#edchat Archive
#Edchat is a hashtag, a movement—it is a weekly organized Twitter discussion of educators and people interested in education that meet virtually from all over the world. #Edchat serves as a conversation thread on Twitter and is also used for organized weekly discussions.
Tuesday August 9, 2016
One minute to go until -- what will you do differently to improve the teaching/learning for Ss this year?
Hey -- where do you find most of your material? Pinterest, other teachers, prepared curriculum.
Tonight's topic: As a teacher what will you do differently this year to improve learning in your class?
The Topic: As a teacher what will you do differently this year to improve learning in your class?
What will you do differently this year--share your ideas via
Yes! Socratic seminar-style can be a helpful problem solving technique for adults, too.
My tweets for the next hour will be for
I will use student goal-setting each 9 wk period. Did some last year, loved it!
I think we can all try to be more intentional with our time, specifically being present with our students.
I'm studying Social Media in w/ . We're learning about Twitter chat. This is my 1st time participating
my goal is to include the parents into the learning. Even if I have to drag them kicking and screaming
New Post: Why Even More Children Are Needing Social & Emotional Skills Coaching In School ... https://t.co/GVAVahvzWv
Hi! I'm a children's book author and editor, from Toronto, Canada, following your conversation tonight.
A: I want to incorporate more technology in meaningful ways
I have a few goals this year, but one will be to focus on parent and student relationships more intentionally this year
Hi April, Thanks for joining -- what will you do differently in the year ahead with regard to teaching/learning?
Be sure to include the hashtag w/every tweet.
Teachers -- share your best positive "re-direct" phrases! (when a student needs help focusing) https://t.co/vDvcOJ7TDw
can you outline a few of things you are going to try?
How do you plan to use Socratic seminar? I'd like to try.
can you outline a few things you plan to do?
Improving the parent interaction with my class ... not just reminding them of S assignments - start with Family History assignment
I like that Shawn. I was thinking of having every child come up with a word (acronym) that encompasses their goals.
We have materials for K-12, and we're hoping to find new ways to incorporate smart technology!
Can you explain a few ways you plan to do that?
Can you give some examples of this please, of being "more present" with the students?
This is so important, Will--critical.
Hoping to start by making first day introductions digital... students will feel more at home sharing online
I also want to increase for my Ss this year
So glad you are here April.
Teaming with parents, as you know, is so effective and positive.
Great idea! I teach ESOL, so that will help students' vocabularies as well! https://t.co/aDkFPlLwCZ
I like that Shawn. I was thinking of having every child come up with a word (acronym) that encompasses their goals.
We live in a complex world.
for me it means more conversations with individuals. I tend to be hands off, I think too much that way.
My goal is to use technology in a meaningful way to support students
I want to have some parent share days ... maybe have them group present with their kid ... send them on an adventure.
Terrific Susan. Do your books have a particular theme?
This would be so cool.. I teach high school though... do you think it could still happen? https://t.co/UmdX7UlNEn
I want to have some parent share days ... maybe have them group present with their kid ... send them on an adventure.
Any particular tech you're interested in April?
I don't want to just pen the line of communication with parents I want to collaborate with them ... get them involved
Topic: As a teacher what will you do differently this year to improve learning in your class?
Welcome! I'm a newbie to , too!
I'm hoping to get them working collaboratively, so any collaboration tools would be great!
You'd do this BEFORE the first day, send out digital introductions? Otherwise how wld this work?
I am going to spend some time having kids reflect on home culture and compare that to school/classroom.
anything is worth a try ... there are too many reluctant parents of reluctant learners
Last yr I started using a P communication app but this year I want to add in more P volounteer opportunities
I'm going to do it on day one at the end of class, they will be required to comment on echothrs post
Tell me more about this--I'm very interested in this topic.
TED_ED: Wrapping up Q3, on to Q4
lots of them out there :)
I could see this being a huge asset. I know it's frequently used in sports
I write for almst evry age level, fictn and nf. Schls arnd the wlrd, science, history, empowermt of girls -- u name it!
I want to have students make a little video clip introducing themselves w/name and a few other items.
This will be my 2nd time teaching this group of kids ... time to take relationship to the next level ... parent participation
If every teacher tried one thing new to them this year, we might move from the status quo so prevalent in the education system today.
I like the quick and easy communication tools we have now for parents.
In our multicultural school, we often don't give the variety of names the attn they deserve.
I recently observed an OT in my school using the Osmo. I was very impressed with the way the Osmo works with the iPad
Jessica, any ideas how you hope to do that. I want to do that too.
