Tuesday, February 13, 2018

Creativity: Every Classroom a Maker Space

So very proud of students who joined me yesterday during the #2ndMentoringMondays focussing on #MakerSpace! It was so exciting to share and learn with many educators in TDSB who came out after school for PD! From Artful Mathematics to Computational Thinking to Interactive Literacy with Melissa Seco, Annika Pint, and my Grade 5 students!

 First thing to ‘make’...Drawbots!!! Students provided a sample to guide teachers as they built their own
drawbot or jigglebot. Great discussions ensued as teachers played with balance of materials, creating
a circuit, the fun of having some time to decorate their drawbots and see them in action within the
cardboard stadium. With each fail of a running bot, teachers turned to students for guidance as they
offered “have you considered… in your design?”

As Melissa, Annika and I set up the sessions we briefly share the importance of curiosity and
opportunities for questioning to let teachers and students help themselves through a new challenge.
We highlight connections to the Global Competencies @tdsb_gc as well as promoting students voice
and content producers.
Just before we invited teachers to visit each station for exploration, we had them consider these
guiding questions to take with them and back to their school communities:
  • What curriculum connections can you make with your grade?
  • What does it mean to be a maker in this space?
  • How will you embed this within your classroom culture?

Teachers were able to visit with Annika as she shared wonderful engaging examples of robotics,
including various grade levels and including curriculum connections.
While exploring with Melissa, teachers discussed the importance of loose parts for ongoing building,
discovery and flexibility of designs for various purposes.
As teachers made their way around, with my students they were introduced to ways we promote a
flexible makerspace with connections to literacy as we create a staple-free mini graphic book
with a paper circuit (supplies purchased at Kidder Education); write and setup an eBook with
accompanying soundtrack using Booktrack and how we use Augmented Reality to bring our
display boards and pages to life using Aurasma.




Alright… now that’s a loaded after school session!

What did it leave us with?
….. More wonderings on how to bring our new learning back into our classrooms!
….. Discussions around how to extend what many of us are currently exploring in our class spaces
with students taking the lead.
….. Considering the value in providing students (and teachers) space to fail and problem solve
reaching their own success. Winnie Lau says it wonderfully, “Success… After failing. We create
opportunities for success when we fail!” Students need the space, a space, any space to explore
and be curious about ideas, creating and building through challenges that they struggle and persevere
on their own.

Thank you again to Melissa and Annika for inviting both myself and my students to join you in
sharing our maker space learning journey!

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Sunday, January 7, 2018

#OneWord 2018

“Knowing what to give up on and walk away from is just as important as knowing what’s worthy of your time and attention” Dr. Justin Tarte.

I have been procrastinating on this blog entry simply because I didn’t know how to get started until Dr.Justin Tarte shared this statement above.

My one word for 2018 is BREATHE. 
To learn more about this awesome sharing check out #onewordONT Introduction by Julie Balen.


It wasn’t until I was hospitalized for a week in early 2014 for Vestibular neuritis (vertigo) that I learned about my anxiety. Truthfully, I had no idea this was something I was experiencing, as well as being completely unaware of any triggers that were stress related as a result of anxiety. While in the hospital, I was asked to record each time I had a vertigo episode combined with or not, laryngitis. For each calendar date, these episodes lined up with, busier than usual events at home, work or school.

I ignored this. For years, I ignored this, passing it off as something that just happened. A vertigo episode would pass within days and I would move on. But, during the month of January 2014, the vertigo sensation prolonged into weeks of sleeplessness, headaches, drowning sensations, a nauseating experience that had me unable to focus or walk. While in hospital, I learned about identifying my stressors and how my body would let me know of being over-stressed by manifesting anxiety through laryngitis and vertigo. It took three months before I could return to work on a reduced workday schedule. Nine months before I could drive comfortably again… I even gave up my bucket list item: Honda Rebel 500.

It has been 4 years now, and I have not had a single vertigo sensation! I have been paying attention to my stressors and triggers, remembering to take a moment for myself and breathe.

Over the past year / year-and-a-half, my husband and I noticed that our boys have shown symptoms of anxiety. Fortunately, we didn’t hesitate to seek out help. Both boys offer so much of themselves, day in and day out to their friends, school community and with family. They each are experiencing their daily lives but cautiously and with a mask. They have learned to 'put on an act' so that others don't treat them differently.  With medical guidance, consultation and ongoing support, our boys are learning to recognize triggers, manage their stressors and maintain a positive, growth mindset towards their daily interactions. 

Together now, we sit with each of them and reflect on our day or week. I am very mindful of their apprehension and possible resistance to talking about:
- challenges overcome, positive interactions and goal setting
- struggles or missed opportunities that need to be revisited or considered

All of this focus and time together has brought us closer as a family; keeping better tabs on each other.

To ensure that I am here, healthy and ready to support my children, I take scheduled and random moments to just breathe. To bring myself to a calm, slow and relaxed mindset.  I give myself breathing instructions: “slowly breathe in through your nose and fill your lungs with air, hold it for a moment”, then “slowly and gently breathe out through your mouth feeling the air leave your lungs as you feel your body beginning to relax”. No longer entertaining the thoughts of the day (work or home) in my head as I breathe in and out.  I slow down enough to fill the air in my breath and re-energize.  This allows me to be ready, mindfully ready for the activities in the class or at home, while leaving the day behind.

