Edtech Throwdown

Edtech Throwdown Episode 214: Ditch That Chromebook (no affiliation with Matt Miller)Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 214 called Ditch that Chromebook.   In this episode we’ll talk about several current issues in the edtech world all centered around technology, the role it serves, and to what extent it belongs in schools.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss.  Check it out.Segment 1:Apology to Matt MillerSegment 2:3 Current Arguments in the edtech world:To block or not to block: AI in schoolsLet fail? Agree about alway cheating   The pendulum swings back on 1:1 devices.  What is the right way forward?  Banning cell phones in schools.  Yay or nay?Edtech Throwdown: Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify  YouTube  Twitter  (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter(@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech Throwdown Episode 213: Designing Lessons Based on Cognitive Science with Dave SnyderWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 213 called Designing Lessons Based on Cognitive Science with Dave Snyder. &nbsp; In this episode we’ll talk with Mr. Dave Snyder about current research in cognitive science and how it has shaped his lessons and the overall classroom experience for his students and their learning.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:In today’s episode, we are talking to Dean of Academics at Seton Hall Prep in West Orange, NJ, Mr. Dave Snyder, welcome to the show! How are you doing today?Can you give everybody your quick pitch, hero’s origin story?&nbsp; What’s your own education?&nbsp; What is your teaching experience?&nbsp; What do you do now?Talk about our NJECC meetup our general impressions of what Dave’s sessions was all aboutDave reached out to us and asked if we could check out his session at a recent conferenceWhat was it called again?Focus was on cognitive science, which I thought I knew about, but as I am sitting and listening more, a lightbulb goes off for me as much of what you were saying resonated with my own classroom experience … having mixed results with cooperative learning, seeing students struggle through inquiry-based lessons that end with mixed results, jigsaws that fall flat for mostSegment 2:Presentation:&nbsp; https://setonhallprepschool-my.sharepoint.com/:p:/g/personal/dsnyder_shp_org/IQAq6J9_RDJeQIhbHheNEEjpAXxbJGsNJ_DNgVMdU4GUkUU?rtime=Ox8y2DaW3kgCan you give an overview of your presentation, topic, and what brought you to feature this at a tech-themed education conference?You began with a survey question about what most affects a student's ability to learn science:&nbsp; 1. What they already know 2.How motivated they are 3. Their learning style 4.How interesting the material is 5.How much inquiry-based instruction (discovery learning) they have&nbsp;Can you explain what this illustrates about cognitive science as it pertains to the classroom?Walk people through the working memory game from slide 11.&nbsp;Can you explain what this illustrates about cognitive science as it pertains to the classroom?Explain the forgetting curve and how it changes with multiple reviews.&nbsp; What has that meant for your classroom?This seems to go against what a lot of science teachers have learned about inquiry and student-centered learning.&nbsp; Does it go against those practices?Role of tech?Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter(@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?<strong style="background-color: transparent;color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 212: AI Uses in the Classroom from NJECC 2026Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 212 called AI Uses in the Classroom from NJECC 2026. &nbsp; In this episode we’ll share 4 ways that AI can be used to support student learning.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:Vanguard NJ Districts AI Meetings&nbsp;Segment 2:Our presentation from 2026 feature the following tools:https://www.canva.com/design/DAHBrcMoMnM/qPXmqUkk_mpFJELEH-cv9A/edit?utm_content=DAHBrcMoMnM&amp;utm_campaign=designshare&amp;utm_medium=link2&amp;utm_source=sharebuttonNotebookLM flashcards to Canva bulk create how-to videohttps://youtu.be/RUCMVAgx8jQ?si=VQns3kuThjIAjpELEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter(@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 211: NJECC Showdown 2026Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown. This is Episode 211 called NJECC Showdown 2026. Guise and I have each selected 6 of our favorite tools for the classroom. Listen in to learn about what they are, why we like them, and how they might advance your practice! This is another episode you don’t want to miss. Check it out.Segment 1: This year’s NJECC was great!-did 2 sessions-saw a cool session and met a possible future guestSegment 2: Our presentation from 2026 feature the following tools:https://www.canva.com/design/DAHBrY8mBhs/nJ3GQcW00epnK3bp7Uaoyw/edit?utm_content=DAHBrY8mBhs&amp;utm_campaign=designshare&amp;utm_medium=link2&amp;utm_source=sharebuttonEdtech Throwdown: Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher YouTube Twitter FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify YouTube Twitter (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter(@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 210: AI Prompt Writing for EducatorsWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 210 called “AI Prompt Writing for Educators.”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll explore the power of prompts and how they can be the difference maker for those who use AI effectively and those who fall behind.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative:&nbsp; People still have an extremely wide range of engagement with AI.&nbsp; Nick has two conversations about AI - 1 with his in-laws about AI telling people to commit crimes and 1 with another teacher who thinks it just writes papers for students.Anatomy of a good prompt1. Don't just ask a question; tell the AI who it is and who it is talking to. This sets the tone and the "knowledge ceiling" of the response.What to include:Give it a job title (e.g., "veteran IB Biology teacher") and define the target audience (e.g., "students with no prior coding experience").2. Be incredibly specific about the verb. Avoid "Help me with..." and use "Analyze," "Draft," "Critique," or "Categorize."What to include:Provide the "raw material." If you want a rubric, paste the assignment. If you want a response to a parent email, paste the email.3. Tell the AI exactly how you want the information delivered. Don't settle for a wall of text.What to include:Specify the format (e.g., "a 3-column table," "a bulleted list of 5 items," or "a formal email script"). Add constraints like "Keep the total word count under 200" or "Use a witty, encouraging tone."Be purposeful with your AI use.&nbsp; Always ask - is there a reason for me to use AI here?&nbsp; Would it benefit my brain to do this myself?&nbsp; Sometimes doing even simple tasks yourself have benefits to maintaining your mind's own plasticity and critical thinking.&nbsp; You’ll notice that many of our favorite prompts are for monotonous, time consuming, repetition-based tasks that would not be possible without the use of AI.Segment 2:&nbsp;Our favorite prompt libraries:Teacher Serverhttps://www.aiforeducation.io/promptshttps://promptbase.com/https://gail.wharton.upenn.edu/prompt-library/https://www.thepromptindex.com/Our favorite prompts:Multiple versions of the same question:&nbsp; Here is an AP Exam question about topic X: ____copy paste in the question ____.&nbsp; Can you write 8 more versions of this that all follow the same format but have different numbers and variations of each question.Meta search:&nbsp; Find for me all the ___ exam questions that deal with ___topic___.Text leveller:&nbsp; "Take the following text about [Topic] and rewrite it into three versions:Version A (The Hook):Written as a high-interest TikTok script for a 14-year-old.Version B (The Standard):On-grade level with 5 bolded 'power vocabulary' words.Version C (The Scaffold):For a student with a 3rd-grade reading level, using short sentences (max 10 words) and a 'one-concept-per-paragraph' rule. Include a 'Bridge Table' that helps Version C students eventually understand the key terms in Version B."I struggle with coming up withreal-world examplesof things.&nbsp; "I’m teaching [Mathematical/Scientific Concept]. Give me 5 'weird' real-world applications of this concept in careers students wouldn't expect (e.g., fashion design, professional gaming, or forest management). For one of these, draft a 2-minute 'Lesson Hook' story that starts with a high-stakes problem only this concept can solve."Jeopardy Clue WriterYou are a Jeopardy Clue Writer.&nbsp; Anytime an AP Biology term is entered, you will create a jeopardy clue using the AP Biology standards set by the AP College Board.&nbsp; For example, if someone entered Charles Darwin into the prompt, you would respond with: He developed the theory of evolution by means of natural selection after a five-year voyage on the HMS Beagle.&nbsp; Let the output be Times new roman font size 12.Add study guides or notes toGarbage Pail TeachersRole and GoalYou are the Garbage Pail Teachers Creator. Your purpose is to take an uploaded photo of a person and a provided name (first or last) and transform them into a high-quality, 1980s-style trading card parody. You specialize in gross-out humor, puns, and classroom-themed chaos.Image Generation GuidelinesWhen a user uploads a photo and provides a name, use the image_generation tool with these specific aesthetic requirements:Art Style: Classic 1980s trading card aesthetic. Hand-painted look with airbrushed textures, vibrant but slightly grimy colors, and thick outlines.Characters: The character must be a caricature of the person in the photo, reimagined as a "teacher" in a messy, surreal, or gross-out school setting.The Sticker Frame: The image must be encased in a classic die-cut sticker border (a white peel-off line) with a colorful header at the top.The Banner: The header must say "GARBAGE PAIL TEACHERS" in the iconic bubbly font.Naming Logic: Create a rhyming or alliterative nickname based on the provided name.Example: For "Guise," use "Greasy Guisey." For "Smith," use "Sickly Smitty."Place this name in the iconic nameplate bar at the bottom or side of the image.Creative ProcessAnalyze the Photo: Identify key features (glasses, hair style, expression) to maintain a "parody likeness."Teacher Theme: Place the character in a classroom context (e.g., covered in chalk dust, tangled in computer wires, eating a "rotten apple," or melting into a desk).The "Gross" Factor: Add a humorous, mildly gross-out element consistent with the original 80s cards (slimy textures, exaggerated expressions, or comical disasters).Interaction StyleStay in character as a mischievous 1980s trading card editor.When a user provides a name, confirm the "punny" nickname you’ve chosen before or during the image generation.Safety Note: Keep the humor "PG-13" gross-out (like the original cards). Avoid mean-spirited content, gore, or truly offensive imagery. Focus on "slapstick mess."Keep the correct spelling of the name.&nbsp; Have the adjective start with the same letter as the name.&nbsp; For example, if the inputted name was "Guise"&nbsp; make it "Greasy-Guise or if the name was "Johnson" make it "Junky-Food Johnson"AP Biology Lesson Plan GeneratorYou are an AP Biology teacher making formalized lesson plans using the College board AP Biology Standards.&nbsp; You must include the following parts of the lesson plan for each lesson: lesson objectives, standards, warm up, instructional strategies, closing activities, differentiation of instruction and/or assessment, and assessment techniques. I will provide the activities and topic for the lesson and you fill in the blanks.&nbsp; Format on canvas mode and make sure each part of the lesson plan is bolded.&nbsp; Please format suitable for a google doc.&nbsp; Make sure The title of the lesson is The Unit # and Lesson # with the title of the lesson and that everything under each section is bulleted. Please don't use emojis in the lesson planAdd

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 209: 10 Fun AI Tools to Try in 2026Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 209 called “10 Fun AI Tools to Try in 2026”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll explore the lighthearted side of AI as we examine some silly AI tools and uses that are guaranteed to make you and your students smile.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;It's just that time of the year.Segment 2:&nbsp;Clipdrop.coGemini’s new “Create Music” option under Tools.&nbsp; Choose a track and then the AI populates lyrics into that track.&nbsp; Right now there are maybe 20-ish tracks in diff music stylespodsmartai.com&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Google Arts and Culture - Art Selfie.&nbsp; Download the app.&nbsp; Be careful with students under 18.&nbsp; Use this fun activity as a starting point for analysis and discussion of classic works.Goblin Toolshttps://goblin.tools/Quick, Draw.&nbsp;&nbsp;Prompt Librarieshttps://promptbase.com/https://gail.wharton.upenn.edu/prompt-library/https://www.thepromptindex.com/Google Labs.&nbsp; The home for AI experiments at Google.&nbsp; This deserves more exploration on our part, but there is a ton here so I’m sharing it as a thing of it’s own.&nbsp; For example,GenTypeis one of the experiments that can create fonts.&nbsp; The example they feature is a font using jelly on toast, where each letter of the alphabet is jelly being spread on pieces of toast.https://boredhumans.com/Talking Tours.&nbsp; An AI audio experiment touring cultural landmarks in Street View on Google Arts &amp; Culture.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter(@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 208: 10 Canva Apps for Teachers in 2026Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 208 called “10 (More) Canva Apps for Teachers”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll revisit the exciting world of canva apps and deliver some old favorites as well as some exciting new finds.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Lunch and Learn preparationSegment 2: AppsCanva: Visual Suite for Everyone 10 Apps presentationQr CodeImage DivideBulk CreatorImage UpscalerVideo EffectsJigsaw PuzzlerAnimatorImage RecolorType CutoutCan SignYouTube EmbedEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter(@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 207: Tips and Tricks for 2026: Chrome and GmailWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 207 called “Tips and Tricks for 2026: Chrome and Gmail”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about some of our favorite tips for surfing the web with chrome and sending or receiving emails in Gmail.&nbsp; Hopefully these hacks can help make your day a little easier.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1: Lost but Now FoundRestore lost or accidentally Control Shift T Command Shift T on a MACZoom in and OutControl +/-Segment 2: Edtech Tips and TricksGoogle Chrome Tips and TricksNickQR CodeGo to the site &gt; Three Dots &gt; Cast,Save, and Share &gt; Create a QR CodeSmart PDF HighlightingUse the "Link to Highlight" feature in Chrome. Right-click any text on a webpage and select "Copy link to highlight." When students click it, they are taken exactly to that sentence on the page.Use Google Lens to grab text from images.&nbsp; Go to the 3 dots &gt; Search with Google Lens &gt; drag around the image with the text you want &gt; choose Copy TextGuiseAdd Tab to Group (Right click on a tab, hit add to group)Send Tabs Across Devices&nbsp;If you find a recipe on your laptop but want to take it to the kitchen on your phone, right-click the tab (or the address bar) and selectSend to your devices.&nbsp;It pops up as a notification on your other device instantly..Make the site an APP: Go to the site &gt; Three Dots &gt; Save and Share &gt; Install page as app. It will now have its own icon in your Taskbar/Dock and won't get lost in your tabs.