Yes! https://t.co/hCgW7KpCDJ
If every teacher tried one thing new to them this year, we might move from the status quo so prevalent in the education system today.
Do you have a favorite? There are so many! I use and it has been a positive addition
I've heard about this and have seen some models--very powerful.
maybe have students 'interview' other students?
I think if we can get more parents through the doors of the school and into the classroom barriers will fall ...
It's easy to get distracted in school due to the amount of activity, but to be present means focus.
This year, I want to make an effort to contact parents with positives rather than only reaching out when there is a problem
Get out of the way of my students by allowing them to learn, lead, fail, and fall as necessary. https://t.co/SczGxhcmqM
Topic: As a teacher what will you do differently this year to improve learning in your class?
Great idea. I need to think of my word. Great model for the Ss!
Having my Ss identify goals for writing and math to start with. I'm OK with "slow and steady" and not rushing into it
about to start my first year of teaching but I'm looking forward to reading others' ideas
I may do something strange and require parental involvement in activities ... What is Grandma's opinion?
Really like the , but it's only in the US. How do we replicate internationally? Share thoughts
I'm going to slow down & provide better feedback to my 7th grade LA students
This is so important and sometimes not easy--but worth it!
We're on today! Join us for a global discussion of how to improve learning. https://t.co/Xh3h2Zq1Kw
Great idea! I teach ESOL, so that will help students' vocabularies as well! https://t.co/aDkFPlLwCZ
I like that Shawn. I was thinking of having every child come up with a word (acronym) that encompasses their goals.
This is so important--creates a positive community.
I think making videos/ flipping class expectations and plans for semester sent home on DVD might help
this would be really cool for controversial topics in Biology to show different viewpoints
What are the obstacles that keep parents away?
What grade do you teach, Dennis? Does this type of parnt participation change as kids move thrgh the grades?
I do give out email and phone number to parents and students but rarely get anything from them that way.
That is a great idea! Glad to see more folks bringing the digital world into the classroom on Day 1.
I plan to build relationships, integrate technology, and give students an active role in their learning.
Feedback is on my list, I'm going to try a weekly pattern--hope it works.
Potential to be so revealing!
Yeah...I've discovered that phone communication is where it's at for Ps (apps, text)
We're hoping to have students take more ownership of content by providing opportunities to design it to teach others.
how about have the kids interview the parents,? Could have them as family history questions.
Do you start the year with a parent night? We try to invite involvement then.
I am teaching 8th now ...taught this group when they were in 6th ... i just want parents involved
Planning to lead the way w BreakoutEdu & Minecraft in the library. Hope to support Ts in using these tools! https://t.co/cZtBQsuote
I'm so excited for you, Emily. Any questions?
it is easier for most of us, I think :)
we always try to get kids to talk at home about school ... why not prime the parents to ask questions?
I agree Jessica. It's good to start that way.
I am going to make as many videos of my instruction as possible. So I can spend more time helping students 1:1 or small group
Glad you like it--will help me to stay focused on my goals.
Maybe instead of sending home reminders we should text parents a question to ask their kid ...
We strongly feel that learners rise to the occasion when challenged to contribute to the class experience; they need more of that.
we do and have special nights ... low turnout.
Recently learned that phone/text often preferred over email.
I find that many parents are unaware of how to navigate the system. They are unaware of their rights within the Ed system
Are you all using Remind? It's pretty awesome
love this ... get them thinking and getting family involved
I’m doing my best to help my students unleash their creativity. Some are scared so they choose conservative.
With so many apps from which to choose, this IS POSSIBLE
We call our grade level TeamFive to emphasize our collaboration and sense of team.
Have you tried Remind101?
Relationships are number one--so important. You'll be off to a great start.
If you could get video of the interviews you could start your own 'museum' :)
I'm surprisd. I wld'v thgt u'd be flooded w email mssges! So quck + esy but perhps depnds on popultn.
Let me know how it goes, Jason.
that’s ideal. We have cultural barriers to break down at my school. Parents taught not to interfere. Yuck!
I didn't last year, but will be using it this year.
No, but I've heard a lot about it! I use as it's more robust for my needs!
That's a great plan, Emily!
Teachers can't keep doing the same thing year after year.
Without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible. ~ Frank Zappa
Thanks for the share--I plan to read.
yeah, it really does depend on the culture of the parents we serve.
I'll have to check that one out, I hadn't heard of it
1st y here, so I can't say it's different for me, but it is for my school! Our Adobe curriculum is now PBL https://t.co/tujWO5f5Ru
Topic: As a teacher what will you do differently this year to improve learning in your class?
