Explore every episode of the podcast The EduGals Podcast
Dive into the complete episode list for The EduGals Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
Examining Traditional Grading and its Impact on Teaching - E138
26 Mar 2024
00:28:43
In this episode, we delve back into our discussion about the book 'Grading for Equity' by Joe Feldman. The third chapter which we are exploring is titled 'How Traditional Grading Stifles Risk Taking and Supports the Commodity of Grades' and opens up the conversation about belief systems and the prevailing view on student achievement. We discuss the stark differences between the Industrial Revolution beliefs and 21st-century beliefs regarding education, and raise questions about how grading methods should shift in light of these changes. We particularly focus on the harm that a heavy focus on extrinsic motivation can cause and the negative implications of traditional grading practices on the trust and relationship between teachers and students. Furthermore, we scrutinize how grades have become a commodity leading to competition rather than collaboration and debate whether traditional grading serves the purpose of preparing students for post-secondary education or not. Towards the end, we suggest potential solutions that look beyond punitive grading policies and value both the learning process and the students' individual expressions of learning.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/138**
00:00 Introduction to Grading for Equity
00:37 Exploring Belief Systems in Education
01:42 The Shift in Education Systems and Beliefs
04:56 The Impact of Traditional Grading on Risk Taking and Trust
07:09 The Negative Consequences of Traditional Grading
13:48 The Commodity of Grades and Extrinsic Motivation
Creating Inclusive Learning Environments: Action and Expression in UDL - E137
19 Mar 2024
00:25:19
In this episode, we delve deeper into the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, examining the pillar of 'action and expression'. We review the importance of different methods and accommodations that allow students to demonstrate their learning in the most effective manner. We'll also highlight potential barriers, such as physical impairments and language difficulties, while emphasizing the value of alternative strategies and physical interaction with materials.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/137**
00:00 Introduction to Universal Design for Learning
00:33 Understanding the Pillar of Action and Expression
01:35 Personal Experiences with Organizational Abilities
03:51 Exploring the Physical Action Guideline
04:27 Addressing Barriers in Physical Action
09:59 Optimizing Access to Tools and Assistive Technologies
11:44 Expression and Communication: A New Pillar
13:20 Exploring Multiple Media for Communication
13:26 Using Multiple Tools for Construction and Composition
13:37 Building Fluencies with Graduated Levels of Support
This week, we are chatting about providing options for comprehension in the classroom. Using the UDL (Universal Design for Learning) framework and representation pillar, we're going to share some different strategies on how we can help students make information accessible, but also how to transform that into knowledge they can use.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/129**
Checkpoint #1: Activate or supply background knowledge
Value prior knowledge
Get to know your learners and their background knowledge
Consider using visual imagery, concept anchoring and mastery, KWL chart and other organizers, concept maps (whiteboards), pre-teaching with demos/models, analogies and metaphors, cross-curricular connections
In part 2 of this 2 part series, we are going over our EdTech Toolkit from A to Z. We'll cover apps starting with N to Z this week. We've got lots of great ideas and uses for these tools as you are thinking about the new school year!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/59**
In part 1 of this 2 part series, we are going over our EdTech Toolkit from A to Z. We'll cover apps starting with A to M this week followed by N to Z next week. We've got lots of great ideas and uses for these tools as you are thinking about the new school year!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/58** Our top EdTech Apps:
How To Get Your Mojo Back After Pandemic Teaching - E057
17 Aug 2021
00:40:14
