and educators. Sunday 8:00pm EST.
A6: I am excited to explore some of the apps that were mentioned tonight . Can’t wait to expand what I do in the classroom . #alwayslearning#21stedchat
