I am currently testing this new Learning Management Software. Looks very promising. You can sign up for free at schoology.com.
What is pretty cool about this one is that it's platform agnostic (it doesn't matter if you use iOS, Android, or MAC or PC). The other nice thing is the interface is light years ahead of moodle, and even edmodo.
Try it out.
We like to read top 10 lists. Here's one on teaching and technology by Kelly Walsh.
Most of these are common sense, but I really like No. 9:
Be vague or unclear with technology based assignment instructions:
Be vague or unclear with technology based assignment instructions: Make sure your instructions are clear and precise – for example, if you tell students “post ____ on the Internet” but give no guidance as to how or where, you are asking for potential problems and confusion. Similarly, if you say, find ______ on the Internet, students may be exposed to inappropriate content, or simply get distracted."
She offers a link:
http://www.emergingedtech.com/2014/02/10-teaching-with-technology-mistakes-you-dont-want-to-make/
This web-based application (which means you need to use a internet browser to use it), allows you to paste in any text, and then it analyzes it in the 'spirit of Hemingway', which I guess that means something good. Seriously, you have to try it out if you like to write. It has an algorithm that parses your text and offers suggestions for revision. It's like a kindlier and gentler and more subtle than Microsoft's 'grammar correction' function. It color codes your texts and offers suggestions. It's pretty cool and FREE.
This is a nice infographic defining current tech terms influencing education. If something interests you from this list, let me know and I'll resource you.
Check out the Link below:
http://www.educatorstechnology.com/2014/02/a-new-educational-technology-cheat.html
Finally...
Austin Kleon's new book: "Show Your Work" by Workman press is already phenomenal. Its subtitle says: "10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered"
I was a fan of Austin Kleon's approachable, no nonsense approach to things. His first book: "Steal Like an Artist" has been a New York Times Best Seller. It's a gem.
This book helps anyone who is doing good work take the next few steps and get discovered. I work with a whole bunch of innovative, dedicated, creative teachers. This book is for them.
Here's the Amazon link: http://amzn.com/B00GU2RGGI
That's it for this edition of RATL.
Thanks
A 2012 TEFL Teaching English Abroad Alumni!!!
