#cgi3 Archive

#cgi3 is a chat for Center Grove (CG) connected educators use to share edtech ideas. The i3 stands for inform, instruct, and innovate. It occurs on the last Wednesday of every month at

Wednesday April 25, 2018
8:30 PM EDT

  • centergrovetech Apr 25 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Intro: Welcome back! It's been a while since we've chatted. Introduce yourself and share your favorite memory from spring break. #cgi3
  • MrsMcCoyCG Apr 25 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Andrea McCoy MSC 8th grade science Spring break = MIAMI #cgi3
  • bardackmn Apr 25 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    I'm Melissa Bardack - My favorite SB moment was our family trip to Great Wolf Lodge to escape the snow! #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    Hi All! Jeanne Schwartz from MSC. Favorite memory of Spring Break? What to choose? Snow? Rain? Wind? Too many choices! #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    Hello to my favorite Tweechers! (Shoutout to @tweecher100.) Jenna Cooper here, Coordinator of some fun things at Center Grove. I took a couple days off over break and enjoyed doing some work around the house and celebrating an anniversary! #cgi3
  • centergrovetech Apr 25 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    Q1: When you hear the term "student-centered learning," what comes to mind? #cgi3
  • bardackmn Apr 25 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    High student engagement & student voice. Teachers are facilitators as opposed to lecturers. #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    A1: I think of focused, highly engaged Ss working on passion projects with the T acting as a facilitator. #cgi3
  • karaheichel Apr 25 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Hi guys! My favorite spring break memory was Florida with my boys! And of course joining the CG team shortly after! #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    A1: When I hear student-centered learning, I think about some of the great learning experiences I've had as a student and the awesome teachers and professors that have designed them. SCL = meaningful and relevant to ME. #cgi3
  • AllisonSmiley82 Apr 25 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Allison Smiley, Kindergarten Teacher @ Maple Grove. We visited Madeira Beach as a family. Got to enjoy some sun and time with family even if it wasn’t super warm! #cgi3
  • MrsMcCoyCG Apr 25 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    A1: Less us, more them! #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Hi Kara! Fun meeting you today! Welcome to the CG family! #cgi3
  • AllisonSmiley82 Apr 25 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    A1: Students excited about learning what they want to learn! #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    Teacher as facilitator is key! It can't be student-centered if the teacher is doing most of the planning! #cgi3
    In reply to @tweecher100
  • ehresman79 Apr 25 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    A1: students drive the classroom with direction taken from frequent formatives and lots of student choice. #cgi3
  • hazitk Apr 25 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A1: Student engagement and excitement #cgi3 #techopoly
  • karaheichel Apr 25 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    Getting student input on the lesson. Students creating and collaborating #cgi3
    In reply to @centergrovetech
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    Hi, Kevin from @LCHSBears. Resident of CG. #cgi3
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    A1: engaging students with opportunities that they guide. They are responsible for their learning via tools and activities they develop. #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    Hi Kevin! Welcome :) #cgi3
    In reply to @LCHS_Bio, @LCHSBears
  • centergrovetech Apr 25 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    Q2: Student-directed and owned learning often allows students to decide what they want to learn, how they are going to learn it, how to track their progress, and what determines success. How have you incorporated any of these in your classroom? #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    A2: I have had Ss select their own research topics and use self-reflection reports at the end of each day to monitor what they accomplished. I’ve seen Ts do this electronically as well so Ss can ask questions, etc. if the T isn’t available. #cgi3
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    R2: #PBL allows this to occur. Highly recommend you follow @GingerLewman. She is a rock star on #PBL and giving Ss choice. #cgi3
  • MrsMcCoyCG Apr 25 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    Q2: I control how they track it& what success looks like. We have classroom goals, but they set personal goals. They choose the "how they learn". What they want to learn -- I have a hard time balancing curiosity and standards. Any ideas? #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    A2: I'm always trying to get better at modeling this in the PD and support I give teachers. Teachers want to be treated like professionals and given choice of what, when, and how they prefer to learn. We have to honor that! #cgi3
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    R2: Ss decided in my biology class what genetic disease they wanted to research. They then created a PSA on @WeVideo that they designed and edited. #cgi3
  • ehresman79 Apr 25 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    A2: the #PBL process allows for teachers to get regular input from students in the form of need to knows and small group or individual meetings. Game changer. #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    Choices within the standards? #cgi3
    In reply to @MrsMcCoyCG
  • bardackmn Apr 25 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    A2: Student choice within a given topic along with frequent assessment and reflection. Ss would track their own growth in their growth journal. #cgi3
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    #cgi3
    • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:47 PM EDT
      Development of their ideas is huge. Let them create and share their learning!
