HEC-TV Live! Presents
Stories of Immigration
Dates: January 14 and January 21, 2009
Times: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. CDT or 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. CDT
Grade Levels: 6-12
Cost: NO CHARGE
More details about the program including agenda, related curriculum standards, and pre and post-program learning activities may be found at the CILC web exhibit for the program at:
http://www.cilc.org/search/content-provider-program.aspx?id=2970
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Program Description:
The story of America is a story of immigration. From our first colonial settlers through the wave of 19th century immigrants to the 20th century refugees from war and famine to those still coming today, the desire to build a better life has motivated millions to our shores. What does it mean to be an immigrant? What forces compel you to embark on an uncertain journey? What is life like in a new and strange country? To complement your students’ study of historic periods of immigration, cultural diversity, or recent world history, we invite you to hear directly from recent immigrants to St. Louis.
In this program, you and your students will have the opportunity to hear first person histories of what it means to be an immigrant to America. Meet recent immigrants to St. Louis who have come from Eastern Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Compare their stories to your study of those of others who arrived in previous periods of immigration. What characteristics are similar and what characteristics are unique? What general conclusions can you then make about the reasons for, and processes of, immigration to America? How do the new immigrants contribute to the cultural, political and economic life of America today? How is that similar to, or different from, previous historic periods of immigration? How does hearing stories from these new immigrants increase our understanding of different cultures? How does learning first-hand about their reasons for coming increase our understanding of recent world troubled areas and crises?
Meet representatives from The International Institute, a St. Louis organization helping immigrants with their transition to their new life here. How is their work today similar to, or different from, how private and government institutions provided assistance in the past? What are the greatest areas of difficulty as immigrants begin to assimilate into their new environment? How do they help immigrants balance traditions of their culture with demands of their new life?
Ask your questions. Hear the stories. Join this compelling discussion of the most recent chapter of America’s story of immigration.
Instructions for Online Viewing:
To view live on hectv.org simply open Windows Media Player, open File and paste this link into the path: http://winmedia.umsl.edu/hec.
Instructions for Viewing on UVerse:
-Press MENU
-Arrow over to HELP, press OK
-Select Help in English or Help in Spanish
-Scroll/Arrow Down to Community Services, press OK
-Public, Education, and Government, press OK
-A PEG video on how to use the AT&T PEG will run, etc.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Monday, November 30, 2009
CAPSpace Projects Registration
There are many worthwhile projects that you should check out and see if you would like to participate with your class. Registration is now open, so reserve your spot while there's still time! Remember, to get contact and other additional information about each project, you'll need a CAPSpace account:
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Berrien RESA MysteryQuest World Geography
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MysteryQuest World Geography is designed for middle school students studying world geography. Through video conference technology students are able to meet other students while learning about cities and countries in the world. Prior to the video conference each classroom will create a presentation with clues about their ONE mystery country and city. The other classrooms, using maps, the Internet, textbooks, and other resources, will try to discover the mystery location presented by each participating classrooms.
MysteryQuest is a Multipoint Event.
The project is open to everyone and is free.
More information here:
http://mysteryquest.wikispaces.com/
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TWICE Regular Members: We the Kids
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TWICE offers this project for the 4th (or 5th) grade social studies curriculum, focusing on the Constitution, particularly the preamble. Students will study the six phrases of the preamble and present non-linguistic representations (i.e. drawings or skits) to each other to explain the parts of the preamble.
We the Kids is a Matching Event so you will need to select multiple times/dates for when your class can participate.
We the Kids is open to TWICE Regular Members (paid membership) ONLY.
(See if you\'re a member here: http://www.twice.cc/regmembers.html )
More information here:
http://projects.twice.cc/?l=event&eventid=130
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TWICE ASK Programs, Second Semester
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TWICE partners with various ISDs around Michigan to bring ASK Author videoconferences. ASK (“Authors Specialist and Knowledge”) is an organized process that provides students with the opportunity to interview an author or a subject specialist in the topic they are reading about in a novel. The program uses excellent literature, journal writing and interviewing to promote reading for understanding.
ASK programs are Multipoint Events.
TWICE ASK programs are $40 for regular members and $80 for non members.
(See if you\'re a member here: http://www.twice.cc/regmembers.html )
More information here:
http://www.twice.cc/ASK/
Berrien RESA MysteryQuest World Geography
------------------------------
MysteryQuest World Geography is designed for middle school students studying world geography. Through video conference technology students are able to meet other students while learning about cities and countries in the world. Prior to the video conference each classroom will create a presentation with clues about their ONE mystery country and city. The other classrooms, using maps, the Internet, textbooks, and other resources, will try to discover the mystery location presented by each participating classrooms.
MysteryQuest is a Multipoint Event.
The project is open to everyone and is free.
More information here:
http://mysteryquest.
------------------------------
TWICE Regular Members: We the Kids
------------------------------
TWICE offers this project for the 4th (or 5th) grade social studies curriculum, focusing on the Constitution, particularly the preamble. Students will study the six phrases of the preamble and present non-linguistic representations (i.e. drawings or skits) to each other to explain the parts of the preamble.
We the Kids is a Matching Event so you will need to select multiple times/dates for when your class can participate.
We the Kids is open to TWICE Regular Members (paid membership) ONLY.
(See if you\'re a member here: http://www.twice.cc/
More information here:
http://projects.twice.cc/?l=
------------------------------
TWICE ASK Programs, Second Semester
------------------------------
TWICE partners with various ISDs around Michigan to bring ASK Author videoconferences. ASK (“Authors Specialist and Knowledge”) is an organized process that provides students with the opportunity to interview an author or a subject specialist in the topic they are reading about in a novel. The program uses excellent literature, journal writing and interviewing to promote reading for understanding.
ASK programs are Multipoint Events.
TWICE ASK programs are $40 for regular members and $80 for non members.
(See if you\'re a member here: http://www.twice.cc/
More information here:
http://www.twice.cc/ASK/
Friday, November 20, 2009
Pre-Planning Collaborative Partnerships
The following blog is a cautionary tale based on personal experience...
We always talk about planning ahead of time for video conferencing. Preparation is key to any successful IVC. When doing collaborative video conference projects, setting the stage before planning is extremely important...
It's great to establish an agenda and materials, but even before that, you need to think about and discuss the expectations of everyone who is taking part in the collaboration.
There are several things that I learned the hard way recently, and I would like to share what I learned with you so your collaborations go smoothly. Ask yourself and your collaborative partners the following questions:
1. Find out the teaching styles of the people with whom you plan to collaborate.
Are they "fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants" people who love to play with the agenda and rearrange it throughout the entire collaborative process? Some people might prefer to plan things out in advance, and change at the last minute might be difficult for them. It is best to find this out before you collaborate because if you fall into one group and your partners are in the other and you haven't discussed it, you could be setting yourself up for a bumpy road.
2. Will there be a lead facilitator, or will planning be a fluid process that can change throughout the collaboration?
This is an important question, and relates to the previous question. If there are 3 or more facilitators in a group, make sure you know if they prefer structure, or if they prefer a looser way of preparing the connection. If you opt for a lead facilitator, what will his or her role be? Be specific so nothing is left ambiguous.
I admit that change up to and including the date of a collaborative effort makes me feel scattered, so I prefer to have the agenda set and to try to stick to it. There is no one right way to plan, but finding out everyone's comfort zone in advance and respecting that can help save headaches in the end.
3. How will you communicate throughout the collaboration?
When people send emails to the group, what is a reasonable amount of time to expect a response? Set goals for responding to emails from your collaborative group in a reasonable amount of time. Never leave your group waiting. If you can't respond thoughtfully right away, at least send a message telling everyone you're busy and when you might be able to attend to the question or concern. When people are left to wait for a response, it sends another kind of message, whether intentional or not, that this collaboration isn't important.
For multi-day collaborative IVC projects or trainings, set aside enough time to meet synchronously about the project. Meet by video conference, Skype or Google Chat, at least 3 times throughout the process to keep the project on track. If you have committed to participating, make sure you attend the synchronous planning meetings, or make arrangements to catch up with one of the other facilitators to find out what you missed.
If you want a structured agenda for your connection, decide on a date when the agenda and materials will be completed so copies can be made and facilitators can prepare for their parts.
During the video conference, if it becomes evident that the agenda needs to be changed, how will you approach this? It is best to discuss this behind the scenes, if possible. You could use a chat tool, such as Google Chat. If you must do this on camera, it would be best to wait for a break, so participants or students aren't left wondering why you didn't figure out the agenda beforehand.
Perhaps you have a good question and someone is talking during the video conference. Do you jump in? Again, if you ask people how they feel about something like this beforehand, it will show how considerate you are! It is best to wait until the person is done talking. Write down your question and ask it when there is a pause.
4. Who will be responsible for creating materials?
How will you share the responsibility for making materials? Be careful here because the communication piece is key. Changes to the agenda can mean that there could be changes to the handouts and other materials. This can create more work for people, so think before you change anything. Getting a consensus on change is a good thing.
Decide as a group if you will use online resources to keep things organized, or will you use paper and pencil because your participants won't have access to a computer?
5. Schedule out time to work on the collaboration.
This one is not a question because this should be done by everyone. Everyone is so busy! Schedule out time to work on projects on your calendar. Better yet, use a Google Doc or Google Calendar for all facilitators to keep track of dates to work synchronously and asynchronously on the collaboration. Then share it so you can see if someone is working on it at the same time you are so you could work through some of it together.
If you plan out specific dates and times to work on the project, you won't give the time away to other projects once your calendar starts filling up.
____________________________________
I want your collaborative projects to be positive experiences for you! Collaborations are a delicate balance of compromise, communication, consideration for others, and commitment.
What else should people think about when planning a collaborative project? I would like to hear your thoughts!
We always talk about planning ahead of time for video conferencing. Preparation is key to any successful IVC. When doing collaborative video conference projects, setting the stage before planning is extremely important...
It's great to establish an agenda and materials, but even before that, you need to think about and discuss the expectations of everyone who is taking part in the collaboration.
There are several things that I learned the hard way recently, and I would like to share what I learned with you so your collaborations go smoothly. Ask yourself and your collaborative partners the following questions:
1. Find out the teaching styles of the people with whom you plan to collaborate.
Are they "fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants" people who love to play with the agenda and rearrange it throughout the entire collaborative process? Some people might prefer to plan things out in advance, and change at the last minute might be difficult for them. It is best to find this out before you collaborate because if you fall into one group and your partners are in the other and you haven't discussed it, you could be setting yourself up for a bumpy road.
2. Will there be a lead facilitator, or will planning be a fluid process that can change throughout the collaboration?
This is an important question, and relates to the previous question. If there are 3 or more facilitators in a group, make sure you know if they prefer structure, or if they prefer a looser way of preparing the connection. If you opt for a lead facilitator, what will his or her role be? Be specific so nothing is left ambiguous.
I admit that change up to and including the date of a collaborative effort makes me feel scattered, so I prefer to have the agenda set and to try to stick to it. There is no one right way to plan, but finding out everyone's comfort zone in advance and respecting that can help save headaches in the end.
3. How will you communicate throughout the collaboration?
When people send emails to the group, what is a reasonable amount of time to expect a response? Set goals for responding to emails from your collaborative group in a reasonable amount of time. Never leave your group waiting. If you can't respond thoughtfully right away, at least send a message telling everyone you're busy and when you might be able to attend to the question or concern. When people are left to wait for a response, it sends another kind of message, whether intentional or not, that this collaboration isn't important.
For multi-day collaborative IVC projects or trainings, set aside enough time to meet synchronously about the project. Meet by video conference, Skype or Google Chat, at least 3 times throughout the process to keep the project on track. If you have committed to participating, make sure you attend the synchronous planning meetings, or make arrangements to catch up with one of the other facilitators to find out what you missed.
If you want a structured agenda for your connection, decide on a date when the agenda and materials will be completed so copies can be made and facilitators can prepare for their parts.
During the video conference, if it becomes evident that the agenda needs to be changed, how will you approach this? It is best to discuss this behind the scenes, if possible. You could use a chat tool, such as Google Chat. If you must do this on camera, it would be best to wait for a break, so participants or students aren't left wondering why you didn't figure out the agenda beforehand.
Perhaps you have a good question and someone is talking during the video conference. Do you jump in? Again, if you ask people how they feel about something like this beforehand, it will show how considerate you are! It is best to wait until the person is done talking. Write down your question and ask it when there is a pause.
