Android and iPad apps for language teachers

"“Once upon a time” may be better read on paper than on a screen."

Via EDTECH@UTRGV

Teachers are using new apps to improve parent-teacher communication and, in some cases, bridge disconnects with ELL students.

Via EDTECH@UTRGV

School districts across the country spent more than $3 billion on ed tech products last year and chose from an assortment of 2,500 apps on the market. With so much money at stake and so many choices, educators need to know which products have a positive impact on student outcomes and the conditions under which impact is the greatest.

Via EDTECH@UTRGV

A new SETDA report digs into how states across the country are implementing new programs to help school districts close the digital divide.

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"Teachers and students aren't using all the pricey software that school budgets buy, researchers say"

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"As a computing teacher, I obviously love technology. Also, like most people, I love my smartphone. It never leaves my side, day or night, and it is always there when I need it to fill an awkward social moment or a 2-minute wait in a supermarket queue. Recently, however, I have questioned my relationship with my smartphone. Do I really need it by my side day and night? How does it affect my real life relationships and general concentration?"

Via EDTECH@UTRGV

"At last count, there were over 80,000 educational apps available to teachers. While many of these may be a dream come true for educators, the dizzying array of choices is also a nightmare. Teachers just don’t have time to filter through thousands of apps to find the one that works best for the needs of their students."

Via EDTECH@UTRGV, Elizabeth E Charles, Yashy Tohsaku

Set up your school year for success with these tips on how to prepare and hand out your Chromebooks for the new school year.

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As the costs for devices and applications decrease, technology use is increasing In classrooms across the country. Growth is particularly high in web-based devices. A recent University of Phoenix College of Education survey showed that about 58% of teachers use educational apps and 41% use social media. As tablets, Chromebooks, and other handheld devices are employed in classrooms, instruction relies more and more on apps instead of on traditional computer-based programs.

Via EDTECH@UTRGV

"There is a surprising recent trend to use WhatsApp groups to communicate with parents. Although free and easy to setup, it may be costing the school in numerous ways. School leaders need to consider the following implications before embracing this technological trend."

Via EDTECH@UTRGV

"When we talk about digital equity, the conversation often focuses on providing opportunities for all students to learn in an increasingly connected world. We talk about devices and home connectivity. We talk the importance of parental support. We talk about training all educators to integrate digital tools in their classrooms in meaningful ways.

 

Seldom, though, does the conversation focus on ensuring that parents acquire the same skills we want for our students."

Via EDTECH@UTRGV

"Welcome to your first day of school!” That was how bubbly Apple employees, decked out in the green-and-yellow outfits that matched the colors of Lane Tech College Prep in Chicago, welcomed arrivals to the company’s highly-anticipated education event this morning.

 

Attendees were given a schedule of “classes” and directed to the cafeteria for orientation. Among the 1,000 present were former vice president Al Gore, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and 300 educators from around the world.

 

An announcement over the PA system reminded everyone that the general assembly session was mandatory—and to not chew gum as no one is above detention. Bells signaled transitioned time between hands-on workshops led by educators."

Via EDTECH@UTRGV