Since the release of the National Research Council’s A Framework for K-12 Science Education in 2011 and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in 2013, elementary and secondary science teachers have been in a exhilarating phase of adaptation and transition. Teachers are opening their minds to new ways of thinking about science education, and, with the right support, … Continue reading “Coaching with TPACK and Teacher Narratives”
Digital instructional materials start to make more sense for K-12 schools as states and districts align science education practices with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and prepare students for 21st century science and engineering jobs. In an effort to orient families, teachers, administrators and curriculum designers to the work, I’ve gathered some evaluation tools … Continue reading “Fundamental Elements of Digital K-12 Science Instructional Materials”
The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards for educators as designers calls (5b) calls for us to “design authentic learning activities that align with content area standards and use digital tools and resources to maximize active, deep learning.” Designing technology-enhanced instructional materials for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) can be a complex … Continue reading “Using the NGSS EQuIP Rubric to Design Tech-Enhanced, Middle School Science Lessons”
Back in my first year as a middle school science teacher, I asked experienced colleagues, “When will I know what I am doing as a teacher?” One said it would be at least three years. Another forecasted five. Well, I am approaching the end of my fifth year, and I have come to know what … Continue reading “Boost your professional learning network with Twitter chats”
Blogging as a practice shows great potential for students and teachers to redefine science classrooms. When implemented thoughtfully, blogs can empower students and expand the classroom through interactions with outside learning communities. The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards call for 21st century science students to be creative communicators and global collaborators, and … Continue reading “Redefine Your Middle School Science Classroom with Blogging”
Evidence abounds that computational thinking (CT) is gaining ever more visibility, relevance and utility in education and our everyday lives: CT’s integration into Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards for students, the Hour of Code, a global computer science initiative, best-selling books like “Algorithms to Live By” to science fiction movies like “Ready … Continue reading “Computational Thinking in the Middle School Science Classroom”
In today’s science classroom, students and teachers have access to more knowledge construction tools than ever before. How can teachers leverage tools to support science students in their process of knowledge construction? Nearpod is one tech tool that covers a lot of bases and is worth a shot for teachers in technology-enhanced classrooms who are looking … Continue reading “Knowledge construction in the technology-enhance science classroom with Nearpod”
Process In the process of making this report, I assessed the digital readiness of a public middle school in Seattle, WA by asking questions based on Ribble’s elements of digital citizenship. I found the school’s Computer Technology Teacher (CTT) and the School Emphasis Officer (SEO) to be willing and able to answer my questions regarding … Continue reading “Digital Readiness Project”
Through my work as a digital education leader, I will: Work toward social and environmental justice by empowering students. (Based on ISTE Standards for Coaches, 5. Digital citizenship, a. Model and promote strategies for achieving equitable access to digital tools and resources and technology-related best practices for all students and teachers) Educators have a … Continue reading “Digital Education Leadership Mission Statement”