4. Who will be responsible for creating materials?
How will you share the responsibility for making materials? Be careful here because the communication piece is key. Changes to the agenda can mean that there could be changes to the handouts and other materials. This can create more work for people, so think before you change anything. Getting a consensus on change is a good thing.
Decide as a group if you will use online resources to keep things organized, or will you use paper and pencil because your participants won't have access to a computer?
5. Schedule out time to work on the collaboration.
This one is not a question because this should be done by everyone. Everyone is so busy! Schedule out time to work on projects on your calendar. Better yet, use a Google Doc or Google Calendar for all facilitators to keep track of dates to work synchronously and asynchronously on the collaboration. Then share it so you can see if someone is working on it at the same time you are so you could work through some of it together.
If you plan out specific dates and times to work on the project, you won't give the time away to other projects once your calendar starts filling up.
____________________________________
I want your collaborative projects to be positive experiences for you! Collaborations are a delicate balance of compromise, communication, consideration for others, and commitment.
What else should people think about when planning a collaborative project? I would like to hear your thoughts!
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
IVC Ideas from Web 2.0
If you follow any blogs, particularly those by some excellent video conferencing professionals around the country, like Janine Lim and Roxanne Glaser, you can learn so much and find so many interesting video conferencing projects to do.
Sometimes I find a blog entry about a topic that does not seem to relate to video conferencing at first, and a wonderful idea for a collaborative video conference project comes along. I would like you to read Beth Still's recent blog entry about a Social Studies unit she is teaching about topics dealing with racial tension.
Beth had asked her class to make a blog entry about their feelings about racism. One student identified himself as racist and didn't see anything wrong with that because that is how I was raised.
In her blog entry, Beth stated her plan to address this with her class and asked her PLN their thoughts about how to approach this with the students.
One comment stood out to me as an excellent example of the power of collaborative technologies, and how they can be instrumental in helping make connections that wouldn't have happened otherwise:
How has Web 2.o helped you to become more collaborative?
Sometimes I find a blog entry about a topic that does not seem to relate to video conferencing at first, and a wonderful idea for a collaborative video conference project comes along. I would like you to read Beth Still's recent blog entry about a Social Studies unit she is teaching about topics dealing with racial tension.
Beth had asked her class to make a blog entry about their feelings about racism. One student identified himself as racist and didn't see anything wrong with that because that is how I was raised.
In her blog entry, Beth stated her plan to address this with her class and asked her PLN their thoughts about how to approach this with the students.
One comment stood out to me as an excellent example of the power of collaborative technologies, and how they can be instrumental in helping make connections that wouldn't have happened otherwise:
- "Beth,Would you be open to some of my students writing persuasive letters to your student to try to help him understand the importance of walking AWAY from racism? I have a class that would welcome the opportunity as part of their civil rights unit. This is an opportunity for all of us perhaps to have a teachable moment and face a very real problem in the world today by putting our minds to honest, open, positive communication and education... I would love to hear from you."
How has Web 2.o helped you to become more collaborative?
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Free Professional Development by IVC: Secondary Science Teachers
I just received this from CILC and wanted to share it with secondary Science teachers. I was wishing I could attend, but I'm teaching that afternoon. If you decide to participate, let me know what you thought of it by commenting on this post!
Exclusively for Educators
Join Deborah Off as she shares two web-based science curricula developed by Eli Lilly and Company to support middle and high school educators.
The multidisciplinary project, "Epidemic Challenge," integrates:
*writing
*communication/public speaking
*math
*research
*group collaboration
The "Chemistry is a Blast" curriculum, offering supportive guides, experiments, and videos, covers:
*physical and chemical properties
*chemical reactions
*safety practices in chemistry
All participants will learn about valuable materials and how to access them.
Date: 12/02/09
Time: 4:00 - 5:00 pm ET
Registration Deadline: 11/30/09
REGISTER HERE
For more information
Contact
Tonia Carriger : tcarriger@cilc.org
317-231-6587
This training is sponsored by:
* CILC
* elluminate
* Tandberg
Exclusively for Educators
Join Deborah Off as she shares two web-based science curricula developed by Eli Lilly and Company to support middle and high school educators.
The multidisciplinary project, "Epidemic Challenge," integrates:
*writing
*communication/public speaking
*math
*research
*group collaboration
The "Chemistry is a Blast" curriculum, offering supportive guides, experiments, and videos, covers:
*physical and chemical properties
*chemical reactions
*safety practices in chemistry
All participants will learn about valuable materials and how to access them.
Date: 12/02/09
Time: 4:00 - 5:00 pm ET
Registration Deadline: 11/30/09
REGISTER HERE
For more information
Contact
Tonia Carriger : tcarriger@cilc.org
317-231-6587
This training is sponsored by:
* CILC
* elluminate
* Tandberg
Friday, November 6, 2009
Test-Taking Strategies with S-VE
I worked with 4 fifth grade classes from Spencer-Van Etten today on test-taking strategies to help them prepare for their upcoming Social Studies state test.
The students did a wonderful job of listening to and following directions!
We watched a video about Test-Taking Strategies, talked about the strategies they learned from the video and played a Jeopardy game. The game includes questions taken from old NYS Social Studies tests. We talked about the strategies they used to answer the questions as a way to reinforce the strategies.
All four games were pretty close! Congratulations to the winners!
Enjoy your weekend! It's supposed to be a nice one here in upstate NY...
If you have any questions about video conferencing, please let us know!
DL@gstboces.org
The students did a wonderful job of listening to and following directions!
We watched a video about Test-Taking Strategies, talked about the strategies they learned from the video and played a Jeopardy game. The game includes questions taken from old NYS Social Studies tests. We talked about the strategies they used to answer the questions as a way to reinforce the strategies.
All four games were pretty close! Congratulations to the winners!
Enjoy your weekend! It's supposed to be a nice one here in upstate NY...
If you have any questions about video conferencing, please let us know!
DL@gstboces.org
Megaconference Event: Experiences of Women In Afghanistan
Experiences of Women In Afghanistan: A Conversation with Suraya Pakzad
Target Audience: High School Students (Grades 10-12)
Date: Friday, November 13, 2009
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. ET
Cost: Free
Requirements for Participation:
* There are spots for 10 MAGPI Members with H.323 videoconferencing capabilities
* There are 5 spots for non-MAGPI Members with H.323 videoconferencing capabilities and who are connected to their national/state research and education network
More information/Registration: http://www.magpi.net/Community/Programs/Experiences-Women-Afghanistan-Conversation-Suraya-Pakzad (Registration for this program closes on Monday, November 9, 2009).
Suraya Pakzad of Afghanistan, entered into an arranged marriage at the age of fourteen years old, and by the time she was sixteen, was the mother of two children. Suraya is now 37 years old and has raised a family of six children. However, with all of these personal challenges and responsibilities she has dedicated her life to helping the women of Afghanistan by starting schools in private homes during the Taliban period, creating vocational training for women in prisons, and establishing safe shelter homes for abused women which offer medical, psychological and legal assistance. Suraya and her organization are dedicated to their cause and every day live with the threats of violence and kidnapping of themselves and family members. Join us to hear her real life stories and be inspired by her dedication and grace!
Named one of Time Magazine's most 100 Influential People of 2009, Suraya will talk about her life experiences and work as the Executive Director and Founder of Voice of Women Organization. Suraya's friend and colleague, Aldo Magazzeni of Traveling Mercies, will moderate this event. There are a select number of interactive videoconference spots available for this event. It will be webstreamed live via real player through Penn Video Network, and an archive of the program will be available through MAGPI's channel on iTunes approximately one week after the event.
Not an Interactive Videoconference Site? Join the live webstream!
The following link will be live beginning at 9:50 a.m. EST on the day of the event, with content beginning promptly at 10:00 a.m. EST:
http://beansidhe.isc-net.upenn.edu:8080/ramgen/encoder/pakzad1113.rm
Technical Requirements for getting the RealPlayer stream:
To view the Internet webcast, your computer must have RealPlayer (version 8 or higher). RealPlayer is available for free from http://www.real.com/. Visit this site and follow the instructions to download and install the "RealPlayer - Free" option.
To test RealPlayer on your computer prior to the event, click on the link below (or copy and paste it into your web browser) to watch an archived video of commencement exercises from the University of Pennsylvania:
http://beansidhe.isc-net.upenn.edu:8080/ramgen/president/commencement08.rm
If you need assistance accessing the webstream, please contact video@isc.upenn.edu.
Target Audience: High School Students (Grades 10-12)
Date: Friday, November 13, 2009
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. ET
Cost: Free
Requirements for Participation:
* There are spots for 10 MAGPI Members with H.323 videoconferencing capabilities
* There are 5 spots for non-MAGPI Members with H.323 videoconferencing capabilities and who are connected to their national/state research and education network
More information/Registration: http://www.magpi.net/Community/Programs/Experiences-Women-Afghanistan-Conversation-Suraya-Pakzad (Registration for this program closes on Monday, November 9, 2009).
Suraya Pakzad of Afghanistan, entered into an arranged marriage at the age of fourteen years old, and by the time she was sixteen, was the mother of two children. Suraya is now 37 years old and has raised a family of six children. However, with all of these personal challenges and responsibilities she has dedicated her life to helping the women of Afghanistan by starting schools in private homes during the Taliban period, creating vocational training for women in prisons, and establishing safe shelter homes for abused women which offer medical, psychological and legal assistance. Suraya and her organization are dedicated to their cause and every day live with the threats of violence and kidnapping of themselves and family members. Join us to hear her real life stories and be inspired by her dedication and grace!
Named one of Time Magazine's most 100 Influential People of 2009, Suraya will talk about her life experiences and work as the Executive Director and Founder of Voice of Women Organization. Suraya's friend and colleague, Aldo Magazzeni of Traveling Mercies, will moderate this event. There are a select number of interactive videoconference spots available for this event. It will be webstreamed live via real player through Penn Video Network, and an archive of the program will be available through MAGPI's channel on iTunes approximately one week after the event.
Not an Interactive Videoconference Site? Join the live webstream!
The following link will be live beginning at 9:50 a.m. EST on the day of the event, with content beginning promptly at 10:00 a.m. EST:
http://beansidhe.isc-net.upenn.edu:8080/ramgen/encoder/pakzad1113.rm
Technical Requirements for getting the RealPlayer stream:
To view the Internet webcast, your computer must have RealPlayer (version 8 or higher). RealPlayer is available for free from http://www.real.com/. Visit this site and follow the instructions to download and install the "RealPlayer - Free" option.
To test RealPlayer on your computer prior to the event, click on the link below (or copy and paste it into your web browser) to watch an archived video of commencement exercises from the University of Pennsylvania:
http://beansidhe.isc-net.upenn.edu:8080/ramgen/president/commencement08.rm
If you need assistance accessing the webstream, please contact video@isc.upenn.edu.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
ESVCC Training
We spent all day today with participants from 11 of our districts learning about video conferencing during our Empire State VC Collaborative training. Today we focused on collaborative projects such as MysteryQuest and Poetry Slam.
There are 6 participating sites this time: CNY RIC, LH RIC, Monroe #1 BOCES, ONC BOCES, Oswego County BOCES and our GST BOCES.
The day flew by today! Our participants asked many questions and worked hard throughout the day.
Check out our training wiki to see what you're missing: http://esvcc.wikispaces.com
Do you have questions about video conferencing? Please feel free to contact us! DL@gstboces.org
Monday, November 2, 2009
“Rolling on the Tundra: A Polar Bear Adventure”
Here's a post from Vanderbilt Virtual Schools. For GST Schools, we're able to assist with registration and cost. Please get in touch with us for assistance if needed. :-)
===============================================================
TUESDAY, November 10, 2009 - “Rolling on the Tundra: A Polar Bear Adventure” with Julene Reed
Targeted Audience: students in grades 4 – 12
Only TWO spaces left!!
Join Apple Distinguished Educator, Julene Reed, as she visits the “Polar Bear Capital of the World” near the Hudson Bay in Churchill in Manitoba, Canada. Participate in a live videoconference from the Arctic tundra with Julene and scientists studying polar bears. Engage in a discussion of facts about polar bears, issues affecting them (such as climate change, etc.), and actions that we can take to help the polar bears.
