#EdTechAfterDark Archive
"Welcome to EdTechAfterDark! Our community was born out of discussions for a rich EdChat type gathering for those of us who are thinking about the digital edu-landscape long after the sun has gone down. For us night owls, when the clock strikes 10PM EST, you’ll find us on Twitter over at #edtechafterdark. All are welcome! Our discussions range from our philosophies about EdTech, digital best practices, and simply sharing our stories." --www.edtechafterdark.com
Monday January 25, 2016
Heading over to though I should be heading to bed! I am excited to learn! Come join!
Hey, Shirley! Glad you could make it!
Hello and welcome to ! Let's start with the typical introductions. ELA T from Citrus County FL! https://t.co/VA4ecWF21C
I agree, glad to see you again
it's hard to argue with that 😄
Excited to be here! Ready to learn!
Well hello, , I’m Rachel from MN. I’m currently a STEM teacher!
Dan from FL here. ELA T, Media Guy, Yearbook Adviser, techie dude.
I feel like I need I'm such a morning person.
Hi everyone! Kimberly, Media Specialist from FL here!
Welcome to , Rachel! Glad to see you returned!
hey Rachel gals to see you again
We're glad you're burning the midnight oil with us!
Justin from snowed in Baltimore. 4th grade teacher. Hey everybody!
Shirley from No CA San Fran Bay Area. Retired 7th grade English teacher, content contributor and editor for
All my NY friends: “Snow day!” Me: :(
Tonight's chat will follow the traditional Q1/A1 format... First question in 2 mins... 😄
Welcome Justin glad to have you
Stephanie Reger, 7th grade ELA teacher who is currently snowed in in Baltimore, MD.
Welcome, Justin! Glad to see you could make it to
a great colleague, indeed. :)
Lucky! We haven’t had any snow days yet here in MN even though it was -20!
Hey Stephanie glad to have you
Welcome, Stephanie! Stay warm!
Even though I should be headed to get sleep I'm going to do a double chat. I'm Terry 2nd gr T in Fl
is representing tonight at !
I never make that one. Too early. recommended. Great chat.
Terry great to see you, and before you ask is in Tampa with a sick friend :)
Oh no. I'm sorry to hear about her friend. https://t.co/Fpdi1PQ6iv
Terry great to see you, and before you ask is in Tampa with a sick friend :)
alright alright alright. Now all I need is a matthew mcconaughey gif! You're the master!
A1.Allows Ss to be resp/ own their learning. They can pace themselves based on need. Ss can explore & create new meaning.
A1: Tech gives my classroom room to breathe outside of the 4 walls. Ss can connect to so many others in add. 2 me.
A1: when implemented correctly, it allows Ss to be responsible for their learning; student centered!
A1: The students have more opportunities to "take the reigns" and take control of their learning https://t.co/k6Cak4hUxa
A1: Provides Ss the ability to create their own learning path, takes the focus off of the T and onto the learning
Creation is SO important!
A1 (cont’d): Shift comes with delegation of HOW we’re learning. With tech, why should I stand up and talk? Let Ss lead!
A1: Tech allows the Ss to take control of what they’re learning. It allows me to spend more time with the Ss that need me.
yes! It allows them to explore the world.
EdTech goes 2 ways: a good teachers becomes a coach & circulates.Not So Good Teacher will sit on their device and TWEET!!!
A1: My students know more about tech as they are growing up in the tech revolution. I constantly lean on them for advice
It is my favorite part of in the primary classroom.
Tech alone won't achieve this! It's all about the implementation...
GREAT teachers can do both ;)
A1. Tech allows some of the pressure to be taken off me to have all of the answers. Ss can discover answers themselves.
Digital natives leading the way!
we see Tech as Tech, Ss see Tech as normal, and part of their lives.
A1: It has a life of its own, constant change and growth. Always trying something new. So..a little less control.
absolutely! It needs to be used as a learning tool & not a way to occupy time/form of classroom management
Glad you could join us, Mike!
Sorry for the late entry !
Chris Lee from Toronto. On parental leave to
A1: Thanks to , my Ss give immediate feedback to their peers. (min 2 peer comments)
A1: It forces Ts to step down as THE expert on all matters. Connectivity creates outside expert opportunities!
