#EdTechAfterDark Archive
"Welcome to EdTechAfterDark! Our community was born out of discussions for a rich EdChat type gathering for those of us who are thinking about the digital edu-landscape long after the sun has gone down. For us night owls, when the clock strikes 10PM EST, you’ll find us on Twitter over at #edtechafterdark. All are welcome! Our discussions range from our philosophies about EdTech, digital best practices, and simply sharing our stories." --www.edtechafterdark.com
Monday September 26, 2016
We may get a little personal so just remember this is a safe place.
If you don't know; now you know... https://t.co/2fxqHP9jmF
Well hello all my favorites! It's ! Cue the Music...(Juicy by Biggy Smalls plays..edited of course..) I'll be your host
My name's Eric. Growing EdTech nerd and ELA teacher. Looking forward to the topic the fellas have on deck
Lets introduce ourselves with names, places of work, and name the single most important piece of artistic expression to you
Jill from SC. High School history teacher
For me it's got to be Bob Dylan, his words, his passion, and his humanity
Eric, Lecanto Middle School. A simple piece of writing that's clear and heartfelt transcends all modes of comm to me
Hi, everyone! Kimberly, Media Specialist from Daytona Beach excited to be awake so late for ! https://t.co/DL4qpw2vi4
Michelle, grade 4 ela Lithia fl
Nikki, Columbia Public Schools, Missouri. Excited to see if I can make it through the chat. First time here at
hey Kim good to see you! You going to next week?
Hi Everyone! Excited to be here for 4th grade teacher IL
Sandra from Ontario, Canada. I teach HS English. I express my creativity through cooking/baking
A1 I follow many Ts who participate in this chat, thought I would check it out!
and , getting along better than Donald and Hillary
Hi! Adam from VA. K-12 principal.
A1.. Dani ... FL.. Always looking for new ideas
Jen from Illinois, SEL specialist, photography because you can capture so much emotion and beauty
4th Grade from in Texas Edward Hopper art... Breath-taking...
Also been enjoying sharing my passion for guitar with my students in the last minute or two of a period if we're done
A1: For me life hasn't be easy the lst fw years, its been good but not easy...just find solace in sharing life with you all
Maybe Ill make it, maybe I won't. Mike from MD .. El LMS
Daryl from MD, gonna hang out as long as I can. The Biggie mentions gave me a quick jolt of energy!
so true. A good photo can get you lost in the moment.
A1 Need some ! Always inspired by this PLN!
Julie from Chattanooga checking in for
Hi. 3rd grade teacher in Alaska. Love connecting with you at Right before our (which im hosting tonight)
Kindergarten teacher from Chicago
A1: I have a lot of work to do; ppl think I’m nuts 4 making time to chat, but , help me reflect and be mindful
A1 it has been a long hiatus for me. I need some positivity and to refuel with new outlooks and ideas. Throw 'em over here!
A1: In here because is my baby 👶 I love the PLN we've created of likeminded goofs 😂👍 Love y'all! https://t.co/C5rOroiCqB
Inspiration, love, and a place where there's always a seat at the table for this weary gentleman
Also, gifs
Its nice to share and be heard! Hadn't had the easiest time either, but it helps knowing others are out there
A1 exhausted from politics and always longing to grow
has become a source of ideas, a PLN of likeminded Ts, support, and a host of others.
we've missed you, you should try to get to in January we will be there it's gonna be 🔥
A1: because for once I'm still awake! Lol and because I love these chats (when I do make it) 😁😁😁
A1- because this is a million times better than the debate. And, also I am passionate about education.
A1. I find it productive to collaborate with like minded peers
I much rather prefer our debates over anything else. Feels productive even though we sometimes disagree.
hey Ashlynn good to see you
not to be cliche, but we are all in this together!
Hi From Garland TX 1:1 InstructionalCoach my HS Ss started getting iPads today! I just became even busier!
A1: Watching the debate & needed some inspiration. are helping, but wanted more. Also, ❤️ the ideas I get from chats.
Q1: Action and inspiration from the political distraction going on right now...
I don't know if I can participate, this debate is a hoot
A1: Specifically for , great balance of humor, insight, and push.
