#edtechchat Archive
#Edtechchat focuses on Education Technology. Co-founder Tom Murray says #edtechchat "connects us professionally with inspiring educators from all over the world, all of who encourage us to be better every day for the children and families we serve.”
Monday October 3, 2016
Welcome to ! Please introduce yourself and from where you’re joining us!
EdTech Coach from Oak Ridge. We are 1:1 and survey families regularly on this Q.
I suspect that cell phones are not included - difficult to complete many homework assignments on a phone.
me too! Looking forward to the
Krystal shares the "flove" on her blog! Catch how Flocab plays into her classroom instruction: https://t.co/3APdp0EMqB
We will use a Q1, Q2… format for Questions during . Please use the A1, A2… format for answers.
Make sure to add to all of your tweets tonight for this chat. Your voice matters!
Susan Bearden, co-moderator, passionate about tonight's topic of digital equity!
Middle school Spanish and EdTechTosa.Santa Rosa,CA
Hello ! I'm Paige and I teach English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) ! I love using technology with my newcomer Ss!
Emily here. 9th grade English teacher from the Chicago suburbs
My name is Meagan Kelly and I am a Math/AVID teacher and Team Technology Leader from Hesperia, California.
Jon, a 5th grade teacher from Iowa. Looking forward for a great discussion on tonight!
Grace Carpenter, Ann Arbor Michigan online English Instructional Coach & Department Head
Hey everyone Mike from PA Director of Online and Blended Learning
Hi I'm Taylor preservice secondary math teacher from NC!!!
Shana from metro Atlanta currently working as a technology coordinator at a middle school
Awesome topic. Looking forward to my 1st
Hi ! I teach science in not-so-sunny SW Washington state
Good evening everyone. Alejandro checking in from Long Island. Principal
Hello! I'm Maya, a social studies/history teacher from New Rochelle, NY. Happy to be a part of this chat!
Q1 coming up in one minute…
Hey co-founder Sharon joining in for a bit to support our amazing
Jenna from San Antonio, Coord of Community Education, and a Masters student in Ed Tech Leadership at George Washington
Welcome Taylor. We love our preservice teachers!
Chris Tucker, assistant principal in Indiana.
Nancy from near Dallas. Instructional Technology Specialist, former librarian, geek and advocate for digital equity.
Hey Ladies! How is it going!
happy to have you with us!
Greetings all the peoples... Greg checking in from Chattanooga. .
Q1: Do you consider home internet access a luxury or a necessity for students? Why?
Alex - in NJ - co-founder - hoping for great resources to work to digital equity!
Hello ! Erin from ( startup) joining you from Long Beach, CA. Excited to be with you this evening!
Billy from North NJ, Teacher and Learner
Glad to have you with us Jenna!
great to be here after a little hiatus!
Hi . Glad to connect with you once again.
Hello! I am a strategist and Graduate 🎓 student at joining tonight
For my Ss it is a luxury. Many don't have necessities like food or clothing let alone a home computer.
A1: It may be a luxury now, but it's becoming more necessary at our school.
Nathan and I will let you make up a job for me
glad to have your voice with us
Q1: Tech is both a luxury and necessity for my Ss bc many have difficulty affording it but cannot do much of math without it
A1) I consider home internet access a necessity for students nowadays. They well be left behind in a whole new way without it.
A1 it's a luxury here with low ses, though local provider is providing a special rate for families that qualify.
A1 sometimes I see it as both but more likely a luxury
Cathy, edtech specialist in NYC, fighting something more than a cold 😷Hello !
A1) The educational gap will only get bigger with the digital divide.
A1: Tech is both a luxury and necessity for my Ss bc many have difficulty affording it but cannot do a lot of math without it
A1 Necessity. Internet provides access to information and more importantly opportunity. Digital gap widens without access.
It is a necessity for Ss that are growing up in the 21stC since they need these skills to be successful in the future.
Ricky from Texas. I'm a new technology specialist with a low income school district
Me too! Call me Sniffles!
A1: Internet @ home is a luxury for many Ss. Low-income families are more likely to have smart devices than comps or Internet.