I love Google Classroom. Slick, easy, Drive integration. Simplicity!
I’ve been there buddy, just glad to have you
A1: Ss take ownership of their own learning; Ts no longer seen as sage on the stage; tech allows Ss to create and share!
. I don’t know how any T can rightly call themselves an ‘expert.’ There’s so much to learn all the time!
But isn't engaging use of tech kind of a great way to manage your classroom? https://t.co/Al3p2PHmmn
absolutely! It needs to be used as a learning tool & not a way to occupy time/form of classroom management
I think this type of thinking also delineates that…this T is done learning.
A1: Technology allows Ss to learn what pros in those fields do. example: Mixing tracks w/our improvised boomwhackers
I can't wait to get there with Google Classroom..I know we will.
Thank God because I never had ALL the answers in the first place! https://t.co/5w0Ma5PP3R
A1: It forces Ts to step down as THE expert on all matters. Connectivity creates outside expert opportunities!
A1: Ed technology provides a variety of tools to help learners access content and demonstrate learning.
A2. Being available to facilitate thinking/reflection. Be a facilitator, allow Ss to explore while you question.
Q2: By asking guiding questions. Ss should also be encouraged to ask questions ALWAYS
A2: Taking a pg from , WSQ videos, Ss created lessons, T as coach through pre-planned learning aves
Absolutely. When the learning stops, there has to be some sort of change. IMHO, anyway.
Absolutely! Facilitation of Ss or Ts requires tactful questioning to help them wonder and notice.
A2. Ts need to be willing to step back and allow Ss to learn through the process/struggle. They will problem solve.
A2: The answer is in the Q. Facilitate. Move from the sage on stage to the guide on the side.
Q2: Ask questions, have ss show you how and what they are doing, facilitate background chats, there are a zillion things!
A1 gives Ss a voice beyond the classroom. Ss become empowered learners. Giving up control can be hard but so worth it.
I agree 100% that’s the evolving role of the T, to coach and probe with Qs to drive inquiry
A2:Ts must learn the zen-like Art of giving space w/in their class. Ss need room w/out limitations & predetermined outcomes
A2: one of my favorite quotes...be the guide on the side not the sage on the stage. Students can take control themselves
A2: Ts provide the necessary resources, then step back and let Ss use the resources as they see fit https://t.co/mDJpFRcGzf
A2: have a plan...an objective and an outcome. Guide your Ss but allow them the opportunity to engage, question, & explore.
That trust is what so few Ts have, and what we know our Ss need to be reach those high levels of learning
A2: Give them voice and a choice about how they can reach proficiency of a standard. Be transparent in your planning!
A1 Yes! Ss own the learning & creation of content- ELs connect globally & show knowledge visually https://t.co/gHRaOfpS8P
A1: It forces Ts to step down as THE expert on all matters. Connectivity creates outside expert opportunities!
I had my K kids stack chairs at the end of class. It was great watching them problem solve ; )
I like to think of it as the teacher being a tour guide
Effective Ts do that, too often we see Ts white knuckled with control unwilling to release
Have any1 ever learned from copying powerpoints verbatim? Using the T’s words? Maybe to memorize.
calls it "the meddler in the middle." I love that!
define transparent in this sense
Essential that has to be a plan for where the learning is going, Tech will get us off track the plan gets us there
I can only imagine! I am sure there was great conversation to be had!
Ts can facilitate learning while focusing on the learner by using tech to frame the learning and modeling tech behaviors.
Letting the kids have some input in what’s coming up next…asking how they would prefer to learn the concepts.
I like this metaphor. We build experiences for Ss. They walk the path, we simply pave it.
Q3 coming up in 2 mins...
Who knows... depending on how courageous and willing, the Ss could pave it too!
Tech as the "frame" for learning. Beautiful imagery! https://t.co/NIFNZQw5h0
Ts can facilitate learning while focusing on the learner by using tech to frame the learning and modeling tech behaviors.
Wait, you mean you didn’t intrinsically love this poem the way I did? How dare you. Write it out 50x.