This November videoconference will be held live from the Arctic tundra next to Hudson Bay not far from Churchill, Manitoba. The scientists, zoologists, and educators who will participate in the videoconference will be broadcasting from the Tundra Buggy Lodge. The lodge is comprised of specialized modules that, when linked end to end, stretch almost 100 meters long.
Time: 2:00 PM (CENTRAL time zone)
Format: 45 minutes formatted into 30-minute presentation, and then 15- 20 minute Q & A
Cost: $75 per site
Questions: Chandra Allison, at (615) 322-6511 or email chandra.allison@vanderbilt.edu
REGISTER: http://www.vanderbilt.edu/virtualschool/registration.htm
===============================================================
TUESDAY, November 10, 2009 - “Rolling on the Tundra: A Polar Bear Adventure” with Julene Reed
Targeted Audience: students in grades 4 – 12
Only TWO spaces left!!
Join Apple Distinguished Educator, Julene Reed, as she visits the “Polar Bear Capital of the World” near the Hudson Bay in Churchill in Manitoba, Canada. Participate in a live videoconference from the Arctic tundra with Julene and scientists studying polar bears. Engage in a discussion of facts about polar bears, issues affecting them (such as climate change, etc.), and actions that we can take to help the polar bears.
This November videoconference will be held live from the Arctic tundra next to Hudson Bay not far from Churchill, Manitoba. The scientists, zoologists, and educators who will participate in the videoconference will be broadcasting from the Tundra Buggy Lodge. The lodge is comprised of specialized modules that, when linked end to end, stretch almost 100 meters long.
Time: 2:00 PM (CENTRAL time zone)
Format: 45 minutes formatted into 30-minute presentation, and then 15- 20 minute Q & A
Cost: $75 per site
Questions: Chandra Allison, at (615) 322-6511 or email chandra.allison@vanderbilt.edu
REGISTER: http://www.vanderbilt.edu/virtualschool/registration.htm
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Grade 5 Teachers
I just wanted to take a brief moment and remind 5th grade teachers that we have a video conference for 5th grades that helps students review for the NYS Social Studies test. It also helps those students learn about helpful test taking strategies they can use to help them during the test.
If you would like more information about this video conference, please visit our DL website's CONTENT page for more information and to check out a mini-version of the video we use during the connection. It is the first session listed under the Social Studies heading.
Do you have questions about this session or other information from our DL site? Please email us: DL@gstboces.org
If you would like more information about this video conference, please visit our DL website's CONTENT page for more information and to check out a mini-version of the video we use during the connection. It is the first session listed under the Social Studies heading.
Do you have questions about this session or other information from our DL site? Please email us: DL@gstboces.org
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Addison Distance Learning Overview
Mary Hutz set up the framework for the training we delivered today to Addison K-12 teachers. I met with the K-6 teachers and Mary met with the secondary teachers by video conference.
We met with the groups in 50 minute blocks and talked about the resources available on the GST DL website, such as the collaborative projects calendar, list of video conferencing resources, the content we deliver, and our blog.
We also encouraged teachers to sign up for our 2-day Empire State Video Conference Collaborative training on November 4 and 5.
Part of the session was spent connected to a content provider specifically targeted to the grade levels:
K-2 - Lee Richardson Zoo
3-4 - NYS Historical Association & Farmer's Museum
5-6 - Cleveland Museum of Art
7-8 - Pro Football Hall of Fame
9-10 - National Baseball Hall of Fame
11-12 - Inner Asian and Uralic National Resource Center
The session concluded with some information about our Virtual Office Hours and questions from participants.
We thoroughly enjoyed working with the teachers in Addison today and look forward to hearing from them, and other educators in our region who need help with video conferencing!!
One of the other sessions that Addison teachers rotated through today was a district offering that was closely related to our presentation. The Addison district recently adapted a protocol teachers will use to set up video conferences. The district has made it available to teachers on the network, and passed out a hard copy of the materials during that part of the training. They also spent time explaining the district's new procedure for signing up for video conferences.
Would you like us to deliver a similar training to teachers in your district? Let us know! DL@gstboces.org
---------------------------------
OK, IVC friends! How do you share information about video conferencing with your districts? Short trainings? Longer trainings? We're always looking for ideas!
We met with the groups in 50 minute blocks and talked about the resources available on the GST DL website, such as the collaborative projects calendar, list of video conferencing resources, the content we deliver, and our blog.
We also encouraged teachers to sign up for our 2-day Empire State Video Conference Collaborative training on November 4 and 5.
Part of the session was spent connected to a content provider specifically targeted to the grade levels:
K-2 - Lee Richardson Zoo
3-4 - NYS Historical Association & Farmer's Museum
5-6 - Cleveland Museum of Art
7-8 - Pro Football Hall of Fame
9-10 - National Baseball Hall of Fame
11-12 - Inner Asian and Uralic National Resource Center
The session concluded with some information about our Virtual Office Hours and questions from participants.
We thoroughly enjoyed working with the teachers in Addison today and look forward to hearing from them, and other educators in our region who need help with video conferencing!!
One of the other sessions that Addison teachers rotated through today was a district offering that was closely related to our presentation. The Addison district recently adapted a protocol teachers will use to set up video conferences. The district has made it available to teachers on the network, and passed out a hard copy of the materials during that part of the training. They also spent time explaining the district's new procedure for signing up for video conferences.
Would you like us to deliver a similar training to teachers in your district? Let us know! DL@gstboces.org
---------------------------------
OK, IVC friends! How do you share information about video conferencing with your districts? Short trainings? Longer trainings? We're always looking for ideas!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Don't be Bashful about Asking for Help!
Hi there! I had an interesting phone conversation with a librarian in one of my districts this morning that I'd like to share with you. She emailed me Monday and asked if I had ideas for a video conference that focused on the Salem Witch Trials. The Cleveland Museum of Art has a nifty program about that topic called 'Scary Art,' so I sent her the information about it. It's actually a perfect IVC for this time of year!
When she called me today, she was concerned that she was asking too much of my time by asking me to research and find other video conference connections about several other topics for 6th and 7th grade teachers. Little do you know how happy it makes me that people would ask my opinion about anything! :-)
Her teachers are so excited to use video conferencing and she had genuinely made an effort to research on her own, but still wasn't finding what she was looking for... Hmmm. There's a U2 song in there somewhere... (Now you're singing it, aren't you??)
Immediately, I began to wonder how often teachers around the region think, "I bet Cheryl, Rene, and Mary are too busy to help me. They have a lot to do, so I won't ask them for help." Yikes! What an unpleasant thought!!
I encouraged her to share all of the topics with me and talked to her about some possibilities off the top of my head. Then I said I'd continue to research and check back as soon as I found something worthwhile to report. The teachers in this instance are planning ahead (by a month or 2), which makes it so much easier to research and plan.
If you have a question about video conferencing, its use, strategies for integrating it into the curriculum, collaborative project ideas, etc., I hope you'll feel free to contact us. DL@gstboces.org
Ordinarily there is someone here in the office available to answer questions over the phone, by email, or by video conference. We collaborate with people around NYS and the US to find ideas and provide training about video conferencing to our region. Please don't hesitate to ask us for help. That's why we're here! :-)
When people ask me for help, their ideas often wind up here on our blog so they benefit everyone.
-------------------------
So, my video conference peeps and tweeps! Do you have ideas for excellent content provider programs or collaborative project ideas on any of the following topics?
Native Americans, Lewis and Clark (Grade 7)
Seneca Falls History, Women's Suffrage, Erie Canal (Grade 7)
From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler (Grade 6) - they are reading the book and would like to tour a museum (the characters visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the book, but I can't find IVC on their website)
--------------------------
If so, please share your thoughts!! (I'm not bashful. I ask for help all the time!)
Enjoy the rest of your week :-)
When she called me today, she was concerned that she was asking too much of my time by asking me to research and find other video conference connections about several other topics for 6th and 7th grade teachers. Little do you know how happy it makes me that people would ask my opinion about anything! :-)
Her teachers are so excited to use video conferencing and she had genuinely made an effort to research on her own, but still wasn't finding what she was looking for... Hmmm. There's a U2 song in there somewhere... (Now you're singing it, aren't you??)
Immediately, I began to wonder how often teachers around the region think, "I bet Cheryl, Rene, and Mary are too busy to help me. They have a lot to do, so I won't ask them for help." Yikes! What an unpleasant thought!!
I encouraged her to share all of the topics with me and talked to her about some possibilities off the top of my head. Then I said I'd continue to research and check back as soon as I found something worthwhile to report. The teachers in this instance are planning ahead (by a month or 2), which makes it so much easier to research and plan.
If you have a question about video conferencing, its use, strategies for integrating it into the curriculum, collaborative project ideas, etc., I hope you'll feel free to contact us. DL@gstboces.org
Ordinarily there is someone here in the office available to answer questions over the phone, by email, or by video conference. We collaborate with people around NYS and the US to find ideas and provide training about video conferencing to our region. Please don't hesitate to ask us for help. That's why we're here! :-)
When people ask me for help, their ideas often wind up here on our blog so they benefit everyone.
-------------------------
So, my video conference peeps and tweeps! Do you have ideas for excellent content provider programs or collaborative project ideas on any of the following topics?
Native Americans, Lewis and Clark (Grade 7)
Seneca Falls History, Women's Suffrage, Erie Canal (Grade 7)
From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler (Grade 6) - they are reading the book and would like to tour a museum (the characters visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the book, but I can't find IVC on their website)
--------------------------
If so, please share your thoughts!! (I'm not bashful. I ask for help all the time!)
Enjoy the rest of your week :-)
Friday, September 18, 2009
GST Virtual Office Hours
I enjoy our Virtual Office Hours because teachers in our region use them for so many reasons. You can request our IP Address and contact us by video conference to talk about curriculum-based video conference projects.
Today we connected with Maria Gimma, a S-VE secondary Spanish teacher, and her students to discuss strategies for an upcoming IVC project where Mrs. Gimma's students will teach Spanish to elementary students. The students were looking for ideas to make the IVC engaging for young students. Kelley Batrowny demonstrated an interactive game to teach Spanish vocabulary and I suggested the use of pictures on a document camera, or a PowerPoint, to help students visualize vocabulary.
We also discussed collaborative project ideas that they could do with other secondary classes. She mentioned that she would like to have students read a book and video conference with another class about it. We suggested using the project template "Videoconference + Web 2.0 Projects" from the booklet "Planning Kid2Kid Video Conference Projects" as a template for that project.
Keep in mind that you can call our video conference equipment for IVC strategies, project ideas, to practice with the remote and equipment, or to talk about life in general. :-)
If you would like our IP Address, please email us: DL@gstboces.org
What are some strategies that you use for keeping a video conference interactive? We'd love to hear from you!
Today we connected with Maria Gimma, a S-VE secondary Spanish teacher, and her students to discuss strategies for an upcoming IVC project where Mrs. Gimma's students will teach Spanish to elementary students. The students were looking for ideas to make the IVC engaging for young students. Kelley Batrowny demonstrated an interactive game to teach Spanish vocabulary and I suggested the use of pictures on a document camera, or a PowerPoint, to help students visualize vocabulary.
We also discussed collaborative project ideas that they could do with other secondary classes. She mentioned that she would like to have students read a book and video conference with another class about it. We suggested using the project template "Videoconference + Web 2.0 Projects" from the booklet "Planning Kid2Kid Video Conference Projects" as a template for that project.
Keep in mind that you can call our video conference equipment for IVC strategies, project ideas, to practice with the remote and equipment, or to talk about life in general. :-)
If you would like our IP Address, please email us: DL@gstboces.org
What are some strategies that you use for keeping a video conference interactive? We'd love to hear from you!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Need an Idea for an Interactive Video Conference? Just ASK!
Welcome Back! How was your first day? Hectic?? I would imagine so! Don't forget about interactive video conferencing as a great way to enhance your curriculum! Registration for the TWICE ASK Program opens September 9. It is a very worthwhile program and affordable, too!
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TWICE ASK Programs
----------------------------------------------------
ASK (Authors, Specialist and Knowledge) is an organized process that provides students with the opportunity to interview an author or a subject specialist in the topic they are reading about in a novel. The program uses excellent literature, journal writing and interviewing to promote reading for understanding.
TWICE offers a series of ASK programs throughout the year. They are $40 for members and $80 for nonmembers. This year the TWICE ASK registration will be in CAPSpace. Registration opens on September 9 in CAPspace under My Projects.