There is no tired like "back to school" tired, am I right?
What do you mean by "rights" in this context, Bernadette?
I want my students to write more in my classroom - both formal and informal types.
I have several Ps that don't check emails, but texts they do check! Or app notifications
They love teaching each other and younger classmates too. Great idea!
yes, but few parents sign up ... i may just collect phone numbers
I make it an assignment, so they get credit for it... helps a little
We're hoping to build in continued student feedback to empower them to think deeply about constructive changes in their learning.
8th grade is important year since some parents may start to lose investment--not always an easy age.
. completely agree. I try to write or adapt a new unit each year. Problem is deciding what to get rid of!
What level of school? Elemen? Middle? Secondary? Intrsting that they equate interfere with participate.
every week for sure. Started my blog. The Psycho Ed Report. Nothing posted yet but soon!
I'm excited for you-I find that my Minecrafters learn math well.
I find that many parents think back to their own experiences while in school and may not realize how much schools have changed
kids are going to be creating a GoogleSite for their portfolio ... could a family history tab
But students often choose the easy to guarantee ‘success’, often to their own detriment.
Admins should also commit to doing something new and possibly uncomfortable this year.
Yes, they start to try to let stdts become more indepndt but can backfire if they become too uninvolved.
that sounds great, what are you doing to get them to be more creative?
We want students to feel like they have status in their learning.
I can't wait to get it going!
yes, but it only works for parents who sign up ... too many gaps
So true. I keep a lot of lessons and choose the ones that match this year's class best.
yes, that would be great. Could have the kids record a welcome to their site too.
Probably like you, I adapt the curriculum every year to the Ss, current needs/interests.
When I say "rights" I am referring to parents of children with special needs.
Thank you! So much to consider as a first-year teacher, where do I begin?! Currently thinking about classroom management
I am the TV guy too so I have access to all the equipment
It's a big job--no way around it.
As long as the "something new" is for them, not the staff while they continue to do the same thing! https://t.co/BSaeGZcpIf
Admins should also commit to doing something new and possibly uncomfortable this year.
I like Google Sites, but recently I heard a lot of good info about SeeSaw and how great it is for parents
When creating video or taking pics, make sure your students are ok being 'in the picture'. Let them choose privacy if they wish.
is so easy for little learners to use!!
We think of the classroom as a place that's owned by the kids. We don't have desks, and try not to orient the room to the board.
When you coach them forward with good relationships, you can usually support the challenge.
Had an amazing first day at ! So excited for an awesome year of learning!
Students learn what is accepted&cater accordingly, when they know T's value their choice&ideas they share it
How do we get all educators to be aware of the latest methodology and pedagogy that they could apply to their own profession?
Kids love new and we do, too. It great when they say, "That's different, we did not do that when we were in..."
Teacher friends who keep a reflective journal: What do you focus your writing on? How do you keep your journal?
True, they are quick learners
I have been using for years ... number of parents who follow along about 10 of 1000+ kids
CM will be easier if you're yourself w/ the kids. Don't try to be like another teacher. let the Ss see the real you
the app won't matter if there is nothing for the parent to do ... need to actively involve them
educators are no different than students. We can lead them to water, but...
These are only for classrm use, correct? A gd opp to teach about privacy/publicity and respect/disrespect.
I think we need to make sure we are building our Personal Learning Networks as best we can
Yes, and as you suggest, use an avatar instead if they prefer that.
Respect, Trust and relationships supports the challenges and gradual@release of responsibility
I had 100% parent participation last year with
Meet Stan and Bea Tall. https://t.co/yluTSA8iEz They explain how giraffes got their long
necks—by being brave and caring, of course!
A great class discussion is not a "ping-pong match" between individual students and the teacher. https://t.co/SCXQ9ll8Li
I love the concept, but I have never witnessed parents are passively involved not actively
not necessarily, but the kids should have a say in what is shared publicly IMO.
I liked the amount of interaction w/parents people tell me SeeSaw encourages.
There are lots of opportunities to use to change things up from the same old, same old.
ms. families 90% from Mexico and Cntrl America. They tell me p’s not learning partners in their country.
So happy that your first day went well. What grade?
Do you think that is bc parents want to leave the academic learning to you or just apathy?
someone showed me the Bloomz, not sure how it would work in MS with 80+ kids
Your PLN is an invaluable resource.