A1: Internet access is a necessity because of the wealth of resources available 24x7
A1: I think it's a necessity but know it's still a luxury...I worry about device availability at home too
Q1 Necessity, but does widespread access to data make this better since most are on smart phones?
1. For my students it will be a necessity in their adult life. They will not know what paper bills are...as an example.
A! Schools need to have clear understanding of community means esp when staff are tech savvy seekers of new ways of learning ie
A1 With the way our society has changed over the years, tech is a necessity for learning in our current world.
A1 - It is a necessity for 21st century students. They need access to technology to be successful in this fast paced world.
Great discussion w PSTs at this evening. Question to them, why technology? What would you say ? Show power.
A1:Having internet is a necessity in the eyes of my students, but what they need to learn is how to use it to aid their learning
I want to change my answer to this. https://t.co/NoRsuS8A5l
A1: Internet access is a necessity because of the wealth of resources available 24x7
That is the key, access is only the start. Learning the skills to leverage tech is the game https://t.co/LFSMJYjnob
A1:Having internet is a necessity in the eyes of my students, but what they need to learn is how to use it to aid their learning
It is increasingly a necessity. Different depending on Ts. Some Ts won’t touch it, so Ss don’t feel the need/desire. sad
We have many students who don't have access at home. The miss out on a deeper ongoing learning experience. It's necessary
Greetings ! Anabel from NC.
Truth!! https://t.co/E9u9T0U0Tx
A1:Having internet is a necessity in the eyes of my students, but what they need to learn is how to use it to aid their learning
We have digital needs and learning needs...it's a delicate balance across the country
A1- Home internet access is a necessity. The world no longer seems so big due to how quickly we can connect with others.
I agree. Especially as more schools become 1-1, students without access to internet are at a disadvantage.
A1: Internet has become as much of a necessity as a car and a cell phone for most of us.
A1: It is a luxury for many, and even speed of the connection an even bigger luxury. Connection is key and a necessity
https://t.co/lrymLPBkts
A1:Having internet is a necessity in the eyes of my students, but what they need to learn is how to use it to aid their learning
Dan, business teacher from St. Louis chiming in while I finish making dinner.
A1We are 1:1 at my school, so I think of it as a necessity, although it depends on how much/what we send Ss home with each night
A1 Internet without and is like having an outhouse instead of indoor plubming
Learning is something that happens 24/7 and lack of access to internet at home means a lack of access to a wealth of knowledge
A1 with the cost of Internet, it makes it difficult to afford. The public library is an option
Yes, sorting out irrelevant information is tough. They want tend to get click happy. https://t.co/6tbSdJ7lY8
A1:Having internet is a necessity in the eyes of my students, but what they need to learn is how to use it to aid their learning
A1- Students without home internet access are missing out on knowledge and as we know knowledge is power.
goes to point we still need to TEACH about and not assume digitally born competence
Why not technology? Why not expand horizons, assumptions, ideas, and perspective. Can't stand still.
Q2a coming up in one minute…
A1: necessity since so many Ts and Ss rely on it on a daily basis.
This is a great point. We need to be talking about how Ss can best use the internet to make bigger learning gains
A1- The internet has helped build relationships. All of us being here tonight is a perfect example.
A1: I think it is a necessity. Ss think it is too.
I know how you feel - worn down from - think I caught something
Yet people can and do live successfully without either of those.
Great point. Given that internet is a necessity do you think it should be subsidized for those who can't afford it?
Q2a: What percentage of your students lack home computer and/or internet access? Is it due to cost or another reason?
This is SO important! Ts can make a lot of assumptions about much "digital natives" really know! https://t.co/ofssHQQcde
goes to point we still need to TEACH about and not assume digitally born competence
it is almost like I was setting you up for that answer
A1. Without home internet, we continue to separate the haves & have nots. Exploration needs the connection.
A1.1 I just saw this amazing wifi from u can send home with ss was really amazing
A1: Internet access for S should not be a luxury, but rather something that is far more accessible to everyone
Mary here from Mobile, AL. I teach HS English
makes to the point why do we allow internet companies rule the home internet access world?!
Yes! Students need to learn to leverage technology for learning!
Research shows that upper SES classes use it differently than lower increasing digital divide
Does your school have wifi available to all staff and students?
A2: Very few children lack access. Most have tablets of some kind and use that.
