While there are many challenges to overcome with technology integration, especially in a 1:1 implementation, there are also many benefits. Much of the time, attention has been focused on how teachers are using the tools to change delivery of instruction or addressing classroom management. Instead, this post will focus on how students have used the new technology as a way to "own" their own learning.
Featured iPad Apps
The first featured app was found by Sophomore Allison Urban. Allison was looking for a way to study for an upcoming Anatomy and Physiology quiz that went beyond the usual flashcards. What she found is a LabelED, a free app from Gerrard Apps. The app works by allowing the user to import images and create labels on the image. Labels can be name only or include details, definitions and audio recording. The user can then choose from two different methods of quizzing, location or multiple choice. Users can organize the material by creating "books" of different subjects or units. There are books already available in the app for purchase that feature subjects such as bones and muscles.
As an aspiring interior designer, Krystina was tasked with creating floor layout solutions as part of the redesign of the library. The assignment was to create two potential layouts for a new seating area to present to students. The students will choose from the layouts how the new seating area will be arranged. Krystina looked at several potential options, including web-based programs, but chose the iPad app MagicPlan for the project. Going beyond a scaled placement concept, the app actually measures and and draws your floor plan from pictures that you take on the iPad.
Maximizing Google
While students are using Google Drive and Apps in teacher-directed capacities, they are finding an advantage on their own to how they can organize their work and increase submission of assignments. Several students have mentioned the ability to share Google Drive items has decreased their missing assignments. Senior drama student, Angelica, struggled in the past with keeping papers organized and submitting assignments on time. To solve this problem, Angelica created one document in her Google drive drama folder and shared it with her teacher. Every day she opens the same document and adds her response. The assignment is already "shared" with Mrs. Bokano, eliminating missing assignments. 
Getting the Most Out of Your Learning Platform
Teachers choose to integrate a web-based platform for their students for several reasons. From a student perspective, the ability to access not only assignments but instructional resources during an extended absence is invaluable. Damon, a senior football player, was out following shoulder surgery. In his blended and online classes, he was able to continue to participate as if he were in the classroom. Daily agendas, class discussions, tutorials, video instructions and assignment submission are all accessible through the online platform. Both Moodle and Edmodo provide the structure necessary to provide this for our students.
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| IB Bio Moodle class |
Twitter Friday Follow
The conversation surrounding teens and social media most often focuses on examples of bullying and displays of inappropriate behavior. But there are ways that social media can be used in an appropriate context. Teachers are using Twitter as a way to send reminders about tests and assignment due dates, ACT has practice questions that they tweet daily and the school communicates news and celebrations. Recently, the students at Algonac High School began using Twitter in a distinctly different way. Instead of negative comments, bullying and complaining seen on many accounts, an account has been created to promote community and provide a positive social media interaction.
The students at Algonac High school also pride themselves in being the best fans and supporters of their school in our area, as evidenced by the "Rat Pack" student section.. One way that the "Rat Pack" shows their pride is by using social media to connect students with basketball events. Over Thanksgiving break, seniors Zach Liederman, Jeff Geck and Keith Kirby created the Twitter account @ALGratpack. The account keeps students and supporters informed of game locations, times, and student activities such as "white outs" at targeted games. As the season gets into full swing, game highlights, player shout outs and final scores will also be shared. The account was recently contacted by The D Zone about a contest for the best student section in the state. Zach, Jeff and Keith will be submitting videos and pictures of the student section during games to submit for the contest. Follow @ALGratpack and attend AHS basketball games to show the State of Michigan Algonac High School "Rat Pack" is the best student section in the state!
Library News
Before you leave for the holiday break, check out a book or two for leisure reading. Many of the recent and soon-to-be released movies are book adaptions. The listing below is a sample of what you can find in the library collection.
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