OH MY!! My heart may just explode Betsy Bennett is here!!
Considering I am in a rural village (accessible by only plane/boat) It is not cliche! Glad to be connected!
Great way to network without leaving the comfort of your home
A1) I enjoy this because the gifs are hilarious and the questions typically require a higher level of thought.
A1 always get good ideas from Twitter chats, although this one make me feel inadequate
So I am still watching the debate I am waiting for T***p to explain more about the state of "cyber"
A1: being here also makes politics go away for an hour 🙌🏻
Having fun playing Debate Bingo with
I was bragging about to my Twitter PLN session this weekend :-)
A1) I like people who like ideas.
Here to grow my professional learning. Never too old to grow!
A1: love hearing everyone's ideas and POV! It helps in my job to think in new ways! Growing my PLN https://t.co/kG7QeFs8D0
A1 I'm Jim from Winnipeg & I'm here (late sorry) cuz tv is full of US politics & I'm Canadian
Stop it. https://t.co/zkKvE039yW
A1 always get good ideas from Twitter chats, although this one make me feel inadequate
YESSSSS! and I are trying to go! Yall are the bestest.
well we are thrilled to have you
Also plenty of familiar faces https://t.co/dFEMi5iYd4
A1) I enjoy this because the gifs are hilarious and the questions typically require a higher level of thought.
A2 More coffee...lol! Music. Lots of music.
true, my colleagues I've become convinced create more of our problem then our students
A2: Take a break:for a good ugly cry, to bake, to cook, to exercise, to sleep, to vent…until I’m ready to reengage and deal
Not sure if the owls of our nation would quite agree with that... https://t.co/tWWQge8RiC
I don't know if I can participate, this debate is a hoot
A2: I pull out my affirmation file of notes/cards from formers Ss. Reminds me WHY I teach
Love this!! We've got some exciting news coming later tonight too https://t.co/X2PQslLXAz
I was bragging about to my Twitter PLN session this weekend :-)
A2 talk about it, long baths, adult coloring books, go hard the next day. Bad days don't win. https://t.co/rPBkSqXl8x
A2: I focus on who I will become, not who I am today. These experiences make me stronger!
and we don't work together so we can't do half of what you guys are doing 😒
As for artistic expression, I'm torn between music, art, and writing. Then settling on one, too much pressure!
A2, cont: And a moment after school. Helps me regain my "mojo"
A2: I find inspiration in my students, their stories & passion. I work out, find someone to talk to, & laugh w my family.
A2: Tackle "small" items to get on a roll again.
I drive home with my favorite music playing (really loud) and then I do something fun with my kids. https://t.co/8kzMJKjQ0h
A2 Focus on my kids and their needs, the rest just isn't as important in the grand scheme. Great coworkers also help!
A2. I have a couple of close friends who don't mind letting me get stuff off my chest. It really helps!
A2: I always think of the "1" kid that I can reach. Bad days make it feel impossible but there is always one.
I come home, clean, cook, and then PLAY with my daughter...
A2. step back and find some humor from the day. It is productive to get off the track of despair after a hard day
I make it through bad days by finding time to draw.
A2 Find my colleague friends and 😉 Remind myself why I'm here and know that I make a difference!
Lavonna Roth said we should do something we like twice a week..
A2:Through a thought exercise: Are you alive? yes. Fed? yes. Safe? yes. Remind me again why you're complaining?
Awesome idea! https://t.co/KsOs3hCbVB
A2: I pull out my affirmation file of notes/cards from formers Ss. Reminds me WHY I teach
A2- Yoga. Coffee.My go to move is to get out my 'bad day file,' that I've been stashing notes + reminders in for 7 years.
Q2. - I go for a really long run. Clear the head. Exhaust the body. Recharge the brain.
I used to go swimming, but no pool here... so lately I have been blogging & cooking. Wish wine wasn't so expensive!
A2) Take a spin on the Harley and reflect/do the mental prep for an awesome day tomorrow.
We still meet resistance. We're in it together. https://t.co/p0gKvrk6us
and we don't work together so we can't do half of what you guys are doing 😒
Never underestimate the benefits of a good ugly cry!