A2 Approximately 4% grades 7-12 just did the stats. Cost seems to be the biggest factor, but many have mobile data
And I suppose I could also get up earlier and walk to work 😎 https://t.co/6YmgoLeGBi
Yet people can and do live successfully without either of those.
70% of my students come to school without knowing their alphabet vs. 90% reading in other schools.
Every educator needs to read this. We need change. https://t.co/sANMS8DO71
A1. Without home internet, we continue to separate the haves & have nots. Exploration needs the connection.
Absolutely, its the knowledge to know how and where to look. https://t.co/W1PO6Rs4bF
Research shows that upper SES classes use it differently than lower increasing digital divide
Enrollment is OPEN for our NEW course: Spaces that Work. Take advantage of the special launch price! https://t.co/KwkwV58JXT
Q2b coming up in one minute…
A2: All of our students have devices, but we're pretty rural, so that limits the availability of internet for some Ss.
Yes but the internet opens up many professional/career opportunities.
A2a: at lucky most of my Ss from connected homes..am working on the proper connections for learning
it seems that the little Internet guys keep getting bought up
Great point! Should this type of internet usage education be taught in schools?
A2a: I'd say about 5-7% don't have it due to cost of living.
As an Honors teacher, none lack access. When I wasn't teaching Honors, probably between 10-15%. Mostly due to cost.
Not just that. upper uses it for networking, connections, research. others use it for games and maybe research. NYT
I think internet connectivity should be considered a utility like electricity or water.
Q2b: Does the lack of student home internet access affect the types of homework assignments you assign?
Yes ! Ss also brought up access to info, differentiation, individualization, engagement, & empowerment.
Same. I think it was the weather at that made it worse
A2: Many S have web access through data plans & smartphones--maybe we need to teach them how to utilize the resources they have
A2b: Don't know the exact numbers, but definitely close to 100% have home access
A2 Variety. Some have infrastructure issues (rural). Most have cell coverage, but data plans limited by $$
A2) We are about at 40% and closing thanks to and mostly due to cost.
That's what uses in her district.
A2 - As an Honors teaching, none lack access. When I wasn't teaching Honors, about 10-15%. Mostly due to cost.
A2b. Yes - hmwk is limited w limited connectivity. Sometimes Ss come in to Media Ctr early to do hmwk online.
A2) Several school in my district hosted a connectivity drive to give connectivity options to low income families.
A2b: yes, it means I cannot become completely paperless with my assignments.
A2 at my district it's all due to cost. Parents simply can't afford even basic internet.
That is a very good point. It's not just having access but knowing how to leverage it for success.
A2b Absolutely, though I don't assign regular HW, I wouldn't assign tech-dependent HW for that reason
A2b: yes! try to make most of my assignments digitized so have TTS and STT access, no internet means no
A2: It limits some tech tools, but with OneDrive, Ss HW is uploaded to the cloud when they log on to the school wifi.
Forsyth Schools in GA partnered w/ community, local businesses to identify free wifi hotspots: https://t.co/4j9zO8b8yM
Q2a. Greater than 80% have internet in some form...either land or smart phone.
You mean on campus, correct?
So ALL honors kids have access? Is it required to make it into the honors program? https://t.co/UIez0vDEQ7
A2 - As an Honors teaching, none lack access. When I wasn't teaching Honors, about 10-15%. Mostly due to cost.
I think yes! Ss don't realize the resources available to them. They should be more knowledgable about tech
A2b: I would expect lack of devices or access to greatly affect homework and ability to complete projects
A2a: Larger numbers than many teachers believe or can imagine.
A2B: Have 1:1iPad. Due dates are at 8:00AM but Ss still need to go to library/ Starbucks. Give more than one day to complete.
Is it a question of the infrastructure not being available in rural communities?
No, not a requirement at all. I think I had one or two students last year that did not have access, but not many.
A2b: I never assigned homework but access to quality internet was a reason that factored into it.
A1 p2: We had a T1 at our business, so internet had to wait until we were there.
A2b-Lack of internet access should affect the type of homework we assign. We have to be mindful of the resources Ss have at home
less than 5% - however, our schools have many resources available both before, during, and afterschool https://t.co/OgGpCrRAFW
Q2a: What percentage of your students lack home computer and/or internet access? Is it due to cost or another reason?