In this episode, we are talking all about teacher burnout and how to find your motivation when you are still exhausted from the last school year. We were inspired by a tweet by Pernille Ripp, and will talk about how we can reset for the new school year. We will talk about our experiences, and will share some ideas and strategies.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/57**
In this episode, we are exploring ways to set up your Learning Management System (LMS) effectively and efficiently to optimize course organization and learning for your students. We'll go over tips, strategies, and ideas for setting up your LMS, whether it is Brightspace, Canvas, Schoology, Google Classroom, or something else.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/56**
Use your LMS, even if you are fully face-to-face
Layout and Homepage:
This is your doorway into your virtual classroom
Easy navigation - minimize the links to the essentials
Link all of your other tools within the content area
Supporting English Language Learners In Your Classroom - E055
20 Jul 2021
00:45:37
In this episode, we are exploring the ways that you can leverage technology to support the English language learners in your classroom. We'll cover tech tools such as Google Read&Write and Mote, as well as some general tips and strategies for designing an inclusive and safe learning environment for your students.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/55**
Common Acronyms:
ELL - English Language Learner
ESL - English as a Second Language
EAL - English as an Additional Language
STEP - STeps to English Proficiency
OLB - Observable Language Behaviours
OLLB - Observable Language and Literacy Behaviours
Overall Tips and Strategies:
Use first languages (these are a strength and asset for learning)
Integrate culture where possible and use lived experiences when designing resources
Understand the difference between conversational and academic language
Just because speaking is strong, it doesn’t mean reading/writing are the same - survival
Don't make assumptions! Not all multilingual learners can read/write in their first language or have that specific knowledge in their first language
Learn how to pronounce student names properly (use tech tools to support your learning)
Use images and student-friendly definitions to reduce cognitive load
In this episode, we are sharing our summer reading list for teachers. We'll go over what we are currently reading, recommendations for reading, as well as what we want to read ourselves this summer.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/54**
Currently Reading:
Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy - Gholdy Muhammad
Ungrading: Why Rating Students Undermines Learning (and What to Do Instead) - Edited by Susan D. Blum
This has certainly been a tough year in education, so this week, we wanted to talk about learning opportunities for the summer to help get you rejuvenated, excited, and prepared for the upcoming school year. We'll share learning around Google certifications, Modern Classrooms Project, other EdTech certifications, and so much more!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/53**
We're taking a break for a few weeks - next episode will be released on July 6th
Preparing for the Google Certified Educator Level 2 Exam - E052
01 Jun 2021
00:43:31
In this episode, we are exploring how to prepare ourselves for the Google Certified Educator Level 2 Exam. Both of us need to complete our recertification this month so we're reflecting about our past experiences with this exam as well as our strategy for preparation.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at edugals.com/52**
Key Information:
Cost of the exam: $25 USD
Time: 180 minutes
Certification is valid for 3 years
Suggested time to spend on the curriculum: approx. 15 hours
11 units total in the curriculum
Exam is comprised of two sections: A multiple choice, matching, etc section and a task based section
The majority of the exam is focused on the tasks/scenarios... don't spend too much time on the first section!
Recertification exams are scenario-based only
Don't stress... you've got this!
Don't over analyze the questions - it's not as complicated as you think
Strategies:
Start with the unit reviews in the curriculum to test your current knowledge
Try out the tasks in the task cards linked below to test your skills
Google Sheets + YouTube = Pivot Tables :)
Focus on the tools that you are unfamiliar with - Maps, Earth, Blogger, Groups, Add-ons, Books, Scholar, etc.