---------------------------------------------------
If you would like more information about this program, loging to CAPSpace or contact the GST DL Team! DL@gstboces.org
----------------------------------------------------
TWICE ASK Programs
----------------------------------------------------
ASK (Authors, Specialist and Knowledge) is an organized process that provides students with the opportunity to interview an author or a subject specialist in the topic they are reading about in a novel. The program uses excellent literature, journal writing and interviewing to promote reading for understanding.
TWICE offers a series of ASK programs throughout the year. They are $40 for members and $80 for nonmembers. This year the TWICE ASK registration will be in CAPSpace. Registration opens on September 9 in CAPspace under My Projects.
---------------------------------------------------
If you would like more information about this program, loging to CAPSpace or contact the GST DL Team! DL@gstboces.org
Friday, July 31, 2009
123vc: Jazzing Up Your Curriculum with Interactive VC 2009
Wow, what a week! It is hard to believe that this 5-day training is over all ready... Our participants and the projects they completed were FABULOUS!!
What a dedicated group of teachers we worked with this week! I'm proud to know that they are part of our region. We're lucky to have such dedicated educators teaching our students.
So, you might be asking yourself, "What went on during this Jazz training?" And I might reply, "What didn't go on??"
Our participants were immersed in a variety of educational video conference strategies throughout the 5 day training. We learned about and participated in Academic Challenges, Exchange Projects, connected with various content providers, and so much more.
They also worked in small groups throughout the week with participants from other sites around the nation to complete a small group project. One of our participants remarked that even though the small groups might have participants from different sites, the video conference technology allowed for relationship-building.
Participants left with a completed project and are looking forward to video conferencing with Jazz participants from other locations and their classes this school year. Read some of their comments from the last session from today.
Roxanne Glaser, one of the lead facilitators for Jazz from the great state of Texas, summed up the experience today with a quote from Oliver Wendell Holmes, "One's mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions. " That's very true. This is the second time GST has participated in this training and I enjoy it more and more each time. This training is intense, but once you complete it, you feel as if you can conquer anything video conferencing has to throw at you!
Looking forward to next year already... But I need a nap first!
What a dedicated group of teachers we worked with this week! I'm proud to know that they are part of our region. We're lucky to have such dedicated educators teaching our students.
So, you might be asking yourself, "What went on during this Jazz training?" And I might reply, "What didn't go on??"
Our participants were immersed in a variety of educational video conference strategies throughout the 5 day training. We learned about and participated in Academic Challenges, Exchange Projects, connected with various content providers, and so much more.
They also worked in small groups throughout the week with participants from other sites around the nation to complete a small group project. One of our participants remarked that even though the small groups might have participants from different sites, the video conference technology allowed for relationship-building.
Participants left with a completed project and are looking forward to video conferencing with Jazz participants from other locations and their classes this school year. Read some of their comments from the last session from today.
Roxanne Glaser, one of the lead facilitators for Jazz from the great state of Texas, summed up the experience today with a quote from Oliver Wendell Holmes, "One's mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions. " That's very true. This is the second time GST has participated in this training and I enjoy it more and more each time. This training is intense, but once you complete it, you feel as if you can conquer anything video conferencing has to throw at you!
Looking forward to next year already... But I need a nap first!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
GST DL Website
Hey there! Check out the changes I made on our GST Distance Learning Website.
On our Calendar page, I embedded a collaborative Google calendar that I set up to use with video conference colleagues around New York State. We are working together to list collaborative video conference projects offered around our state for the coming school year. You'll also find video conference training dates on the calendar, as well.
Please email us if you would like more information about any projects listed on that calendar, or if you need support getting started: DL@gstboces.org
I've updated some of the resources on our Resources page by adding online articles about video conferencing and links to some different content providers for you to investigate, so make sure to check that out, too!
Do you have suggestions for improving our website to make it more useful to you? Please feel free to leave us a comment using the link at the end of this post.
On our Calendar page, I embedded a collaborative Google calendar that I set up to use with video conference colleagues around New York State. We are working together to list collaborative video conference projects offered around our state for the coming school year. You'll also find video conference training dates on the calendar, as well.
Please email us if you would like more information about any projects listed on that calendar, or if you need support getting started: DL@gstboces.org
I've updated some of the resources on our Resources page by adding online articles about video conferencing and links to some different content providers for you to investigate, so make sure to check that out, too!
Do you have suggestions for improving our website to make it more useful to you? Please feel free to leave us a comment using the link at the end of this post.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Helpful Feeds from iTunes
@russeltarr tweeted about a website called iLearn Technology listing "20 iTunes Feeds for the 2.0 Teacher." Looks like something I should share with all of you!
Check it out. If you would like to form your own professional learning network (PLN), get a Twitter account at http://twitter.com!
Check it out. If you would like to form your own professional learning network (PLN), get a Twitter account at http://twitter.com!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
ESL Collaborative IVC Project
Think about planning ahead for next year. If you are an ESL teacher and would like to use video conferencing, this project looks like fun! Log in to CAPSpace to learn more about it!
Title: Getting To Know you:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=300
Connections: H.323
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12, Undergrad
Subjects: Language Arts/English
Dates: Between September 9-October 29 anytime between 1-4pm EDT
Description: I teach adult ESL/Basic Skills. My students are at an Intermediate level of language development. I would like to meet with another class and spend some time learning about each other
1) Write a background paragraph about the community, class school
2) When students meet during the VC, ask for clarification questions and get some detailed information about the students in the class.
3) Students would complete a chart (designed by partner classes) as a followup activity
Title: Getting To Know you:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=
Connections: H.323
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12, Undergrad
Subjects: Language Arts/English
Dates: Between September 9-October 29 anytime between 1-4pm EDT
Description: I teach adult ESL/Basic Skills. My students are at an Intermediate level of language development. I would like to meet with another class and spend some time learning about each other
1) Write a background paragraph about the community, class school
2) When students meet during the VC, ask for clarification questions and get some detailed information about the students in the class.
3) Students would complete a chart (designed by partner classes) as a followup activity
Friday, June 19, 2009
End of the School Year
It's been a while since I've posted anything, so I thought I would check in .
I've been working on many projects recently - preparing for our July Summer Jazz training and our October ESVCC training; updating websites, our DL website video intro , and prepping materials for Model Schools trainings; and working with teammates to interview people who will join our team. We met some excellent candidates and we're looking forward to welcoming 2 new members to our team!
I learned recently that I will be 2.5 days per week in distance learning and 2 days per week in a district during the coming school year. The other half day belongs to Model Schools training. Rene, Mary, and I are looking forward to finding creative ways to continue to meet our districts' needs!
I'm also excited to work face-to-face with teachers and students on a regular basis again! I've missed that type of interaction this past year. Though I found that I really enjoy developing my own content and teaching students via video conference. I will definitely continue to do that as long as teachers invite me to do so! I love it when the kids gasp when they think something I've shown them is cool or when they laugh because they're having fun during a lesson.
I've learned so much over the last year. The way I approach Instructional Technology is completely different than my approach from just a year ago, partly due to the fact that I've learned so much about video conference technology.
The GST DL Team has been meeting with districts to plan ahead for next school year and to plan more effective ways to encourage teachers to use video conference technology. I LOVE to plan ahead... It appeals to my detail-oriented nature. If you are one who enjoys planning ahead as much as I do, then consider contacting us to help you with your video conferencing needs.
Do you need help scheduling content provider sessions? Or maybe you're thinking about video conference projects you might like to try and where to locate partners for those projects. Have you never used video conference equipment before and want to find out how user-friendly it is to use? Perhaps you'd like some ideas to help you get started. We can meet with you by video conference for Virtual Office Hours. Contact us! DL@gstboces.org
I will be posting now and then over the summer, but we'll be back to weekly posts starting in September. Enjoy your summer vacation if you're lucky enough to have the summer off! Maybe we'll see you at Summer Jazz or maybe some of our Model Schools trainings.
I've been working on many projects recently - preparing for our July Summer Jazz training
I learned recently that I will be 2.5 days per week in distance learning
I'm also excited to work face-to-face with teachers and students on a regular basis again! I've missed that type of interaction this past year. Though I found that I really enjoy developing my own content and teaching students via video conference. I will definitely continue to do that as long as teachers invite me to do so! I love it when the kids gasp when they think something I've shown them is cool or when they laugh because they're having fun during a lesson.
I've learned so much over the last year. The way I approach Instructional Technology is completely different than my approach from just a year ago, partly due to the fact that I've learned so much about video conference technology.
The GST DL Team has been meeting with districts to plan ahead for next school year and to plan more effective ways to encourage teachers to use video conference technology. I LOVE to plan ahead... It appeals to my detail-oriented
Do you need help scheduling content provider sessions? Or maybe you're thinking about video conference projects you might like to try and where to locate partners for those projects. Have you never used video conference equipment before and want to find out how user-friendly it is to use? Perhaps you'd like some ideas to help you get started. We can meet with you by video conference for Virtual Office Hours. Contact us! DL@gstboces.org
I will be posting now and then over the summer, but we'll be back to weekly posts starting in September. Enjoy your summer vacation if you're lucky enough to have the summer off! Maybe we'll see you at Summer Jazz or maybe some of our Model Schools trainings.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Start Planning for IVC Now!
Hey! The end of the year is drawing nigh and I thought I'd mention that if you would like to schedule video conference sessions for next year, now might be a good time to think about it.
Content provider schedules can get very busy, so the sooner you know you want to work with a content provider and schedule time to work with them, the better the chance you'll get the sessions you want for your students.
If you plan to do a collaborative project with another class, start to plan now so it won't be so much work during the school year. Schedule the equipment as far in advance as possible so you know it will be available when you need it.
When you are planning any type of video conference, it is best to plan ahead! If you're not sure what kind of project to do, we are happy to meet with you and discuss ideas that would work with your curriculum. Contact us: DL@gstboces.org
Do you have other ideas that could help teacher plan ahead for video conferencing? We'd be interested to know what you think!
Content provider schedules can get very busy, so the sooner you know you want to work with a content provider and schedule time to work with them, the better the chance you'll get the sessions you want for your students.
If you plan to do a collaborative project with another class, start to plan now so it won't be so much work during the school year. Schedule the equipment as far in advance as possible so you know it will be available when you need it.
When you are planning any type of video conference, it is best to plan ahead! If you're not sure what kind of project to do, we are happy to meet with you and discuss ideas that would work with your curriculum. Contact us: DL@gstboces.org
Do you have other ideas that could help teacher plan ahead for video conferencing? We'd be interested to know what you think!
Monday, June 1, 2009
Google Earth & Video Conferencing
When I offer virtual learning experiences to students, I like using Google Earth to help the students visualize where I am in the world compared to where they are.
I mark the location for my building and where the students are located on Google Earth with a "push pin." When I zoom in on our locations during the video conference, the kids usually gasp in amazement. I think they enjoy watching me zip around Google Earth while I go through my introductions.
This would be a fun addition to collaborative video conference projects that you do with other classes!
Google Earth not only shows you the earth, it also shows you what's in the sky, too! If you are a science teacher and plan to do a collaborative IVC project about the planets or constellations, then think about using Google Earth as part of your presentation during your connection. Click the button at the top of the Google Earth window that looks like Saturn and select SKY from the list. Your students could create a trip through the galaxy to share with another classroom with information about stars and planets along the way.
If you haven't already downloaded Google Earth, here is the download page. The trick is to play with it first to get comfortable with the program. Watch some video tutorials about Google Earth to get to know more about it. Then practice connecting to another location where you can practice using it over a video conference connection.
If you need help downloading and using Google Earth as part of a video conference project, or if you have general questions about video conferencing, please contact us: DL@gstboces.org
I mark the location for my building and where the students are located on Google Earth with a "push pin." When I zoom in on our locations during the video conference, the kids usually gasp in amazement. I think they enjoy watching me zip around Google Earth while I go through my introductions.
This would be a fun addition to collaborative video conference projects that you do with other classes!
Google Earth not only shows you the earth, it also shows you what's in the sky, too! If you are a science teacher and plan to do a collaborative IVC project about the planets or constellations, then think about using Google Earth as part of your presentation during your connection. Click the button at the top of the Google Earth window that looks like Saturn and select SKY from the list. Your students could create a trip through the galaxy to share with another classroom with information about stars and planets along the way.
If you haven't already downloaded Google Earth, here is the download page. The trick is to play with it first to get comfortable with the program. Watch some video tutorials about Google Earth to get to know more about it. Then practice connecting to another location where you can practice using it over a video conference connection.