We want to help prepare kids for "courageous, caring citizenship". And we offer lots of resources! https://t.co/5N2p3qHLws
Give Ts collaboratve time where they can find collective passion; time 2 dig deep 2 lrn, read, cr8, implemnt https://t.co/p7GBG8lXeZ
How do we get all educators to be aware of the latest methodology and pedagogy that they could apply to their own profession?
Totally agree. I think it's their right, accrding to most schools. Don't prnts have to sign photo releases for ss?
I teach 1st, so I use with Ps
How do we promote teacher leadership from within to instruct, model, and promote more relevant methods for educators to employ?
not sure ... many are just hands off ... unless sports are involved
I just read a great Seymour Papert story about giraffes--have you read that
Teachers need input on their professional development and administration needs to support it
There are 3 stages in our guide. First is "Hear the Story" where students learn about real heroes. https://t.co/yluTSA8iEz
Join in 1 hr for “Parents & Teachers: Finding Common Ground”
and also some responsibility on their admin to share what may be relevant for their student body.
I believe that the majority of parents want to be involved. They may not know how. There may be language or cultural barriers.
Stage 2 of our guide is "Tell the Story," where students find heroes in their own community. https://t.co/yluTSA8iEz
Join in 1/2 hr for “Parents & Teachers: Finding Common Ground”
We really need to build more time for good collaboration and process.
Give opportunities for teachers to observe each other! Always eye-opening to see another approach.
How might we greet nautical flak at this juncture?
Topic for this : As a teacher what will you do differently this year to improve learning in your class?
but even when admins share, there is still no guarantee teachers see/read/view
"We must let go of the idea that accountability equals punishment"
As Instrc Coach/Rdg Spec, that is my job. Collabratng 2 find best methods 2 spprt Ts & Ss https://t.co/jcdM2iTAGt
How do we promote teacher leadership from within to instruct, model, and promote more relevant methods for educators to employ?
Stage 3 culminates in "Become the Story," where students create and carry out service projects. https://t.co/yluTSA8iEz
talk at lunch, hallway, and casual spots about success in class. Good teachers can't close doors and ignore the rest
Went to a great workshop by Charmain Champagne and Rich Wilson that leads this work.
No, we haven't! Do you recommend it?
Prhaps helps p's feel confident u have a structure in place and know what u're doing, as well! :)
I hear you. Skewed priorities are an obstacle I try to keep outside my classroom.
Inrsting to mention to kids, esp cuz so many think they have privacy on soc media when we all know .... !
I think I start with knowing WHO my Ss are, WHAT they can do, and WHAT they know & Then work on methodology and pedagogy
Back to your statement. It's a teacher's responsibility to be professional.
Storytelling is powerful. When students get inspired by everyday heroes, the sky's the limit! https://t.co/yluTSA8iEz
funny how parents can do all day Saturday on the Soccer field, but can't checked for student work during week?
RT : Back to your statement. It's a teacher's responsibility to be professional.
I love this idea. I did this often as a sub last year & learned a lot, but it would benefit all teachers!
Admitting that administrative positions are management only will create space for other leaders to emerge https://t.co/vGufVDG2Gl
How do we promote teacher leadership from within to instruct, model, and promote more relevant methods for educators to employ?
If we can tap just one teacher to collaborate, we usually end up w/ more bcs it leads to "How can I try that?" by others.
How might we match worst rubric by breaking the mold?
give teachers the floor, encourage them to step out and share, start small, encourage and sometimes push them if needed
That is difficult when teachers have been programmed to be controlled and comply to policy for their entire careers.
I'll try to find it and send it to you.
oh yes! I need them as partner in IEP’s/ classroom. They show up well, but partnership is hard. I try.
More inquiry-based learning & adapt classroom management to flexible seating.
Yes ,professional! This is different from acquiescence and compliant https://t.co/HL65AYXdpt
RT : Back to your statement. It's a teacher's responsibility to be professional.
Different for every parent--so many factors. I was a diff parent for each of my own children due to life's events
Yes and we can help each other in this regard "Professional" often has a variety of definitions.
Like our Ss, Teachers have feel safe to fail when trying something new and innovative. Change won't happen by playing it safe
Since they were students ... ! I wonder if tchrs in the future will be diff cuz edtion now is so diff?
We shift our set-up depending on learning goals/needs--great goals.
It’s certainly not by creating models that just recreate management structures. https://t.co/opKzgvPcWx
How do we promote teacher leadership from within to instruct, model, and promote more relevant methods for educators to employ?
some of us manage to go our own way ;)
For those nervous to take risks, collaborating w/partner can be less intimidating than collaborating w/large group!
the double-edged sword of being Union and therefore viewed as less than professional
I like the term "responsible risk" in this regard.