&nbsp;GmailNick:Find Large AttachmentsType larger:10m in the search bar to find every email taking up more than 10MB. It’s the fastest way to clear storage space.Schedule Send LaterTemplates (Canned Responses)Enable this in Settings &gt; Advanced. Save your standard "Late Work Policy" or "Meeting Request" as a template. To use it, click the three dots in a new draft and hit "Templates."Guise:Undo SendGo to Settings &gt; See all settings &gt; Undo Send and change it to 30 seconds. It’s the ultimate "safety net" for typos.ArchiveThe "Plus" Addressing HackIf your email is [email protected], you can use teacher+[email protected] to sign up for sites. Gmail ignores everything after the +, but you can create a Filter to automatically label or skip the inbox for anything sent to that specific "plus" address.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter(@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 206: Google Vids vs Canva Video and WeVideoWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 206 called “Google Vids vs Canva Video and WeVideo”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about a new-ish Google app called Google Vids and how it stacks up against other popular classroom video creation tools.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1: What is Google Vids?Narrative: Have we ever solved the problem of fast and easy screencasts?&nbsp; A teacher asked me that this week and I realized I didn’t have a great answer. ScreenPal has an extension, but the increased tools make it slower WeVideo has an extension, but it is clunky and not free Screencastify still exists, but have to pay after 10 videosReleased:&nbsp; Google Vids was first announced and released in preview during Google Cloud Next in April 2024, with a wider rollout to all Google Workspace users starting in November 2024 as an AI-powered video creation tool for work.&nbsp;What is it? &nbsp;It is a video editing platform that feels more like creating a Google Slide than a video editing platform.&nbsp; Is this a positive thing … not sure yet.Free Basic Version: All users get access to the web-based editor, allowing recording, importing clips, using templates, and basic editing.&nbsp;AI Extras (Paid): Advanced AI tools, such as AI-generated clips from prompts, AI avatars, and enhanced script/outline generation, require paid Google Workspace or AI plan subscriptions.&nbsp;What can it do?Screen records with or without webcamConverts slides to videoUpload your own photos and videos for editingHas video templates with title slides, animations, etc.Multiple layouts: landscape, portrait, squareHas stock audio from Youtube audio library - good music!Has most, if not all, typical video editing tools: playhead, video preview, splitting, multiple track editing, etc.Benefits:Integration: Works directly within the Google ecosystem, integrating with Google Drive for easy access to files. If you are a Google school, this platform will look familiar to your studentsSharing:&nbsp; familiarity is key.&nbsp; You can share you vids projects just like a doc or slide.&nbsp; We tested simultaneous editing, it works wellRelatively simple to use.&nbsp; I was able to start editing and creating many different types of videos immediately.Downloads are very simple, better than the WeVideo we use with Ss nowWhat Can’t it Do:10 minute time limit - this is a big one"Slideshow" Nature: The primary criticism is that Google Vids is essentially an AI-assisted presentation or slideshow creator, not a full-fledged, cinematic video generation tool. The resulting videos are often described as similar to a Google Slides presentation with transitions.Limited Professional Polish: Veteran video content creators may find the final products lack the polish needed for professional demos or external use, making it better suited for internal team updates and presentations.AI Inconsistencies: The AI's selection of stock media can be "hit-or-miss," sometimes resulting in nonsensical or irrelevant images or video clips being inserted into the project.Lack of Control and Customization: Users have noted difficulties with customization and a lack of granular control.Theme customization is difficult, with limited options to easily change colors and fonts.Export resolution settings are not adjustable, leading to potentially pixilated output when starting with high-quality source footage.Limited stock media selection (music, images, voiceovers) means assets may get recycled across different projects.Segment 2: How does it compare to others?What we think:As a tool for fast and easy classroom video creation:Nick thinks… Vids!&nbsp; Or Canva if I want it to be social media-ishGuise thinks…As a tool for complex video editing:Nick thinks … WeVideo (we already pay for it), Vids if we didn’t pay for itGuise thinks …As a tool for teacher screencasting:Nick thinks … ScreenPal because I pay for it, Vids if I didn’tGuise thinks …&nbsp;As a tool for professional or social media style videos:Nick thinks …CanvaGuise thinks …Will we use Google Vids over other tools like ScreenPal, WeVideo or Screencastify?Nick thinks … No, but if and when we don’t have paid tools, YESGuise thinks …Which tool fits with state of tech in schools today?See the tableEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/WeGotTechED/" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent;color: rgb(17, 85,...

Edtech&nbsp;ThrowdownEpisode&nbsp;205:&nbsp;Edtech&nbsp;Resolutions&nbsp;for&nbsp;2026Welcome&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;EdTech&nbsp;Throwdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;This&nbsp;is&nbsp;episode&nbsp;205&nbsp;called&nbsp;“Edtech&nbsp;Resolutions&nbsp;for&nbsp;2026”&nbsp;&nbsp;In&nbsp;this&nbsp;episode,&nbsp;we’ll&nbsp;talk&nbsp;about&nbsp;our&nbsp;edtech&nbsp;tips&nbsp;and&nbsp;edtech&nbsp;tools&nbsp;that&nbsp;we&nbsp;are&nbsp;excited&nbsp;to&nbsp;explore&nbsp;in&nbsp;the&nbsp;new&nbsp;year.&nbsp;&nbsp;This&nbsp;is&nbsp;another&nbsp;episode&nbsp;you&nbsp;don’t&nbsp;want&nbsp;to&nbsp;miss.&nbsp;&nbsp;Check&nbsp;it&nbsp;out.Segment&nbsp;1:&nbsp;Goodbye&nbsp;2025&nbsp;and&nbsp;Hello&nbsp;2026Narrative:&nbsp;&nbsp;Life&nbsp;was&nbsp;challenging&nbsp;in&nbsp;2025…&nbsp;Welcome&nbsp;2026!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Segment&nbsp;2:&nbsp;Tips,&nbsp;Tools,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Resources&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nick’s&nbsp;An&nbsp;Edtech&nbsp;Tip&nbsp;for&nbsp;2026Building&nbsp;Blocks&nbsp;in&nbsp;Google&nbsp;Docs&nbsp;to&nbsp;templat-ize&nbsp;my&nbsp;doc&nbsp;writingAn&nbsp;Edtech&nbsp;Tool&nbsp;for&nbsp;2026Noteobook&nbsp;LM&nbsp;-&nbsp;so&nbsp;many&nbsp;new&nbsp;tools,&nbsp;I&nbsp;have&nbsp;a&nbsp;feeling&nbsp;there&nbsp;is&nbsp;more&nbsp;to&nbsp;comeAn&nbsp;Edtech&nbsp;Resource&nbsp;for&nbsp;2026Canva&nbsp;Cheat&nbsp;sheetsGuises:An&nbsp;Edtech&nbsp;Tip&nbsp;for&nbsp;2026Simplify&nbsp;TasksGroup&nbsp;tasks&nbsp;to&nbsp;maximize&nbsp;saving&nbsp;timeBoost&nbsp;EngagementReflect&nbsp;on&nbsp;what&nbsp;your&nbsp;students&nbsp;like&nbsp;and&nbsp;make&nbsp;changes&nbsp;to&nbsp;your&nbsp;teachingStreamline&nbsp;WorkflowMake&nbsp;templates&nbsp;based&nbsp;on&nbsp;your&nbsp;core&nbsp;teaching&nbsp;philosophyAn&nbsp;Edtech&nbsp;Tool&nbsp;for&nbsp;2026Canva&nbsp;Code&nbsp;for&nbsp;gamificationAn&nbsp;Edtech&nbsp;Resource&nbsp;for&nbsp;2026Guise’s&nbsp;Guide&nbsp;to&nbsp;Gemini&nbsp;GemsMake&nbsp;a&nbsp;PACT&nbsp;with&nbsp;your&nbsp;Gem:Persona:&nbsp;Give&nbsp;it&nbsp;a&nbsp;job&nbsp;title.Action:&nbsp;Give&nbsp;it&nbsp;a&nbsp;verb&nbsp;(create,&nbsp;grade,&nbsp;simplify).Context:&nbsp;Give&nbsp;it&nbsp;the&nbsp;boundaries&nbsp;(grade&nbsp;level,&nbsp;standards).Template:&nbsp;Give&nbsp;it&nbsp;a&nbsp;structure&nbsp;(table,&nbsp;list,&nbsp;email&nbsp;format).Edtech&nbsp;Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote&nbsp;on&nbsp;twitter&nbsp;@edtechthrowdown&nbsp;and&nbsp;under&nbsp;the&nbsp;pinned&nbsp;post&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;profile.Segment&nbsp;3:&nbsp;Where&nbsp;to&nbsp;Find&nbsp;EdTech&nbsp;ThrowdownDo&nbsp;us&nbsp;a&nbsp;few&nbsp;favors:Subscribe&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;Edtech&nbsp;Throwdown&nbsp;PodcastApple&nbsp;PodcastsSpotifyAmazon&nbsp;PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite&nbsp;us&nbsp;an&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;Podcast&nbsp;Review!Tell&nbsp;your&nbsp;friends&nbsp;about&nbsp;www.edtechthrowdown.comTell&nbsp;your&nbsp;friends&nbsp;about&nbsp;the&nbsp;Teach&nbsp;Better&nbsp;Podcast&nbsp;NetworkSubscribe&nbsp;to&nbsp;our&nbsp;Podcast&nbsp;Channels&nbsp;and&nbsp;SocialsApple&nbsp;PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect&nbsp;with&nbsp;us&nbsp;on&nbsp;Social&nbsp;MediaGuise’s&nbsp;Social&nbsp;MediaTwitter&nbsp;(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s&nbsp;Social&nbsp;MediaTwitter&nbsp;(@nickgotteched)Music&nbsp;Credits:Intro&nbsp;and&nbsp;Outro&nbsp;Music-&nbsp;American&nbsp;Idle&nbsp;-&nbsp;RKVCSegment&nbsp;Identifiers-&nbsp;Duck&nbsp;in&nbsp;the&nbsp;Alley&nbsp;-&nbsp;TrackTribeEdtech&nbsp;Throwdown-&nbsp;Born&nbsp;a&nbsp;Rockstar&nbsp;(Instrumental)&nbsp;-&nbsp;NEFEXNeed&nbsp;a&nbsp;Presenter?As&nbsp;experienced&nbsp;presenters&nbsp;and&nbsp;content&nbsp;creators,&nbsp;you&nbsp;can&nbsp;contact&nbsp;Nick&nbsp;and&nbsp;Guise&nbsp;to&nbsp;speak&nbsp;at&nbsp;your&nbsp;school,&nbsp;event,&nbsp;or&nbsp;conference.&nbsp;They&nbsp;can&nbsp;customize&nbsp;a&nbsp;workshop&nbsp;that&nbsp;meets&nbsp;your&nbsp;organization’s&nbsp;unique&nbsp;time&nbsp;and&nbsp;content&nbsp;needs.&nbsp;While&nbsp;no&nbsp;topic&nbsp;is&nbsp;out&nbsp;of&nbsp;bounds,&nbsp;we&nbsp;are&nbsp;best&nbsp;known&nbsp;for&nbsp;sessions&nbsp;on:AI&nbsp;For&nbsp;Teachers,&nbsp;Admin,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Parents1:1&nbsp;Chromebook&nbsp;IntegrationEdTech&nbsp;ThrowdownTargetED&nbsp;LearningGamification&nbsp;(Badge&nbsp;Systems)Game-Based&nbsp;Learning&nbsp;(Escape&nbsp;Rooms,&nbsp;Amazing&nbsp;Race,&nbsp;and&nbsp;more)Google&nbsp;apps&nbsp;and&nbsp;extensionsPersonalized&nbsp;learning&nbsp;and&nbsp;Choice&nbsp;BoardsTeacher&nbsp;productivity&nbsp;(Lesson&nbsp;Planning,&nbsp;Online&nbsp;Grading.&nbsp;and&nbsp;Feedback)Digital&nbsp;content&nbsp;creationStudent&nbsp;PodcastingScreencastingFlipped&nbsp;ClassroomStudent-Centered&nbsp;Learning

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 204: Edtech WrappedWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 204 called “Edtech Wrapped”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about our version of spotify wrapped to take a look back at our edtech year in review.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative:&nbsp; Guise, do you know what Spotify Wrapped is?We assembled our own edtech version of Spotify Wrapped as a way to talk about trends over the past year.By the way, Ditch That Textbook has some really cool Wrapped Templates that you can use in your classroom.&nbsp; Check out the link here.Segment 2: Edtech Wrapped 2025Instead of most played song, artist and genre, we will do most used edtech tool, most used tip or trick, most used strategy/lesson/activityNick’s WrappedMost played song ( edtech tool )Gemini Gems - game changing for AI in educationCheck out Eric CurtsEdugemsMost played artist ( edtech tip or trick )Canva EmailsMost played genre ( strategy/lesson/activity )Flipped classroom, incorporating edpuzzleCan Edpuzzle remain competitive as edtech tools grow in scope?&nbsp;They are trying!Guises WrappedMost played song ( edtech tool )Canva Magic- 3d models, roller style, design and elements*** Bonus*** The update to video editorMost played artist ( edtech tip or trick )If you have gorilla paws like me… stop using a keyboard… trywisprflow.aiMost played genre ( strategy/lesson type )Flipped App SmashDiffit → Notebook LMEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter(@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 203Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 203 called Tech or Treat: 8 (More) Edtech Tools for the Classroom Teacher (Part 3).&nbsp; In this episode, we will continue exploring a new list of edtech tools that can enhance, engage, and save time.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.NicksFirstfive: The First Five is a free daily resource that provides teachers with over 20 ready-to-use activities to start the day with a focus on connection, care, and character. These quick activities, which include memes, check-ins, and mindfulness moments, require no extra prep and take five minutes or less.Teachflix: Teachflix is a curated collection of educational videos, sorted into various categories, that teachers can use with their students in the classroom. It serves as a resource to find engaging video content perfect for kickstarting lessons and great conversations.Teachertube: This is an educational video-sharing website designed for those in the education industry, primarily teachers, to share resources like video, audio, documents, and photos. It contains a mix of classroom teaching resources and materials designed for teacher training.netflexkids.com: This website is a platform that curates and provides high-quality health and fitness video content for children, ranging from dance routines to workouts and interactive games. It aims to be the number one resource for teachers and parents looking for safe, active, and engaging physical education materials for all ages.Guise’sschools.tutero.com: This platform provides teachers with tools like AI-generated, curriculum-aligned worksheets, lesson plans, and diagnostic assessments, focusing on making mathematics clearer and more accessible. A key feature is theWorked Solutions, which guide students through math problems step-by-step to build their autonomy and understanding of the reasoning.Gibbly ai in Canva Apps: Gibbly is an AI assistant that empowers teachers to create curriculum-aligned lesson presentations and gamified quizzes in minutes. The Canva app integration allows teachers to generate a polished, visual presentation directly within their Canva design, significantly reducing prep time.Bamboozle: Baamboozle is a game-based learning platform that turns traditional lesson content into interactive and enjoyable games, primarily for educational purposes. Educators can create their own customizable games or choose from a library of pre-made games to foster team collaboration and competition in the classroom.Classroom zen: ClassroomZen is a free classroom noise management tool developed by SMART Technologies. It helps encourage a calm and peaceful environment by using friendly monster pals and various customizable environments to reinforce positive classroom management and self-management skills.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter<span style="background-color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 202Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 202 called Tech or Treat: 8 (More) Edtech Tools for the Classroom Teacher (Part 2).&nbsp; In this episode, we will continue exploring a new list of edtech tools that can enhance, engage, and save time.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.NIck’s&nbsp;UniqLearn(Coming Soon)Creates a profile for each student and then develops a lesson to tailor who that student learns best. This forthcoming platform is designed to personalize the learning experience by assessing each student's learning profile and then generating tailored lessons that best match their individual learning style.Common Core Sheets: This tool is an online resource that provides thousands of free, printable math and English language arts worksheets aligned with Common Core State Standards. The sheets cover a vast range of grade levels and topics, giving teachers and parents easy access to practice materials.makeprogressai.ca: This is an AI-powered report card comment generator designed to help teachers quickly create thoughtful, student-specific feedback. By inputting student strengths and areas for growth, the tool instantly generates professional, polished, and personalized comments for reports and assessments.ziplet.com:[Information not found via search]This platform is an engagement and feedback tool that allows teachers to easily collect and act on student feedback using simple questions (ziplets) via a secure link. It helps facilitate open communication and gives teachers real-time insights into student understanding and wellbeing to inform instruction.Guise’sRewordify: This is a text leveling tool that helps improve reading comprehension by simplifying complex sentences and words in a given text without changing its core meaning. It identifies challenging vocabulary and phrases, replacing them with easier alternatives to enhance understanding for students and language learners.123apps.com: This is a free online software suite providing a variety of multimedia tools for everyday use, including audio, video, PDF, and image editing. It operates entirely within a web browser, offering over fifty utilities like a video cutter, audio converter, and PDF editor without needing any downloads.almanack.ai: Almanack is an AI-powered education platform that assists teachers in creating standards-aligned lesson plans, curriculum designs, and various classroom resources efficiently. It functions as an AI teaching assistant, streamlining curriculum planning, resource generation, and assessment creation.Classroomcereal: This is a series of free, short, engaging PDF stories that double as daily grammar exercises. Each story is broken into five parts, and students must act as editors to find and correct five grammatical mistakes in each part.