Some schools have hotspots on their busses. Leave them in neighborhoods overnight? Also libraries check out WIFI
Wow, so many of you lovely folk are blessed with wide-spread access!
Low income families will be able to use the Lifeline program to get internet access starting 12/1: https://t.co/CqIaFeTJwi
Low income families will be able to use the Lifeline program to get internet access starting 12/1: https://t.co/vgsovgiLHM
A2: Fortunately, our local ISP provides free access to families that show proof of F/R lunch & live In service area.
Libraries and Starbucks are great but still have to take into account transportation, which is a big problem too.
Q2b. Yes and no. Assign limited homework here, and would like to give work where Ss branch out on topics during the day.
A2b As elem T I would like my homework to connect Ss w family, outdoors. If tech, I have alternative. Ex. or post it
A2b) Yes the lack of home internet and devices changes the way some do homework at my school.
Do you do a combination of both? What are you doing with your students?
Wow. The Lifeline modernization order that goes into effect 12/1 will include internet access as a covered service
. Welcome to the cycle… it is sad. Many don’t make it in bc of exposure to things, bc they lack resources.
A2a: Based on what we hear with educators, we estimate that 20% of Free Lunch population do not have Internet access
Or is it because only certain students get into honors program to begin with?
A1 p3: I imagine that's what it's like for kids w/o internet at home I couldn't do it now :/
A2b: Ts can model use of tech in hw assignments in class to compensate for lack of student access
Q3 coming up in one minute…
A1-Most definitely a necessity. S's need to be able to access the Internet at home and school.
DING DING DING We have a winner! https://t.co/DFIPrprqsx
Or is it because only certain students get into honors program to begin with?
How so? Do T's not offer online assignments? Or offer offline versions?
Q3: What strategies do you use when assigning homework requiring computer/internet access to students who don’t have it at home?
and if they can't or don't have the means, what happens then?
A2a: 94% of American families have some kind of Internet, regardless of income level or computer access.
There are programs for that. Comcast and others have reduced rates. Comcast is $10/mo
This. https://t.co/vkGtUkUzP3
. Welcome to the cycle… it is sad. Many don’t make it in bc of exposure to things, bc they lack resources.
We need more stories in the news like this one: California cops buy walk-to-work teen a bike https://t.co/vC7hNJssYc
I try and incorporate tech in the classroom, offer tech to those that have it...
Is there any current barrier to this being incorporated into current curriculum?
Can you expand upon these resources?
A2:I have had some Ss without internet access effect homework but I offer to stay after school to let them use the school lab
A2b if tech is needed we work to build time into the day for Ss to use. They are not penalized for lack of at home.
Is smart phone access adequate for homework assignments?
My Math class has options of online HW or offline paper HW
but still offer paper to those that don't have it/don't want to use it.
Very limited with the online assignments. Most families are connected through a smartphone or gaming system.
This is largely due to smart device access (most ppl have a smart device even if they don't have a home computer).
Yes but doesn't cover owning computer to use. Sch is going 1:1 next yr, but worried about sending equip home w Ss.
That is very similar to what I have done when I have had students that did not have access to the internet.
I give multiple days and always offer use in my classroom
That's a helpful accommodation!
In some schools there are definitely barriers. It varies based on resources available
Still, the home situation might prevent online access to do school work. It isn't as simple as having the Internet
A3 I don't, because equity, but rather flip and give tech options for those who do.
Q2b-My homework is definitely affected. All my S's have Crome books but most do not have Internet access at home.
Yes we have seen some of those. In many cases that's still more than they can afford.
A3: create offline and online options, but give to all Ss so they can own the option that meets them at their learning
A3: I offer paper copies for those that don't have it, as well as for those that don't want to use it.
Some digital things are made analog at times.
Yeah. A lot of our students only option is getting satellite.
I think it can be. Students access the internet at higher rates via mobile smart devices.
have you been able to find anything different than what I have tried?
A2a I think most of our students have internet access and devices at home.
But how effective are those hotspots dependent on where used?
A1: I'm thinking Internet at home is a necessity. Would gladly give up cable TV but internet is a must.