Stab. to. the. heart. That just teaches kids to hate writing. and Poetry.
we need some student snow removal experts now. Apply their math leadership skills!
live this too! We are learning with all of our Ss.
You mean you didn’t love “The Moldau” as much as I did? For shame.
A2. That's when planning is critical. A well-planned learning experience allows for Ss leadership. Ts help/guide if needed.
OMG! I think we just dipped in the pedagogy realm! WOOT WOOT!
SIDE NOTE: Thank you to my Co-moderators and partners in crime , and !
Time to design a robot that can push the most snow ever!
A3. Ts are the guide/facilitator. We know the deep, probing questions to ask that they might not get from peers/tech.
A3: There’s a lot of crap out there. For real. T’s are still integral to help Ss wade through the internet of mess & learn
A3: The T provides the vision, sets the boundaries, and ensures proper progress
A3: the teacher is critical because he/she is the guide for Ss; guiding to learning & success.
A3: Although Ss taking control of learning, we know the curriculum A-->B and therefore can guide exploration.
A3: The T is still a master of content. While they may not develop all the new ideas, they currently have the experience
A3: We need to provide some key things: focus, objective, support, encouragement, sometimes a push.
A3. The teacher is still the one who plans & who makes sure that Ss are able to master the standards while using tech.
A3: The sheep still need a shepherd. They will wander without a leader.
A3:Ss know tech; they don't know learning. We serve as experts at our craft as we teach, model, and practice through Edtech
A3: I can actually sum this up quickly: Ask any Ss the capital of Switzerland. Then ask them how they know.
speak the rest of the night in metaphor.
Official invite to extend the convo on sharing control w Ss @ my classroom mgmt webinar tmrw night! https://t.co/Dr11PmLKgF
ONLY to memorize. Then forget. This is important only if grades are the objective.
T ensures benchmarks are met, and tailors learning to meet the needs of individual Ss
Do or do not, there is no try.
A3: Relationships change lives. Without them, we aren't the same beings.
A3: Letting Ss take risks, but also knowing when to stop a deeply rooted misconception through Qs and not by telling
Ts as digital mentors facilitate learning around 21st century skills. These interactions help Ss access concepts daily.
Some don’t even know tech! We are needed more than ever!
A3: Furthermore, content aside, our role is to help the Ss also develop their learning skills through experiences.
Thanks for the invite, Nancye!
From a chat earlier. This is why the teacher is necessary! https://t.co/SP0vyWDULU
A4: You can't always count on technology, but you CAN most definitely count on a quality teacher.
Thanks ironically my device's battery is dying. Thanks for the invite gotta jet!
Such an important skill! 's concept of Socratic tutorials does this beautifully! https://t.co/dObmPYuB31
A3: Letting Ss take risks, but also knowing when to stop a deeply rooted misconception through Qs and not by telling
I’ll brainstorm. First thought: JustDan Chrispier Bot. Eh?
Love this topic! Q2 is so important. Have to figure out the HOW to make the WHY of Ss ownership come to life!
I'm so tired though! This chat is after my hours!
A4. Fear of not being comfortable with what Ss know. Fear of having to learn how to use tech in order to help.
Tech should force Ss to be precise. We have to be intentional w/ tech, during learning. https://t.co/TRSTyjTKFK
A3:Ss know tech; they don't know learning. We serve as experts at our craft as we teach, model, and practice through Edtech
A4: Easy! Ts live and breath with control, without it anxiety rules. The more time practiced with that the harder to break
A4: Pride. 4+ years at college to have a kid know more than me? Oh H-E-double hockey sticks no.
A3: Watching out for Ss trailing outside the Zone of Proximal Development. Challenge VS Anxiety aka
Just talked about this on Sat. at . Some Ts fear totally losing control, so they won't give up any.
Tech for Tech sake is garbage good teaching is transcendent https://t.co/1XEe4jz9V1
Tech should force Ss to be precise. We have to be intentional w/ tech, during learning. https://t.co/TRSTyjTKFK
A3:Ss know tech; they don't know learning. We serve as experts at our craft as we teach, model, and practice through Edtech
A4: They think they have ALL the knowledge to impart or they are insecure or both. Their lazy. Easy to do same-ole same-ole
Q4: purely spec as ive never done this: I think they feel an undue pressure to constantly be talking and not listening.