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter<span...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 201: Tech or Treat: 8 Edtech Tools for the Classroom Teacher (Part 1)&nbsp;Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 201 called Tech or Treat: 8 Edtech Tools for the Classroom Teacher (Part 1).&nbsp; In this episode, we will go edtech trick or treating with a new list of edtech tools that can enhance, engage, and save time.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Happy halloweenWhat’s New?&nbsp;Tech or Treat gameSegment 2:Johnson’sStudy Fetch- create accurate games from your course materials in seconds. This platform uses AI to transform your existing class content, like notes and lectures, into customized and educational games for quick, fun review.Teachershare AI: This tool is an AI Resource Creator designed for educators to quickly generate high-quality, curriculum-aligned materials such as worksheets, quizzes, and other resources. You can import existing content like PDFs or Google Slides or start from a template to produce customized teaching materials in seconds.DeckToys: Digital Game Boards. Deck.Toys is a lesson planning platform that lets teachers create engaging, interactive learning paths that feel like a video game. It works with existing materials and is designed to simplify lesson planning while providing a fun, self-paced exploration experience for students.loorex.com: This website is an online test engine and exam-related tool that allows users to create, publish, and manage their own exams, tests, or quizzes. It is a modern, web-based application suitable for both academic and professional settings to manage assessments, track results, and secure knowledge verification.Guise’s&nbsp;&nbsp;Gynzy Whiteboard Tool: Gynzy offers a suite of teaching resources for interactive whiteboards, including a digital whiteboard, lesson-building tools, and a content library of ready-to-teach lessons. It's designed to bring the interactive whiteboard to life with tools, templates, quizzes, and games to engage students.Gamma AI- Take old slides and gives them a fresh look in seconds. This AI tool quickly converts old, dated presentations into modern, engaging, and professional-looking slide decks.rasterbator.net: This is a free online tool that allows users to enlarge any image into a multi-page poster or print. The tool works by dividing the image into numerous tiles that can be printed on standard paper and then reassembled to create a massive wall poster.Tiermaker: TierMaker is a utility that allows users to create and customize "tier lists" to rank or classify anything they want, such as video game characters, food, or books. Teachers can adapt this concept to create visual ranking activities for topics in the classroom, fostering discussion and prioritizing concepts.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-guise-ed-d-b4464730/" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent;color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 200: Is Google Gemini the Ultimate Educational AI?Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 200 called Is Google Gemini the Ultimate Educational AI?&nbsp; In this episode, we will discuss the good and the bad of Google Gemini as we try to answer the question - is this the ultimate educational AI tool?&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Congrats on episode 200 - we had a plan but scheduling conflicts and a busy schedule pushes us back.We’ve been presenting like crazy and Google Gemini keeps popping up.&nbsp; It does what school ai does.&nbsp; It does what magic school does.&nbsp; It’s “safe”.&nbsp; This raises the question … is it the ultimate tool?100 Ways to Use Google GeminiSegment 2:Where is it?Find it by clicking the waffle icon of any Chrome account, it is sitting there amongst your other google appsWhy use it?Easy to find part of the google platform your school is already used toFollows the same privacy and security guidelines as other google products.&nbsp; This means that if your school is already a google school, they can turn it on for both staff and students with less concern about how info is sharedExports directly into Google DocsGeneral features as of 2025Flash vs. ProGuided Learning ModeCanvas ModeImage GenerationAdding files, documents and picturesGems!Combats some downsides of AI withLearnLMDownsides:AI just became easier to access and use - the downsides are many (brain health, environmental concerns, cheating, the loss of struggle, etc)Not all students are ready and Gemini makes it so easyGoogle is a behemoth and we are feeding it (in the words of matt miller).&nbsp; Remember that Google is offering this for free so they hook us all in to their world.&nbsp; Is this inherently bad … im not sure.Our favorite Use Cases:Creating fun images or image alterations for class (nicks chemistry superhero)Creating personalized digital stickers (gemstickers)Google Classroom toolsare pretty cool, even if your school doesn’t use Google Classroom for it’s full LMS functionalityCanvas can code websites and apps just like Canva Code!Gems can make personalized AI tutors just like SchoolAI or Magic SchoolPHONE STUFFEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter(@guisegotteched)<a...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 199: Edtech Smorgasboard: 8 Cool Websites for TeachersWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 199 called Edtech Smorgasboard: 8 Cool Websites for Teachers.&nbsp; In this episode, we have collected a grab-bag of intriguing websites for educators of all kinds.&nbsp; Will one of these be your next digital rabbit hole?&nbsp; Probably!&nbsp; But there is only one way to find out though, listen in now.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Approaching 200 episodesSegment 2:Kiddo worksheetThe term refers to educational printables designed for children, helping younger students practice basic skills like letters and numbers, and older kids with subjects like math and science. These online resources often offer free, customizable templates for parents and teachers to quickly create engaging learning materials.Radio.gardenTravel around the world AND through time, listening to various radio station recordings.&nbsp; Super fascinating and could be used in a variety of history, geography, sociology projects.Tv.gardenTv.gardenis a free streaming platform that grants users access to thousands of live television channels from across the globe without requiring a subscription. You can browse streams by country or content category, making it a great tool for watching international news, sports, and entertainment.NASA’s Solar System TreksVirtual reality treks using real time data returned from nasa’s fleet of spacecraft.&nbsp; You can Trek in the browser on a computer OR scan a QR and use virtual reality and your phone.&nbsp; Choose a trek, scan a qr code, and explore right on your phone.Drivelisten.comDrivelisten.comis a popular web app that offers a unique virtual travel experience, allowing users to take a simulated drive, walk, or cycle through major cities worldwide. While cruising the streets, you can listen to a synchronized stream of the city's actual local radio stations, with the option to turn on road noise for a fully immersive feel.Gem StickersInstant stickers!Ifixit.comiFixit.comis the world's largest free online repair manual, providing over a hundred thousand step-by-step guides for fixing everything from smartphones and computers to household appliances and vehicles. The site also functions as an online store where users can purchase the exact parts, tools, and kits needed to complete their own DIY device repairs.Whatsmyname.appWhatsMyName.appis a powerful online investigation tool designed to search for a specific username across hundreds of different social media, shopping, and business platforms simultaneously. This OSINT resource helps users quickly determine a person or organization's digital footprint and locate all existing accounts tied to that chosen alias.YouTube TrickThis URL trick is an effective way to view a YouTube video in a clean, full-screen pop-up window without the distraction of comments, recommended videos, or other on-page elements. To use it, simply insert_popupimmediately after the wordwatchin the video's URL before the question mark (e.g.,youtube.com/watch_popup?v=...).Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;<a

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 198: Educators as AI Guides: Crafting Resources for Families and CommunitiesWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 198 called Educators as AI Guides: Crafting Resources for Families and Communities.&nbsp; In this episode, we will walk through a step by step process that educators can follow for creating AI resources that are not just for staff and students, but the community as a whole.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;We are concluding a 3 year journey that has attempted to establish AI policy, share the ai policy with staff and students, teach staff about ai, teach students about ai, and the final phase … teaching the community.One thing that still surprises me is the number of people (usually adults) who don’t use AI.&nbsp; Maybe they disagree with it, maybe they don’t know where to go or what to do, or maybe they just don’t care.&nbsp; But everyone has a stake in at least knowing what these tools are capable of.A local library reached out to the school district and asked if we would collaborate on creating, sharing and presenting resources from the school so that the community could learn from them AND be aware of what schools are doing with AI.This is our journey, laid out in a step-by-step manner so that it might help others trying to accomplish the same thing.Segment 2:Establish policy at the highest levels possible (board, superintendent, etc).Must start here so you have a legally backed document to fall back onThis can be slow and painfulStart identifying the stakeholder’s opinionsTeachers,StudentsAdministratorsParentsHave a focus group to help with wordsmithingIdentify proper use/misuseEstablish an “AI director” for the districtNot a new position, someone who already has a tech roleThis person is responsible for maintaining and updating the resources and plan that followsThis person may also want to recruit a small team to help them build out and present the materials (tech coaches, media specialists, etc)Create a public space to clearly communicate that policyWebsite is probably the best option, social posts are too fleetingCould also be a document that gets linked somewhere, like a school websiteCreate easily digestible versions of that policy“Infographic” that policy!&nbsp; No one likes to read policy, so make it digestible in the form of an infographicShoe-horn it as an FAQ pageBeautified PDF or Canva docCanva slide deck - make it presentable and informative since this is what people will likely go to for policy informationCreate a public hub that collects AI resources for everyoneTo me, website is the only option hereNeeds to be linked to the school districts websiteMust have …The actual board policy languageSections for staff, students, and communityQuick links for commonly accessed informationShare with staffSurveys and focus groups in the early stages - make them feel heard, this is a hot topicMulti-pronged approachIn-person PD on in-service daysReady-made classroom materials like postersDifferentiate the options they have for accessing info and sharing with students: video AND slides AND docs AND …Examples of how this policy affects real things like a syllabus, assignment directions, second chance learning, use of computers, etc.Specific information about what they can do to help stop AI use and what to do when students are misusing itRegular remindersShare with studentsCreate common language used between all stakeholdersAppropriate usagesInappropriate usagesAI policy at the district level, school level, classroom levelDifferent modes of communicationSyllabusAI policy websiteStudent handbookClassroom posterShare with communityFirst, share your resource hub on social mediaSecond, create a schedule for social media posts that contain information from the policy.&nbsp; Keep it positive!&nbsp; For example, a post that shows how a well known teacher is using AI to help support student learning.Third, create resources that teach people about AI, what it is, how it is used in schools, how they can use it in their everyday livesFinal stage: collab with local groups like libraries, AI night for parents to joinContinuing updates and educationShowcase new tools, policies, and guidelinesSocial mediaSuperintendent NewsletterWebsite updateVideosBack to School nightTeacher communication emails/newsletters<strong...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 197: 10 Low-Tech Ways to Refocus StudentsWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp;This is Episode 197 called 10 Low-Tech Ways to Refocus Students.&nbsp;In this episode, we will talk about 10 low-tech or no-tech ideas for brain breaks, mindful moments, whatever you call them, you’ll learn some cool ways to refocus students in your classroom.&nbsp;This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1: School OpeningOur school opening PD days focused on the importance of getting kids off screens.Funny because I’ve been hearing students for years say they still prefer pieces of paper for many things in class and that they get tired of looking at their tiny chromebook screen.This also makes sense because there are strong links to learning and handwriting.&nbsp;Also, have you ever tried staring at a screen for your job all day?&nbsp;It’s not fun.In that spirit, we collected some ideas for brain breaks / mindful moments, with a focus on low tech or no tech solutions.Segment 2: Low Tech or No Tech Brain BreaksBingo Bongo SplatYou write down a secret number on a piece of paper so you don’t forget it yourself.&nbsp;Can be as many digits as you want.&nbsp;Students take turns guessing the number.&nbsp;As they make a guess, you record it for all of them to see, along with the word, bingo, bongo, or splat.&nbsp;Check out the Tik Tok video from LifeofSteph on thisBingo=1 digit in the right placeBongo=1 digit but in the wrong placeSplat=nothing matchesReverse Simon SaysSame rules as Simon Says—but if you don’t hear “Simon says,” you should do the action. Flips their brains into focus mode.Slow Reveal GraphsSeries of images of graphs, beginning with almost no labels or information, then slowly adding more.&nbsp;Students share out what they think the graph is about.&nbsp;Their responses get more detailed and specific with each new reveal.&nbsp;Teaches graph skills and is fun!Bandle Phone AppWordleRemember that craze!&nbsp;It’s still around.&nbsp;Play the real NYT version or make your own at flipptyWhich doesn’t belong?4 images are shown and students must argue for which one doesn’t belong.&nbsp;There should be a possible reason that could be argued for each image.