If you need help downloading and using Google Earth as part of a video conference project, or if you have general questions about video conferencing, please contact us: DL@gstboces.org
Monday, May 25, 2009
Excel Battleship
My brother said that he has to teach a 20 minute lesson on Excel for his job interview on Friday.
He said that, since he has been asked to cover the basics, he was going to teach them how to play Excel Battleship. This activity teaches Excel newbies about rows, columns, cells, cell names, entering text in cells, formatting colors and borders... Fun!
Here's a link to a website from a teacher in Washington state who has done a similar Excel Battleship lesson with her students. Want to set up your own game board in Excel? Here is a handout (PDF) to help you from the Utah Education Network.
This same activity would be great for teaching math students about slope and points on a graph, according to the UEN handout.
You might be asking yourself, "Why is she mentioning this on a blog about distance learning?" It made me think that this could be a fun way for students to interact by video conference.
You could have students in different locations create 2 or 3 game boards and compete by video conference to see who can sink the most battleships. The teachers could set up the templates and the students in each class could plot their own battleships on the Excel template before the connection.
This might be a fun way for students to get to know each other at the beginning of a collaborative IVC project.
Depending on your experience with Excel and your goal for the IVC connection, you could take this to another level by having students use some advanced features of Excel to create a review activity to share during a connection such as a self-checking quiz. As students from the other class answer, your class can type their responses into the spreadsheet to see if they are correct or incorrect.
If you meet with a class, or multiple classes, periodically throughout the year, you could keep track of the weather for the areas where the participating classes are located in a spreadsheet.
What other ways can you think of to use Excel with video conferencing?
Questions? Contact us! DL@gstboces.org
He said that, since he has been asked to cover the basics, he was going to teach them how to play Excel Battleship. This activity teaches Excel newbies about rows, columns, cells, cell names, entering text in cells, formatting colors and borders... Fun!
Here's a link to a website from a teacher in Washington state who has done a similar Excel Battleship lesson with her students. Want to set up your own game board in Excel? Here is a handout (PDF) to help you from the Utah Education Network.
This same activity would be great for teaching math students about slope and points on a graph, according to the UEN handout.
You might be asking yourself, "Why is she mentioning this on a blog about distance learning?" It made me think that this could be a fun way for students to interact by video conference.
You could have students in different locations create 2 or 3 game boards and compete by video conference to see who can sink the most battleships. The teachers could set up the templates and the students in each class could plot their own battleships on the Excel template before the connection.
This might be a fun way for students to get to know each other at the beginning of a collaborative IVC project.
Depending on your experience with Excel and your goal for the IVC connection, you could take this to another level by having students use some advanced features of Excel to create a review activity to share during a connection such as a self-checking quiz. As students from the other class answer, your class can type their responses into the spreadsheet to see if they are correct or incorrect.
If you meet with a class, or multiple classes, periodically throughout the year, you could keep track of the weather for the areas where the participating classes are located in a spreadsheet.
What other ways can you think of to use Excel with video conferencing?
Questions? Contact us! DL@gstboces.org
Friday, May 22, 2009
Internet Safety Session
I did a Web Safety video conference with a 3rd grade class in Alfred-Almond on Friday, May 22. It was the first time I offered this session to students, and they did such an awesome job!
Their answers to my questions showed that they understood how to analyze a variety of situations that might occur while online, and determine what to do to be responsible and keep safe. I was very impressed with the students' knowledge about web safety and the vocabulary they used to explain their answers!
We played a game that I call "Web Safety Net" during our connection. I used the students' names in the questions, so that it would seem more personal to them. They worked in groups to discuss each scenario and did such a nice job explaining what they would do in each situation that I presented to them.
All of this AND it was their very first video conference! Great job, 3rd Graders!!
If you are interested in this lesson (it is geared toward grades 3-5 or 6), please email us: DL@gstboces.org
Their answers to my questions showed that they understood how to analyze a variety of situations that might occur while online, and determine what to do to be responsible and keep safe. I was very impressed with the students' knowledge about web safety and the vocabulary they used to explain their answers!
We played a game that I call "Web Safety Net" during our connection. I used the students' names in the questions, so that it would seem more personal to them. They worked in groups to discuss each scenario and did such a nice job explaining what they would do in each situation that I presented to them.
All of this AND it was their very first video conference! Great job, 3rd Graders!!
If you are interested in this lesson (it is geared toward grades 3-5 or 6), please email us: DL@gstboces.org
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Summer Jazz Training Makes Me Feel Fine....
We are currently preparing for our 5-day summer training called "Jazzing Up Your Curriculum with Interactive Video Conferencing," or "Summer Jazz" for short.
If you are an educator or administrator in one of GST's participating DL districts, and you're looking for an excellent introduction to what is possible with video conferencing, please consider attending this training! It takes place July 27-31 from 9am-3:45pm at the GST Bush Campus, Building 11 Large Conference Room.
We will participate in collaborative projects, content provider sessions, learn about helpful Web 2.0 technologies, and work together to plan collaborative projects to share on the last day of the training.
To register for Summer Jazz Training:
1. Get your district staff development coordinator and supervisor approval to attend
2. Fill in the registration form: http://gstjazz.wikispaces.com/ and click SUBMIT
3. Email ctice@gstboces.org to let me know that you signed up.
Registration Deadline: June 18
Registration Confirmation and Regret Emails: on or before June 19
SPACE IS LIMITED, so please sign up as soon as possible to reserve your spot!
Email us if you have questions: DL@gstboces.org
If you are an educator or administrator in one of GST's participating DL districts, and you're looking for an excellent introduction to what is possible with video conferencing, please consider attending this training! It takes place July 27-31 from 9am-3:45pm at the GST Bush Campus, Building 11 Large Conference Room.
We will participate in collaborative projects, content provider sessions, learn about helpful Web 2.0 technologies, and work together to plan collaborative projects to share on the last day of the training.
To register for Summer Jazz Training:
1. Get your district staff development coordinator and supervisor approval to attend
2. Fill in the registration form: http://gstjazz.wikispaces.com/ and click SUBMIT
3. Email ctice@gstboces.org to let me know that you signed up.
Registration Deadline: June 18
Registration Confirmation and Regret Emails: on or before June 19
SPACE IS LIMITED, so please sign up as soon as possible to reserve your spot!
Email us if you have questions: DL@gstboces.org
Friday, May 15, 2009
CAPSpace 3000
Hey! Who will be the 3000th person to create a CAPSpace account?? Could it be you? As of 3 hours ago, they only needed 6 more accounts to achieve the 3000 mark.
Create an account today and find some awesome teachers with whom to collaborate and some great ideas for ways to use video conferencing!
Go to CAPSpace website | click CREATE A NEW ACCOUNT | follow the wizard and fill in your info.
Questions? Contact us: DL@gstboces.org
Create an account today and find some awesome teachers with whom to collaborate and some great ideas for ways to use video conferencing!
Go to CAPSpace website | click CREATE A NEW ACCOUNT | follow the wizard and fill in your info.
Questions? Contact us: DL@gstboces.org
Monday, May 11, 2009
Tech in General...
A colleague of mine sent me this blog post this morning and I thought some of you might find it interesting... http://www.techlearning.com/blogs/20320
It is a response to a teacher who said, "I hate technology."
The response is (very) sarcastic, but if you can get past the sarcasm, there are some excellent points in this article that could be raised with those who shy away from technology. If the reasons were restated in a more positive light, technology-shy teachers might begin to see why the use of technology is so powerful, and a necessary part of teaching...
Instructional support for the use of technology is key. When teachers have someone available to walk them through the use of technology in the classroom, they are more apt to experiment with it. True for video conferencing, Microsoft PowerPoint, Kidspiration, Web 2.0 tools...
Remember, we are available to support you as you investigate the use of video conferencing with your students. Contact us if you want to practice using IVC equipment, or if you need help finding content providers or collaborative partners: DL@gstboces.org
It is a response to a teacher who said, "I hate technology."
The response is (very) sarcastic, but if you can get past the sarcasm, there are some excellent points in this article that could be raised with those who shy away from technology. If the reasons were restated in a more positive light, technology-shy teachers might begin to see why the use of technology is so powerful, and a necessary part of teaching...
Instructional support for the use of technology is key. When teachers have someone available to walk them through the use of technology in the classroom, they are more apt to experiment with it. True for video conferencing, Microsoft PowerPoint, Kidspiration, Web 2.0 tools...
Remember, we are available to support you as you investigate the use of video conferencing with your students. Contact us if you want to practice using IVC equipment, or if you need help finding content providers or collaborative partners: DL@gstboces.org
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
CAPSpace Project - Getting to Know IVC Equipment
Title: Getting Started with Video Conferencing:
Status: Idea
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=289
Connections: H.323
Grades: 9
Subjects: Technology/Information Science
Dates: Between May 5 and May 25 from 10:30 to 11:30 EDT
Description: We are just learning how to use the video conferencing equipment and would like to connect with another classroom to gain some proficiency with the system. Once we've become proficient with the system, we'll be eager to explore other joint projects to work on with another group of students.
Status: Idea
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=
Connections: H.323
Grades: 9
Subjects: Technology/Information Science
Dates: Between May 5 and May 25 from 10:30 to 11:30 EDT
Description: We are just learning how to use the video conferencing equipment and would like to connect with another classroom to gain some proficiency with the system. Once we've become proficient with the system, we'll be eager to explore other joint projects to work on with another group of students.
This project seems like an excellent way to establish a collaborative partner for a secondary classroom to try out the equipment and get familiar with video conferencing before jumping into a big project! For more information, please log in to CAPSpace or contact us at DL@gstboces.org!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Collaborative Projects: Grades 4 - 6
Title: radio shows:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=284
Connections: H.323
Grades: 4, 5, 6
Subjects: Language Arts/English
Dates: between May 11 and May 28?
Description: We have a fifth grade that is writing radio plays. Would anyone be interested in sharing radio plays with us? Would anyone like to connect and just listen to our plays?
Title: jeopardy math game:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=285
Connections: H.323
Grades: 6
Subjects: Mathematics
Dates: May
Description: We would like to challenge a sixth grade class in the United States to a math jeopardy game.
You will need to log in to CAPSpace for more information, but these projects look like fun if anyone is interested. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to email us: DL@gstboces.org
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=
Connections: H.323
Grades: 4, 5, 6
Subjects: Language Arts/English
Dates: between May 11 and May 28?
Description: We have a fifth grade that is writing radio plays. Would anyone be interested in sharing radio plays with us? Would anyone like to connect and just listen to our plays?
Title: jeopardy math game:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=
Connections: H.323
Grades: 6
Subjects: Mathematics
Dates: May
Description: We would like to challenge a sixth grade class in the United States to a math jeopardy game.
You will need to log in to CAPSpace for more information, but these projects look like fun if anyone is interested. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to email us: DL@gstboces.org
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Proving Laughter Can Be The Best Form Of Medicine
The Giggles Children’s Theater, located at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, in Paterson, NJ; is looking to connect with highly motivated teachers and students interested in bringing the healing powers of laughter and entertainment to hospitalized children.
In this experience, teachers and students connect directly to the Giggles Children’s Theater by distance learning or videoconferencing. The focus of the presentation should be fun, creative, entertaining, and approximately 30-40 minutes in length.
Topics such as fear, death, and food products should be avoided.
Teacher and students are requested to provide a title and description of the performance prior to the actual performance date, follow performance guidelines as outlined by Giggles, and sign a required video/performance consent form.
On the day of the performance, hospitalized children watch the performance either from the Giggles Children’s’ Theater or from the comfort of their hospital rooms. It is recommended that with each performance, the teacher or class include some type of hands-on activity for the hospitalized children to complete while viewing the performance. Only a template need to be sent as the hospital provides the supplies.
All performances are recorded by the Giggles Children’s Theater and then shared with over 100 other children’s hospitals from around the world.
The Distance Learning Team at GST BOCES would like to assist you in making this great learning opportunity possible. Contact Mary Hutz for further information and ideas.
Feel free to also explore the following websites for additional information about the Giggles Children’s Theater:
Medical Mission for Children
What Is Giggles Children’s Theatre/Giggles Children’s Theater Sampler Videos
Giggles Buzz
In this experience, teachers and students connect directly to the Giggles Children’s Theater by distance learning or videoconferencing. The focus of the presentation should be fun, creative, entertaining, and approximately 30-40 minutes in length.