A4: fear of not being "in control." The problem with this is that Ss need to be in control and have ownership of learning.
Honestly this is where PLN and support systems are key for T growth
It is scary. But so is skiing. Skiing is awesome.
A4; Change is hard. Control hard to give up. Stepping out of comfort zone and learning isn't want some want, sadly.
A4. Not understanding the value of Ss ownership in learning. Not understand how can aide in Ss ownership.
A4: We're expected to manage our kids. The line between managing & overcontrolling is hard to find https://t.co/fkiKJnDUzG
It's so easy to get caught up in the new & shiny!
A4: It is really hard to give up control. Especially for Ts. If you’re not the master of your own domain, who is?
A4: The issue with control stems from the fact that we still think it’s our classroom, it’s the Ss classroom
I have never skiied. I'll take your word for it!
A4: Parly due to Ts own upbringing as THAT was the model; fear of the unknown; uncomfortable with BEING uncomfortable
A4 (con’t): Also only seeing the detriment of tech and it’s caveats. Control of paper is easier than control of iPads
A4: Maybe no one has ever given them permission to thrive in that manner
A4 honstly I think it's fear of time being "wasted"
I miss snow days. Native NYer.
A4: the fear of admin entering the room and the Ss huddled all over talking about God knows what scares the crap outa them!
As Instructional leadership has grown the need for managers decreased we are seeing that occur in the classroom as we speak
Definitely need the support of the Admin. Ts model for Ss --> Admin model for Ts.
can’t click like fast enough
A4: The more we focus on the learning needs of each student, concerns w/ managing the complexities of teaching emerge.
For sure!
Growth mindset to the rescue!
Exactly if we meet each S where they’re at, there won’t be a need for classroom management
This has been awesome, everyone! Next time I'll make coffee so I can stick it out! Have a good night!
This is an excellent point! Then we are reminded what THINKING looks like in the https://t.co/yXP33BzU5m
A4 honstly I think it's fear of time being "wasted"
I like the analogy that Air Conditioning is a “waste of $.” It makes summer way better. Sure, I COULD live w/o it. But why?
Thanks for the great insights!
A5: I think documenting our successes and showing how giving up control has helped Ss. Otherwise, it’s just edu-babble
A5. Model it's merits. Show how handing over control is beneficial to all involved. Provide opps to try, provide PD.
A5.1 I started by working with my class to develop classroom rules
A5: Practice what we preach co-teach and co-plan. Word of mouth Invite in your room at all times with a welcome attitude.
A5: Gotta Model it for others; work as peers, never alone; focused PLCs; admin on board; invite others into classroom.
A5:Covertly😄 Plant seeds w mentions of apps that can "make their job easier". Before they know it, they'll be outa control!
Routines become part of the culture of learning allowing room to focus on what matters; students. https://t.co/Xj0GjeP2oC
Exactly if we meet each S where they’re at, there won’t be a need for classroom management
Agreed that learning, problem solving can be messy and takes time
A5: One on one coaching, modeling, and showing ways that tech can streamline their work.
A5:We expect Ss to take risks, why should we expect less of Ts? Show them it works! Invite them in your classroom.
Jumping in late, ! Howdy!
A5.2 The kids felt more empowered when being involved in that regard… so they felt important
Hey, Sean! Good to see you here!
A5 Do it yourself. Be visible with success, honest with your struggles. They'll realize the benefits outweigh the risks.
As we approach our final question, a special thanks to for creating the amazing Q graphics w !
Is that gif a teacher or student example?? ;0)
Can't find link to question 5
A5.3If they knew I trusted them to make the rules, then they knew I trusted them to make good decisions even doing projects
A5: I believe we just need to continue to share the value testify to the our experiences. Make them curious, maybe envious.
A6 I gave my Ss spy notebooks, told them to take notes on anything weird or awesome they see.
A6: Hook them with the real world, connect it with what they care about, and great things come back
Friendly competition fosters growth!