&nbsp;Start with a dessert example (chocolate layer cake, choco chip cookies, berry pie, ice cream), and then make one that fits your content.&nbsp;Close by having students design one.&nbsp;Extend this by having them present it.Story TagOne student starts a silly story with one sentence, and it goes around the room quickly. Each adds just one sentence—short and energizing.Another option:&nbsp;You will tell a story one word at a time. Ideally you’re in a circle on arranged in a way that’s clear which order you’ll go in. The first student starts with one word (One), then the next student comes up with another word (morning), then the next student continues (a)…Another option:&nbsp;You will tell a story using only questions. Ideally you’re in a circle on arranged in a way that’s clear which order you’ll go in.&nbsp;The first student starts: “Where did the dog go?”&nbsp;The next continues with: “I’m not sure, should we go look for him?”The next continues with: “Do you know where his leash is?”Upside-Down ArtistStudents have 30 seconds to doodle something on scrap paper—but they must hold the paper upside down while drawing. Quick, funny reset.Island packing list/I’m going on a picnicYou’ll need to decide the rule for things allowed on the picnic. Maybe it’s green things, or things that begin with the letter B, or things that you can eat…Students will take turns asking if they can bring X on the picnicTheir goal is to try to get everyone to figure out the rule.&nbsp;Mirror GameIn pairs, one student makes slow movements while the other “mirrors” exactly. Switch roles after 30 seconds.Word Problem Battleship/Connect 4/ Tic-Tac-ToeEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;(@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 196: Classroom Activities for the Beginning of SchoolWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 196: Classroom Activities for the Beginning of School.&nbsp; In this episode, we will share 8 new and improved ideas for starting off the school year in the most fun, positive and student centered way possible.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1: September is coming… back to school is approaching!Segment 2: Back to School ActivitiesGuise:Team ChallengesDesign, Build, Retrieve, CompleteClass RelayQR Scavenger HuntMinute to Win it PuzzlesSuccessful completion in under a minute gets their team a piece of the puzzleEscape RoomSurvey the class before the start of the yearAnimated Avatar Design with Canva and https://sketch.metademolab.com/Silent line-up (extreme):&nbsp; Students have to line up by birth date, ABC order etc, but with built in challenges unique to your classroom like half of the people are blindfolded or an extremely short time limitSurvival Scenario:&nbsp; choose ten items from a large listEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent Podcasting<span style="background-color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 195: Rethinking Research: Teaching Inquiry and Integrity in the Age of AIWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 195 called Rethinking Research: Teaching Inquiry and Integrity in the Age of AI.&nbsp; In this episode, we will explore how the role of a teacher must change now that AI is becoming integrated in all aspects of our lives.&nbsp; Specifically, we’ll share 8 changes you can make to your classroom and assignments that will help encourage students to think creatively and critically in an age where it’s more important than ever.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;As my students completed their final projects, I started noticing something this year … all their work was very technically sound and met my project expectations almost perfectly.&nbsp; Was it too perfect?Specific example:&nbsp; One of the elements of my rubric references a creative title.&nbsp; Usually everyone does “Chemistry of __”, but this year, they were all things like “9 Volts, 2 Electrodes, 1 Reaction: The Chemistry Behind the Charge and the Connection”.&nbsp; So what suddenly happened this year for me to get such great titles?Also - When students came to me with questions about content, like the girl who needed help understanding the chemistry of Na/K pumps in cells, I found myself going to ChatGPT for the fastest resolution.&nbsp; Clearly they are doing the same.Two questions arose:Is this research?Is this type of research good or bad?Segment 2: Student Research in the Age of AI1. Redefine Research as Inquiry, Not Just Information GatheringAI makes facts and summaries instantly accessible, so teachers should shift the focus from finding information to asking meaningful questions. Students should be taught that good research begins with curiosity and that AI is just one of many tools in that process.Teacher Tip: Require students to submit a “research question development log” showing how their question evolved through discussion, feedback, and exploration.2. Teach AI Literacy as Part of Research InstructionStudents need to understand how AI tools work, their limitations, and the potential for bias or misinformation. This helps them critically evaluate what AI produces instead of blindly trusting it.Teacher Tip: Have students compare AI-generated content with academic sources and reflect on differences in depth, credibility, and tone.3. Require Research Process DocumentationRather than just grading final products, assess the steps students took during the research process: topic selection, source evaluation, note-taking, outlining, etc.Teacher Tip: Use research journals, annotated bibliographies, or reflection checkpoints to track progress and thinking.4. Emphasize Source Evaluation SkillsAI can summarize or suggest sources, but it can’t always vet them well. Students must be taught how to evaluate a source’s credibility, purpose, and relevance—skills that AI cannot replace.Teacher Tip: Require students to justify the inclusion of each source in their work with a brief analysis of its trustworthiness and value.5. Assign Synthesis Over SummaryAI excels at summarizing; students must be pushed to synthesize information—connecting multiple perspectives, forming original insights, and constructing arguments.Teacher Tip: Ask students to write or present the "So what?" of their research—what do all the sources together reveal, and what can we learn from that?6. Use Oral Defenses or In-Class WritingOne way to ensure authentic work is to ask students to explain or recreate their findings in real-time, without AI assistance.Teacher Tip: After submitting a research paper, have students do a brief oral defense or timed writing prompt based on their research.7. Require Human and AI Source TransparencyMake it a norm to credit how AI tools were used in the research process. This reinforces academic honesty and helps differentiate between AI assistance and student work.Teacher Tip: Include a required “AI Usage Statement” in which students disclose how (or if) AI contributed to their research.8. Design Creative, Personalized, or Localized Research TasksGeneric essay prompts are easy to outsource to AI. Unique, specific, or personally relevant tasks are harder to fake and more meaningful for students.Teacher Tip: Frame research around local issues, class discussions, personal experiences, or school-specific themes to increase authenticity and engagement.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about <a href="http://www.edtechthrowdown.com" target="_blank" style="background-color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 194: Tech That Teaches: Hardware We Actually LoveWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 194 called Tech That Teaches: Hardware We Actually Love.&nbsp; In this episode, we will go over the hardware that allows our classrooms and offices to run smoothly and efficiently.&nbsp; Save time, headaches, and hopefully some money!&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Who doesn’t like gadgets?Segment 2:Nick’s GadgetsWorkstation Set-Up:&nbsp; Use a USB splitter connected to an external monitor.&nbsp; That splitter has all my “stuff” to facilitate quick connection. Connect my laptop to the monitor and then I’m also auto-connected to all my gadgets.&nbsp; I use the Anker Hub 4 Ports and love it, but there are many options that are all pretty good.Second monitor!&nbsp; Dell 27 inch Monitor, P2725H Full HD 1080p Computer Monitor.&nbsp; If you haven’t started using a second monitor, get on it!Wacom Tablet - I like this better than a touch screen stylus because it feels more like writing on a piece of paper.&nbsp; When I use the stylus, I find that it my hand accidentally clicks things on the screen, zooming in by mistake, etc.&nbsp; I have the wired version, which is limiting.&nbsp; Get the wireless!Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Cardioid Dynamic Microphone:&nbsp; I’ve heard lots of teachers like the Blue Yeti or the Rode Podcaster, but my favorite has always been the AT.&nbsp; All the other mics I’ve tried sound tinny.Multi-device Charging StationGuise’s Gadgets:Dinofire Presentation ClickerC Desk Clam Power StripDYMO Label Maker or DYMO Label Maker USB<a href="https://www.amazon.com/sspa/click?ie=UTF8&amp;spc=MToyNTg4MDMxOTgzNDMwNzQ2OjE3NDkyMTEyNTQ6c3Bfc2VhcmNoX3RoZW1hdGljOjMwMDUwNTI3ODgxMDIwMjo6Mjo6&amp;url=%2FLaminator-Machine-Laminating-Portable-Personal%2Fdp%2FB08JGHC2D2%2Fref%3Dsxin_15_pa_sp_search_thematic_sspa%3Fcontent-id%3Damzn1.sym.dd72f1c7-655d-4b60-b1bd-fe74fe8a5924%253Aamzn1.sym.dd72f1c7-655d-4b60-b1bd-fe74fe8a5924%26cv_ct_cx%3Dtech%2Btools%2Bfor%2Bteachers%26keywords%3Dtech%2Btools%2Bfor%2Bteachers%26pd_rd_i%3DB08JGHC2D2%26pd_rd_r%3D19f9caa3-5708-45fa-be11-3bfc968be0a6%26pd_rd_w%3DGOXNK%26pd_rd_wg%3D3KMdW%26pf_rd_p%3Ddd72f1c7-655d-4b60-b1bd-fe74fe8a5924%26pf_rd_r%3DGRCJ1FNY36J5D4DAD6TA%26qid%3D1749211251%26sbo%3D9ZOMT9Jm0JH%252Ft%252BWi68iDSA%253D%253D%26sr%3D1-51-f853d353-bf33-45e7-b5c2-2cb2b31abc9b-spons%26xpid%3D1qhNL9hE377CM%26sp_csd%3Dd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9zZWFyY2hfdGhlbWF0aWM%26psc%3D1" target="_blank" style="background-color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 193: Check This Edtech OutWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 193 called Check This Edtech Out.&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll share some edtech tools that we would use to create a specific activity for a specific purpose in our classroom.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Segment 2: &nbsp; 3:50 into a long pause as we took attendanceClassroom Environment PrepIdeasPostersRulesEdtechCanvaDigital WebsitesDo Nows/Q of the Day/Exit TicketsIdeasGraph FridayWhat’s in a PictureAssessment PrepTeam BuildingConnectionsEdtechCanva SheetsGraph of the Day WebsiteQuizizzClasshook.comCourse Long GamificationIdeasSurvivorLeaderboardsEdtechCanva SitesGoogle SitesFlippity.netgoosechase.comActivity WebsiteIdeasCase StudyData nuggetsCERPlaylistChoice BoardsEdtechGoogle SitesCanva SitesEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7M5Y16veCo" target="_blank"...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 192: Awesome Edtech for the SummerWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 192 called Awesome Edtech for the Summer.&nbsp; Every year when school ends we publish an episode where Guise and I share what we’ll be reading, listening to, and exploring over the summer break. 192 is that episode and this is another you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1: Summer PlansSummer plansSegment 2: Resources for the SummerNickPodcastsScience Vs:&nbsp; here are a lot of fads, blogs and strong opinions, but then there’s SCIENCE. Science Vs is the show from Spotify Studios that finds out what’s fact, what’s not, and what’s somewhere in between. We do the hard work of sifting through all the science so you don't have to and cover everything from 5G and ADHD, to Fluoride and Fasting Diets.Mr. Barton Maths:&nbsp; How do you make a podcast about math? By coming at it from a human-first perspective and examining why so many students (and teachers) have an instinctual adverse reaction to the subject. Host Craig Barton is a former math educator and founder of diagnostic educational software company Eedi, so he has a fair bit of personal experience in the subject matter. U.S. listeners should note that Barton is based in the U.K.; while some of the references to the British education system may not resonate, the sentiment behind the content certainly will.BooksEverything is Tuberculosis by John GreeneTeachers and Machines: The Classroom of Technology Since 1920Grab BagFully explore Canva Code.&nbsp; What is it good at, what is it not.Nanolearning Unit Development:&nbsp; This is a good website that covers the differences between nano and micro and how to do implement themGuisePodcasts&nbsp;Steph and Joe on the Go&nbsp;&nbsp;The Brain Health PodcastJoin Dr. Jonah Yakel on the Brain Health Podcast where we discuss cutting-edge science and natural strategies to help maximize brain function while aiming to slow, stop, and even reverse symptoms of cognitive decline.Books&nbsp;&nbsp;Powerful Teaching: Unleash the Science of Learningempowers educators to harness research on how students learn. Written in collaboration with a K–12 teacher, Powerful Teaching is filled with evidence-based strategies that transform learning—without additional prep or grading.Baseball Mindset:&nbsp;&nbsp;Grab Bag&nbsp;Canva SheetPush out Canva designed AP Biology practice problems to the LMS&nbsp;&nbsp;Bulk create canva app&nbsp;&nbsp;Adobe Aeroa tool that allows users to create, share, and view interactive augmented reality (AR) experiences without needing to code. It's available for iOS and as a public beta for macOS and Windows. Aero allows users to bring their own assets, such as 2D and 3D objects, audio, and more, to create engaging AR experiences.Ambassador Programs / PD Collectionshttps://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1fzLNKC13WcAmLUVea8hyCiHv-KHKOBt7XXY4N6Z-nKA/edit?usp=sharinghttps://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18GtutWr8iO156-yEZIdf2B2ZA2RUysN8WX9JIryk3LE/edit?usp=sharing&nbsp;Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 191: 10 Canva Code Ideas for TeachersWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 191 called 10 Canva Code Ideas for Teachers.&nbsp; In this episode we’ll introduce, explain and analyze one of the features in Canva AI called Canva Code.&nbsp; We’ll also share 10 ways that teachers can use it to help spark your creativity when it comes to this exciting new feature.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1: Intro to Canva CodeWhat is it?&nbsp; Canva’s AI writes code for you to create specific games/apps/simulations/etc that function in Canva.&nbsp; When you’ve got the code just right by prompting and then adjusting with other prompts, you can publish it as a Canva website for easy sharing.What do you do with the code?&nbsp; The code produced can be copy-pasted to other places OR just published directly in Canva as a Canva website.Downsides:&nbsp;Initial teacher response is often “why do i need to write code”?It can take some time to get the code right to produce what you wantDoes it exist somewhere else?&nbsp; For example, why make a quizzes app in Canva?The prompt has a character limit, so you’ll have to adjust it as you go.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, start with a prompt that describes only the function of the app.&nbsp; Then adjust it afterwards related to design.&nbsp; Then again for differentiation, etc.Why Use it: (what makes it worth the time)TREMENDOUS capability for teachers to make things that don’t exist anywhere else onlineCan ask it to add specific differentiations into any game/app created for whatever students you haveSkip labor intensive prep for physical gamesSegment 2: Canva Code Ideas for TeachersNicks 5Interactive Periodic TableVirtual Lab about Color Theory (Art Lesson)Geometry Shape ExplorerInteractive Poem CreatorInteractive Classroom TimerGuises’ 5Interactive WorksheetsEscape Room PuzzlesLeaderboardsClassroom WebsiteTo-Do List Hierarchy&nbsp;Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHeO4mtUIQ4"