      In reply to @LCHS_Bio
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    A2: Success looks different for every learner. Let them show us what their success is and celebrate! #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    We agree! Thanks @GingerLewman for sharing your ideas about best practices in not only PBL but student-centered learning in general! #cgi3 @ehresman79 @bardackmn
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    R2: I also do a project called a 9-page spread. Got this from @caahayes when I Student taught at CGHS many moons ago. Give the topic; Ss add their own unique content to the project. #cgi3
  • hazitk Apr 25 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    A2: I’ve had students choose their own books for literature circles. Students create questions to discuss the following day. #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    Good thought. Anyone have tips for Andrea? #cgi3
    • MrsMcCoyCG Apr 25 @ 8:47 PM EDT
      Q2: I control how they track it& what success looks like. We have classroom goals, but they set personal goals. They choose the "how they learn". What they want to learn -- I have a hard time balancing curiosity and standards. Any ideas? #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    This would help to be sure standards are being met as well! #cgi3
    In reply to @LCHS_Bio, @caahayes
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    Former admin talking now...go for curiousity. You can get the standards to fit as they progress though their activity. #cgi3
    In reply to @lacoopj
  • karaheichel Apr 25 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A2: In the past, I have given a lot of choice on how to complete an assignment and even what to include. I think getting student input from day 1 can help. #cgi3
  • centergrovetech Apr 25 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    Q3: What are the benefits of student-centered learning? #cgi3
  • bardackmn Apr 25 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    A3: Increased communication & student connections. Higher student engagement that result in fewer behavior problems #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    A3: An environment like this means Ss will be self-motivated and authentically engaged in the learning. It sounds a little unbelievable but fantastic at the same time! #cgi3
  • AllisonSmiley82 Apr 25 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    A3: student buy-in and engagement are higher! #cgi3
  • MrsMcCoyCG Apr 25 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    Q3: This is more relevant to the real world outside of school. #cgi3
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    R3: increased student engagement. You end up with projects that don’t look alike. Ss are learning the 4Cs. #cgi3
  • SamuelFritz Apr 25 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    Sorry everyone I’m joining late! Sam Fritz CGMSC Band #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    Right! Ss begin to see the connections between content they are learning in school and what is happening outside of those walls. #cgi3
    • MrsMcCoyCG Apr 25 @ 8:57 PM EDT
      Q3: This is more relevant to the real world outside of school. #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    Hi Sam!! #cgi3
    In reply to @SamuelFritz
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    A3: We've hit on a lot of benefits of student-centered learning so far. Relevant, deeper learning, high levels of engagement, purpose. It creates a love for learning! #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    Sam!! I know him!! #cgi3
    In reply to @SamuelFritz
  • SamuelFritz Apr 25 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    A3: students can tell you what they need to succeed. If everything is teacher-centered, success is an impossible moving target. #cgi3
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    R3: there is the opportunity for an authentic learning opportunity for students where they present to an authentic audience. #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 9:00 PM EDT
    Love the authentic audience piece! Who are some of the individuals your students presented to? #cgi3
    In reply to @LCHS_Bio
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 9:00 PM EDT
    @ehresman79 Providing an authentic audience is your specialty! I always keep that in mind when Ts ask for suggestions when organizing projects. #cgi3
    • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 8:59 PM EDT
      R3: there is the opportunity for an authentic learning opportunity for students where they present to an authentic audience. #cgi3
  • SamuelFritz Apr 25 @ 9:03 PM EDT
    A1: I think literally students at the center - what they need drives content instruction and even what professional development I need #cgi3
  • centergrovetech Apr 25 @ 9:05 PM EDT
    Q4: What are some characteristics of students in student-centered classrooms? Teachers? #cgi3
  • karaheichel Apr 25 @ 9:05 PM EDT
    A3: The Learning is all about them! Increased engagement, passion and curiosity. #cgi3
  • bardackmn Apr 25 @ 9:06 PM EDT
    A4: Ss are critical thinkers & active communicators. They are supportive of each other as well. Ts motivate & encourage while still providing instruction on thinking, solving problems, evaluating, & analyzing. #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 9:06 PM EDT
    I love this!! Students' needs should drive teachers' PD needs. #cgi3 #E3CG
    • SamuelFritz Apr 25 @ 9:03 PM EDT