The best idea I got from my mentor T when I started 17 yrs ago.
A2 I go to the gym, walk my dog, kiss my husband, turn my gaze elsewhere and go to my studio and create
A1 Up too late playing bingo
A2: "to the World you are just someone, but to someone you are the World". That's how I keep going.
I was honored to host you 😄👍 https://t.co/ugysSZA7VN
A2: the support network. Having dinner and his awesome little ones was a good restorer of spirits for me last year at times!
A2: Know that there's a reason for doing what I do & that it will have an effect on someone at some point
I need to work out lol https://t.co/kShkVpFAXl
A2: I find inspiration in my students, their stories & passion. I work out, find someone to talk to, & laugh w my family.
not sure my staff thinks like that
A2: I also just talk it out in stages. 1. Venting. 2. Regrouping. 3. Talking about how to forge ahead.
Cheap wine will do in a pinch!
No ANTS..No Automatic Negative Thoughts should get in your head;)
A2: coffee helps to clear the fog, while team support helps me over the speed bumps and cliffs https://t.co/LgNnAiLPfV
A2 Look at the positive and know what you are there for- the kids. Each day is a new challenge & Life/work balance
A2: I know, I know... but remember what it's all about! Kids!
Solid https://t.co/C0GjYg0PVs
A2:Through a thought exercise: Are you alive? yes. Fed? yes. Safe? yes. Remind me again why you're complaining?
Coffee is the nectar from the gods
They have strengths. Take it from : Innovate inside the box. https://t.co/NFsg7OFFk4
not sure my staff thinks like that
I also get through bad days by finding a previous student in the hall & just chat.
Hey !! Sorry I'm late...Trevor from Victoria 🇨🇦
I live in the bush, so even a cheap bottle is $30... Have to pick my celebrations/disappointments!
Jenna from Lake County, first time participate (super late :) )
and when our Ss can't say yes to all those Qs?
A2: knowing what some kids go home to. What keeps me going is making sure these kids have a safe place to learn and be kids
Hey ! I'm actually awake, AND done with my ?s. Sean from St. Augustine, FL, irritated with
That's what it's all about!
Those Qs are only for me. Ss are completely different from my own privileges.
I remind myself that I made a commitment to my Ss & I have to remind myself that to keep going
A3: Twitter Chats, journaling, & bouncing around ideas with colleagues
struggling to get more than 2 of 24 to work together with me, it's tough
A3. I try to blog fairly frequently. Also, working on my podcast helps me create a list of tutorials for my teachers.
A3: Were the goals met? Did the Ss learn? Was thinking involved? Are Qs I ask myself @ the end of the day.
A3 Blog, talking through it with a co-teacher
I look back at what worked and what didn't. Capitalize on the worked and revise what didn't. Usually while out on a walk.
A3 I always look for ways things could go different. I talk it out sometimes. Try different approaches
A3: I spend time thinking, probably more than I should. I over think a lot. I also try to spend time in prayer/mediation
Mia from Orlando- better late then never?
I agree, but there's no one I'm more confident in to make a difference than you!
Amazed how I become reflective when I do something not pertaining to work. Had great epiphany watching football yesterday
Q3. I aspire to blog but not quite there yet. But I reflect in discussion with my wonder husband and amazing colleagues
A3 I have to make a point to reflect. It's easy to get caught up in the fast pace and forget!
A3 asking the hard questions: am I doing it right? Am I doing enough? Am I meeting the needs of all of my students?
A3 An old classic - what would I do the same? Differently?
Agreed. When I step away and do something else, I get the most amazing ideas!
A2: we need to remember they r kids. As Ts we have bad days and throw tantrums. Ts shouldn't expect Ss to act like adults.
A3, cont: Much thinking over a cup of coffee after school.
A3: By allowing time. Going to bed early. Getting up early. Giving myself the gift of solitude. https://t.co/UqB2ftQQRu
I have a blog at https://t.co/af6xm1JjV5 and also try have meaningful conversations with trusted friends often to talk shop
I start researching different ways to try and then see which one might work
A2. humans are complicated things, we scream our insecurities all day long, and our kidlets are the same. Emapthy.