Solving Problems Using EdTech Tools With Jake Miller - E051
25 May 2021
00:41:29
In this episode, we are joined by a special guest, Jake Miller, the host of the Educational DuctTape Podcast. We'll discuss his experiences as a tech coach as well as an educator back in the classroom during this crazy school year. We've got lots of great tips and ideas for building community and relationships with your students as well as some great advice to how to choose EdTech tools to meet your classroom learning goals and needs.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at edugals.com/51**
In this 50TH episode of the podcast, we'll be discussing podcasting in the classroom. We'll get into the why behind podcasting as well as the prep & tools you need to get started.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/50**
From The Archives: Asset Vs. Deficit Mindset - E080
29 Aug 2023
00:36:01
In this episode, we are exploring asset vs deficit mindsets in education. We'll go over our observations as well as some of our ideas to shift away from a deficit mindset in our classrooms.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/80**
Asset mindset - what are the strengths that our students bring to the classroom and how you can embrace that with high expectations
Deficit mindset - what are students lacking and focusing on their weaknesses
CRRP - High expectations, Cultural competence, Critical consciousness
Grades contribute to a deficit mindset and don't give the full picture of the strengths of a student
Ideas and Strategies:
Get to know students and don't look at past grades
Becoming aware and speaking up against deficit language
Need PD on asset-based mindsets and language (peer conversations and dialogue, active learning, voluntary, accessing when ready, multiple opportunities, reflection)
Community and relationship building - conversations and conferencing with students, get curious about behaviours, collaborate with other staff
Avoid the silo and utilize the whole school team
Question your assessment practices, focus on personalized and descriptive feedback (tests = deficit, portfolios = asset for example), varied types, focus on skills
A Creative Approach to Technology with Tony Vincent - E049
11 May 2021
00:39:17
In this episode, we are joined by an amazing guest, Tony Vincent. We'll chat about digital drawing skills and creativity in the classroom using Shapegrams. We'll also go over some tips and tricks to using Google Drawings effectively and efficiently.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/49**
Get rid of the checkerboard pattern by right clicking, select background and change it to white (or another colour)
Page setup or just grab the bottom right corner "grippy" and drag it out to stretch or lengthen your canvas
Shapes menu - circle = oval, square = rectangle; to get a perfect circle/square, hold down the shift key as you draw out the shape
Shift + Control/Option + dragging on the shape - resizes from the centre
Version history is available here too - copy/paste from a previous version or restore previous versions
Use the grey space around the drawing for instructions, videos, activities for early finishers, drag and drop activities, gifs (make them using Screencastify), etc.
In this episode, we are talking all about destreaming education. We'll get into why academic streaming needs to go, as well as share out some potential solutions and approaches on how to successfully destream your courses.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/48**
In this episode, we are diving into the topic of what virtual schools could be post-pandemic. We'll share some ideas on how virtual schools could work going forward and how we should plan for it effectively. This stemmed from a post on Twitter where the Ontario Government is proposing that virtual models are here to stay.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/47**
A Google Innovator Journey with Fonz Mendoza - E046
20 Apr 2021
00:50:33
In this episode, we are featuring a special guest, Fonz Mendoza, from My EdTech Life. Fonz is an Instructional Technologist from South Texas. Fonz is sharing his Google Innovator journey with us as well as his goals around his show. We were guests on Fonz's show almost a year ago and we really wanted to highlight this amazing educator.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/46**
Connect with Fonz Mendoza (Instructional Tech, South Texas)
In this episode, we are discussing the challenges of asynchronous learning in this crazy virtual/hybrid teaching world. We'll dive into our thoughts about what asynchronous learning should look like ideally as well as the reality that we are facing here in Ontario this year. Thanks so much to @DougPete and @Stephen_Hurley for inspiring us to record this episode!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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Did you notice? Our podcast artwork has changed! Let us know what you think!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/45**
Balance between synchronous and asynchronous learning is needed
In this episode, we are ramping up your productivity with our favourite keyboard shortcuts. Keyboard shortcuts can save you so much time, especially as they add up over days, weeks, and months. We'll go over the keyboard shortcuts that we know and love to help you save some of your precious time and sanity!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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This week we are talking all about Google Drive. We are going to share strategies on how you can organize and clean up your Google Drive, especially with the new storage updates with Google Workspace!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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Return ALL assignments back to students in Google Classroom
Deal with orphaned docs - beware of docs.new, slides.new etc (sort 10-15 a day)
Use a numbering system for your folders (00, 01, 02, etc)
Colour code important folders
Adding descriptions to folders, docs etc
Add a description to your doc or file, improving the search process and differentiating the file to others in the same folder or with a similar subject
Starring folders or important docs - do this sparingly
Leave special folders alone: Assignments, Classroom, Meet Recordings, Meeting Reports, Fluency Tutor, Screencastify, Screencastify Submit etc.
