#EdsurgeChat Archive
EdSurge is an independent information resource and community for everyone involved in education technology. Join #EdSurgeChat to grow your tribe and engage with a dynamic PLN about current #edtech topics.
Tuesday July 19, 2016
Welcome to ! Tonight we will be focusing on the finding what works in digital learning.
Tonight we will be tweeting from our Higher Ed handle, but this chat will be accessible to higher ed and K12
The face behind the handle tonight is , I will be asking the questions
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!
Please introduce yourself and share your edtech experience
Hi everyone! Molly, former elementary teacher and current community manager at Edsurge
Ashley, ITF in Chapel Hill, NC
A1 Hi Mike here, GAFE high school in W Maine, Sci Dept Head
I'm from Texas. I'm 6th grade ELAR. I have a M.Ed. in Ed Tech Leadership.
Hey all - Michael from here, looking forward to another chat!
I love the idea of in the classroom: Each student contributes something of their own and gets to see it online.
Hi all, Moia from Learning here. Instructional designer learners of all ages
Hi! Fourth grade teacher in MN working on masters in Learning Design and Technology
Seth from here. Looking forward to !
Good Evening! Ashley teaching ELA 8 from Berkeley County, South Carolina.
hello , Lurking tonight while my youngest and I play around with Dash and Dot.
Julie Willcott, Maine. Adjunct Faculty in Sustainable Food Production & Chemistry @ local community college (among other jobs)
About to begin ! Q1 coming up in 1 minute…
Marguerite from here. Excited for another
Nice to have another ELA rep here. Awesome! https://t.co/oLCgSR9PpG
Good Evening! Ashley teaching ELA 8 from Berkeley County, South Carolina.
Q1: Digital learning can mean many things to many people. How would you define digital learning?
Hi all. 4th grade Teacher & Tech lead in Oakland, CA. Squeezing in a chat before the hubby's bday dinner :)
Hi! Teacher from MN. Excited for my first
Hi Julie! Glad to see another Mainer!
Yayy! Welcome to your first
Q1 https://t.co/IZB6tJI24S
Q1: Digital learning can mean many things to many people. How would you define digital learning?
Digital learning I think of as blended learning, anything that is online
A1: Learning with the use any type of digital outlet, this could be informal & formal learning.
Julia, higher EdTech STEM mobile developer, starting 1st with organic chemistry.
A1: DL is using digital devices and online applications to support learning.
A1 Digital learning would be using tech to personalize learning, connect to experts, and collaborate with the world.
A1: Digital learning is learning to interact with others and learn new skills through digital tools.
A1 Giving Ss power to learn at their pace with the power of tech. Anywhere, anytime.
A1. For me, digital learning is using available technology to enhance, and even recreate, the learning experience.
Here is Q1. Join us for tonight. https://t.co/Wjp31hZzVs
Q1: Digital learning can mean many things to many people. How would you define digital learning?
Allison from looking forward to this on digital learning!
A1) "Digital Learning" ..... man, so broad.... for me this is anything that supplements curriculum for post-secondary students
A1: I believe digital learning is learning enhanced with technology
Collaborating with the world...
A1: Digital learning gives Ss choice over 'when and where' of their learning. Learning w/tech doesn't depend on walls/bells!
Digital learning ... Not in paper form ... Creating ... Doing ... Not just regurgitating
A1 digital learning is using technology in a way that removes barriers like time, space, environment to learning
A1: Digital learning is taking the constant access to info around us and using and applying it
Is it always about personalizing? Or do some do it to supplement existing practices
A1: Digital learning allows for multiple modalities at one time. Take Khan Academy, visual & auditory at the same time.
A1: Digital learning uses tech to enhance student learning & augment curriculum
Yes! It makes learning much more flexible and available
Enhance their learning, enhance your teaching, make it a global classroom
Digital learning knows no limits ... Blows the roof off classroom ... Cuts out the middleman as kids have direct access to info
Doesn't have to be personalizing. I use tech to personalize my learning, but my way isn't the only way. https://t.co/LIINu3WvHc
Is it always about personalizing? Or do some do it to supplement existing practices
Hi all - Ray here from , excited to join. A1: DL is learning in online & blended contexts
Connecting people to build more understanding and make learning more real
Agreed! High Five! https://t.co/TtgTNxduPQ
Enhance their learning, enhance your teaching, make it a global classroom
A1: It can mean so much but all about using technology to give Ss ways of developing both knowledge and skills
Enhanced learning that allows for a myriad of approaches to reach many more Ss
Absolutely. Which is gets at the heart of connecting to experts via tech. https://t.co/Jks5r8oUeT
Connecting people to build more understanding and make learning more real
Agreed - both knowledge AND skills are important, and can be support with technology
Q2 coming up in 1 minute…
Q2: What strategies have you found most helpful in finding the right digital learning tools for your needs?