A3: Ask for feedback, analyze evidence, see what's remembered, review when needed & give room for constructive criticism.
A3b and asking myself the ultimate question "if this was MY CHILD what else would I try?"
I talk to my classroom basketball sometimes: WILSON! He doesnt mind! lol
Keep your head up and your "Why?" intact.
Growth doesn't occur w/out reflection. Sometimes u can find your way alone, other times u need a good colleague's feedback
very true. Having trusted friends to vent and talk w/ are golden
A3: I look back at what worked and what didn't. Capitalize on the worked and revise what didn't.
A3 Conversations with colleagues, making changes based on student feedback, making changes when it is fresh in my mind
I see this a lot with elementary Ts, so much work, so little time! https://t.co/f8jtWbm5qK
A3 I have to make a point to reflect. It's easy to get caught up in the fast pace and forget!
A3 What went well today? What didn't? Twitterchats, looking over S work, collaborations with colleagues, and planning.
A3 Accepting that you aren't perfect is the first step. Everything else is easy ;)
I've always aspired to blog too. It will come one day, maybe when my boys are a bit older too
Preach!!! https://t.co/mnsoSLIRyq
A2: we need to remember they r kids. As Ts we have bad days and throw tantrums. Ts shouldn't expect Ss to act like adults.
Q3 I reflect daily but also like to record my lessons (4 my eyes only) to see things I might miss when I'm in the moment
SO important to actively seek feedback and use it to grow!
A3:I reflect a different times- sometimes right in the middle of doing-try to be flexible so that I can reroute if needed
A3: if it's not working, it's not working. Try something new. The Ss will let you know (w/ words or actions) if it's not.
A1 I am here tonight b/c I wanted to connect to Ts & avoid the debate. I would get to tense.
Looking over student work, for SURE! How did almost everyone NOT get that? We've been doing it all week!
A3: You have to make it a priority! I like to talk to a coworker! Sometimes I think it helps to think out loud!
Yes, alone time is so valuable. With two babies, Im grateful when they both nap at the same time!
A3. Blogging has been the reflective tool I have
> in coding, said it is technically called "rubber ducking" - talk to the duck to get to solution😜
Lecanto family is rolling deep on (:
A3: Thinking, using data, asking for feedback (and not taking it personally), thinking some more- but also not overthinking
Most professionals at the highest levels do this to improve...why not us https://t.co/yWPi6hmYTX
Q3 I reflect daily but also like to record my lessons (4 my eyes only) to see things I might miss when I'm in the moment
Often a quick 2 minute conversation during recess goes a long way
My biggest problem, but learning to do this more and more is very freeing
Student feedback is where it's at. You can learn so much from a totally different perspective!
it's a fine line isn't it?! Thinking but not overthinking
A2 I talk it over with other consultants. Then I come home & take a power nap. I escape with Netflix or a good book!
So nice how talking aloud (uninterrupted) helps even with no "answer" Its all about the process!
A3- I constantly reflect to continually cultivate my why. I have to know my why. And when I forget, I humbly seek it out.
It's just a given that we all do! Haha Like breathing!Involuntary!
A3: I'm looking at video recording my lessons and critiquing them...I want to become better...trying to master my craft.
Sadly my battery is dying. Until next week... thanks for a great evening!
Q4 coming in 1 min, it's a tough one, don't be scared...
A3 Having a student teacher this year has also helped me reflect. Makes me think about my practices seeing them in action!
A3 I think people need to spend less time looking for next great thing & work on getting excellent at what they already do
A3 I write about it. Chat about it. I have great consultants to reflect with over the phone. I can talk to my admin too.
this is a great idea. It is nice to see yourself teaching.
A3- cont. often-my why can be found in the innocent & passionate words of S's. Ask them-they'll remind you why we do it.
A4a: In general, I’m working on biting my tongue and being more patient
Happened to me today! Back to the drawing board tomorrow! Change my approach!
A4: I am fearful of ppl who could ruin my life, so sometimes I operate out of fear instead actin for whats right
A4. Letting a kid get under my skin--granted it was because he was bullying a girl in his class, but it really got to me.