You can add folders inside these - consider creating an Archive folder to keep only the relevant folders easier to access
Google Slides vs. Google Jamboard: Which One is Better? - E042
16 Mar 2021
00:40:46
In this episode, we are getting into the debate of which tool we think is better - Google Slides or Google Jamboard. We'll do comparisons of different features and give you our overall impressions and preferences for these two tools. So stay tuned and make sure you listen right to the end!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
In this episode, we are discussing how to effectively collaborate with your colleagues using a variety of virtual tools. Collaboration is key in education, so we want to make sure that you have some great ideas and strategies to help you collaborate with other educators in this crazy school year. We'll dive into video conferencing and communication tools, whiteboard tools, resource curation and storage, and sharing and finding new ideas and tools.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Exploring the World of Google Arts and Culture - E040
02 Mar 2021
00:36:04
This week we are exploring the world of Google Arts and Culture, a hidden gem created by Google that often gets forgotten. We will share what you can find on this app, and how you can use it with your students.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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This week, we are setting our goals for the upcoming school year. We'll chat about both our professional and our personal goals, from mastery-based learning to leadership goals and maintaining a good work-life balance this year.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/128**
Professional Goals:
Mastery-based learning - building more whole class activities
In this episode, we are diving into Google Read&Write, an amazing Chrome extension that enhances accessible learning for all students. We'll go over the features and share some ideas on how you can use this incredible tool with your students.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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Discussion about using tools like Read&Write - think about what you are evaluating and what your learning goals are for your students
Picture Dictionary - consider using the icons across your course materials and evaluations for consistency or just even to grab quick icons
Create a evaluation tool with words used typically in evaluations with translations
Screenshot Reader - Standalone Chrome Extension (also built into Read&Write)
Talk & Type - you can use this tool in multiple languages; great for second language courses and pronunciation practice; it's best to have students go back and put punctuation in later
Translator - default setting is for Spanish, can be changed in the settings menu
Highlighters - have a consistent colour scheme based on your course/student needs
Making Synchronous Work with Google Meet: Part 2 - E038
16 Feb 2021
00:46:06
In this episode, we are bringing you part 2 of our two-part series all about how to use Google Meet effectively for synchronous learning in your classroom. This week, we'll go over some awesome ideas and strategies for you to really leverage the power of Google Meet to engage all of your learners in synchronous lessons.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Making Synchronous Work with Google Meet: Part 1 - E037
09 Feb 2021
00:44:58
In this episode, we are diving into Google Meet and how to leverage the power of video conferencing with synchronous learning. In part 1 of this 2-part series, we'll go over the basics of Google Meet as well as share some handy tips and tricks to help make the most of your synchronous learning time.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
In this episode, we are bringing you an overview of all the amazing features and uses of Wakelet, a powerful curation tool. We will go over how to get started as well as how to maximize use of Wakelet in the classroom.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
In this episode, we are bringing you our top 10 EdTech certification recommendations for the 2021 school year. Certifications are great for you to pursue self-directed professional learning, and it doesn't hurt that you usually get a pretty awesome badge to go along with it!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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Amplifying Student Learning With Screencastify - E034
19 Jan 2021
00:46:53
This week, we are bringing you a second episode all about Screencastify. A lot has changed since remote learning first started last spring, so we wanted to revisit this tool, share some updated features, and explore some ways to use this tool with your students.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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Three pancakes menu then Options (cog wheel) for lots of setup options; also access your recordings as well as submit and editor apps, configure keyboard shortcuts here too!
Simplifying Assessment and Evaluation with Google Assignments - E033
12 Jan 2021
00:39:12
In this episode, we are exploring the integration of Google Assignments into the Brightspace Learning Management System (LMS). Google Assignments helps you to easily distribute and grade student work with the same look and feel of Google Classroom. With Google Assignments, you can distribute templates to your students, integrate rubrics, check plagiarism, and grade all within one easy-to-use platform.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Great alternative to the dropbox in Brightspace! And if you are used to using Google Classroom, this has the same look and feel bringing some familiarity into your LMS
In Brightspace, it's best to create your assignments in the content area NOT the dropbox
Consider simplifying your navigation to create a "Google Classroom" experience and then link everything in your content area
In this episode, we are talking all about an amazing, and easy-to-use tool called Canva. We will be diving into the how-tos, ideas for using Canva with your students, features within Canva, and the differences between the types of accounts (free, pro, and education).