A3 Sometimes paper copies. More often let them come during homeroom/elective time, etc to get access. Not a huge HW fan anyway
We offer tutoring after school, which helps. Our library also opens early which allows students on campus.
A3: Paper copies. After school and before school computer access hours.
I understand. Perhaps there's a grant or other vehicle to bridge divide?
Remember online options also can accommodate for as Ss can use options to access assignments
A3 Creating alternatives if possible, print applicable research, give kids a choice in there work, provide before after school
A3. Media Ctr opened early for Ss to check or watch video b/f sch. Some Ts create center to do that work during class.
A3) Those are usually assignments that occur over long weekends or breaks so they can get to the library or McD's
Does homework have to be done at home?
A3: Time in class has to be given to S to use technology. Offer after school hours for S who need extra time too.
A2a p2 Though I was surprised to learn that kids who do not have devices, do not have them by parent choice
True. Cellular dead spots definitely exist. Depends on coverage in a specific area.
Love the new forms arhat have "quiz" option to assess nightly reading comprehension and immediate feedback
Others in the home might need the device or home situation might have other priorities.
ditto. Many Ss take advantage of the library and my lab before school or during our advisory time.
Do you have broadband internet at school?
A1: having said necessity it makes me realize think about privilege. I hope we get to a point where necessity means 4 all
I even have trouble with hotspots when I teach on location in specific sites
I had1-to-1, setting up expectations for use is very helpful.
Do we need to assign homework? If so, how much?
Yeah our district is looking into options to provide it.
Wow. Do your schools have high speed broadband?
What about internet via mobile/smart devices?
FYI is my hero... well Heroine.
How does smaller screen size affect ability to do homework?
A3: Giving extra time is important even if a student can get to a public place for internet, it's difficult to do the same night
Trying a bit but always needs wifi, while some apps in don't to continue learning
If we're going to give homework that requires Internet access then have it entail the best of what tech offers
A3 Typically do not assign hwk, but would provide paper copies/resources for kids w/o internet
have you set up offline option for primary tools?
I like the idea of circulating wifi hotspots or busses in neighborhoods or to/from school
. More importantly… make it matter. HW for the sake of HW doesn’t matter.
Some edu websites might not work on a phone (i.e. iPhones w/flash). Others not mobile friendly.
80% of my Ss read at basic or below basic. Will they do hw w/o T? I understand practice but need to see options.
someone once thot that all weneed r txtbooks, so a ton were purchasd, now we actually hav limitless learnng& thelimit of budgets
A3: Why give it as homework at all? There are already so many factors preventing Ss from doing their school work at home anyway
Excellent question. Phone does not equal computer does not equal TV-size screen
I don't think it does affect.. Students text type faster than traditional typing
still playing with it, but lacking many features offline...doable but not ideal compare to tablet setup
Q4 coming up in one minute…
Phones are one option but also need to consider data plans & costs & some work not conducive to phone
google suite is workable offline - not sure about other apps you may use
if could marry Chromebook and Nexus tablet...then might have a debate if abs
I think the most recent statistic was around 77% of schools are connected to broadband
Yeah! Our community is small so I'd love to try something like that.
Hey all Michael from here, just a liiiiiiiitle bit late :-)
Yeah, but our school is close to a bigger town and most of our students are not.
Q4: How can a lack of home internet access impact the parent-school connection?
Exactly, Susan, so we need to be careful about what we take for granted.
True - Also, assignments doesn't always show up right on mobile devices.
I wasn't thinking about typing ... Screen size for reading, flash, etc.
I would like to eliminate homework for my class. I think reading at home is enough for first grade.
that flipable is supposed to run android apps - does it do that ?
A4: Something even as simple as parents keeping up with grades and emails can be limited without internet connection
need apps to practice math, handwriting, note taking, etc...
What are your thoughts on this? https://t.co/GIaQSyOujg
Great point. Given that internet is a necessity do you think it should be subsidized for those who can't afford it?