Topics such as fear, death, and food products should be avoided.
Teacher and students are requested to provide a title and description of the performance prior to the actual performance date, follow performance guidelines as outlined by Giggles, and sign a required video/performance consent form.
On the day of the performance, hospitalized children watch the performance either from the Giggles Children’s’ Theater or from the comfort of their hospital rooms. It is recommended that with each performance, the teacher or class include some type of hands-on activity for the hospitalized children to complete while viewing the performance. Only a template need to be sent as the hospital provides the supplies.
All performances are recorded by the Giggles Children’s Theater and then shared with over 100 other children’s hospitals from around the world.
The Distance Learning Team at GST BOCES would like to assist you in making this great learning opportunity possible. Contact Mary Hutz for further information and ideas.
Feel free to also explore the following websites for additional information about the Giggles Children’s Theater:
Medical Mission for Children
What Is Giggles Children’s Theatre/Giggles Children’s Theater Sampler Videos
Giggles Buzz
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Empire State VC Collaborative
Whew!! We're finally back to our regular routine after two awesome days of Empire State Video Conference Collaborative training on Thursday & Friday last week. Our group was amazing and I hope they enjoyed the training as much as I did! Every time I do that training I learn something new.
We connected with some excellent content providers and participants were emailing their friends with ideas for using content providers in a variety of different content areas. It was exciting to see how people reacted to each of the sessions over the two days.
If you would like to see some of what we explored during the training, visit the wiki site: http://esvcc.pbwiki.com.
If you would like help integrating interactive video conferencing into your curriculum, please contact us and let us know! DL@gstboces.org
We connected with some excellent content providers and participants were emailing their friends with ideas for using content providers in a variety of different content areas. It was exciting to see how people reacted to each of the sessions over the two days.
If you would like to see some of what we explored during the training, visit the wiki site: http://esvcc.pbwiki.com.
If you would like help integrating interactive video conferencing into your curriculum, please contact us and let us know! DL@gstboces.org
Friday, March 20, 2009
Virtual Learning Experiences On My Mind...
This morning I did two brief presentations for people in central NY about video conferencing to help my friend, Amy Spath, who had another commitment this morning.
The first group was a small group of teachers and I talked very quickly given the brief time we had together, but hope that they were able to gather at least one or two bits of information about virtual learning experiences that they didn't know before. They were such a great group! I wish I had more time to spend chatting with them...
I did an overview for them about collaborative IVC project ideas and where to find collaborative video conference partners. I also shared information about content providers and basic things to think about when planning a video conference. I was able to share my presentation with them so they can check out the links I discussed with them.
Group 2 was a rather large group of educators from several locations around central New York, which was surprising, but fun! They asked excellent questions and seemed to enjoy the presentation (particularly when my face froze momentarily on the screen in an attractive way, I'm sure, based on the giggles from the audience!).
I enjoy this kind of practice using video conference equipment and think that it is an essential part of improving my presentation style. In fact, that is one of the things that I shared this morning. So, now I plan to share with you all of the stuff that is on my mind where video conferencing is concerned...
If you are going to use video conference equipment successfully, you must practice using it! If you have Tandberg equipment, I have a handout that you might find helpful. Feel free to print it and use it. Contact us for our IP address if you want to connect with us and get help while you practice! DL@gstboces.org
We also discussed the importance of preparing for virtual learning experiences, because that is one very critical aspect of video conferencing. Give plenty of time prior to a connection for planning and scheduling a virtual learning experience. Make sure the equipment is available for all who plan to connect and get it scheduled as soon as possible. All video conferences should include pre- and post-conference activities.
Pre-conference activities could include an intro to interactive video conferencing, equipment basics, and behavioral expectations; along with the vocabulary and prior knowledge necessary for participating in the actual virtual learning experience. This could be done in the classroom, or you could schedule a DL Intro session with us here at GST.
Post-conference activities should include some form of assessment to determine student learning resulting from the virtual learning activity.
If you are responsible for delivering content during a video conference connection, ask someone the best way to present information via video conference. There are some quick strategies you can use that will keep your audience engaged from beginning to end.
Making sure to use a variety of resources, such as a document camera, a (PowerPoint) presentation, or a game can help keep students (and adults) focused. Making sure to switch the back and forth from your peripherals to the main camera periodically so the other end of the connection sees you can help maintain their connection with you as the speaker. Most importantly, keep things moving along. If something isn't working, have plans B, C, and D in place so you can quickly shift gears and continue if the technology is uncooperative for some reason.
Your connection has a better chance to succeed if you practice connecting to the other site(s) and using the peripherals you plan to use during the connection ahead of time! If you need help with this, make sure to ask us!
Feel free to contact us for other presentation ideas if you are planning to receive or deliver content via distance! You can also contact us if you want to talk about ways video conference technology can help you engage your students and enrich your curriculum.
If you and your students are fully prepared prior to a video conference connection, that will make for a much better virtual learning experience!
DL@gstboces.org
Enjoy your weekend!
The first group was a small group of teachers and I talked very quickly given the brief time we had together, but hope that they were able to gather at least one or two bits of information about virtual learning experiences that they didn't know before. They were such a great group! I wish I had more time to spend chatting with them...
I did an overview for them about collaborative IVC project ideas and where to find collaborative video conference partners. I also shared information about content providers and basic things to think about when planning a video conference. I was able to share my presentation with them so they can check out the links I discussed with them.
Group 2 was a rather large group of educators from several locations around central New York, which was surprising, but fun! They asked excellent questions and seemed to enjoy the presentation (particularly when my face froze momentarily on the screen in an attractive way, I'm sure, based on the giggles from the audience!).
I enjoy this kind of practice using video conference equipment and think that it is an essential part of improving my presentation style. In fact, that is one of the things that I shared this morning. So, now I plan to share with you all of the stuff that is on my mind where video conferencing is concerned...
If you are going to use video conference equipment successfully, you must practice using it! If you have Tandberg equipment, I have a handout that you might find helpful. Feel free to print it and use it. Contact us for our IP address if you want to connect with us and get help while you practice! DL@gstboces.org
We also discussed the importance of preparing for virtual learning experiences, because that is one very critical aspect of video conferencing. Give plenty of time prior to a connection for planning and scheduling a virtual learning experience. Make sure the equipment is available for all who plan to connect and get it scheduled as soon as possible. All video conferences should include pre- and post-conference activities.
Pre-conference activities could include an intro to interactive video conferencing, equipment basics, and behavioral expectations; along with the vocabulary and prior knowledge necessary for participating in the actual virtual learning experience. This could be done in the classroom, or you could schedule a DL Intro session with us here at GST.
Post-conference activities should include some form of assessment to determine student learning resulting from the virtual learning activity.
If you are responsible for delivering content during a video conference connection, ask someone the best way to present information via video conference. There are some quick strategies you can use that will keep your audience engaged from beginning to end.
Making sure to use a variety of resources, such as a document camera, a (PowerPoint) presentation, or a game can help keep students (and adults) focused. Making sure to switch the back and forth from your peripherals to the main camera periodically so the other end of the connection sees you can help maintain their connection with you as the speaker. Most importantly, keep things moving along. If something isn't working, have plans B, C, and D in place so you can quickly shift gears and continue if the technology is uncooperative for some reason.
Your connection has a better chance to succeed if you practice connecting to the other site(s) and using the peripherals you plan to use during the connection ahead of time! If you need help with this, make sure to ask us!
Feel free to contact us for other presentation ideas if you are planning to receive or deliver content via distance! You can also contact us if you want to talk about ways video conference technology can help you engage your students and enrich your curriculum.
If you and your students are fully prepared prior to a video conference connection, that will make for a much better virtual learning experience!
DL@gstboces.org
Enjoy your weekend!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
CAPSpace: High School Collaborative Projects
We're always looking for ways to integrate video conferencing into the secondary curriculum. Below are some possibilities for Spanish and English teachers. Log in to CAPSpace to find out more information about both of these projects.
Title: Spanish Language Exchange:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=251
Connections: H.323
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Subjects: Spanish
Description: This teacher would like to set up a VC between her class and a partner class that would allow the conversation in Spanish (as a second language) and share culture and background.
___________________
Title: Facilitator's Choice - English Class:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=252
Connections: H.323
Grades: 11, 12
Description: I have a teacher who wishes to allow their students to lead discussions once a week. The collaboration does not have to happen on a weekly basis, but she would definitely like to have more than one connection with the partner class.
This is a Grade 12 English class and one of the expectations and skills is to communicate ideas with a large group.
The format is student lead - student centered discussion of an issue of the facilitator's choice.
VC 1: introduction of classes, share background and goalsVC 2: Discussion 1 from host; Discussion 1 from partnerVC 3: Discussion 2 from host; Discussion 2 from partnerAnd do as many of these as works out for the two classes.
Title: Spanish Language Exchange:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=251
Connections: H.323
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Subjects: Spanish
Description: This teacher would like to set up a VC between her class and a partner class that would allow the conversation in Spanish (as a second language) and share culture and background.
___________________
Title: Facilitator's Choice - English Class:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=252
Connections: H.323
Grades: 11, 12
Description: I have a teacher who wishes to allow their students to lead discussions once a week. The collaboration does not have to happen on a weekly basis, but she would definitely like to have more than one connection with the partner class.
This is a Grade 12 English class and one of the expectations and skills is to communicate ideas with a large group.
The format is student lead - student centered discussion of an issue of the facilitator's choice.
VC 1: introduction of classes, share background and goalsVC 2: Discussion 1 from host; Discussion 1 from partnerVC 3: Discussion 2 from host; Discussion 2 from partnerAnd do as many of these as works out for the two classes.
Friday, March 6, 2009
DL Intro Sessions
I had tons of fun with 3 second grade classes from Campbell-Savona on Thursday! The teachers have planned a content provider session with a zoo for their students.
They also wanted to help their students better understand how video conferencing works, so they connected to me at GST and we did an introductory lesson and activities to help practice what they learned. Who doesn't like playing Simon Says! by video conference? Second graders are excellent at following directions
The teachers provided me with 15 vocabulary words and definitions that I used in a review activity to help them practice their video conference behavior - raising their hand to answer questions, standing to give an answer, speaking in a strong voice, etc...
After my connections with Campbell-Savona, I returned to my office and visited with a 6th grade class in Alfred-Almond that wanted to see how the equipment worked. We spent some time showing how we could change the layout of a call and basic information about the remote.
If you are getting ready to do a video conference activity with your class and you think a similar lesson might be helpful, please email us! DL@gstboces.org
They also wanted to help their students better understand how video conferencing works, so they connected to me at GST and we did an introductory lesson and activities to help practice what they learned. Who doesn't like playing Simon Says! by video conference? Second graders are excellent at following directions
The teachers provided me with 15 vocabulary words and definitions that I used in a review activity to help them practice their video conference behavior - raising their hand to answer questions, standing to give an answer, speaking in a strong voice, etc...
After my connections with Campbell-Savona, I returned to my office and visited with a 6th grade class in Alfred-Almond that wanted to see how the equipment worked. We spent some time showing how we could change the layout of a call and basic information about the remote.
If you are getting ready to do a video conference activity with your class and you think a similar lesson might be helpful, please email us! DL@gstboces.org
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Read-Around-The-Planet is AWESOME!
The annual Read-Around-The-Planet project (http://www.twice.cc/read/) wraps up this week and what a whirldwind of testing and connections it has been! Districts across our region have particpated again this year and the students have had a ball. Ms Stackhouse at Spencer-Van Etten Elem always does a phenomenal job of encouraging the classes in her building to participate and this year she's come close to getting every class to partake of the fun! Here's a little snipet from one of the connections she facilitated: "This morning Mrs. Cornell’s Kindergarten Class from S-VE connected to the Guyandotte Elementary School in Huntington, WV. We learned that they can look out their window and see Kentucky and Ohio. They read us a story by an author from West Virginia. Then we read them a story and taught them the song and dance Wiggle Worm by Tom Knight, a local singer/songwriter. Everyone had a great time!"
Earlier today, the event organizers shared data that estimates 53,000 students were impacted by RAP! We extend a HUGE THANK YOU to Janine, Sue and all their support staff for continuing this great tradition! We love it!
Earlier today, the event organizers shared data that estimates 53,000 students were impacted by RAP! We extend a HUGE THANK YOU to Janine, Sue and all their support staff for continuing this great tradition! We love it!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Empire State VC Collaborative Registration
Hey! Registration has begun for Empire State Video Conference Collaborative.
