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17 Things for Teachers to Try in 2017 #SUL #edtech
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17 Challenges for Teachers in 2017!
2017 is upon us, and there are so many new and exciting advances in technology coming our way. I always geek out learning about the latest gadgets, but I especially love learning about new ways that technology can improve learning in the classroom.
The new year always inspires us to set new goals, learn new things, and start fresh. I love the start of a new year. I spend a lot of time reflecting, goal-setting, and planning for the year ahead. I like to get organized. I create to-do lists, vision boards, and read productivity books to inspire me. This list was created to help teachers and other educators try new things, experience new and advancing technology that could impact the classroom now or in the near future.
Last year’s most popular post on Shake Up Learning was, “16 Things for Teachers to Try in 2016.” So in similar fashion, I have developed 17 Things for Teachers to Try in 2017.
Are you up for the challenge? Consider this list your 2017 Challenge, and tweet your progress with the official Shake Up Learning hashtag: #SUL. I hope this list helps inspire you to take risks, try new things, and share new technology with your students.
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1. Google Expeditions
With Google Expeditions out of Beta, and Google developing more and more expeditions for the classrooms, expect to see the use of this fantastic application to explode in 2017. Google Expeditions is a unique initiative from Google designed to bring educational virtual reality experiences into the K12 classrooms. “Google Expeditions enable teachers to bring students on virtual trips to places like museums, underwater, and outer space. Expeditions are collections of linked virtual reality (VR) content and supporting materials that can be used alongside existing curriculum. These trips are collections of virtual reality panoramas — 360° panoramas and 3D images — annotated with details, points of interest, and questions that make them easy to integrate into curriculum already used in schools. Google is working with a number of partners, including WNET, PBS, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, the American Museum of Natural History, the Planetary Society, David Attenborough with production company Alchemy VR and many of the Google Cultural Institute museum partners to create custom educational content that spans the universe.”
To learn more about Google Expeditions and virtual reality, visit my post: Getting Started with Google Expeditions and Virtual Reality.
2. Google Daydream Viewer Virtual Reality
What is virtual reality? Merriam-Webster defines virtual reality as “an artificial environment which is experienced through sensory stimuli (as sights and sounds) provided by a computer and in which one’s actions partially determine what happens in the environment”…eh? So what does that mean? Basically, virtual reality uses a computing device to simulate and immerse you in a virtual environment.
Virtual reality has improved leaps in bounds in the last year, and is becoming even more accessible in the classroom. First of all, if you haven’t experienced virtual reality, you must! It is absolutely incredible. And take a friend, because it is very entertaining to watch others experience virtual reality! Daydream VR is Google’s latest headset that debuted with the long-awaited Google Pixel phone. Along with the physical headset, Google is developing and working with third party developers to create interactive apps, games, tours and more that are compatible with Daydream. Watch the video below to get a better idea of what the Daydream Viewer has to offer.
3. Listen to the Google Teacher Tribe Podcast!
In December of 2016, Matt Miller of DitchThatTextbook.com and I announced our joint venture: The Google Teacher Tribe Podcast! Look for the first episode to debut in early 2017. But until then, subscribe to our email list to let the latest information and become a VIP Member of the Google Teacher Tribe! googleteachertribe.com
What is a Podcast?
A Podcast is a series of audio or video recordings that you can subscribe to and listen to whenever you like on just about any device. Think of it like a radio show that is recorded so you can listen to it on demand.
What is the Google Teacher Tribe Podcast?
The Google Teacher Tribe Podcast is a weekly podcast designed to give teachers practical ideas for using G Suite and other Google tools that you can use in your class tomorrow. We will offer our favorite Google tips and tricks, important updates, and effective strategies for K-12 teachers. But wait…there’s more! We will also have interviews with innovative and inspiring teachers.
4. The NEW Google Sites
The new Google Sites is now available from just about any Google account, and it is a must-try. They have given the old workhorse a BIG overhaul and it is slick! Watch the video below to learn more about the new Google Sites.
5. Get Google Certified!
Becoming a Google Certified Educator, Trainer, Administrator, or Innovator is a great goal for 2017! Becoming Google Certified was a game-changer for me. I have learned so much and connected with some amazing and Googley educators. Wondering which certification is right for you? Download my free ebook: The Complete Guide to Google Certifications. Look for more resources on all of the certifications here: http://www.shakeuplearning.com/google-certifications/
My goal this year is to become Google Certified #SUL #goals
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Ready to Become a Google Certified Trainer? I have an awesome e-course to walk you through the entire process! Check it out here: BecomeAGoogleTrainer.com
6. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence has arrived in our mainstream world. With the advancement of artificial intelligence, internet of things, and machine learning, all of our “stuff,” is now becoming smart and connected, and in some cases can follow commands. I have the Amazon Echo, which is powered by Alexa. She can order a pizza, lock my door, control my lights, play my music, tell me the news, or even order me an Uber. Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant has greatly improved, although you will still hear me say she doesn’t speak Texan. Google just released the Google Home device as well, which is powered by Google’s amazing personal assistant. The point here is that we all need to get familiar with talking to our stuff. It’s only going to increase, and eventually, we will have devices to automate our routines in the classroom. I can’t wait to say, “Alexa, take attendance.”
“Alexa, take my attendance.” #SUL #edtech
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7. Program a Robot
So not only is AI becoming mainstream, but we have some pretty cool robots available for our classrooms. Robotics offer a lot of learning opportunities for students at every level, and it will help them understand the basics of coding all the way to advanced programming and robotics. If you haven’t had a chance to play with one, I highly recommend you get your hands on one sometime soon.