      A1: I think literally students at the center - what they need drives content instruction and even what professional development I need #cgi3
  • AllisonSmiley82 Apr 25 @ 9:06 PM EDT
    A4: Students are excited and on task! #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 9:07 PM EDT
    A4: Student-centered classrooms cultivate motivated, passionate learners. #cgi3
  • hazitk Apr 25 @ 9:07 PM EDT
    A3: Students are engaged and actively learning. They glance at the clock and wonder where the day went!?!? #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 9:07 PM EDT
    A4: Maybe the Ss are more tired at the end of the day than the Ts! #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 9:08 PM EDT
    The excitement kindergarteners have about learning and discovering is contagious! #cgi3
    In reply to @AllisonSmiley82
  • hazitk Apr 25 @ 9:10 PM EDT
    A4: Focused, passionate, invested learners #cgi3
  • ehresman79 Apr 25 @ 9:11 PM EDT
    A4: looking out at faces that are engaged enough to face a challenge and keep trying new ideas without giving up #cgi3
  • SamuelFritz Apr 25 @ 9:11 PM EDT
    A4: Ss and Ts walking the fine line between engaged excitement and chaos. You can see learning actually happening before your eyes #cgi3
  • SamuelFritz Apr 25 @ 9:13 PM EDT
    I love seeing the risk of failure for the reward of “wow great thinking!” #cgi3
    • ehresman79 Apr 25 @ 9:11 PM EDT
      A4: looking out at faces that are engaged enough to face a challenge and keep trying new ideas without giving up #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 9:13 PM EDT
    I love this! I like to say that I tried to have “controlled chaos” in my classes. Noise does not equal no learning. I know our IC peeps understand! #cgi3
    In reply to @SamuelFritz
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 9:14 PM EDT
    R4: I think of it as a space where tinkering, making, interactive activities can take place #cgi3
  • centergrovetech Apr 25 @ 9:15 PM EDT
    Q5: What are some strategies and resources you have used to move toward a student-centered classroom? #cgi3
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 9:16 PM EDT
    A4: I would give blank calendars to students to set their own deadlines. I had them create contracts for small groups to help hold each other accountable for the work. But I think it all starts with finding that perfect meaningful topic that fans their interests. #cgi3
  • karaheichel Apr 25 @ 9:16 PM EDT
    A4: Ss are asking questions and finding answers - and it might not be from the teacher! T is facilitator, coach, cheerleader - biggest supporter in the room. #cgi3
  • SamuelFritz Apr 25 @ 9:17 PM EDT
    A5: take the risk and try student choice assessments. Give them standards or skills to demonstrate mastery of then let them show you they have it. #cgi3
  • karaheichel Apr 25 @ 9:18 PM EDT
    A5: Room set up. It was amazing the collaboration that naturally occurred by getting comfortable furniture and strategically arranging it. I was surprised by what happened! #cgi3
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 9:18 PM EDT
    R5: I have two 3D printers in my room, I have #PBL activities established. I talk in several #PLNs to get ideas. Use @Flipgrid, @wevideo, have curriculum on @CanvasLMS. 1:1 with Chromebooks #cgi3
  • hazitk Apr 25 @ 9:19 PM EDT
    A5: Intentional planning and thinking ahead - utilizing our resources, such as instructional coaches when they bring student-centered ideas...willing to take risks. #cgi3
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 9:20 PM EDT
    I need some good flexible seating. L Peterson @ CGMSN has a great setup. My daughter had her at @SugarGroveES and again at N. #CGI3
    In reply to @karaheichel, @SugarGroveES
  • SamuelFritz Apr 25 @ 9:20 PM EDT
    A5:1 @CanvasLMS and @Flipgrid @padlet @GoogleForEdu to get student reflections and feedback #cgi3
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 9:20 PM EDT
    Yes! Rubrics and standard assessments can box students in. Let their creativity shine through and you might be surprised what you will learn about them! #cgi3
    In reply to @SamuelFritz
  • tweecher100 Apr 25 @ 9:22 PM EDT
    Although great for all, high ability Ss eat this up! #cgi3
    • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 9:20 PM EDT
      Yes! Rubrics and standard assessments can box students in. Let their creativity shine through and you might be surprised what you will learn about them! #cgi3
      In reply to @SamuelFritz
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 9:24 PM EDT
    It’s great for all Ss. I’ve found that ENL and SpEd Ss blossom in a classroom where interest drives. We should focus on all our Ss strengths instead of focusing on their weaknesses. #CGI3
    In reply to @tweecher100
  • centergrovetech Apr 25 @ 9:25 PM EDT
    Closing: How would you define student-centered learning now? Has your thinking changed as a result of others' responses tonight? What do you want to try? #cgi3
  • LCHS_Bio Apr 25 @ 9:26 PM EDT
    She is a ROCK STAR Teacher. So glad my daughter has her X2. #cgi3
    In reply to @lacoopj, @karaheichel, @SugarGroveES, @larendap12
  • lacoopj - Moderator Apr 25 @ 9:27 PM EDT
    Yes! Celebrate what every learner can do rather than focus on what they can't. #cgi3
    In reply to @LCHS_Bio, @tweecher100
  • karaheichel Apr 25 @ 9:29 PM EDT
    Oh so many things I would love to try, especially to have learning really driven by Ss. At the end of the day, I want my Ss (and now Ts) to know it is "our" learning and it is okay to take risks. We will even fail, but we will learn! #cgi3