Online Registration: http://esvcc.pbwiki.com/
Hurry! Space is limited!!
Online Registration: http://esvcc.pbwiki.com/
Hurry! Space is limited!!
Date: April 2 & 3
Time: 8AM-3:30PM
Place: GST BOCES
Registration Deadline: March 18
LUNCH PROVIDED at GST site by SCT/C & Bath Teacher Centers!
If you are interested in learning about interactive video conferencing and strategies for using it in your own area of expertise, please consider attending this 2-day conference.
During the training you will be immersed in a variety of virtual learning experiences and play with video conference equipment. You will also have a chance to discuss the video conferencing strategies you're learning with participants at GST and participants at other BOCES around the state!
For more information, please contact us at DL@gstboces.org and we will be happy to answer your questions!
During the training you will be immersed in a variety of virtual learning experiences and play with video conference equipment. You will also have a chance to discuss the video conferencing strategies you're learning with participants at GST and participants at other BOCES around the state!
For more information, please contact us at DL@gstboces.org and we will be happy to answer your questions!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
More CAPSpace Projects
Please create a user account and log in to CAPSpace to find out more information about the following IVC Class-to-Class projects...
Title: 6th Grade Social Studies
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=220
Connections: H.323
Grades: 6
Dates: 9-10 A.M. EDT Thursdays and Fridays, or 9 A.M.-12:30 P.M. on Wednesdays
Description: I am a 6th Grade Social Studies Teacher from Newport News, VA. I would like to VC with another school from around the country, to give my students a different perspective on the issues that we are discussing. We could contact one another and compare curriculums and then come up with a plan.
Title: Francophone Week VC Event - Call for Participation:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=222
Connections: H.323
Grades: K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Dates: Friday, March 20, 2009 from 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. MST
Description:The VC Regional Leads Network in Alberta, Canada, is hosting a VC event on March 20, 2009 to celebrate French language and culture during Francophone Week. Currently we are looking for classes who wish to do a short creative presentation or performance (predominantly in the French language) sometime during the day on March 20 (all times MST). Poems, songs, plays, puppets - any type of creative presentation is welcome! Please email Danny Maas maasd@me.com to receive an information and registration package, or download it from http://files.me.com/maasd/ttyh2p .
-------------------
If you have any questions or would like us to look into any of the projects we share from CAPSpace for you, please let us know! DL@gstboces.org
Title: 6th Grade Social Studies
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=220
Connections: H.323
Grades: 6
Dates: 9-10 A.M. EDT Thursdays and Fridays, or 9 A.M.-12:30 P.M. on Wednesdays
Description: I am a 6th Grade Social Studies Teacher from Newport News, VA. I would like to VC with another school from around the country, to give my students a different perspective on the issues that we are discussing. We could contact one another and compare curriculums and then come up with a plan.
Title: Francophone Week VC Event - Call for Participation:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=222
Connections: H.323
Grades: K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Dates: Friday, March 20, 2009 from 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. MST
Description:The VC Regional Leads Network in Alberta, Canada, is hosting a VC event on March 20, 2009 to celebrate French language and culture during Francophone Week. Currently we are looking for classes who wish to do a short creative presentation or performance (predominantly in the French language) sometime during the day on March 20 (all times MST). Poems, songs, plays, puppets - any type of creative presentation is welcome! Please email Danny Maas maasd@me.com to receive an information and registration package, or download it from http://files.me.com/maasd/ttyh2p .
-------------------
If you have any questions or would like us to look into any of the projects we share from CAPSpace for you, please let us know! DL@gstboces.org
Friday, February 13, 2009
CAPSpace Flat Stanley Project - Grade 1
I love Flat Stanley, but I really enjoy the idea of making it an activity you can do with video conferencing! Here is a project that a first grade teacher posted on CAPSpace:
Title: Flat Stanley:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=218
Connections: H.323
Grades: 1
Dates: middle of April through middle of May
Description: I am a first grade teacher in Newport News,Virginia and am looking for a classroom that would like to collaborate on a Flat Stanley Project.
Log in to CAPSpace to find out more about this project! Please contact the GST BOCES Distance Learning Team if you have questions or need more information! DL@gstboces.org
Title: Flat Stanley:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=218
Connections: H.323
Grades: 1
Dates: middle of April through middle of May
Description: I am a first grade teacher in Newport News,Virginia and am looking for a classroom that would like to collaborate on a Flat Stanley Project.
Log in to CAPSpace to find out more about this project! Please contact the GST BOCES Distance Learning Team if you have questions or need more information! DL@gstboces.org
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
More CAPSpace Collaborative Project Possibilities...
Please click on the links below for more information. You will need a CAPSpace account to access more information about these projects!
Title: Flat Stanley Project:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=210
Connections: H.323
Grades: 1
Dates: During the month of March
Description: A first grade class is looking for classrooms to participate in our Flat Stanley project. We hope to exchange a class Flat Stanley and connect with each other to discuss the exciting things that Flat Stanley can do while visiting the school and community.
------------------------
Title: Data Collection and Graphing:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=212
Connections: H.323
Grades: 4, 5
Dates: February 10-28
Description: Students will create survey questions to ask their partner class. Data will then be tallied and organized. Students will then create graphs to reflect their data. These graphs will be shared a second video conference. During this second video conference students will analyze, discuss and write about their data.
------------------------
Title: Flat Stanley Project:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=210
Connections: H.323
Grades: 1
Dates: During the month of March
Description: A first grade class is looking for classrooms to participate in our Flat Stanley project. We hope to exchange a class Flat Stanley and connect with each other to discuss the exciting things that Flat Stanley can do while visiting the school and community.
------------------------
Title: Data Collection and Graphing:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=212
Connections: H.323
Grades: 4, 5
Dates: February 10-28
Description: Students will create survey questions to ask their partner class. Data will then be tallied and organized. Students will then create graphs to reflect their data. These graphs will be shared a second video conference. During this second video conference students will analyze, discuss and write about their data.
------------------------
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Arkport Grades 2-4 DL Intro
I had the best time on Wednesday, February 4, working with Arkport teachers and students in grades 2 through 4! The students were so well behaved and worked hard to follow directions and answer all my questions. They were awesome!
The goal was to introduce the students to interactive video conferencing and to do an activity with them to practice their best video conference behavior.
With grade 2, we did Pictionary Vocabulary. The teachers provided me with 15 science vocabulary words that they have been studying. I showed the students pictures representing each word and they competed to see who could answer first. The student who answered correctly picked 2 classmates to try the next one, and so on... They did an impressive job remembering their science vocabulary words!
Grade 3 did an excellent job with the Geometry MysteryQuest with terms and definitions provided by the teacher. I used SMART Notebook to present different mysterious geometry-related questions to the students based on the information provided to me by their teacher. Their geometry knowledge is just super!
The fourth graders had fun practicing their listening skills by following directions I gave and drawing the monster I described. I did this activity with them as an example of a kid-to-kid project they could do with another classroom somewhere in the world. They were a very focused group and did a wonderful job, too!
If you are interested in doing a connection like this for your class, please let us know! DL@gstboces.org
The goal was to introduce the students to interactive video conferencing and to do an activity with them to practice their best video conference behavior.
With grade 2, we did Pictionary Vocabulary. The teachers provided me with 15 science vocabulary words that they have been studying. I showed the students pictures representing each word and they competed to see who could answer first. The student who answered correctly picked 2 classmates to try the next one, and so on... They did an impressive job remembering their science vocabulary words!
Grade 3 did an excellent job with the Geometry MysteryQuest with terms and definitions provided by the teacher. I used SMART Notebook to present different mysterious geometry-related questions to the students based on the information provided to me by their teacher. Their geometry knowledge is just super!
The fourth graders had fun practicing their listening skills by following directions I gave and drawing the monster I described. I did this activity with them as an example of a kid-to-kid project they could do with another classroom somewhere in the world. They were a very focused group and did a wonderful job, too!
If you are interested in doing a connection like this for your class, please let us know! DL@gstboces.org
Friday, February 6, 2009
Congratulations to the T-Shirt Winner!
Hi everyone! I guess it pays to read our monthly newsletter, because Jim T. from S-VE High School posted 2 comments on our blog already and won the fabulous t-shirt. We hope he will cherish it forever!
Stay tuned! We're looking around our office for more give-aways!!
Stay tuned! We're looking around our office for more give-aways!!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
What's Happening w/ the GST DL Team?
It's a snow day for most of our districts today, but we're hard at work on some projects that we need to finish up. We've been very busy and we are enjoying working with teachers in our region and collaborating with people outside of our region, as well!
Rene worked with a teacher in Bradford today who needs to learn to use the DL equipment so she can teach a statistics class by video conference. This morning, I met by video conference with Donna Farren from Monroe2 BOCES and a teacher she worked with today to talk about video conferencing.
This afternoon we are going to have a phone conference to plan for our Summer Jazz training ("Jazz Up Your Curriculum with Interactive Video Conferencing"). Funny to think that it is January and we are starting to plan for July already! I can't wait for the warm weather to get here. I'm kind of tired of the snow! In fact, I can't take it anymore!! We need some warm weather... now.
Monday, February 2, we are doing a video conference with Bradford to talk about how our team can help teachers in that district. Mary Hutz will be visiting Bradford, and Rene and I will be presenting via distance.
Today, I've also been working on some plans for DL Etiquette lessons I'm doing for grades 2-4 for Arkport by video conference that I'm doing on February 4. I plan to do Pictionary Vocabulary with the second graders; a MysteryQuest with the third grades; and a Monster Match with grade 4. We'll also play a game of Simon Says to work on remembering the behaviors we expect during video conferences. I hope the kids enjoy it! My teammate Kelley Batrowny came up with the Simon Says activity idea. She's always coming up with awesome ideas!
There's so much more happening, but I thought I would share this information, particularly for those who might be planning distance learning events in another region. If you would like to help us by connecting to our trainings, visiting with our teachers by video conference when we meet with them to discuss DL, or help in some other capacity, complete the form at the bottom of our blog to become part of our GST DL Network!
Rene worked with a teacher in Bradford today who needs to learn to use the DL equipment so she can teach a statistics class by video conference. This morning, I met by video conference with Donna Farren from Monroe2 BOCES and a teacher she worked with today to talk about video conferencing.
This afternoon we are going to have a phone conference to plan for our Summer Jazz training ("Jazz Up Your Curriculum with Interactive Video Conferencing"). Funny to think that it is January and we are starting to plan for July already! I can't wait for the warm weather to get here. I'm kind of tired of the snow! In fact, I can't take it anymore!! We need some warm weather... now.
Monday, February 2, we are doing a video conference with Bradford to talk about how our team can help teachers in that district. Mary Hutz will be visiting Bradford, and Rene and I will be presenting via distance.
Today, I've also been working on some plans for DL Etiquette lessons I'm doing for grades 2-4 for Arkport by video conference that I'm doing on February 4. I plan to do Pictionary Vocabulary with the second graders; a MysteryQuest with the third grades; and a Monster Match with grade 4. We'll also play a game of Simon Says to work on remembering the behaviors we expect during video conferences. I hope the kids enjoy it! My teammate Kelley Batrowny came up with the Simon Says activity idea. She's always coming up with awesome ideas!
There's so much more happening, but I thought I would share this information, particularly for those who might be planning distance learning events in another region. If you would like to help us by connecting to our trainings, visiting with our teachers by video conference when we meet with them to discuss DL, or help in some other capacity, complete the form at the bottom of our blog to become part of our GST DL Network!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Synergy and Communication
Mary and I connected with Amy Spath at CNYRIC and Betsy Hardy and Jenny Burroughs from Catt-Allegany BOCES yesterday morning by video conference to discuss distance learning and how we can support each other using this technology.
We discussed events happening around the region, ideas for helping people get involved in distance learning in our districts, and so much more - we really had an awesome conversation. I'm so glad to have connected with them and look forward to collaborating with them soon!
This meeting got me thinking about ways I could increase my network of DL friends across the state, or anywhere else for that matter...
If you scroll down to the bottom of this blog, you'll notice a form you can fill out if you have video conference equipment and are willing to collaborate with us when we do training or presentations that might require assistance from others.