You can start the itty bittys off with something simple like Code-a-Pillar from Fisher Price where you learn basic commands just by rearranging the parts of the caterpillar. Or try something more sophisticated like the Wonder Workshop Dash and Dot robots. The Ozobot is also super cool and allows students to program with markers and create games and challenges.
8. The Google Transformation Center
The newly announced Google Transformation Center was designed to promote school change, including a framework for school leaders, resources, and more. “The Transformation Center is a hub of resources to help education leaders improve all aspects of their schools and work toward a vision for change.” Look for this resource to grown a lot in 2017, including innovative projects from Google Certified Innovators.
9. Augmented Reality
What is augmented reality? Augmented reality is the integration of digital information with the user’s environment in real time. It’s a virtual layer on top of reality, usually making use of the camera on a mobile device. Yes, both virtual reality and augmented reality top this year’s list and with good reason. This will be the year that we really begin to see both gaining mainstream traction, and more classroom applications available. Augmented reality has been around for a few years, but it failed to really catch on…until the debut of a little game called Pokemon Go. Pokemon Go broke all kinds of records with roughly 30 million downloads in the first month. We have also seen a transformation in the way businesses do business in relation to this game. There are Pokestops across the globe, and here are just a few of the crazy headlines during the first month of the Pokemon Go app.
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to augmented reality. Expect to see more practical applications, as well as engaging learning games to make use of this growing technology. IKEA now offers you the chance to use virtual reality and see how their furniture will look in your home. You can see your favorite books come to life with apps like IMAG-N-O-TRON , or see Jurassic Park come to life, and with exciting developments from companies like Daqri , the best is yet to come!
10. Inbox by Gmail
Inbox by Gmail is Google’s way of redefining the way we do email and let me just say this is way overdue! Inbox is not new, but it is newly available with G Suite for Education accounts! Inbox automatically bundles related email categories, gives you the option to “snooze,” an email to a later time or date, and includes reminders. I’ve been using it for a couple of years, and it took me a long time to adjust, but now I can’t go back. I’m super excited that it is finally available in our G Suite for Education accounts! Watch the video below to learn more.
11. Google Cast for Education (Chrome App)
Cast for Education, a Chrome App, “allows you to turn your computer into a wireless projector for screen sharing from another device. Just install the app, give your device a name, and invite your students to cast.” Watch the video below to learn more.
12. Create an eBook with Google Slides
Google Slides is one of the most flexible learning tools in G Suite. In fact, I used Google Slides to create my eBook: The Teacher’s Guide to Google Classroom! That’s right! Google Slides made the process of creating an eBook so much easier than if I had done it in Google Docs. Google Slides allows you to manipulate and edit images in ways that you cannot in Google Docs. Consider having students create a collaborate ebook this year! Or if you are so inclined, create your own ebook! Learn how to create an eBook with Google Slides from this blog post: How to Create an eBook with Google Slides.
Awesome! Create an eBook with Google Slides! #SUL #googleedu
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13. #GoOpen with Amazon
There is a new Open Educational Resource platform from Amazon Education, where you can search for K-12 resources that are tagged by subject area, grade level, and standard. I’ve had early access to the private beta version of the platform, and I am so excited to see a big player like Amazon working on open source resources for teachers and students. And Amazon is looking for innovative teachers like you to join! Learn more about the program and how to request early access here: http://www.shakeuplearning.com/blog/amazon-wants-innovative-teachers-goopen/.
14. Google Keep
Google Keep is Google’s note-taking service. Since it’s debut, Google Keep has received some really awesome updates and features and is becoming a mainstay for Google users, including reminders that integrate with Google Now, sharing notes and lists, adding images and photos, voice memos and more. Grab the Google Keep Chrome extension, and the iOS or Android mobile app to make things even easier! Use Google Keep to organize your 2017 goals, notes, reminders, and more!
Use Google Keep to organize your 2017 goals, notes, reminders, and more! #SUL #googleedu
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15. Google Classroom Integrations
Google Classroom made last year’s list: 16 Things to Try in 2016. This year, let’s take it a step further and explore the ever-expanding list of third-party apps that integrate with Google Classroom! Check out my list of 35 Apps that Integrate with Google Classroom, or find over 100 free resources for Google Classroom here. New to Google Classroom? Pick up my step-by-step guide, including a FREE student guide: The Teacher’s Guide to Google Classroom eBook. Or check out all of the Google Classroom resources here on Shake Up Learning.
16. Join the Shake Up Learning Facebook Group
Looking to connect and learn with like-minded educators? Join the Shake Up Learning Facebook group to connect with Kasey Bell, engage more deeply with Shake Up Learning content, ask questions, share your own lessons and ideas, and expand your personal learning network! Join the group and share how you are trying the things on this list! There may even be some exclusive content and live training coming your way in 2017! Click here to join.
I joined the Shake Up Learning Facebook Group! Join me! #SUL
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17. Use the Shake Up Learning Official Hashtag: #SUL
In 2017, Shake Up Learning is official launching it’s very own hashtag to help you learn and connect with other Shake Up Learning followers. Share how you are shaking things up in your classroom by using the official hashtag #SUL. (It’s short and sweet, so you have plenty of characters left!) As you tackle the challenges on this list, be sure to share with the hashtag #SUL! Be disruptive and Shake Up Learning!
Shake Up Learning has it’s very own hashtag! Use #SUL to share how u shake up learning!
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The post 17 Things for Teachers to Try in 2017 (Infographic and FREE Download) appeared first on Shake Up Learning.