Your name caught my attention....you'd be really popular if you taught where I live (Sturgeon Bay Wisconsin)!
an interesting question...
Not sure of your S pop, but my mother was widow. Worked 3-11. She didn't check my work during the week.... https://t.co/8llJBXeHsT
funny how parents can do all day Saturday on the Soccer field, but can't checked for student work during week?
Yet states w/strong unions have strongest schools--our unions are professional paths.
Give our Ts the floor and ask them to speak. Look for ‘bright spots’ and do more of the same. If it works in your school, do more!
Thanks! I'm a BIG fan of flex seating. Started middle of last year and my classroom instantly ran smoother.
struggle & stupidity NOT =! Intelligence comes n many forms~hard work replaces shortcomings.
Similarly, as a child, we had a very, very complex and busy household.
No! They can choose email or SMS notifications.
And also visit the web app
After listening 2 Techlandia podcast on PokemonGo, I was inspired 2 go 2 a Gym & battle. I lost. Certainly walking more w/ my kids.
. Teacher Unions are a result of the profession being abused and taken for granted for years.
"here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers..."-s. Jobs
the unprof unionist meme comes from conflating professional w/ compliant. Nothing further from truth
The teacher is too defenseless in that scenario. Every T should feel comfortable doing what's right for Ss.
agreed, but that doesn't change the perception
I like bk Outliers w/respect to what it takes to succeed - "concerted cultivation."
Amazing to see examples of strong union activity such as last wk's conf, Goodman's wk in NJ
I think it's important that we work to change that perception--I want to think about that.
Adulting is not fun most of the time and stay debt free.
Teachers working in academic or grade level teams can rotate leadership to move team, students, school forward
one of my favorite quotes
great thought! I will add to my playlist
Will the term "State of the Art" ever be applied to our education system?
In my district, admin framed PD as "Genius Hour" 4 teachers. Gave us time to explore passions and apply to classrooms.
We have a shared model at 5th grade--it's awesome. Best model yet in 30 yrs of teaching.
I think schools feel the pressure to work towards that goal but lack the resources to get there
. leadership is fluid, contextual, and inquiry driven, should never be positional
New things this year? My entire staff decided to try something new this year. in the bell schedule. Game changer.
did they focus your research or was it open ended? what a cool idea!
Agreed. Start small, build big.
Terrific! I'm sure great learning and teaching was the result of that innovation.
If a fraction of Admins in this country employed that strategy, things might change more rapidly. .
yes! As soon as we decide teaching the child is more important than covering content
Teachers don't make the audience; students need their classmates as the audience. It drives their effort to be tops.
Facebook Unveils New “Personalized Learning” Platform They’re Making Available To Everyone https://t.co/abzO9I3WnZ via Larryferlaz…
Facebook Unveils New “Personalized Learning” Platform They’re Making Available To Everyone https://t.co/72ct7FzVDs via Larryferlaz…
Hope not, "State of the art" is a description for objects. Education isn't an object, it's a shared belief https://t.co/kbsM0KhCW1
Will the term "State of the Art" ever be applied to our education system?
Content can't stick unless it is owned. We're hoping to build on this as much as possible this year.
Back-to-school energy made this terrific. Lots to think about--thanks to co-moderators . See you next week!
The music programs add so much to the school, students, and community--terrific!
every situation/expectation is different ... but total disconnect from learning is not acceptable
We prefer "leading edge," because it should continue to evolve.
It was only a small portion of our total PD. They made space for it amongst other things.
back to school is always an exciting time :)
Accountability took place at building level via share-out. Since approach was new, they were relaxed.
looking for feedback about reading log apps/sites, like biblionasium or bookopolis. Anyone have thoughts?
All the things that make change possible. Everyone wants change, but few people are willing to change.
Thanks to and the other participants for allowing me to join your chat this week. Maybe I will be back next week!
I agree--every year I have a number of new ideas to start the year with enthusiasm.
RT:All the things that make change poss. Every1 wants change, but few ppl are willing 2 change.
I didn't mention this earlier, but THIS is also a goal of mine this year
As always, thank you for an engaging tonight. It's exciting to start thinking about the possibilities for the coming year.
Some were insecure w/lack of guidance, didn't know where to begin & already overwhelmed bc of daily tasks.
Yes, the same is true for me--I really like developing the teaching/learning program with and for Ss.
Thanks out to our moderating team & and all who participated in our education chat.
Be sure to follow on Twitter those people who sparked your interest during
It was fun participating in and tonight! Will have to join again next week!
