As teachers we’re asked to adjust and adapt all the time, whether it’s a new curriculum or a new principal, somehow we make it work. Technology is no different. We get so used to using technology in our classes one way and all of a sudden we need to adapt and change without a moment’s notice. So what do you do? We make it work, we figure it out and most of all we google.
Don’t Start from Scratch
Whether digital learning has been sprung on you at the last minute or you have had some time to let it marinate, my biggest suggestion is don’t start from scratch. There are SOO many free resources out there right now that you can use to rock digital learn like a pro!
Make it simple and use already created resources. Many creators are creating amazing content specially designed for digital learning and better yet a lot of creators are giving it away for free. Check out teacher pay teacher and this great list from weareteachers.com.
Google Classroom is your friend
Did you know that 68% of schools in America are using Google classroom and the G suite tools for Education. Its probably likely that your school does too. If your school is not using it, email your administrators and ask for these amazing tools for your school district. How much does Google E Suites for education cost? Nothing! These tools are absolutely free!!
What is Google Classroom? Google Classroom is an online platform that allows teachers to communicate with students. Google Classroom allows teachers to invite students into a virtual classroom where students can view and work on assignments. How can teachers use Google Classroom? Teachers can post, edit and grade assignments from this platform. Teachers can also discuss and provide answers for students via the classroom stream.
There are hundreds of tutorials online. If you can add grades to your grade book, it’s likely you can learn to use these google tools too.
Google Hangouts
I know I have already talked about the Google Suite of tools but this one deserves mentioning. Google hand out is one of the coolest features in my opinion. Google Hangouts allows you to do just that hang out virtually. This tool is so helpful because you can actually see your students. During a Google Hangout, students use there webcam to participate in class. Students can see the teacher and the teacher can see them, up to 10 students on the screen at a time. The maximum class size for a Google Hangout is 150. If you have a smaller class you can choose the video chat option which has a maximum size of 25 participants.
Educate yo self
Youtube and Google will be your best tools for educating yourself. If you are really interested in learning to use G Suite for Education you can become a Google Certified Teacher. The course is free to take and at the time of the writing of this post, the certification test is only $10. As of 2016, there were only 21,000 Google Certified Level 1 Teachers in the US, a group that I am proud to be a part of. I’m sure that number has changed drastically in the last 4 years. The study guides will give you insight into the tools even if you never actually take the test.
There is a multitude of places to find tutorials on how to use and create digital learning resources. This is one of my favorites from Pocketful of Primary. She has step-by-step tutorials that are super easy to follow. Also, be sure to check out teachers pay teachers for digital learning resources. Many TPT authors making their digital resources free right now. Get my free digital graphic organizers here.
So remember you don’t have to start from scratch, their ars many resources to help you. Google classroom will be your best friend. If your district is not using this free resource then email your administrators and beg for it. Google hangouts are the coolest. As an elementary teacher, I know how much we can miss those little faces when schools out so this tool will let you check in om them. Educate yo self yes, yo. Some districts may be sending out emails or even doing virtual training, that’s great. If this is not happening you will need to seek out this information yourself. I hope these tips help you to conquer digit learning and teaching a bit easier.
I know we are all feeling a little uneasy but just remember we are all in this together. Stay Encouraged!