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
In this episode, we are diving into the idea of building self-paced tech professional development (PD) programs designed for teachers. We are diving into set up options, buy in, and tools to support the development of these professional learning programs.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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This week, we are talking all about how to mark and grade in a paperless world. With no-touch and no-share policies this year, we have to get creative about how we do our assessments using digital formats instead of paper. We are going to talk about related hardware, as well as tools such as annotation in Brightspace, Google Classroom, and automation.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
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From The Archives: Getting Buy In For UnGrading - E097
15 Aug 2023
00:34:18
This week, we are talking all about how to build buy-in for ungrading in your school community. We'll discuss ungrading buy-in strategies for various different stakeholders such as teachers, admin, parents, and most importantly, students. Let's start talking about ungrading!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
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Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/97** Teachers/Admin:
Start with conversations about grading and grading practices
Why aren't traditional grading practices working?
Leverage opportunities informally in your workroom, more formally in department meetings
Keep in mind - slow and deliberate changes towards ungrading (it's a spectrum)
Many ways to ungrade (mastery, standards-based, feedback, etc)
Focus on the feedback and learning over grades
Look at printouts of marks for students, rubrics we're using (single point vs 4-level), success criteria, moderated marking
In this episode, we are talking all about EdPuzzle. We will go over the basics, and then we will share how you can use this tool to create engaging lessons for your students.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
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News and Updates
New URL shortcuts from Google - try either jam.new or meet.new!
EdPuzzle is a super valuable tool for hybrid and distance learning - lots of tracking data and a great way to add interactivity to your videos - questions, notes and audio
Access EdPuzzle: https://edpuzzle.com/ and make sure you login or sign up as a teacher - if you use Google Classsroom, consider signing in with your Google account
Curriculum area is a great place to get started - lots of ready made videos with questions that are available to copy and assign to your classes
When you sign up, make sure you select the correct School so that you can collaborate easily with your colleagues
Content area is where you will find your videos - you can organize into folders too
Getting Started with EdPuzzle Resource - all kinds of helpful articles here to help you with adding videos, adding questions, notes, audio, voiceovers, etc.
EdPuzzle Chrome extension - Adds a save to EdPuzzle button to your YouTube page so it's easy to add!
Types of classes - Classic (extra features in the Gradebook & can import from Google Classroom) and Open (no need for students to login - consider assigned nicknames here for easier tracking) OR use public links
This week we are talking all about a fun, creative and educational tool called Book Creator. We will go over the various features of the tool, as well as some different ways that you can use it with your students.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
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Assessment and Evaluation in Hybrid Learning - E027
10 Nov 2020
00:46:13
This week, we are talking all about how to approach assessment and evaluation in hybrid learning. There are so many challenges that we face, including how to manage multiple cohorts and ensure academic integrity when students are completing assessments at home. So we will go over some suggestions for how to get away from the traditional test and design effective and engaging evaluations for your remote learning students.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
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This week, we are talking all about how to balance hybrid learning. It's been such a challenging year so far to engage both cohorts of students, both face-to-face and online, at the same time. So we will go over some suggestions for how to structure large learning blocks, flipped learning, and differentiation for your students.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
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**NOTE: We'll be taking a one-week break from our podcast**
Large learning blocks of time (2 - 3 hour learning blocks) - Structure suggestions:
Challenges: engaging for the whole time, group work, physical limitations
Going back and forth between whole group and small group sessions to break things up
Use breakout rooms - tools like Zoom, Adobe Connect, or Google Meet can be used
If using Google Meet - hack breakout rooms by having them all open with closed captions on and use the Mute Tab chrome extension (listen to E024 for more info!)
If you're lucky enough to have an Enterprise account, check out the new breakout rooms feature in Google Meet!
Digital citizenship discussions need to continue ALL year - See E021 for more details
Student autonomy requires scaffolding!