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 190:&nbsp;Stump the Edtech GuruWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 190 called Stump the Edtech Guru.&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll try and stump each other with some of the toughest edtech challenges we could think of.&nbsp; Each guru will have to come up with a solution on the spot. &nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out.Segment 1: Friendly CompetitionWe compete with everythingSegment 2: Stump the Edtech GuruNick’s Scenarios:Scenario 1:&nbsp;The AI Essay Epidemic.&nbsp; Ms. Rivera teaches 10th grade English and has just assigned a personal narrative essay. As she begins grading, she notices several essays that seem... off. They're grammatically perfect, lack any personal voice, and a few students even use similar turns of phrase.&nbsp; The students cited AI use, and even included a link to a specific conversation in a tool called Perplexity.&nbsp; When examining the link however, it only shows the student asking questions about the topic.&nbsp; In other words, there is no evidence of having the AI do the writing, at least not in this particular chat.&nbsp; The student denies any AI use other than what was cited.&nbsp; What should she do?PerplexityGoogle DocsAi Works CitedScenario 2:The Silent Discussion Board.&nbsp; Mr. Chen is running a blended learning environment for his 8th grade social studies class. He’s trying to build engagement with online discussion boards through Google Classroom and Flip. He posts thoughtful prompts, but most students either don’t respond, copy each other, or leave low-effort replies like ‘I agree.’ He knows these kids have opinions—they just don’t seem to bring them into the digital space. Mr. Chen is wondering: is it the prompt? The platform? The digital culture? Or is this just a lost cause?Padlet SandboxMEAL PlanCERCANVAScenario 3:&nbsp;Mrs. Daughtry is a veteran science teacher who’s always been open to new ideas. But lately, her school has adopted a slew of new edtech platforms: a new LMS, AI feedback tools, quiz generators, and now a parent communication app—all with different logins, layouts, and learning curves. She claims to receive “multiple emails per week” from various admins and coaches touting EVEN MORE options for edtech.&nbsp; Her students are confused, parents are overwhelmed, and she’s spending more time managing tech than teaching content. She’s asking herself: how do I streamline this chaos without ignoring district expectations or shortchanging students?CanvaGoogle SuiteGuise’s Scenarios:Scenario 1:You are the edtech coach of a building, and you were just informed that you have two students moving into the high school that speak very little English.&nbsp; Their English level is that of a 3rd grader.&nbsp; Devise a plan to help a core curriculum teacher differentiate a lesson to help these two students.NotebookLMDiffitScenario 2:&nbsp;Each year during awards/banquet season, you are approached with helping make certificates, posters, etc. from the same people.&nbsp; Unfortunately, this year, you have a lot of projects due where you know you don’t have time to get to everyone’s needs. Develop a plan that would help you help them.&nbsp;CanvaBulk Create app using a CSV fileAdobe ExpressScenario 3:You have finished your curriculum and have given the final. You have 5 instructional days left to do some type of gamified activity. What’s your plan?KahootBlooketGimkitQuizizzDigital Escape the RoomBonus:You are an Edtech podcaster who does an Edtech throwdown against your cohost. You have lost the last 10 in a row. What do you do to make sure you don’t lose the next one?Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials<a...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 189: AI in Education: Friend of Foe?Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 189 called AI in Education: Friend of Foe.&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll give you our annual State of Education address as we explore the hot topics in edtech right now.&nbsp; We’ll also debate the pros and cons of AI in education today, this is another episode you dont’ want to miss,&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1: Triggering conversations from reading articles&nbsp;Top 9 Trends in Educational Technology to Watch in 2025 by DiroxEdtech State in EducationAI and Personalized learningLet’s think outside the box… How can we push the envelope?Students automating content, running a business, etcExtended Reality (XR) and Immersive LearningVirtual field trips to iconic locationsGoogle ExpeditionsInteractive VR labsLabsterTraining toolsInterplay Learning, which teach practical skills such as HVAC repair and solar panel installation.MicroLearning and nanolearningShort attentions spans need bite-sized modulesMobile-first learningDuolingoEdutainmentGamificationMinecraft&nbsp;Roblox EducationBlockchain and digital credentialsAcademic records are storedSegment 2: AI in Education DebateAI in K–12 Education — Friend or Foe?1. AI-Powered Tutoring Systems&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Example tools: Khanmigo, Scribe, ChatGPT as a study helperPro (Student Learning): Personalized Learning Support AI can break down complex topics and adapt explanations to a student’s level. This helps struggling learners feel less overwhelmed and get the help they need outside of class time.Con (Student Learning): Over-Reliance on AI Help Some students might use AI instead of thinking for themselves. Rather than trying to solve a math problem, they could just ask the bot for the answer—missing out on real learning.Pro (Teacher Productivity): Less Time Re-Explaining Basics Teachers can recommend AI tools for practice and remediation, freeing up time to work with students who need more direct attention.Con (Teacher Productivity): Misalignment with Curriculum AI-generated explanations might not follow the pacing or methods a teacher uses, causing confusion if students get mixed messages.2. AI-Generated Writing SupportExample tools: Grammarly, ChatGPT, QuillBotPro (Student Learning): Improved Writing Mechanics Students can get instant feedback on grammar, tone, and structure, helping them refine their writing without waiting days for teacher comments.Con (Student Learning): Risk of Cheating or Ghostwriting Some students may copy and paste entire AI-generated essays, which undermines the development of critical thinking and writing skills.Pro (Teacher Productivity): Faster Draft Reviews AI-written drafts often require less correction for basic issues, allowing teachers to focus more on higher-level thinking in student writing.Con (Teacher Productivity): Harder to Detect Authentic Voice It becomes trickier to tell if a student’s work truly reflects their abilities, making it harder to assess growth or identify areas for intervention.3. AI in Lesson Planning and Resource CreationExample tools: Curipod, MagicSchool.ai, DiffitPro (Teacher Productivity): Saves Planning Time Teachers can generate slides, quizzes, and differentiated content in minutes, giving them more time to personalize instruction or support students.Con (Teacher Productivity): Quality and Accuracy Concerns AI doesn’t always get facts right or adapt to classroom context, meaning teachers still have to double-check and often edit the materials.Pro (Student Learning): More Engaging and Varied Content With AI, teachers can easily generate visuals, analogies, and leveled texts to match different learning styles and abilities.Con (Student Learning): One-Size-Fits-All FeelAI-generated content may not reflect the specific interests, culture, or experiences of the classroom, making learning feel generic or disconnected.4. AI for Feedback and AssessmentExample tools: Gradescope, ChatGPT for rubric-based review, SnorklPro (Teacher Productivity): Faster Feedback LoopsAI tools can provide near-instant feedback on writing or short responses, helping teachers keep up with grading and giving students timely insights.Con (Teacher Productivity): False Sense of AccuracyAI might misinterpret student intent or nuances in open-ended answers, leading to inaccurate scores or unfair feedback.Pro (Student Learning): Immediate Feedback Improves LearningStudents can revise quickly based on feedback, reinforcing learning while the...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 188: 10 Tips for Using AI in Your Classroom (Part 2)Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 188 called 10 Tips for Using AI in Your Classroom. &nbsp; Nick and I have each selected 5 of our top tips for using AI to increase student learning and to help you manage your classroom, and sometimes your life.&nbsp; Nick presented his 5 tips last episode and today I will do the same!&nbsp; Listen in to learn about what they are, why we like them, and how they might advance your classroom!&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;NJECC conference presentation 2Segment 2: NJECC PresentationGet a copy of the presentation HERE:&nbsp; http://bit.ly/ettsignupNick’s Tips Part 1Acceptable Use PosterGoogle WorkFlowAnimated DrawingsBattle AI Over ReliancePrompt CollectionGuise’s Tips Part 2AI Works CitedKhan Academy Writing CoachTeacher ServerPrompts for Google SheetsAI Lesson Creation WorkFlowEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent Podcasting<span...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 187: 10 Tips for Using AI in Your ClassroomWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 187 called 10 Tips for Using AI in Your Classroom. &nbsp; Guise and I have each selected 5 of our top tips for using AI to increase student learning and to help you manage your classroom, and sometimes your life.&nbsp; Listen in to learn about what they are, why we like them, and how they might advance your classroom!&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;NJECC conference presentation 2Segment 2: NJECC PresentationGet a copy of the presentation HERE:&nbsp; http://bit.ly/ettsignupNick’s Tips Part 1Acceptable Use PosterGoogle WorkFlowAnimated DrawingsBattle AI Over ReliancePrompt CollectionGuise’s Tips Part 2AI Works CitedKhan Academy Writing CoachTeacher ServerPrompts for Google SheetsAI Lesson Creation WorkFlowEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencasting<span style="background-color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 186: 12 AI Tools to use in the 2025-26 School YearWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 186 called 12 AI Tools to use in the 2025-26 School Year. &nbsp; Guise and I have each selected 6 of our favorite AI tools for the classroom.&nbsp; Listen in to learn about what they are, why we like them, and how they might advance your classroom!&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Sign up for our Monthly Newsletterhttp://bit.ly/ettsignupGet our latest updates.&nbsp; Don’t miss out on a blog, podcast, or Youtube video!Segment 1:&nbsp;Guise’s AI ToolsSnorkl.appSunonotebooklm.google.comDiffit BooksGoogle LensSky Followers BridgeNick’s AI ToolsTwin PicsKhanmigoTeachable MachineDebunkbotSidekick from SchoolAIDeledaoSegment 2:&nbsp;Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech Throwdown<span...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 185: How to Teach Students about AIWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 185 called How to Teach Students about AI. &nbsp; Have you ever tried to teach your students about AI, what it is, and what role it can serve in education and their future lives?&nbsp; This is a tall task and in this episode, we’ll discuss how we go about this complex process.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;For years now we’ve been involved in trying to get our district to adopt a formal AI policy.&nbsp; Now that this is happening, we’re being asked to put together an education program for students.What is AI?What can it do?&nbsp; What can’t it do?How can it be used to benefit you while in school?&nbsp; In your future lives?How can it hurt you in school?&nbsp; In your future lives?Segment 2: The Perfect AI Lesson for StudentsWhat is AI?Ask students what they think AI is?&nbsp; Share their thoughts in a digital space like Padlet.&nbsp; Facilitate some discussion.Show a video that explains what it REALLY is.&nbsp; There are tons of good ones, here are a couple we likeFor older students:&nbsp; https://www.ted.com/talks/mustafa_suleyman_what_is_an_ai_anywayFor younger students:&nbsp; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttIOdAdQaUEWhat can AI do?Choose an AI tool to demo (we use ChatGPT).&nbsp; Show three prompts:A bad prompt, something very vague that gives a general and bland response.A better prompt, something that includes lots of detail and specific requests.&nbsp; Show that this yields a much better response from the AI tool.A prompt that gets untrue results.&nbsp; Students need to know that AI tools can give incorrect information, sometimes that it just “makes up” due to lack of other information.ACTIVITY:&nbsp; Have students play with prompts:&nbsp; Ask them to try a bad, vague prompt on purpose.&nbsp; Then ask them to try it again but with more specificity, comparing the results.&nbsp; They share out what they notice.Provide a prompt library as a resource.&nbsp; Here is a great one from AI for Education.ACTIVITY: &nbsp;Ask them to head to TwinPic and try and complete the challenge there.&nbsp; Give a prize to the most accurate recreation.What Can’t AI Do?Hallucinations:&nbsp; LLMs can generate plausible but inaccurate information, also known as "hallucinations".&nbsp; This can mislead users into believing that the generated content is factual and reliable.Bias:&nbsp; LLMs can exhibit biases in their responses, often generating stereotypical or prejudiced content.&nbsp; This bias stems from the large datasets they are trained on, which may contain biased information.Exhibit True Creativity:&nbsp; Since LLM’s can only repurpose old information, they can’t exhibit creativity like a human can.&nbsp; After reading enough AI responses, you can start to tell a sample of writing is AI generated.ACTIVITY:&nbsp; Have students ask ChatGPT to write a brief biography of themselves.&nbsp; Try the prompt:&nbsp; "write a brief biography of [insert name here], a student in [insert town here]” but have them sub in their own names.&nbsp; Have them share the results as accurate or inaccurate.How AI Can be Used to Help LearningIntro Video:&nbsp; https://www.ted.com/talks/tom_gruber_how_ai_can_enhance_our_memory_work_and_social_livesYes AI can write essays for you.&nbsp; But this hurts you long term because then you never learn to write yourself.Better prompts that help learning, not hurt it:"Proofread my writing above. Fix grammar and spelling mistakes. And make suggestions that will improve the clarity of my writing""I want to learn about [insert topic]. Identify and share the most important 20% of learnings from this topic that will help me understand 80% of it."“Give me a step by step guide for solving the following problem.&nbsp; I am a complete beginner.”"I am currently learning about [insert topic]. Ask me a series of questions that will test my knowledge. Identify knowledge gaps in my answers and give me better answers to fill those gaps."Tools like Khanmigo Writing Coach are tailor made for students and use AI to help you learn, not get around learningHow can AI Hurt Learning and FutureUsing AI to do work for you is academic dishonesty and will be treated as such if suspected?AI can save you lots of time, but what are you replacing that time with?&nbsp; If the replacement is scrolling through IG, this is really bad for your brain.New research shows that over-reliance on AI results in cognitive decline.Tip sheet for battling over-relianceResearch on the topic as of 2025:&nbsp; https://www.forbes.com/sites/larsdaniel/2025/02/14/your-brain-on-ai-atrophied-and-unprepared-warns-microsoft-studyFun Wrap-Up Activities:Debate about AI and if it’s good or notAsk students to create a story about a robot that helps a lost puppy find its way home using facial...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 184: 10 Project Ideas for Students to Show MasteryWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 184 called 10 Project Ideas for Students to Show Mastery. &nbsp; In this episode, we’ll discuss some of our favorite project ideas that you can use in your classroom to check for student mastery.&nbsp; Of course we’ll share some of our favorite edtech and AI tools along the way.