I think is an important piece. We need more mobile-friendly academic resources
I don't give HW, either. Everything Ss need to learn is given in classroom w/guidance. Could we do better? Dunno
A4: Many Ps don't have emails...which is the best way to contact Ts! Also they don't have access to school websites! :(
Ss need some down time to digest too. Shouldn't fill every extra moment with course work. Not a solution, just a thought.
just a little lol bit glad to have you here
A4: If the only way a parent can reach a teacher is a phone call, we have missed the opportunity to build a community
A4. Our Parent Liaison sends voicemail b/c emails don't work. It's limiting. Info on website, but Ps don't see.
A4 far fewer interactions, phone calls are more miss than hit schedule-wise
Precisely. A good % of homework doesn't matter in terms of valuable learning
A4 Just means for some parents we find other ways. Most have a cell phone, so helps. Others, just umm… call them?
A4: So much is communicated through email and our grades are online. Without Internet, you lose all that info.
i kinda like it, but what work are we expecting them to be doing --- HW?
A4 Beyond communication, helping Ps understand WHY edu needs a revolution becomes a tough sell.
A4 This is HUGE for any and every age in school districts, even our adult students won't have a connection without internet
We just need to think outside the box. How about hmwk during lunch? Right after school? Before school?
Poll Everywhere is a great mobile resource for Ss participation where they can text in answers/responses that can be seen live
I wonder about student growth w/HW compared to S growth w/o...what is real difference?
A4: If only using the internet as a means to engage parents, we've really missed the boat which is unfortunate for the Ps and Ss
I LOVE Remind! I have seen a huge increase in parent communication by using this program.
A4: very impactful as many schools and districts solely use tech to communicate with parents. No more paper trail.
A4: Lack of home Internet access only increases digital divide between homes that are haves & have nots
Great to hear innovative strategies for connecting kids outside of school in partnership with community - keep them coming!
Some of our students live 45 minutes away from school. Makes it hard to use the schools wifi.
A4. Communication becomes a hinderance. Much easier to send out an email vs a letter than needs to be printed.
A4-Schools should consider opening a family room in their building where families can come access the internet & other resources
A4 Hard to get past the "this isn't how I learned" conversation without widespread access to tech and internet
Like to? Is HW mandated that young?
yes. it would. What about wifi busses? 45 minutes more WIFI?
Yes, but need to consider apps that work on phones that truly promote at-home worthwhile assignments
We already offer extra help. Unfortunately Ts duty days end and its up to student initiative. I teach HS tho.
That's an interesting idea... I do imagine push back from districts due to security, custodial, etc...
HW for starters but I wouldn't restrict it. I am a librarian after all....
A4- Districts should work with their local cable company to figure out how to get internet access in every home.
Looking forward to tomorrow’s chat on
Yes! Some schools partner with libraries for this.
Library is a great place for free internet access https://t.co/xzxAdZKRFQ
A4-Schools should consider opening a family room in their building where families can come access the internet & other resources
It really does. It is becoming more and more evident with students.
Which means if schools solely use tech to communicate w/ parents, some parents won't ever get message
A4) Many schools have moved to online newsletters and announcements, it could leave lots of parents out of the loop.
Solutions. https://t.co/aECRqHHefp
A4-Schools should consider opening a family room in their building where families can come access the internet & other resources
Not sure why this does not happen more easily!
I dont assign HW, but worry what other Ts might assign/expect
Need to take a multi-pronged approach!
I agree. In my area, though, some students can live very far away from the library.
did you get the asus flip - it is supposed to run apps
A4- Having internet access means immediate information. This includes grades, messages, pictures, etc. These are powerful things
I don't...or offer the opportunity to stop by in the morning before school to work on anything they need https://t.co/Qhxohk8vrv
Q3: What strategies do you use when assigning homework requiring computer/internet access to students who don’t have it at home?
Homework anywhere: how about sight word practice for your kids from your mobile with Sights, simple + quick, but gets it done!
which means many are then left in the dark about what's going on.
if you want to get started on a community effort check out CoSN's free, Digital Equity Toolkit!
could and does, I'm certain
Am lucky to teach in an area where families are happy to learn devices their kids have learning value too 😉
before or after school programs could catch families as they come in and out of school..just brainstorming
Not completely but my teachers are doing amazing work to close the gap
A4: We so take this for granted. https://t.co/iTnVJW1Qsq
Q4: How can a lack of home internet access impact the parent-school connection?