I am a co-teacher (8th) & I have an intensive (7th) class too! We note highlights & everyone https://t.co/eRrMtXYX4O
A5: Practice what we preach co-teach and co-plan. Word of mouth Invite in your room at all times with a welcome attitude.
A5 must recognize we aren't all in the same place...just so we are all moving forward. Open our doors. Share!
A6. Meaningful and engaging work w/i the classroom. This encourages Ss to use it outside of the classroom.
A6. Encourage them to ask family “which problem do WE need to solve?” and bring it to class next day.
A6: attach learning to the real world and have Ss make connections.
A5: Honestly, I'm still growing in this area. Gradually, I'm learning to relinquish control.
A5: Transform the narrative of teaching asking how Ss demonstrated learning a skill? THEN share strategies/work samples.
A6: I also invite others in. We never do a Skype or GHO without inviting others in.
A6. Connect how learning/experience in class can be used to create new learning outside of class.
A6: Make learning a part of their day and not just for your eyes only. Tech gives Ss a huge audience. Let them speak.
AWESOME! I like when Ts use the term “areas for growth” so much pro unlike “negatives”
A6: Be excited about new things, topics that are interested to the kids. Play up learning all the time, not just in school.
What do you mean by others? Ts, Classes, Ps?
A6 Share your wonder with the world with them. When you show inspiration to Ss, you grow their world.
Suddenly my computer is working in slow-mo. Can't keep up. :(
A6: Change "asking questions" to "wonderings" to increase inquiry ; and allow Ss to post freely, like on
A6:Tap into passions! projects have done this in Ss! Kids are ablaze w learning 4 learning sake!
Be a part of a great school district like and have a Digital Day of learning you can share through PD!
Being an enthuiast is an infectious thing.
If you feel like you school or staff would benefit from us leading a training please DM
but being infectious is not always an enthusiastic event.
Not if you switch it around like that!
YES and focus use strengths, work on but minimize deficits
Thanks for the great chat. Gotta put kiddos to bed. Good Night!
A6: Engaging families in our learning. I ask parents/guardians to talk with the kiddos about certain topics at home
One Direction is infectious. I am not enthused about it.
Speak about students as unique individuals, not just "OUR students" doing "OUR projects" A5
Thank you for another amazing chat! Check us out at ! Such a quality resource!
Shout out to for leading a great chat tonight!
A6: Our school's green school initiative/wellness extends learning beyond the classroom. Ss collaborate applying skills.
Checking out a little early. Have a great week.
Thank you for a great chat, everyone!
Q6: When Student VOICE is evident-they will bring the learning to you. BeOpen to letting them change your mind.
Props to the always awesome !
Thank you and everyone who participated for an amazing ... I'm feeling inspired!
Show wonder, curiosity joufulness. Be interested in what they are interested in, ask questions, be genuine.
That’s all we could ever hope for! Thanks for dropping some knowledge on us!
So very happy you joined us! https://t.co/oko1yiwrmB
Thank you and everyone who participated for an amazing ... I'm feeling inspired!
Even if it was only for a teeny part, it was nice to hang out with the crew for a bit! Thanks, all!
You are welcome regardless of the hour.
Make sure you check out tomorrow at 7 with
Gotta duck out early. Thanks all. :) See you next week!
Thanks for letting me in to your lovely chat again this evening, . May you have a wonderful rest of your week!
Thanks Zac! We're talking about Global School Play Day tomorrow.
Wait..It's over?!!! Oh no...Can't wait to join in again sometime!! Thanks & !!
Learning never stops! Thanks for a powerful sharing.
We hope to see you next week!
We try to dip out early if possible 😄 we know we're dealing with the sleep-deprived at https://t.co/msKPaDOpJs
Wait..It's over?!!! Oh no...Can't wait to join in again sometime!! Thanks & !!
Thanks for a great chat and ! I am glad I stayed up for the convo! Have a happy Tuesday!
As always we’ll save our chat to pull it up in case you missed a juicy morsel
So happy to be graced with your incredible insight! https://t.co/JE0gIl5CRb
Thanks for a great chat and ! I am glad I stayed up for the convo! Have a happy Tuesday!