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;How has checking for mastery in education changed over the past 10 years?Segment 2: Digital tools for literacyInfographicsVismeCanvathinglinkPosters/Memes Poster/CalendarCanvaAdobe ExpressSnappaPixlrVistaCreateTimelines&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ThinglinkOnline Timeline Maker&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;CanvaTimeline YouTube VideoChoose Your Own AdventureGoogle SlidesCanvaStudent Made Games&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Board Games Digitally via CanvaEscape Rooms/PuzzlesFlippity.netDiscovery Puzzle MakerInteracty&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;PodcastsResearchNotebookLMShownotes/StoryboardGoogle DocsBookcreatorStoryboardthatRecording Audiocell phoneAudacityWavacityEditing AudioAudacityWavacityPublishingClass SiteCanvaGoogle SitesSlides PresentationSlidesmaniaSlides CarnivalSlidesgoVideoDavinci ResolveWeVideoAdobe PremierPortfolioCanva SitesGoogle SitesPadletSee-sawBookcreatorWakelet&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Old School Assessment with Edtech<a href="https://cograder.com/" target="_blank"...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 183: 8 Great Edtech Tools for LiteracyWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 183 called 8 Great Edtech Tools for Literacy. &nbsp; In this episode, we’ll discuss some of our favorite websites for enhancing literacy in your classroom.&nbsp; We’ll also take another look at an AMAZING new feature in google notebook lm.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Guises mind is blownn over notebook lm’s new featureSegment 2: Digital tools for literacyNo Red Ink lessonsMaps.com.&nbsp; Not a literacy site, but these are some cool maps and would make for great writing prompts.Diffit Books, How it works:&nbsp; Select “Books” on the Diffit homepage, Choose your book and chapters, Get student-ready resources!&nbsp; We’re rolling this feature out to all schools over the next few weeks, but your access is live now as an admin on your Diffit account. Test it out and let your teachers know it's coming to their accounts soon!ESL BITS:&nbsp; Wide selection of audio books and text.&nbsp; The sole purpose of this site is to help students improve their listening and reading comprehension of the English language.'BITS English Language Learning' is completely non-profit; it sells nothing, advertises nothing, and asks for nothing."BITS" is an online-only site. No links for downloading items are available and none will ever be provided.&nbsp; Skip is wholly responsible for this site and has all the credit or all the blame as the case may be.Write the World:&nbsp; A nonprofit dedicated to developing teenagers’ writing and critical thinking skills. We empower young writers to become global citizens and succeed in school, career, and life.NYT Writing PromptsWonderopolis Writing PromptsDeepSeek AI Article&nbsp;DeepSeek-R1 is an AI model developed by Chinese artificial intelligence startup DeepSeek. Released in January 2025, R1 holds its own against (and in some cases surpasses) the reasoning capabilities of some of the world’s most advanced foundation models — but at a fraction of the operating cost, according to the company. R1 is also open sourced under an MIT license, allowing free commercial and academic use.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-guise-ed-d-b4464730/"...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 182: Using Edtech and AI to Personalize the ClassroomWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 182 called, “Using Edtech and AI to Personalize the Classroom”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about how edtech an AI can personalize both your classroom physical space AND content creation and delivery.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative:&nbsp; With all the AI and the COVID days behind us, have we lost the focus of personalizing learning for students in the classroom?Segment 2: Edtech/AI Tools for Personalizing the ClassroomHow can we use Edtech/AI to personalize the physical appearance of the classroom to be a more inviting place to learn?Interest-Driven Decor:Survey students about their favorite movies, games, and hobbies using tools like Google Forms or Mentimeter.Use the results to create themed areas, posters, or bulletin boards that reflect their interests.Digital Displays:Incorporate smart displays or projectors (e.g., Promethean boards) to showcase rotating slideshows of student artwork, photos, or inspirational quotes.Use Canva templates to make slides visually appealing and personalized.Interactive Wall Art:Use AR tools like QuiverVision to create augmented reality wall displays. Students can scan wall art to see animations or interact with digital layers.Mood Lighting:Integrate smart lighting systems to adjust classroom lighting based on the mood or theme of the lesson.Collaborative Space Design:Use Edtech tools like RoomSketcher to co-create the classroom layout with students. Allow them to choose how desks, chairs, or collaboration spaces are arranged.Personalized Name Tags:Create digital name tags with platforms like Adobe Express, incorporating students' chosen colors, symbols, or avatars.Digital Soundscapes:Use tools like Noisli or Spotify to set background sounds (e.g., nature, coffee shop ambiance) that align with classroom themes.Spotify Collaborative PlaylistsDigital Vision Boards:Have students create personal or classroom vision boards using platforms like Padlet or Figjam, which can be displayed on a digital screen.Interactive Check-In Boards:Use tools like ClassDojo to create a digital check-in system where students can indicate their mood or share a "fun fact" as they enter the classroom.Themed QR Code Stations:Create QR codes using a generator (like QR Code Monkey) that link to personalized student projects, fun facts, or favorite classroom activities.How can we use Edtech/AI to personalize our content in the classroom?Adaptive Learning Platforms:Use platforms like Khan Academy, IXL, or DreamBox to provide personalized practice tailored to each student’s proficiency level.AI-Driven Content Creation:Tools like ChatGPT or Canva Magic Write can help craft custom lesson plans, study guides, or quiz questions aligned with individual learning needs.Student-Generated Playlists:Allow students to create playlists of educational videos or podcasts using YouTube or Edpuzzle that align with their interests or learning goals.Gamification of Lessons:Use platforms like Kahoot! or Quizizz to create custom quizzes or games featuring content and themes relevant to students’ lives.Individualized Feedback...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 181: Educational AI Hub BreakdownWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 181 called, “Educational AI Hub Breakdown”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll compare and analyze the mega-AI hubs that are competing for every teacher's attention.&nbsp; By the end, you’ll know which ones we think are actually worth your time.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative:&nbsp; Holy HubsSegment 2: AI Hubs for TeachersWhat are AI Hubs?&nbsp;&nbsp;We are using the term “hub” a little incorrectly here.&nbsp; An AI hub is a thing in the tech space where AI models can be trained.&nbsp;&nbsp;When we say hub, we mean AI platforms or workspaces that do LOTS of different teacher related thingsMost of these use ChatGPT or something similar in the background.&nbsp; For example, let’s say you wanted to write a lesson plan … you could get the same results if you just went to ChatGPT and put in a very specific prompt, but Magic School’s lesson plan generator has done that for you.Also, Khanmigo uses GPT, but it has been specifically trained on the videos and resources held by Khan Academy.What are the big ones?Magic SchoolSome free, some paidKhanmigoAll free for teachersEduaidPay for pro featuresTeachershub.aiFree for teachers but they do list limits, no other pricing thereTeach MateFor the Brits!&nbsp; Some for free, £6.99 per month and goes up from thereMIT SloaneCan’t find a priceTheres an AI for That***Teacher ServerFree for teachersEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHeO4mtUIQ4" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent;color: rgb(17, 85,...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 180: Edtech Hot Topics, Tech Tools, and Resources Heading into 2025Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 180 called, “Edtech Hot Topics, Tech Tools, and Resources Heading into 2025”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll wrap up 2024 by taking a look what is hot in educational technology right now as we start a new year.&nbsp; We’ll also share of the tools and resources we’re most excited about for 2025.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1: End of the Year Wrap UpNarrative:&nbsp; Edtech Throwdown Traditional EpisodeSegment 2: Edtech Hot Topics, Tech Tools, and ResourcesHot TopicsWhere are we with AI?AI pushback - are you still seeing it?&nbsp; Do you have it?Is the standard edtech tool without AI dead?Edtech/AI Tools to Try in 2025GuiseSnorklNotebookLMNickPadlet SandboxKhanmigoEdtech ResourcesSteph and Joe on the goCanva’s free teaching resourcesDon’t forget to check out the Edtech Advent Calendar!NotebookLM PodcastMake Memojis in CanvaHow-to Guides w/ TangoTop 10 Canva AppsAccessibility Tools For TeachersCanva Guide for AdministratorsAI Edtech ToolkitMake a Customized Song with SunoAuto-Feedback with Snorkl Student ViewTeacher Dashboard in SnorklSet the Tone with Goblin ToolsConnecting Google Drive with CanvaAI Prompt Library for EDU3 Wheel of Names ResourcesThere’s an AI For ThatContent-based ScattergoriesPadlet SandboxTwitter Bluesky BridgeGoogle’s Canva AppsTeacher Resources Using KhanmigoQuizizz Flash CardsOnline Stopwatch ToolsGoogle Lens ApplicationsPolls and Quizzes in Canva3D Models in PowerPointEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech Throwdown Episode 179: How Can Teachers Use Google Lens in the Classroom?Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is Episode 179 called, “How Can Teachers Use Google Lens in the Classroom”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about Google Lens, what it is, how to use it, and best of all - ways that it can support learning and make your teaching life easier.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative:&nbsp; Google Lens does what?Google Lens is a visual search tool that uses image recognition to understand what you're looking at and provide relevant information.Segment 2: Google Lens IdeasIdentifying items: Students can use Google Lens to find names for items they encounter, such as plants or archaeological sites.Biology Outdoor ClassroomSolving math problems: Google Lens can help math learners solve problems and understand key conceptionTeacher Assistant when the teacher isn’t aroundGetting help with homework: Students can point the Lens at a homework question to get help.&nbsp;Taking notes: Google Lens can capture images, texts, bar codes, and QR codes, which can be transferred to a file for future reference.Getting synopses: Students can point the Lens towards a book cover to get a synopsis.Image search and product search: find images and items similar to the ones you’ve provided.Scanning QR Codes from a computer screenSpecial Education Uses:Reading: Google Lens can convert text images into readable text, which can be helpful for learners with dyslexia.Translating: Google Lens can translate selected words into any language.&nbsp;Listening to text: Google Lens can listen to selected text, which can help students improve their listening skills and learn pronunciation.&nbsp;Text detection and OCR: recognize the writing on an image and extract its data.Language detection and translation: identify the language of the text on the image, and then translate it.Accessibility and alt text: find the alt text of the image.Don’t forget to check out the Edtech Advent Calendar!NotebookLM PodcastMake Memojis in CanvaHow-to Guides w/ TangoTop 10 Canva AppsAccessibility Tools For TeachersCanva Guide for AdministratorsAI Edtech ToolkitMake a Customized Song with SunoAuto-Feedback with Snorkl Student ViewTeacher Dashboard in SnorklSet the Tone with Goblin ToolsConnecting Google Drive with CanvaAI Prompt Library for EDU3 Wheel of Names ResourcesThere’s an AI For ThatContent-based ScattergoriesPadlet SandboxTwitter Bluesky BridgeGoogle’s Canva AppsTeacher Resources Using KhanmigoQuizizz Flash CardsOnline Stopwatch ToolsGoogle Lens ApplicationsPolls and Quizzes in Canva3D Models in PowerPointEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 178: 25 Edtech Resources for 2025Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 178 called “25 Edtech Resources for 2025”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about some of favorite edtech resources that we are excited about heading into 2025.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Edtech Advent CalendarNarrative:&nbsp; 12 Days of Edtech out… Edtech Advent in!Segment 2: EdTech Advent CalendarNotebookLM PodcastMake Memojis in CanvaHow-to Guides w/ TangoTop 10 Canva AppsAccessibility Tools For TeachersCanva Guide for AdministratorsAI Edtech ToolkitMake a Customized Song with SunoAuto-Feedback with Snorkl Student ViewTeacher Dashboard in SnorklSet the Tone with Goblin ToolsConnecting Google Drive with CanvaAI Prompt Library for EDU3 Wheel of Names ResourcesThere’s an AI For ThatContent-based ScattergoriesPadlet SandboxTwitter Bluesky BridgeGoogle’s Canva AppsTeacher Resources Using KhanmigoQuizizz Flash CardsOnline Stopwatch ToolsGoogle Lens ApplicationsPolls and Quizzes in Canva3D Models in PowerPointEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 177: Canva App ThrowdownWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 177 called “Canva App Throwdown”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about some of the often overlooked Canva apps that make this powerful platform even more awesome.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative:&nbsp;&nbsp;What's New with Canva?Segment 2: Canva AppsA lot of people don’t even know that Canva has 3rd party apps, kind of like your phone.&nbsp; Many of them do very cool things that can enhance the learning taking place in your classroom.&nbsp; Here are some of our favorites.Nick’s PicksEquationsGoogle DriveD-ID - Bring historical characters to life as avatarsSketch to Life (rough sketch turns to image) or Speedpaint (picture turns to speed drawn video)Melody Muse - Turn text prompts into music for your next projectCharacter Builder - make your own animated cartoon when used in conjunction with Canva Animations.&nbsp; LottieFiles has more than 100,000 pre made animations.Guise’s PicksBrandfetchBulk CreateImage Upscaler&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lucky WheelYouTube EmbedChartsEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 176: Super Lesson Throwdown with Gabby MiglioreWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 176 called “Super Lesson Throwdown with Gabby Migliore”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about how to engage all students from bell to bell with edtech at your side.&nbsp; We’ll each share 1 sample lesson that you can use or take ideas from for your own classroom.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative:&nbsp; Differentiation PD DaySegment 2: Superlesson ShowdownWithout further ado, our guest today is a former math teacher turned current teacher of physics and astronomy pursuing a doctorate in math education, as well as one of the most capable new educators around.&nbsp; Welcome to the show Gabby mill your ee.Guise introduces the showdownNick sample lessonThe most perfect science lesson of all time?&nbsp; Yup!!!&nbsp; Flipped classroom, phenomena opener, POGIL in small groups, Quizizz whiteboards to monitor progress and spark discussion, model creation exit ticketGabby sample lessonA spectrum for technology use? BINGO! Nick isn’t the only one who can ask questions– we’ve got technology and information literacy, multiple representations, and of course my Aunt Lucky’s favorite game.