Through ConnectED initiative, Sprint offers $80 hotspots w/ 4 years of free connectivity. Check it out: https://t.co/GgkYYyUAfY
Through ConnectED initiative, Sprint offers $80 hotspots w/ 4 years of free connectivity. Check it out: https://t.co/AHC8nsy1qE
Yes, unfortunately, and admin and teachers need to realize that
Cable isn't everywhere ... But yes.
We've talked about that. I think it's an option for us. We couldn't park them places though
A3: Have students download to their device if byod or 1:1. Google drive can be used offline too.
Also, what about power outages as we will see with impending hurricane or winter snowstorms
Fantastic! The only way to go forward.
You bring up a good point. The digital divide is a community problem, not just a school problem!
Social Security requires one to have a smart phone to get access to their online accounts
agreed however, there is a lot of opportunity lost in not figuring out was getting Ss access
would student learning&wellness b improvd if every S had both home&school techsupport? has anyone made this happn? Did it work?
Q5 coming up in one minute…
agreed. Still need paper newsletters to reach everyone.
I agree, Rachel. We need to be sensitive to SES & other family considerations
Our parents have expectations on homework. They will ask for more if they feel it is light.
A4: This 1 is close to our ❤️s. We built Sights so parents can use it on smartphones (using limited data) & stay looped in w Ts
Could schools have one night a week have the school library open later for Parent access of materials/ equipment
Q5: Does your school/district provide assistance to students without home computer/internet access? How?
It becomes one more thing to think about.
We should be working with businesses in the community to help support WiFi hotspots for Ss.
So much about parent response to homework varies with SES. Again, tremendous digital divide
No, there is no one-size-fits all silver bullet answer, just options to reduce the digital divide.
We still need to make sure we're using the best instructional methods and pedagogy. Good teaching is still good
General musing that is not limited to but I wish proposed "solutions" would take into account already heavy teacher workload.
A5 we are attacking it now through the everyone on program. There must be sense of urgency to connect our Ss to learning opps.
Only 50% of my students have cell phones, let alone smart phones. Parents is higher, but not much.
my HS lost power twice in 3 days growing up. All tech school, no internet/windows that opened=early dismissal days
that seems like a great idea
Yes, provided districts still have libraries and library media specialists ...
Agreed. Tech for the sake of using tech is not worthwhile.
While I have a dumb phone, I hardly carry it with me ...
Exactly, Rob, which is why we can't take for granted home access to tech
A5) Some schools in the district provide devices that can be taken home, many are having to do both
The internet should be free for everyone! https://t.co/dRThmlaST2
We should be working with businesses in the community to help support WiFi hotspots for Ss.
Many parents do not come to school because of bad experiences when they were a S. Bringing public in could help
An extra hour is an extra hour. Probably would get anywhere from 1.5 - 2 hours / day
Not that I am aware of. I would love to hear about some ideas, though!
Any recommendation for good Phonics Chrome Apps?
Sounds like a similar situation. Were largest district by land size in IN but 800 kids in 7-12
Per research study: time teachers spend on assigning & reviewing homework might be better spent on lesson plans
A5: As in "We have a poster somewhere with a phone number you can call."
Yes, we do & it certainly impacts it. Technology can be an excuse for poor instruction and sloppy communication
A5: We did not K5 at former district. Current school, Gr 5-12 is 1:1. School provides devices for Ss who cannot afford
800 kids ... that's smaller than one of my elementary schools out here. Pushing 1100.
Could Teachers help? Previously taught a parent computer night for Ps to learn computer basics to keep up
Hmm who would pay for it then?
As always, teachers need to know their learners! 😎
How does the school determine who can afford and who can not? https://t.co/Lbm9MfSo8B
A5: We did not K5 at former district. Current school, Gr 5-12 is 1:1. School provides devices for Ss who cannot afford
Yeah, I taught at a huge district, now admin in a small district. Different problems.
Helpful idea! Great for home-school relationship building also. https://t.co/CIMBH9G35L
Could Teachers help? Previously taught a parent computer night for Ps to learn computer basics to keep up
yes it is:)) Ss have lobbied for Front Row all Friday class long lol
A question all schools/districts should ask themselves. https://t.co/4f4MEYaDeZ
Q5: Does your school/district provide assistance to students without home computer/internet access? How?