Yes I agree - it's amazing to be able to bring experts into the classroom!
A2. Be a connected educator helps so much with finding the right digital tools - that and asking students.
A2: The obvious place is definitely twitter
Q2 Trial and error for my own tech, connected to PLNs for Ss tech and RSS feeds of my fav ed tech blogs
The power of tech is the ability to reach the world. And peers don't have to be down the hall. https://t.co/AIAg5RMLTV
and to peers, in addition to experts.
A2: As anyone who has ever been in my PD knows I am fond of saying, "all of my good ideas come from Twitter!" Love my PLN!
Q2: Twitter chats and listening to other Ts!!
A 2: Twitter, reading blogs, talking to different people, staying connected, testing out different tools
A2) Communicate with Ss and teachers. Try it out and explore
Ss for sure! They blow me away with what they know.
My helps but finding the right tool means I have to try it in my world ... Kids need to find what works for them
A2: BEST strategy is tech conferences with teachers teaching teachers. I write down the new tech even not attend session.
and are my friends. (and you know best resources)
During World Read Aloud Day, my Ss got to chat with an author via Skype. They were pumped afterward. https://t.co/Ub2uL1CbRq
Yes I agree - it's amazing to be able to bring experts into the classroom!
A2: A clear idea of what I need to accomplish is first, followed by finding the tool that allows me to meet the need
A2: You just can't get more valuable information from any other source than online PLNs and chats like and many others
A2: Connecting with leaders and having conversations about what works.
A2: Our team heard from leaders that they heavily rely on personal networks to find the right digital learning tools
It is always great when you can find a teacher in the same grade/role you are in and see what works for them
Wow so cool! Such a great way to motivate students and to connect them to real life professions
Here Q2. Join us for now. https://t.co/GyGMsdP1Gp
Q2: What strategies have you found most helpful in finding the right digital learning tools for your needs?
is now trending in USA, ranking 42
Absolutely! Need first and then the tool
One must first understand there are many paths to your goal when using digital tools ...
Shout-out to my friend and freetech4teachers for my go to blog.
So true - as a high school teacher I always love talking to those who teach my subjects to get new ideas!
Q2: Twitter, digital lit institute
A2: You can't grow if you keep your classroom door closed.
A2: Twitter and LinkedIn are my favorite ways for finding tech tools. My best lesson ideas come from perusing social media.
Wish I could just take it off the hinges sometimes...
Agreed! I visited a school that has implemented more tech than us & it was helpful to see it in action. https://t.co/EDOddMeoIV
It is always great when you can find a teacher in the same grade/role you are in and see what works for them
Amen! Teachers have to NOT be afraid to share and ask questions.
A2. Seems like the general consensus is "you can't do it alone", nor should you. Together we are stronger.
Q3 coming up in 1 minute…
But why are so many experienced teachers unwilling to share?
A1: Digital learning can be the great equalizer. Access to people, experiences, ideas and knowledge outside of your bubble.
My Ss know it's alright when another T enters the room, they almost expect it now!
where do you go to "not be alone" in these decisions/explorations?
Well said. https://t.co/C38nxAiBSL
A2. Seems like the general consensus is "you can't do it alone", nor should you. Together we are stronger.
Yes! How are we helping ALL students if we keep the best practices to ourselves?!
Q3: How do you define “what works” in digital learning?
Good question. Any answers?
A2: This is so often word of mouth for me and taking recommendations from a trusted network of people.
A3: This is a hard question
A2: Constantly reflecting and seeking to know and learn more links you with those who value the same. Twitter/blogs/Conferences
A3: Ss are engaged CREATING and PRODUCING above and beyond what's expected. ?
A3 By remembering that "what works" is ever changing. What works one year may not work the next depenting on Ss and Tech.
My thought... competition - We put so much emphasis on having top scores Ts are afraid to share their best stuff.
A3- Students are engaged and asking questions. Sharing and solving problems
when digital learning allows you do so something you couldn't do before -- quality, cost or access https://t.co/FlppC9b7wI
Q3: How do you define “what works” in digital learning?
I have the most amazing PLN - fellow teachers, Apple Distinguished Educators, & others. Grateful for them everyday.
Don't know, but I have found amazing Ts on Twitter who are all about sharing!
You really do! Loved meeting your crew at ISTE
A3 When Ss sit at a computer and ask for more of what and how you just taught them, you know you're on to something.
Definitely and what works for one Ss may not work for another.