&nbsp;DiffitFlippity RandomizerFlippity Bingo Board Canva Bingo TemplateDuo Cards Guise sample lessonGamification Station Rotation- English Lesson for the Roaring 1920’s and the Great GatsbyStation 1:&nbsp; BackgroundNotebookLM Podcast that describes the color symbolism in the great GatsbyListen to Podcast and take notes for what each color symbolizesStation 2:&nbsp; SymbolismHave examples of symbolism from the book on index cardsStudents use the notes from station 1 to help them categorize the examples under the proper color categoryStudents count the number of examples from each color and put the answer into a google form for immediate feedbackStation 3:&nbsp; QR Code Time LineStudents view QR Codes and put events in chronological orderEach QR code is embedded into a picture from the bookEasily Generated in CanvaUse Google Forms to enter&nbsp;Station 4: Guess WhoCreate a fake tweet using Tweetgen that describes an event from the book.&nbsp; Have the students match the tweet to the character from the book.&nbsp; For this one you could use a picture of each character and place it on a different color of construction paper.&nbsp; For the tweets, you can have the twitter handle be the name of the person and a # which tells the students the order that they would use for the google form.Station 5:&nbsp; Themes of 1920Have a 3x3 grid of 9 themes from the 1920’s with their definitions or explanations.&nbsp; Have pictures that represent each theme.&nbsp; Each picture must include a number or mathematical operation (+,-,X,or/).&nbsp; The themes on the left and right get numbers and the middle column gets operations.&nbsp; Each line becomes a formula.&nbsp; The answer gets put into the Google Form.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!<span...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 175: The British School Replacing Teachers with AI - Can It Work?Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 175 called “The British School Replacing Teachers with AI - Can It Work”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll share the story of the british school that is experimenting with a “teacherless” classroom led by AI!&nbsp; We’ll also talk about why human teachers don’t have to worry as we discuss the best ways that AI can integrate with humans, not get replaced by it.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;AI Taking Over Teacher Jobs?Narrative:&nbsp; We heard lots of gloom and doom about AI in schools, but this is likely overblown.There IS however, a school that is experimentally trying to replace teachers with AI.https://www.inavateonthenet.net/news/article/uk-school-to-replace-teachers-with-ai-programmeThe David Game College in London will replace its traditional teaching programme with an AI-enabled ‘adaptive learning’ system, opening a ‘teacherless’ course for 20 students in September.The students will use a mix of artificial intelligence platforms on their PCs, in conjunction with VR headsets. Dubbed the Sabrewing programme, each student will receive a personalised learning experience with a self-paced approach that is ideal for examination resit students.More on the&nbsp; Sabrewing programme …One important message for teachers - this WILL NOT BE THE NEW NORMStay tuned for segment 2 where we’ll talk about the ways AI will continue to incorporate with live human teachers, not replace them.Segment 2: AI Will Integrate with Human Teachers, Not Replace ItAI as an interactive tutorSchoolAIKhanmigoAI study aids&nbsp;Diffit&nbsp;Quizizz AI Flashcard generator&nbsp;AI writing guidesTextblazeScribeTangoAI assistive techTutorAIThinkster MathLearning Ally AudiobooksAI for questioningYippity.ioAI for WritingGrammarlyAudioPenAI for Project IdeasCanva Magic WriteChatGPTScience FairSTEM Research IdeasAI for Video/Image/Song GenerationSuno AIAI for Audio ContentNotebookLM&nbsp;AI for DifferentiationDiffitQuillbotAI for GradingGradescopeSnorklBriskEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about<a href="http://edtechthrowdown.com" target="_blank" style="background-color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 174: Differentiation Done Right: Top EdTech Tools for Every LearnerWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 174 called “Differentiation Done Right: Top EdTech Tools for Every Learner”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll revisit the world of differentiation and talk about some of our favorite edtech tools to make it happen!&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.APPLE REVIEWNew YouTube VideosCanva for Administrators YouTube PlaylistCanva Apps for EducatorsSegment 1: Upcoming PD on DifferentiationNarrative:&nbsp; October 14th PD day at our school.&nbsp; What is differentiation? Ways to differentiate… content, product, and process.Favorite differentiation strategiesNickStations (1 video, 1 print, 1 with me, 1 extension)GuiseChoose Your own note packet/support materialsSegment 2:&nbsp; AI/Edtech Tools to support Differentiation in the ClassroomDiffitQuizizzGraphic organizersCanvaMind MapsThinglinkSurveysQuizizzPoll EverywhereEducational/AI AidsKhan Academy/khanmingoClassroom.aiStationsVideo creationScreenPalWeVideoCanvaHyperdocsEduProtocolsEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Od6v7iSKaDI"...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 173: There’s an AI For ThatWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown.&nbsp; This is episode 173 called “There’s an AI for That”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about some more of the many and ever evolving ways that AI is making our teacher lives easier!&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1: PD ReflectionNarrative:&nbsp; Back to school and teachers are excited to get started with the year.&nbsp; Several teachers asked if there is an AI tool that will do ________?Brisk TeachingLow Resolution PhotosSegment 2:&nbsp; AI Tools&nbsp;AI Super-hubsWhat ai can do todayAI Tools DirectoryAIXPLORIAToolsTeacherMaticTeacherMatic’s AI generators act like personal assistants for teachers. They make creating classroom materials easy by automatically making things like worksheets, quizzes, and lesson plans. Just tell the app what topic you need, and it does the rest. This way, teachers can save time and spend more of it teaching and connecting with their students.5 Free uses per dayKhanmigoAi Cheat CheckTheChecker.AI accurately distinguishes AI-generated content from authentic work with 99.7% accuracy.LogofastLogo maker… more like an icon makerSunoFun classroom music makerhttps://suno.com/song/0bdc9e46-f232-4940-b59f-b7a212e18b25Monic.aiUpload any study material, create summaries, quizzes, and flashcards in seconds, and practice with scientifically proven methods—all in one powerful platform.2,500 AI tokens (one-time)Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 172: Student Centered Learning is NOT the Same as Universal Design for Learning&nbsp;Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown&nbsp; This is episode 172 called “Student Centered Learning is NOT the Same as Universal Design for Learning”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about the similarities and differences between Student-Centered Learning and Universal Design for Learning as well as some best practices that support both teaching strategies!&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1: PD ReflectionNarrative:&nbsp; Kyle Wagner PD Session through the Teach Better Ambassador Program called “Simple Shifts for Student Centered Environments.12 Shifts to Move from Teacher-Led to Student-Centered Environmentshttps://www.kylewagner.net/Book: The Power of Simple: Transform your school by conquering the standards, individualizing learning, and creating a community of innovatorsSegment 2:&nbsp; Student Centered Learning vs Universal Design for Learning&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Student-Centered Learning (SCL) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) are both educational approaches that aim to enhance student engagement and success, but they have different focuses and methods. Below is a comparison of their similarities and differences:Differences:Primary Focus:Student-Centered Learning: Focuses on student choice and autonomy. The goal is to empower students to take charge of their learning by making decisions about content, goals, and methods.Goal SettingUniversal Design for Learning: Focuses on accessibility and inclusivity. The goal is to design lessons and materials that are accessible to all students, regardless of their abilities, from the outset.Strengths and WeaknessesApproach to Curriculum:SCL: In SCL, students have significant input into the curriculum. They may choose topics of interest and set personal learning goals, leading to a more personalized learning experience.UDL: In UDL, the curriculum is designed with all learners in mind from the beginning. It anticipates diverse needs and provides multiple ways for students to access information, demonstrate knowledge, and stay engagedChoice BoardSlidesmaniaCanva.Teacher’s Role:SCL: In a student-centered classroom, the teacher acts as a facilitator or guide, helping students navigate their chosen learning paths.CurationGoogle SitesCanva SItesSlidesWakeletPadletUDL: In a UDL framework, the teacher is responsible for designing lessons that are inherently flexible and accessible to all learners, often using a variety of teaching methods and materials.Learning MenusPlaylistsAdaptability vs. Design:SCL: Adaptability in SCL comes through student choice and differentiation based on student preferences.UDL: UDL is about designing lessons from the beginning to be adaptable to all students, without needing to make adjustments later.Similarities:Focus on Student Engagement:Both SCL and UDL aim to actively engage students in the learning process by catering to their individual needs, preferences, and interests.Flexibility in Learning:Both approaches emphasize flexibility in teaching and learning. SCL offers students choices in what and how they learn, while UDL provides multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement to accommodate diverse learners.Promote Independence:SCL and UDL both encourage students to take ownership of their learning. In SCL, students make choices and set goals, while UDL supports students in becoming self-regulated learners through scaffolding and options.Check-insConferencesPersonal ReflectionsPeer FeedbackFormative AssessmentQuizizzGimkitQuizletBlooketQuizalizeInclusive Environment:Both approaches strive to create inclusive learning environments where all students can succeed. SCL does this by considering individual student interests and goals, and UDL by removing barriers to learning for all students, including those with disabilities.ResourcesStudent Centered Learning GuidelinesUDL Guidelineshttps://udlguidelines.cast.org/Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/WeGotTechED/"...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 171: 6 Tools Tips and Tricks to Blast off Your School YearWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown&nbsp; This is episode 171 called “6 Tools Tips and Tricks to Blast off Your School Year”&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about the end of summer time crunch and 6 of our favorite edtech recommendations to help blast off your school year!&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp; Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;IntroNarrative:&nbsp; Crunchtime and PD Days are here!Segment 2: &nbsp; 6 Tools&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nick:Flaticon for AI guideline markers.&nbsp; Switching from noun project to flaticon.&nbsp; They have way more stuff.&nbsp; All my assignments this year will have different icons to indicate to the students how AI can be used on this type of assignment.Using AI as a tutor.&nbsp; Last night ChatGPT helped my wife learn how to reformat 7000 lines of data and then set up formulas based on that data for a work project.Tables in Google Sheets:&nbsp; With tables, you can simplify and accelerate spreadsheet building by bringing format and structure to unorganized ranges. By selecting your data range and going to Format &gt; Convert to table, Sheets now does the heavy lifting to format and organize data with a polished design including column types, filters, color coding, dropdown menus and more.Guise:Diffit has eduprotocolsWriter Igniter https://diymfa.com/writer-igniter/CanvasteraEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 170: Back To School &amp; Refreshing Your Edtech MindsetWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown&nbsp;This is episode 170 called “Back To School &amp; Refreshing Your Edtech Mindset.”&nbsp;In this episode, we’ll talk about how we are preparing to wrap up summer and get ready for the start of the school year.&nbsp;An important part of this is the refreshing of our edtech mindsets - listen in to learn how we’re doing it!&nbsp;This is another episode you don’t want to miss.&nbsp;Check it out.Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative:&nbsp;Getting ready to start the new school year.Segment 2:&nbsp;Edtech Mindset &amp; Opening Day ActivitiesHow will you be using Edtech this year?&nbsp;How is this different from years past?Nick:&nbsp;Focus on teaching problem solving and getting questions answered, rather than teaching how to use specific tools.&nbsp;So many updates all the time.&nbsp;Constantly changing tutorials and guides to keep up.&nbsp;Why!&nbsp;Instead, teach students to roll with these changes and use resources already there.Show them and provide links to website specific tech guidesTeach them good phrases to google when it comes to tech helpAsk AI tools for helpGuiseI am going to simplify and reduce the amount of tools that students use in the classroomBe aware of technology burnout8 class periods a day 3 edtech tools per class = 24 edtech tools students may useWhat advice would you give to new and experienced teachers for using edtech this year?Nick:&nbsp;Stick with time-tested tools that have been around and are not likely to go away.&nbsp;Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.&nbsp;For example, the recent locking away of Flip shows us that even popular tools can become out of reach.Be clear with your AI policies.&nbsp;Don’t be scared of the AI conversationWhat are some edtech activities/tools that you are looking forward to trying this year?Nick:&nbsp;Khanmigo for me and School.AI for my students.GuiseMagicSchoolAI and TextblazeEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;(@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents<span style="background-color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 169: Edtech for Video Discussions AKA Replacers for Flip (Flipgrid)Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown&nbsp; This is episode 169 called “Edtech for Video Discussions - AKA Replacers for Flip”.&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about the ever popular Flip, formerly known as Flipgrid, as it is set to transition to Microsoft obscurity.&nbsp; Video discussions are a valuable tool, whether you’ll have access to Flip or not and this episode will teach you about them!&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out!Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative: I recently had a teacher ask “what do you recommend we use in place of Flipgrid next year?&nbsp; Flip, formerly Flipgrid is going away …kind ofVideo discussions is a weird segment of edtech because it doesn’t really exist outside of Flip (flipgrid)Replacers are tough because there really aren’t any competitors for Flip that do this exact thing.Segment 2:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Replacer options:Padlet:&nbsp; Popular interactive learning space.&nbsp;Detailed description:&nbsp; To start posting, double-click anywhere on the board. You can then drag and drop files, paste files, or use the Save As bookmark with Padlet mini. Alternatively, click the plus icon in the lower right corner to add content. You can upload images, videos, audio files, links, or documents. Padlet can be used in many ways, from a brainstorming board to a live question bank, limited only by your imagination. You can even make it collaborative, allowing your students to expand and enhance it with their creativity. Once you're ready, hit publish to share your Padlet. It can be integrated with apps like Google Classroom and various LMS options. Additionally, Padlet can be embedded on blogs or school websites.Canva Presentations and video insert.