Continuously work on community building/building peer-to-peer relationships - it will help with conversation in breakout rooms
No conversation? Check in with them! Make sure they understand the instructions/task that they are working on
You Are Not An Imposter! A Conversation About Imposter Syndrome in Education - E025
20 Oct 2020
00:41:35
This week we are going to talk about that feeling you get as a teacher sometimes. That feeling that you don’t know enough, or that you just aren’t good enough. This feeling is actually something called “imposter syndrome,” and it is far more common in education than you think!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Amazing Chrome Extensions For Teacher Productivity (and Fun!) - E024
13 Oct 2020
00:39:43
This week we talk about our top 10 productivity Chrome extensions for educators. We also give some honourable mentions and include our favourite fun extensions as a bonus!
Please make sure that if you are recommending any extensions to students that you verify the privacy policies and data that these extensions collect. The last thing that we want to do is to give away student information.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
This week, we are talking all about the Google Sites, and how this tool can be used in the classroom, both virtually and in-person. We will go through all of the awesome ways that you can insert content and build pages into your site, as well as some great uses for Google sites with your students in the classroom.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
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News and Updates
Student-selected Breakout Rooms - Tweet and Template
Insert - LOTS of options here including layouts, Google tools, and other elements OR try double clicking anywhere on your site to add items fast
TIP: You need to change your sharing settings in Google Drive for any docs/slides/etc embedded into your site to "anyone can view"!
Pages - add pages or links here and create sub-pages for dropdown menus, drag and drop to change the order
Themes - each option includes 3 different font styles, paint can option allows you to choose your own accent colour
Preview - you can see what your site will look like for web, tablet, and mobile
Publish - create web address here, manage viewing settings, and use the dropdown menu to review and publish changes to your site OR unpublish
Ideas for use in the classroom:
School, Class, Library website
Doesn't need to be teacher-driven! Get students collaborating on the tool - discussion boards, class wiki
Blogging for reflection - try the collapsible text feature (you can determine the level of sharing!)
Portfolios - track learning, progress, insert media
Group work collaborative space
Interactive Notebooks
Use it in conjunction with Google Classroom to help keep your Classwork tab under control (grab links from each assignment and then try creating a button)
Do you have any other ways that you use Google Sites? Let us know on our
This week, we are talking all about the Google Jamboard app, and how this tool can be used in the classroom, both virtually and in-person. We will go through the features available on the Jamboard frame, and how it differs based on the device you are using.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
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Comparison of features in Jamboard on web, iOS, and Android
Backgrounds - plain, dots, lines, grids, white, blue and black
Frames navigation (max # of frames per Jam = 20)
Great for small groups! Max # of people per Jam= 50 (have you experienced less?)
Web-based version includes pen tool, eraser, select tool, sticky notes, add images, shapes, text boxes, and laser pointer
Mobiles versions (iOS and Android) include assistive drawing tools (under the pen tool), eraser double click to clear the frame, drive content, camera, image library, and STICKERS!
Uses for Jamboard
Characterization in stories or novels - direct vs. indirect
General question board - great if you can't use Padlet
Tip: create backgrounds/templates in slides, download as image and insert into Jamboard
Interactive maps, diagrams, labelling etc.
Use it for explaining your thinking. Combine it with Screencastify for a powerful app smash!
Four corners, thumbs up/thumbs down and other types of assessment tools
Getting to know you activities
Sketchnoting
Combine it with Equatio for a powerful math tool and interactive math manipulatives
Combine it with Screencastify to record your lesson with a touch screen device or a Wacom tablet
Digital Citizenship Skills to Teach Your Students - E021
22 Sep 2020
00:37:10
This week we are talking about Digital Citizenship and how we, as educators, can protect our students’ data and privacy as we head into a new school year. We are often so quick to accept permissions on any/all apps that we add to our phones, tablets, etc. It is time that we start to really think about what we are signing up for, how much time we are spending on screens, and how we can better model digital citizenship for our students and children.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Using Choice Boards to Ensure Students' Success - E020
15 Sep 2020
00:41:09
In this episode, we talk about choice boards. Choice boards are a great option for those in a hybrid or remote learning/teaching environment. Differentiation is built right into this format, which give students more options, and allowing them to demonstrate their learning in way in which they feel the most comfortable and can show their strengths.We recognize that we are all starting the school year differently – face to face, remote, or even a hybrid model that involves both!