A3: What works is what motivates, enables, connects and supports. If these are lacking, it does not work.
A3: Love the creation tools that let Ss 'show what they know' and document their learning.
What an opening statement for teacher reflection sessions! https://t.co/0EshE7B0wD
Yes! How are we helping ALL students if we keep the best practices to ourselves?!
A3: What works for my Ss may not work for yours. The end goal should be some level of producing, creating, and learning.
A3: "what works" in digital learning is what works best for you and your students. Like any other Ts tools. Trial and error.
I agree! So how do we encourage sharing ? Does that have to start at an administrative level?
A3: Students are engaged and working through real problems that require them to gain new skills.
A3. Digital learning works when students are creating and moving beyond expectations - often in unexpected ways.
I think it could start smaller than that. Maybe depts. or grade level? Discussion on what's working?
Fear of someone saying "This way is better" Or fear of being accused of thinking they know it all.
A3: Definition of “what works” has to come through a lens of measurement and evaluation for a specific school
Yep definitely the "open door" policy needs to be set by Admin and carried throughout the school. Ss can sense it.
A3: A question that needs to be asked as you design learning. Always tied to goals for Ss.
Testing environment=great answer why Ts-unwilling to share,but these Ts aren't Ts you need in your PLN
A3: Varies, but generally S engagement, what Ss create/produce, is activty simply replacing paper or enhancing learning
Great suggestion but sometimes dept heads can be part of the problem!
무더운여름🍺 강남풀살롱 에서 꿀떡🍯 매직미러 강남야구장
Have to run for hubby's bday dinner. Thanks for great chat so far - will come back to read the rest later!
Q4 coming up in 1 minute…
Do you use research studies to figure out what works or is it all personal?
Hello Anabel from NC! Hope everyone is having a great summer!
Q4: How have digital tools changed the way you run your classroom/school?
Admin are the ldrs of the building. Their actions set the tone. If they encourage sharing, Ts may be more willing.
We've also used PLG's (to varying success) to eliminate the "chiefs" and give equal voice.
The environment has to be one that accepts collaboration and sharing. Do Ts have time to connect?
. curious to hear more. Why do you think that it is ever changing? Are you thinking about tools specifically?
A4: Classes = more dynamic, more collaborative. The school is more connected with resources & ideas https://t.co/koKBAyDlSc
Q4: How have digital tools changed the way you run your classroom/school?
A4. It's easier to teach Ss what professional work looks like when the world can see their work. They are more receptive.
A3: Level of questions and the products students create are the best evidence of learning.
Definitely a healthy mix of both. Grounded in research and customized for your Ss.
Q4- Digital tools make engagement easier. It also makes allows me to monitor my students much more efficiently
So true!! https://t.co/jXAalzUdmM
A4. It's easier to teach Ss what professional work looks like when the world can see their work. They are more receptive.
A3: When teachers use it as tool and not a substitute.
A4: Almost paperless, ability to move beyond the text and desk. Higher level of creativity when their work is
A4: Digital tools have created classrooms with more collaboration, but less confusion.
A4: Authenticity. With D-tools I never teach the same lesson twice & individual Ss have authentic reading/writing experiences
A4. Digital learning has allowed me to put more power into my students' hands.
Hi Ashley! I'm an ESL teacher for the Mooresville Graded School District. https://t.co/tWeIrcSI6T
What part and what do you teach? I'm in Chapel Hill, NC!
At my school, yes. And I teach at a charter school where test scores are not emphasized
Digital tools allow us to break down classroom walls
Yes! https://t.co/JR6IcP8lWc
A4. It's easier to teach Ss what professional work looks like when the world can see their work. They are more receptive.
A4: Digital tools allow me to gain PD, which in turn provides PD tidbits for my district.
A4: Ss are empowered. More questions than answers. More flexible curriculum. More risk taking from Ts and Ss.
Students can learn in different modes, at anytime, anywhere plus they can express learning in unique ways.
A4: It also allows me to learn with my Ss.
Or in some cases allows our students to teach us!
Agreed! I keep myself sharp by perusing social media for lesson and PD session ideas. https://t.co/ZShmhQnuSF
A4: Digital tools allow me to gain PD, which in turn provides PD tidbits for my district.
Less confusion because they don't wait around till "we go over it in class" to get answers. They seek them.
A4: Tech integration not only changes your practice, it changes mindsets. Students drive their learning.
Professional Learning Group at my school it was a group of teachers across grade and subject.
Changing mindsets is so important!
So important that Ss learn to seek the answers 4 themselves - the internet is so great 4 this!