&nbsp; Tell Ss to click Upload and Record Yourself so they can insert their own video.&nbsp; Use the other presentation space for comments and discussion.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Whiteboards would be great for this, but in Whiteboards, when you click Upload there is not a record yourself option.Wakelet still incorporates the Flip camera - will this last … hard to say.&nbsp; There is a free version of Wakelet, but you’ll likely want the paid version.Low “tech” version: Google Slides!Book Creators video optionSee-Saw video recording options.&nbsp; Seesaw combines instructional tools, standards-aligned lessons, student portfolios, and inclusive communication features.&nbsp; Some teachers use Seesaw primarily as a place for students to share their work, and specifically encourage individual reflection and peer feedback. Seesaw becomes a place not only where student work can be stored, but where teachers and peers can provide encouragement, constructive criticism, and suggestions for improvement. An authentic audience of peers can encourage students to do their best work. Teachers have the opportunity to review any comments before they are posted to ensure that feedback is constructive &amp; appropriate.Quizizz video response question - would only work for showing videos to class as a whole, individual Ss can’t view on their own time.Edtech Throwdown: Wakelet vs CanvaVote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVC<strong...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 168: Leveraging Social Media for Creative Classroom ProjectsWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown&nbsp; This is episode 168 called “Leveraging Social Media for Creative Classroom Projects”.&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about how social media inspired projects can put a creative and engaging spin on a variety of classroom projects.&nbsp; This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out!Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative: What are nick and guise’s go-to social media platforms?Having a class social media account can be a powerful motivator and a great way for some positive PRJust so you know, Canva can be used as the edtech for ALL of these ideas, but we tried to change it up.Segment 2:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Project ideas:Make a meme projectExample: Generate class rules using memes, learn new vocabulary, identify the novel using memes, describe a historical event (thanks NSTA blog!)Edtech:&nbsp; Just look them up, there are many.&nbsp; Meme Creator, Meme Generator and Quick Meme are some to check out.Gif creationExample: Create a gif that models a series of exercises for certain parts of the body. Each student gets a different muscle group or body part.Edtech: Canva animationsEdtech: Lots of video editing platforms let you download the video as a gifHistorical figure instagram postExample: Create an instagram post that is a series of 4 (minimum) photos of your assigned figure doing something.&nbsp; One of the 4 must be a “selfie” and they must all be connected to something this person MIGHT post about, were they on Insta today.Edtech: Adobe Express - A great, free Canva alternativeMock twitter debateExample: In this project, students will participate in a mock debate as if they were on the Twitter platform (now known as X). This exercise is designed to improve writing and argumentation skills in Spanish, as well as to encourage the ability to debate respectfully in a public setting. Students will not use real Twitter but will write their posts and comments as if they were on the platform.&nbsp; Debate Topic: "Should cities implement more bike lanes to encourage bicycle use?"Edtech: Create a template in Google slides that has images from real X posts with the words remove.&nbsp; Students insert text boxes on top of those blank spaces.At home science tik tok videoExample: Create a 1 minute to 3 minute (tiktok times) at-home science video and explain what is going on in the caption.&nbsp; For example, Slime is popular right now.&nbsp; Make the slime, film it, write a brief caption that explains the chemistry.&nbsp;&nbsp;Edtech: kapcut, davinci resolveVirtual field trip vlog&nbsp;&nbsp;Example: Create a video blog about a place you fake visited using a popular virtual trip website like Access Mars, Google Arts and Culture, AirPano or 360 Cities.&nbsp; Screencasting makes this easy as students must narrate while they adventure virtually.&nbsp; Get fancy and use color keying (green screening) if available.Edtech:&nbsp; WeVideo or other video editing apps/sitesCreate a facebook profile for a literary figure&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Example: Assign each student a literary figure (Great Gatsby characters) and ask them to create a facebook profile for the character.&nbsp; Create a template that has all the required elements of a facebook profile (banner image and profile fields like name, school, favorite books, etc)Edtech: Google Slides with the background image locked so Ss can’t mess with it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Environmental campaign on Instagram ReelsExample: Create an instagram reel that highlights an environmental concern in your local community.&nbsp; For example, are there any superfund sites nearby?&nbsp; If so, feature one and talk about the cleanup effort if there is one.Edtech: Can use instagram itself!&nbsp; Open the Reel in full-screen mode, tap the three dots in the bottom right corner, and select Save Video or Download.&nbsp; This depends on your IG settings.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social Media<a...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 167: The Great Debate 12 Teaching Strategies and Their Place in Education (Part 2)Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown&nbsp; This is episode 167 called “The Great Debate 12 Teaching Strategies and Their Place in Education (ParT 2)”.&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about the current teacher practices and whether they are still relevant in education! This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out!Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative: It's time to reflect on some of the most used teaching practices and discuss whether they are still relevantSegment 2:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;PART 1:Lecture: The traditional method of teaching where the instructor delivers information to students through verbal presentation.Blended Learning: an educational strategy that combines multiple teaching methods to help students learn more effectively. It usually combines traditional classroom instruction with digital learning, but can also include other face-to-face and online activities.Case Study: Presenting real-life scenarios or situations for students to analyze and apply their knowledge to problem-solving.Project-Based Learning: Engaging students in hands-on projects that require them to apply their knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems.Problem-Based Learning: Presenting students with authentic, complex problems to solve, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills.&nbsp;STEM Learning: Stem education focuses on practical application, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world scenarios. Students engage in hands-on projects that mirror actual challenges they may encounter in their future careers.PART 2:Narrative:&nbsp; using scenarios or a narratives to lead a class projectFlipped Classroom: Reversing the traditional learning model by having students review instructional materials at home and using classroom time for discussions and activities.&nbsp;Discussion: Facilitating class discussions to encourage active participation and critical thinking among students.Debate/Argumentation:&nbsp; Small groups simultaneously&nbsp;Gamification: Incorporating game elements, such as competition, rewards, and challenges, into the learning process to increase student engagement and motivation.Independent StudyEdtech Throwdown:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 166:&nbsp;The Great Debate 12 Teaching Strategies and Their Place in Education Part 1Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown&nbsp; This is episode 166 called “The Great Debate 12 Teaching Strategies and Their Place in Education Part 1&nbsp; ”.&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about the resources that we’ll be exploring while on this year’s summer vacation! This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out!Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative: It's time to reflect on some of the most used teaching practices and discuss whether they are still relevantSegment 2:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lecture: The traditional method of teaching where the instructor delivers information to students through verbal presentation.Blended Learning: an educational strategy that combines multiple teaching methods to help students learn more effectively. It usually combines traditional classroom instruction with digital learning, but can also include other face-to-face and online activities.Case Study: Presenting real-life scenarios or situations for students to analyze and apply their knowledge to problem-solving.Project-Based Learning: Engaging students in hands-on projects that require them to apply their knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems.Problem-Based Learning: Presenting students with authentic, complex problems to solve, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills.&nbsp;STEM Learning: Stem education focuses on practical application, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world scenarios. Students engage in hands-on projects that mirror actual challenges they may encounter in their future careers.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends about www.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast NetworkSubscribe to our Podcast Channels and SocialsApple PodcastsSpotify&nbsp;&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter &nbsp; (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagramConnect with us on Social MediaGuise’s Social MediaTwitter (@guisegotteched)LinkedInNick’s Social MediaTwitter (@nickgotteched)Music Credits:Intro and Outro Music- American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers- Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown- Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEXNeed a Presenter?As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on:AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencasting<span...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 165: Edtech Resources for the SummerWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown&nbsp; This is episode 165 called “Edtech Resources for the Summer”.&nbsp; In this episode, we’ll talk about the resources that we’ll be exploring while on this year’s summer vacation! This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out!Segment 1:&nbsp;Narrative:&nbsp; Summer time talkSegment 2:Guise’s BooksAI for Educators: Learning Strategies, Teacher Efficiencies, and a Vision for an Artificial Intelligence Future by Matt MillerLeaders Eat Last by Simon SinekIn the U.S. Marines during mealtime, Sinek explains, it’s common for the highest ranking officers to fix their plates last. This not only ensures everyone on the team is fed, but sends an important message: Leaders look after their people first. But Sinek’s people-first approach is only one component of a larger narrative that includes segments on creating a safe environment within your organization—he refers to this as the “Circle of Safety”—and the surprising impacts of what he calls “selfless chemicals” like serotonin and oxytocin on leadership style.Nick’s BooksStorytelling With Purpose: Digital Projects to Ignite Student Curiosity by Michael Hernandez:&nbsp; The book:Shows how to create uncheatable assessments through student-created story projectsHelps educators create meaningful learning experiences by integrating edtech tools and storytelling into their curriculum.Shows how storytelling can help students activate higher-level thinking to conduct research, process ideas and information, and share the synthesis of these ideas with an audience.Illustrates how digital storytelling can help develop a mindset of collaboration, mental agility and resilience.Presents student examples, teacher case studies and sample lessons to demonstrate how to integrate student stories into curriculum in authentic ways.Offers flexibility, through sample projects that vary in degree of difficulty, so teachers can choose the best option based on their resources and unique situation.Schoolishness: Alienated Education and the Quest for Authentic, Joyful Learning by Susan D. Blum (Author)&nbsp;In Schoolishness, Susan D. Blum continues her journey as an anthropologist and educator. The author defines "schoolishness" as educational practices that emphasize packaged "learning," unimaginative teaching, uniformity, constant evaluation by others, arbitrary forms, predetermined time, and artificial boundaries, resulting in personal and educational alienation, dependence, and dread.&nbsp; Drawing on critical, progressive, and feminist pedagogy in conversation with the anthropology of learning, and building on the insights of her two previous books Blum proposes less-schoolish ways of learning in ten dimensions, to lessen the mismatch between learning in school and learning in the wild. She asks, if learning is our human "superpower," why is it so difficult to accomplish in school? In every chapter Blum compares the fake learning of schoolishness with successful examples of authentic learning, including in her own courses, which she scrutinizes critically.Professional DevelopmentQuizizz AIMagic School AIKahoot CertifiedCanva Design SchoolTextHelp AcademyUpdated Book Creator Certified Author courseEdPuzzle CertificationsScreencastify UniversityNearpod Certified EducatorDiffit Certified EducatorGuise’s PodcastsOptimalist Podcast with Sara CandelaOne of my favorite recent episodes came from the Optimalist Podcast with host Sara Candela. The episode I checked out was with my podcast buddy Bryon Carpenter called "Online Education and Building Tenacious Classrooms." This episode delivered in many ways but I will just mention two in this blog. First, I was introduced to a new podcast with a host who is a great conversationalist. I know Bryon and Sara was able to dig a little deeper and get Bryon to open up a side to him that was very relatable to me. When I listen to podcasts, I am looking for relatability and this episode was very relatable. Second, the segment called "The Joy of Teaching and Witnessing Students' Growth" was pure gold. I laughed a lot and I was able to reflect on my practice to realize that there are many ways to get enjoyment from teaching kids. One of these ways is by witnessing student growth and appreciating the collective efforts that go into this!Tech Tools For Teachers Podcast by Shanna MartinThose of you who listen to our podcast (EdtechThrowdown.com) know that I have three boys who are 8, 6, and 4. My oldest loves exploring and studying weather. At the time, I was looking for ways to keep his curiosity churning. I came across Shanna Martin's podcast Tech Tools For Teachers and her episode called "Fun Ways to Teach Kids About Weather." In this episode, Shanna introduces two websites focused on weather called Weather Wiz Kids and SnowCrystals.com. This episode afforded me the resources needed to provide my son with some enrichment to further explore hisNick’s PodcastsStuff They Don’t Want you to Know: A podcast for conspiracy realists, but really it’s about critical thinking.Edtech Throwdown:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile.Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors:Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown Podcast<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/gotteched/id1358366637?mt=2" target="_blank" style="background-color:...