Sounds like a nice idea, but please don't give blanket advice. Link please?
absolutely! We will be running parent bootcamps this year.
A3 One of our AP English teachers records many lectures as podcasts so kids can listen on buses. Ipods available for checkout
Awesome to hear. Parents want to keep up with latest tech. Important to keep them in the loop
There has to be a way to finance high speed. Has to.
Q6 coming up in one minute…
I believe it's by request
A5: School/district assistance varies. Find the inner-cities have more issues w/ this, but that's where needed
https://t.co/OMBLWh0GOf
While Internet is a necessity in closing the homework gap, the reality is that many Ss don't have access. We need to consider this.
I think more than that...it's a way to build trust and momentum for initiatives and growth
Let me know how they go. Thinking of running a quasi EdCamp here. Tech playground for Ps
Great! Real teaching, not the appearance of teaching!
A1 it is a necessity, we need to figure out how to get wifi for all Ss https://t.co/SkFX6Wi12v
Q1: Do you consider home internet access a luxury or a necessity for students? Why?
Q6: What resources are available in your community for students without home internet access?
A6. The Public Library is a wonderful source! And the library card is FREE!
- Just hopped off a flight. Best I can do from my phone grabbing luggage. :-)
Right. They need to understand. Experience what's coming and why we need change
G'night & thanks ! Ruffled some feathers with my HW opinions, but its a great opportunity to engage with many dif ideas.
A6) We have which is like and they provide devices and access with
A6 Obviously the library. There are several places around w/ open wifi. Makes it harder than at home, but better than nothing
A6 Sorry to make it only for the end question. Our public library is our only resource.
A4 yes another reason why we need to find options https://t.co/wVZfBKgWCe
Q4: How can a lack of home internet access impact the parent-school connection?
Some communities are creating municipal broadband networks - broadband as a utility.
A6 - We have libraries or restaurants with internet. Our city is very spread out, so its not within walking distance.
A6 It's a little crazy that every store in the shopping plaza has better internet access then schools
I have 60+% high growth, but all provided in classroom so I can't blame Ss, lack of tech, anything...
I was concurring with you and stating your point is supported by research in a peer-reviewed journal.
There is a Google map that's available with hotspots in our city. https://t.co/WaFMyByNmU
A6 - We have libraries or restaurants with internet. Our city is very spread out, so its not within walking distance.
I saw that! It looks like a great resource!
my math class does math options all class long! Great individual practice and Ss love engagement
We have a MS working in grad project. She's planning on working w community bizs & churches 4 hotspots
Low income families will be able to use the Lifeline program to get internet access starting 12/1: https://t.co/CqIaFeTJwi
Low income families will be able to use the Lifeline program to get internet access starting 12/1: https://t.co/zdr5Swig6s
A6: As always, greatest resource is teacher and focus of lessons and selection of resources and how time is used.
And if you don't have a map like this, you could have your Ss create one using Google MyMaps & share w/ parents
me too. I would like some instructional and some hands on. Like you said experience is key
One of the grad students in my ed tech course did extensive research on homework including online homework.
Wow! That is amazing! Our city is still somewhat rural. I wish we had something like that!
https://t.co/TzYaSRmzpK
True, but knowing that many parents w/o a computer still have access to a smart device can help Ts tailor their HW
A6 agree this is Ss best option, they can find stores but it can be hard too https://t.co/uG0xqbvjpo
A6 It's a little crazy that every store in the shopping plaza has better internet access then schools
I like the idea of empowering students to help solve the problem!
As I'm working with our Ts this year, this is going to be an envelope I push. Asking what Ss are creating
. has a service for those in need. Internet through 4G I believe.
Thanks, Susan, and everyone for the sharing of ideas & resources on tonight.
Sorry to have missed the last half of but daddy duties called.
Thanks for joining this week’s ! Don’t forget to follow your new connections from tonight!
Hope I am not sounded anti tech. I teach in low income school. Like teaching with "stone knives and bearskins" many days.
Seems it is the rural areas that have the most issues with hotspots
I empathize and others need to remember many schools remain low tech
Even smaller Mom and Pop type establishments are offering free wifi.