I've also added a feature above this blog's archive on the top right side of this page that allows you to type messages to me as long as I am logged on to my blog account. Great for times when you have a quick question. Click "Chat with Cheryl Tice" in the thought bubble, and you can type a message to me and I'll answer back. The best part about it is, each person who communicates with me this way has their own window so you can't see what others are saying. Only I can see all of the conversations at once! Thanks to my teammate Kelley Batrowny for showing me that fun tool! Extremely nifty and fabulous!
If you participate in the GST DL Service and have suggestions for ways we can better help you integrate video conferencing into your curriculum, please feel free to make comments here or send us an email! DL@gstboces.org
We discussed events happening around the region, ideas for helping people get involved in distance learning in our districts, and so much more - we really had an awesome conversation. I'm so glad to have connected with them and look forward to collaborating with them soon!
This meeting got me thinking about ways I could increase my network of DL friends across the state, or anywhere else for that matter...
If you scroll down to the bottom of this blog, you'll notice a form you can fill out if you have video conference equipment and are willing to collaborate with us when we do training or presentations that might require assistance from others.
I've also added a feature above this blog's archive on the top right side of this page that allows you to type messages to me as long as I am logged on to my blog account. Great for times when you have a quick question. Click "Chat with Cheryl Tice" in the thought bubble, and you can type a message to me and I'll answer back. The best part about it is, each person who communicates with me this way has their own window so you can't see what others are saying. Only I can see all of the conversations at once! Thanks to my teammate Kelley Batrowny for showing me that fun tool! Extremely nifty and fabulous!
If you participate in the GST DL Service and have suggestions for ways we can better help you integrate video conferencing into your curriculum, please feel free to make comments here or send us an email! DL@gstboces.org
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Intro to DL Session with Addison Teachers
I had fun on Wednesday for an hour after school, chatting with Addison teachers by video conference about distance learning and introducing them to interactive video conferencing.
We did a Monster Match where the teachers learned about a collaborative IVC project where each class designs a monster and explains how to draw it using words. Those in attendance drew theirs perfectly, of course! Thanks to Michelle Bartholomew from BT BOCES for sharing in the fun and describing a monster for the participants.
After they finished the monster, we discussed ideas for using that activity with Math, Science, Technology, and English topics.
Then we did a MysteryQuest with Paul Rubeo from a school district somewhere in New York State. (Well, you never know if we're going to do the same quest again, right?) Then we talked about ways MysteryQuest could be adapted for a variety of content areas.
In that same hour, I showed the Addison teachers how to quickly search http://cilc.org for content providers. We discussed CAPSpace and why it is an excellent resource for finding collaborative video conferencing partners. Then I showed them our website and some of the resources that are available all in one place to make finding interactive video conference ideas, upcoming GST DL training, and other information about DL as easy as possible.
I ended our training by talking about our DL service and how teachers in subscribing districts receive both instructional and technical support for video conference projects.
If you would like us to do a similar training for your district, please contact us! DL@gstboces.org
We did a Monster Match where the teachers learned about a collaborative IVC project where each class designs a monster and explains how to draw it using words. Those in attendance drew theirs perfectly, of course! Thanks to Michelle Bartholomew from BT BOCES for sharing in the fun and describing a monster for the participants.
After they finished the monster, we discussed ideas for using that activity with Math, Science, Technology, and English topics.
Then we did a MysteryQuest with Paul Rubeo from a school district somewhere in New York State. (Well, you never know if we're going to do the same quest again, right?) Then we talked about ways MysteryQuest could be adapted for a variety of content areas.
In that same hour, I showed the Addison teachers how to quickly search http://cilc.org for content providers. We discussed CAPSpace and why it is an excellent resource for finding collaborative video conferencing partners. Then I showed them our website and some of the resources that are available all in one place to make finding interactive video conference ideas, upcoming GST DL training, and other information about DL as easy as possible.
I ended our training by talking about our DL service and how teachers in subscribing districts receive both instructional and technical support for video conference projects.
If you would like us to do a similar training for your district, please contact us! DL@gstboces.org
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
RAP Special Education Class Request
Here is another collaborative project that a special education teacher has requested on CAPSpace. She would like to do this at some time between February 23 - March 6.
Title: Read Around the Planet Special Request:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=177
Connections: H.323
Grades: 5, 6, 7, 8
Subjects:
Dates: 9:30 – 10:00 or 10:30 –11:00 EST During RAP weeks
Description: I would like to participate in Read Around the Planet this year. It has been a few years since doing so. I have a special education, self-contained class of eight middle school students grades five through eight. I would like to play Pictionary with a partner class drawing/guessing the titles of fairy tales. We could do two minute rounds alternating between drawing and guessing. I would like to coordinate with the other teacher to do some pre-video planning.
The best times would be either 9:30 – 10:00 or 10:30 – 11:00.
If you are interested, please contact us at DL@gstboces.org to get this teacher's name and contact information. Thanks!
Title: Read Around the Planet Special Request:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=177
Connections: H.323
Grades: 5, 6, 7, 8
Subjects:
Dates: 9:30 – 10:00 or 10:30 –11:00 EST During RAP weeks
Description: I would like to participate in Read Around the Planet this year. It has been a few years since doing so. I have a special education, self-contained class of eight middle school students grades five through eight. I would like to play Pictionary with a partner class drawing/guessing the titles of fairy tales. We could do two minute rounds alternating between drawing and guessing. I would like to coordinate with the other teacher to do some pre-video planning.
The best times would be either 9:30 – 10:00 or 10:30 – 11:00.
If you are interested, please contact us at DL@gstboces.org to get this teacher's name and contact information. Thanks!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
French IV and V: CAPSpace Collaborative IVC Project
Title: French IV and V:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=176
Connections: H.320/H.323
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Subjects:
Dates: French V 9:10 - 10:15 M-F French IV 11:30 - 1:30 or either can meet at 10:30 - 11:30 CST
Description: This teacher is a high school French teacher who is looking for another class to collaborate and communicate with. Their students are level V and IV. They are on a block schedule where students meet every day for 90 minutes.
If you are interested in this collaborative video conferencing project, please click the link above and log in to CAPSpace to access the contact information for this teacher, or email DL@gstboces.org for more information.
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=176
Connections: H.320/H.323
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Subjects:
Dates: French V 9:10 - 10:15 M-F French IV 11:30 - 1:30 or either can meet at 10:30 - 11:30 CST
Description: This teacher is a high school French teacher who is looking for another class to collaborate and communicate with. Their students are level V and IV. They are on a block schedule where students meet every day for 90 minutes.
If you are interested in this collaborative video conferencing project, please click the link above and log in to CAPSpace to access the contact information for this teacher, or email DL@gstboces.org for more information.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Viewing Inauguration activities
Several of our school districts have only one or two regular television access points in their district. Using their H.323 codecs, we've been able to connect the cable signal to the codecs, enable streaming and then provide instructions to staff for accessing the stream. This will enable many more people to see live coverage of the activities of Inauguration Day.
Feel free to contact us at dl@gstboces.org if you would like to make similar arrangments
Feel free to contact us at dl@gstboces.org if you would like to make similar arrangments
AP English - Collaborative IVC Project Request
Title: AP English Exchange:
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=174
Connections: H.320
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Subjects: English
Dates: Feb and March of 2009
Description: This teacher is looking for another AP English Class to meet for about 20-30 minutes once a week to discuss AP level work, college plans, or other important topics for AP students.
The time would be split to allow equal time per school to share information about their AP classes. There would also be time for students to ask each other questions to compare/contrast their AP experience with other classrooms across the country.
To access more information about this collaborative interactive video conference project, click the above link and log in to CAPSpace to view contact information. Please let us know if you have questions or if you would like the email address to contact this teacher!
Status: Open
URL: http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=174
Connections: H.320
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Subjects: English
Dates: Feb and March of 2009
Description: This teacher is looking for another AP English Class to meet for about 20-30 minutes once a week to discuss AP level work, college plans, or other important topics for AP students.
The time would be split to allow equal time per school to share information about their AP classes. There would also be time for students to ask each other questions to compare/contrast their AP experience with other classrooms across the country.
To access more information about this collaborative interactive video conference project, click the above link and log in to CAPSpace to view contact information. Please let us know if you have questions or if you would like the email address to contact this teacher!
Anybody out there want to connect with the San Francisco Giants?
The information below the dotted line was received through one of the many listservs that promote DL/IVC. While other ball clubs may also have DL/IVC program, the San Francisco Giants are the first ball club I've seen advertising for it. If your students like baseball you may also want to consider checking out programs from the Baseball Hall of Fame - http://education.baseballhalloffame.org/experience/videoconferences.html
======================================
We were hoping you could help us to set up a test connection with a middle school, specifically 6th – 8th grade, to run through our pilot distance learning lesson “Giants Geometry”. The lesson is approximately 45 minutes focusing on geometric shapes present in the ballpark and in the game of baseball. Students will also calculate the area of home plate and participate in a hands-on activity. Attached are the presentation worksheets. Teachers will need to supply simple wooden sticks, such as popsicle sticks, and push pins. My contact information is below, or please contact Linda Vessa at lvessa2@yahoo.com.
Alexis Arbizu
Ballpark Tours Manager
AT&T Park
24 Willie Mays Plaza
San Francisco, CA 94107aarbizu@attpark.com
(415) 972-1852 Phone
(415) 947-2925 Fax
www.attpark.com
======================================
We were hoping you could help us to set up a test connection with a middle school, specifically 6th – 8th grade, to run through our pilot distance learning lesson “Giants Geometry”. The lesson is approximately 45 minutes focusing on geometric shapes present in the ballpark and in the game of baseball. Students will also calculate the area of home plate and participate in a hands-on activity. Attached are the presentation worksheets. Teachers will need to supply simple wooden sticks, such as popsicle sticks, and push pins. My contact information is below, or please contact Linda Vessa at lvessa2@yahoo.com.
Alexis Arbizu
Ballpark Tours Manager
AT&T Park
24 Willie Mays Plaza
San Francisco, CA 94107aarbizu@attpark.com
(415) 972-1852 Phone
(415) 947-2925 Fax
www.attpark.com
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Collaborative IVC Project Ideas
I am a member of CAPSpace and periodically I receive emails about teachers who are looking for other classes to participate in collaborative video conference projects. Now and then when something looks fun, I will post it here with the web address.
If you see something you like in the examples below, sign up for a CAPSpace account (or log in to your CAPSpace account) and click the links in this post so you can access contact information for the teachers who made each request.
------------------------------------------------------
Title: Culture Exchange:
Status: Open http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=172
Connections: H.323
Grades: 6
Subjects:
Dates: Between Feb. 23 and March 6 any day but Friday 8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time
Description: We would like to connect our 6th graders to a class on another continent like Australia or Africa for a culture exchange. The exchange could be a dance, a song or other custom.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Video Conference Test:
Status: Open http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=173
Connections: H.323
Grades: PreK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Subjects:
Dates: Friday March 20 from 9:45-10:00 or 10:30-10:45
Description: I am looking for a class or teacher to demonstrate the uses of video conferencing during a Technology Fair that is taking place at my school. I would like to have our school dial into the connection site and have a short discussion about the positive impact video conferencing has on instruction.
If you see something you like in the examples below, sign up for a CAPSpace account (or log in to your CAPSpace account) and click the links in this post so you can access contact information for the teachers who made each request.
------------------------------------------------------
Title: Culture Exchange:
Status: Open http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=172
Connections: H.323
Grades: 6
Subjects:
Dates: Between Feb. 23 and March 6 any day but Friday 8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time
Description: We would like to connect our 6th graders to a class on another continent like Australia or Africa for a culture exchange. The exchange could be a dance, a song or other custom.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Video Conference Test:
Status: Open http://projects.twice.cc/?l=collaboration&id=173
Connections: H.323
Grades: PreK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Subjects:
Dates: Friday March 20 from 9:45-10:00 or 10:30-10:45
Description: I am looking for a class or teacher to demonstrate the uses of video conferencing during a Technology Fair that is taking place at my school. I would like to have our school dial into the connection site and have a short discussion about the positive impact video conferencing has on instruction.
Monday, January 5, 2009
DL Database Progress
I just met with the programmer today and he is doing an excellent job on the DL database! He's already made quite a bit of progress, but it will be a while before it is fully functional.
Remember to check out the videos below and submit your thoughts to us soon, so we can include the functionality you need as part of the database.
:-)
Remember to check out the videos below and submit your thoughts to us soon, so we can include the functionality you need as part of the database.
:-)
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