Q5 coming up in 1 minute…
Yes! https://t.co/CE7g4DmTFS
A4: Tech integration not only changes your practice, it changes mindsets. Students drive their learning.
it is very difficult to make excuses for not knowing ... Info is everywhere
Q5: What do digital learning products lack that educators need?
Spend the time teaching how to evaluate sources of info makes it a winning combo!
also creates different ways in which students can show their learning
I agree. My students resist it but ultimately embrace the freedom
Absolutely! https://t.co/5FukON1ReY
Spend the time teaching how to evaluate sources of info makes it a winning combo!
. I wonder about those that need a bit more help taking agency. How do we encourage them?
A5: Examples of how it is being used. The best digital learning resources show themselves in real world application.
Start with the end in mind! https://t.co/VmPA9HPiOW
Q2: What strategies have you found most helpful in finding the right digital learning tools for your needs?
A5: Educators we’ve talked to want better, independent data on efficacy - they want to know products do what they say!
A5: The ability to scaffold and differentiate.
A5: More opportunity 2 have a say in the development of the product - Ts know what is good 4 Ss so can help vendors/developers!
Q5 Stop with the skill and drill. Give us tools that make the higher levels of SAMR easier to attain.
A5) Parent education tools, communication between tools
A5: Listening to feedback, some are great and workout the bugs. Others bite the dust.
Well said - Innovation through collaboration as shares! https://t.co/GU84BZBlLB
A2. Seems like the general consensus is "you can't do it alone", nor should you. Together we are stronger.
I agree! Sometimes the "teaching" is overlooked.
A5: The ability to build digital literacy skills, not just the skills needed for that tool.
Digital citizen ship skills too!
A5: There needs to be more data on what works and what doesn't, and not just for a semester but over a longer time period
Q6 coming up in 1 minute…
Yes! https://t.co/mFazHn6dbB
Q5 Stop with the skill and drill. Give us tools that make the higher levels of SAMR easier to attain.
Gotta go folks. Time for a family walk. Thanks for a great
A5. Digital products need to grow with the student and connect to the analog world.
Q6: What are the opportunities (+) /disadvantages (-) of classrooms becoming more digital?
Thanks for hosting a great chat every other week. I love .
A6- It gives us the opportunity to create relevant and timely lessons for our students
A6. + is digital is now so important in real world. - is emphasis can be too much on the tool, not the learning.
Q6 +authentic collaboration
A6: I worry about the entire class going digital, we don't know the impact of too much screen time on kids
A6: Ops: collaboration&connecting. Disadvans: not every1 can afford devices. Important Ss read books & spend time outside
A6: We can't lose sight of Ts to Ss right when we have the opportunity to reach SO many more Ss
A6: + opportunity to innovate and customize - easy to get swept up in latest and greatest without proper reflection and thought
A6) - Communicatoin skills + Connection to others/perspectives
A6: +'s access to the world, endless creativity, professionalism, 20th century skills.
+ prepared for higher learning and the job market
A6: (+) breaking down the walls of the classroom; authentic edu experiences (-) resources & network capabilities.
A6: - so many tools and ideas out there, it can be tricky to sift out the good from the bad
Keep asking questions. Spark their curiosity. https://t.co/9M5FRCXIvU
. I wonder about those that need a bit more help taking agency. How do we encourage them?
A6- (-)When my school was completely online we struggled with academic dishonesty in Ss work
A6: -'s loss of p2p social interaction, limitless information overload, loss of mem recall
Q6 Ts and Ss can devalue and undervalue the raw dynamic of learning together
A6: - it can be hard to translate benefits of in-person learning community to digital
A6: -Ts don't get enuf time 2 train well 2 understand the pedagogical affordances of good digital tools & endless possibilities
A6 So many more great Ts can now reach so many more Ss
A6: (+) more opps for data-driven feedback to help students falling off track
Q6 learning as superficial seek and find and not deep inquiry
Definitely a problem worth tackling. https://t.co/VqenjkGQuY
A6: - so many tools and ideas out there, it can be tricky to sift out the good from the bad
A6 We can finally teach globalization and global citizenship in the classroom, but we need to do it well
A6: (-) not everyone has the same access, makes it hard to standardize unless the district does it for everyone
A6: (+) Ss can get information anywhere, diversifying learn opps the classroom is easier
Thank you so much for great conversation tonight!
Q6 (+) creates an opportunity for teacher collectives to skill up, to learn
Thanks all, it was a blast! This is collaboration at it's finest.
We’ll be here the 1st & 3rd Tues each month. We’ll be back on 8/2 for
K-12 Educators, another way to stay connected is our new educator Facebook community. Join here: https://t.co/gb323d539V
Looking forward to exploring these questions in more detail on in a few weeks