A4: Thinking I fully explained expectations on a task and realizing it wasn't clear enough
A4b: Was bit 2 excited about changes I'm making. In effort not 2 let negativity stop me, was not tactful with a colleague
A4: I got in the face of a student...never disrespectful, but loud. I apologized...moments later...but it still haunts me
I thought the older you got the easier - I fail often! 😔 (older apparently does not guarantee wis… https://t.co/ice4eoa2vX
A4a: In general, I’m working on biting my tongue and being more patient
I'm working on being more confident with some things
A4 trying to cram too much that my Ss are not ready for in one unit. Marathon, not a sprint. We'll get there.
I beat myself up over this a lot https://t.co/Sl0zcNu1ef
A4: Thinking I fully explained expectations on a task and realizing it wasn't clear enough
A4. Placing the blame on others based on my lack of leadership
I think we grow from all our mistakes- challenge is opportunity, so nothing to take back, only to… https://t.co/I2fYCf7FLJ
A4: I'm working on listening more. I'm working on trying not to jump to solutions, but to collaborating towards it.
A4: really working on not letting ads pull me into an argument. Can be hard to resist in the heat of a moment!
And Ss get frustrated because of the confusion
those moments sometimes are worse for us than they are for them
A4: I try to be patient with my trying students but the last few weeks I've been off on my game. I need to get back at it.
A4 I fail most when I go for funny B4 thinking about whether theS is ready for a laugh. It's not funny if somebody's hurt.
Admitting that means you are a good teacher.
Gotta run folks. Thanks for a great chat and for all the new follow/backs. I look forward to connecting.
Thanks for letting me sneak in and hop out, such interesting quesitons!!
oh yes, how important it is to reflect on the consequences we dole out!
A4 a Presidential Debate? off to bed. Will peruse later --- maybe ...
A4 being too afraid to share resources and new things.Working on sharing even if ideas aren't accepted.
A4: I wish I had worried less about outside perceptions and fears of failure in my first year, but growing out of it 👍🏻
A4: really working on not letting Ss pull me into an argument. Can be hard to resist in the heat of a moment!
So smart having worked under the latter so much more enjoyable https://t.co/vf7CHcuHiB
A4: I'm working on listening more. I'm working on trying not to jump to solutions, but to collaborating towards it.
I struggle with this too. To often I just bite my tongue vs expressing how I really feel.
A4 My biggest failings from last year were chasing an angry student down his rabbit hole.
A4 Making snap judgements when working with PLCs. Not stopping myself & really trying to see where they are coming from.
You will! No one better for those kids than you! https://t.co/LFeGGCcPDP
A4: I try to be patient with my trying students but the last few weeks I've been off on my game. I need to get back at it.
A4 Not asking a colleague "How are you doing?" last June. Now on leave.
A4: Realizing that produces facts while speaks in platitudes and bromides......oh wait.....
. and then when I release i am a Tennessee tornado! 🌪 ha! Not fair to anyone- it seems out of the blue to others
Share! Share! Share! The more we share, the better for students, schools, teachers and education. https://t.co/4uBI296KRR
A4 being too afraid to share resources and new things.Working on sharing even if ideas aren't accepted.
I struggle with this daily.
A4: working towards less reactionary and more poised and patient
I'm all about the idea of letting go and moving on, but sometimes I'm an ass, and need to regret what I've done
Between watching heart wrenching game with my tonight & then the debate couldn't multitask enough to join
agreed! Decided change only happens if I work at it. Opening up & sharing ideas can strengthen community
We all should strive for this!
THIS. I need to do this more.
Same here. Our pers. lives can carry over in2 work lives. I try to block things out, it seems imp. at times.
glad you're feeling confident tonight Scott.
A5 - You're so right - don't worry about other Ts. Do what works for you you and your Ss. Focus on YOUR class.
Be brave. I decided that if I just complain without sharing & trying to change, than I am part of problem
A5: true and not be afraid to express our discontent. Or at least have a T buddy you can freely vent too
yes! I'm thankful for good listeners
. I have just been sharing everything. Joining forces with colleagues & putting ideas out there. Change 4 me
Amen! Thankfully, it's over now, and I feel like I really learned something from it.