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
News and Updates
Screencastify - Submit is finally out of beta! Pricing list here (we're not affiliates, just love their product!)
Appsmash Google Jamboard with Screencastify - see Tweet here
From The Archives: Setting Up Your Learning Management System (LMS) - E056
08 Aug 2023
00:37:48
In this episode, we are exploring ways to set up your Learning Management System (LMS) effectively and efficiently to optimize course organization and learning for your students. We'll go over tips, strategies, and ideas for setting up your LMS, whether it is Brightspace, Canvas, Schoology, Google Classroom, or something else.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Featured Content **For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/56**
Use your LMS, even if you are fully face-to-face
Layout and Homepage:
This is your doorway into your virtual classroom
Easy navigation - minimize the links to the essentials
Link all of your other tools within the content area
Digital Activities for an Effective School Start-Up - E019
08 Sep 2020
00:43:16
In this episode, we talk about some great digital activities to start off a new school year. We recognize that we are all starting the school year differently – face to face, remote, or even a hybrid model that involves both!
These activities will help you to get to know your students, build community and get your students comfortable with however they will be learning for the year.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content!
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID! Also, access detailed show notes here.
As we gear up for a new school year, we thought it was a good idea to go back and talk about all things Google Classroom. Whether you are remote, in-person, or a hybrid version of the two, there are ways that you can set up Google Classroom so that it is optimized for whatever comes your way.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! Check out our website for more detailed show notes.
We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website, OR check out our FLIPGRID!
5 originality reports for free accounts and slides coming soon
Google Assignments - incorporate into your LMS (Brightspace, Canvas, Schoology and others)
Featured Content
Map out your plan first before setting up your classroom - uses for stream, classwork tab, topic setup (weekly vs unit), assignments, multiple vs single classroom
Building Community & Advanced Features within Brightspace by D2L - E017
25 Aug 2020
00:46:57
This episode is Part 2 of our Brightspace Series. If you haven't had a chance to listen to part 1, where we talk about the basics of Brightspace, and how teachers can start out with this program, click here to listen!
Today, we are speaking with Tanya Williamson, who is knowledgable about all things Brightspace. She will take us through some more advanced features and tools within Brightspace, and she will also give educators some advice as they begin to plan and prepare for a new school year.
If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don't miss out on any new content! Check out our website for more detailed show notes!
We would love to hear from you - leave a comment here, OR check out our FLIPGRID!
Strong teacher presence is essential! First impressions are crucial to establishing this.
Activity vs news feed - Depends on needs! Or use both!
Virtual learning spaces can be modified! Make it your own - meet the needs of all students
Video Note Tool - available anywhere HTML editor is available. Great for building community, differentiation.
Discussion Tool - use text, video and audio. Also create a cafe/lounge for non-curricular related discussions
Other tips - post clear expectations, co-construct class/discussion norms
Virtual Classroom
polling features, chat pod feature, whiteboard available
Different subscription levels; check with your Brightspace contact for more info
Learning Brightspace
Learning Curve - Advice: start with one unit first, you don't need the entire course ready to go!
Streamline/Simplify
Start with news/activity, content, dropbox and discussions; dive into quizzes when you're ready!
Customize your homepage - get rid of anything you're not using
Create your own widgets
Advanced Tools
Quiz Tool: Special access, Question library
Portfolio Tool:
Showcase progress over time, expectations for use should be clear
Visible only between teacher and student (no other students can access)
Accessibility: No specific features within Brightspace, however extensions such as Read&Write do interact with Brightspace!
Prep for Sept: Big Advice for Teachers
Welcome email to students
Welcome Message posted!
First week: Online icebreakers, focus on COMMUNITY!
Incorporate student voice/choice
Include different ways to learn (text, simulations, videos, etc.)
Tanya’s one piece of advice as they are navigating BS and trying to get ready for a new school year:
Keep your students’ needs, interests, etc. at the forefront; Build your course from the perspective of the student - easy to access? do they see themselves? is it accessible? how will i be supporting how they learn? It might take them longer to learn the curriculum - 2-3x longer than you might think! They are on their own during eLearning, so pare down content