A5b is an awesome Reading Coach > I learn from her daily! She grounds me at work! ☺️💜☺️
Completely! And it helps to find a listener not at your school as well.
omg! This can be SO hard! You're definitely not alone! Once you finally get that connection it's so worth it
the only people you need to worry about are the students lives you are touching daily. Do your thing fool! Lol😉
Love is Magic. Respect is Power. You've got it.
so true! Because things can easily turn to gossip and breed more discontent in others.
YES! In fact as a HS teacher, I vent to my friends who are Elem Ts.
I think it will help me be open to new ideas. Excited to keep sharing.
A5: For so many of us, just do your best for Ss each day and in the end the trust and community will follow. Work together.
A6 Have been using dialogue journals in class this semester. Am humbled by thoughts Ss feel comfortable sharing with me.
Unfortunately, I must go to bed... WAY past my bedtime! See you LMS folks in the AM and everyone else next week! Night!
2 Spartan cheerleader Gifs in 1 night Awesomeness!
Mina from Ontario, Canada. I teach HS Religion. I express my creativity through event planning.
A5: a good is great way to unwind after a challenging day or week. Twitter chats help reinspire & reignite the fires.
A6 I reached out to a retired T/volunteer to work with a boy I who I couldn't explain a math concept to, and it worked.
A5 When I am working from a place of fear or anxiety, I take a break & reflect. List positives of the job.
Just talking to Ss or doing something that a colleague needed without them asking
A6: I encouraged a 15 y/o 8th grader that his life wasn't over, and that in 2 weeks he could be in HS he moved the needle
A6. I helped an intern get her materials prepared for an observed lesson tomorrow. I have taken a tough kid under my wing.
A6: With social media/email, it is wonderful when a former S contacts you out of the blue and says "THANK YOU!"
that's how you know it was a good chat😉
A5:I make a difference by trying my best to help others and not lose my sense of humor as a parent of a hormonal teen 😳😜
A6 Daily, one of my Ss looks at me with stars in his eyes and says, "Best. Teacher." It's very professionally gratifying.
! my peeps! The two week old new baby in our lives decided my time was better spent with her this eve. Looking @ archives!
I'm the RtI coordinator for my campus. I catch Sa falling through the cracks. 2 today. May not catch all but I did those 2.
Good night all.I enjoyed it.. Early morning meeting..
A6 Had students from last year walk an hour across town to visit ❤️
Joining in very late helping a colleague figure out how to use voice feedback supporting peers with
A6: changing newcomers worlds by handing out iPads and getting them set-up. They were truly excited and thankful! ❤️myjob
A6: I did my best to listen to every student who needed me today
Great Chat everyone, I know this was uncomfortable, and be completely honest I was very scared of how it would turn out!
A6 Reading with my Ss, and watching others working hard - it's so positive to see your Ss staying on point.
A6: today I read to my students and you could hear a pin drop...performance reading...kids were so excited for tomorrow.
A3: We do not learn or grow in isolation. Always aim for balance b/n family, friends & our teaching vocation. ,
A6 I wish I had a great "made a difference" story from today but it was one of those days when the work was not inspiring.
A6 Crying S today. Wouldn't tell me why. Able 2 get him 2 feel comfortable telling me finally & worked out solution 2gether!
A6 I had a student tell me that I was the only teacher he trusted to help him apply to college.
A6 Took my 8-yr-old to CodorDojo tonight with - felt like a Rock Star Mom!!! 💜💜
Q6 when my S wrote her name with play dough and asked me if I was impressed! Building Ss up makes a difference
Encourage each other, I can't stress that enough, we are constantly pouring ourselves out, find a way to fill up your cup
A6 Made a difference- Listened, got to know students as people & heard about their weekends. We built our community
A6 I helped Ss make their animation characters walk
Make sure you come by all October long for Guest Modtober! We will have !!
A6 making sure I have my colleagues backs, offering support so they don't feel overwhelmed! A little goes a long way.