I hope to introduce breathing or meditation more regularly with my family and hope to continue the breathing exercise a few times a week. Asking ourselves as a family to leave behind any issues from the day, any anxieties that they/we feel and breathe it out.  By providing my children with a few minutes to set aside the noise of the day, tear down the walls they themselves put up as obstacles in their learning or interactions, they are open to trust themselves, their experiences with others within their daily lives.

So why am I sharing this now? Simply, because I have had to readjust my focus, commitment and use of time (home and/or work) as it impacts me directly and my family. I may have turned opportunities down or postponed activities beyond the instructional day; not because of disinterest. Instead, I need to focus on self-care, better balance the needs of my health, my family’s health, so that I am able to give my best to all aspects of my life and those around me.

2016 POTENTIAL inspired by students.
2017 PERSEVERE inspired by my PLN.
2018 BREATHE inspired by my children.
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Tuesday, November 7, 2017

8th Canadian EdTech Leadership Summit 150


“Designing Next Generation Schools for Today’s Students”

Congratulations Robert Martellacci on celebrating 8 years of bringing together education and technology leaders to share a vision of the future and engage in discussions focussing on next steps towards students achievement and well-being.

 Robert Martellacci is president of MindShare Learning Technology™ and Conference Chair of Canadian EdTech Leadership Summit. He is passionate about bringing together educators and technology providers to support student success from K-12 and post-secondary education.

 Since being the 2009/2010 Classroom of the Future Central winners along with Kamla Rambaran, Robert has become a regular guest in my class community; appreciating the value of seeing students in action. He takes time to connect with students, listening to their ideas that have been put into action, asking probing questions and responding in kind. I am honoured and humbled to have been invited as a new board member at MindShare Learning and look forward to discussions building upon the possibilities of promoting lifelong learning.

Below I highlight some of the awesomeness from inspiring leaders across education and technology providers. BUT first, let me put a spotlight on my students who joined me at the EdTech Summit…
As each of the speakers shared virtually or live on stage, my students attentively listened to the messages, making connections to their own experiences and reflecting on potential for changes in their own environments. Sure, I smiled every once in awhile as they turned to me and whispered, “Ms.T we are already doing this”, “Ms.T you have already set us up with these choices”, and “They are talking about our classroom”. However, our side discussions were more intriguing as they asked questions of clarification, “why are they saying only star students get to do things”, “what do they mean by pockets of innovation”, “why do teachers teach to the test” and “what does teaching and learning in silos mean?”


The truth is, in our class community along with Ms. Rambaran, we, teachers and students have been collaborating in creating a class space that is flexible; where each student has the opportunity to step up and lead at-school, within venues across TDSB and outside our school board. We work together to create learning experiences that are transdisciplinary, although at times focussed subject mini-lessons are needed to introduce new concepts or support of information. Students have comfortably moved between my class and Ms Rambaran’s class knowing that support is available between us and our students.


So, we whispered as the speakers continued and then, stepped outside when they were struggling with their questions. I asked them, “within our own school, how many other classes share a common learning environment as ours?” They took a pause and had to think about it. They did acknowledge that, they themselves had not experienced our learning environment in past years, but have noticed a shift in our school as more teachers were co-teaching and sharing each other’s spaces. This is true. A shift is happening… slow but a change is beginning in our school. We continued to share how change is hard and why some teachers, students and parents would be cautious pushing boundaries with risks and a chance for failure. We laughed at a slide that stated “don’t wait for permission” as we looked back on some activities that were messy, tedious and needed many iterations or our monthly (or more) excursions that were long, and at times needing more that one visit to gather information. All things that took time past the class time table or students took upon themselves beyond the school day. Activities that parents couldn’t relate to because it didn’t connect with their own learning experiences back when they attended school. My students appreciated that some days were unpredictable and that ‘lessons’ were flexible and adaptable to address the need at the time.



They were filled with more questions and ready to share their thoughts, which is why I was thrilled that Robert was open to have students join us at the EdTech Summit. Thank you to everyone who took the time to connect with them, ask questions and listen to their stories.


A few highlights of the day:

Master of Ceremonies Dr. Karen Grose, Vice President, Digital Learning TVO gracefully moderated a jam packed agenda filled with powerful thought leaders and inspiring speakers.


Keynote/Closing Note presenters:

Lord Jim Knight, Former Minister of Education, UK Government emphasized the importance to listen to and observe our students in action, with an emphasis on human skills that leverage technology. “We learn more about our students based on the questions they ask, rather than what we ask of them.”
Randall Fielding, Founder & Editorial Director, Design Share took us through a series of sketching our ideas by rethinking the learning environment. Focussing on creating collaborative learning spaces, flexible learning cycles with an emphasis on transdisciplinary learning. Learning becomes powerful as students create solutions to real problems in their world.  
Bridget Morales, CEO Natural Pod emphasized the importance of student needs in spaces that support well-being. Being intentional when creating experiences and learning environments that allows students to move, redesign and create.

Cross Canada Checkup made up of influential members across Canada including our own Peter Singh, CTO Toronto District School Board and Classroom of the Future Central Winners from Cedarbrea Collegiate Institute.

My students particularly enjoyed visiting each of the Makerspace Showcase booths highlighting the latest in EdTech innovations.

 Ideas are always pushed to new limits whenever I have the opportunity to meet up with inspiring educators and technology leaders like Sandra Chow, Lia DeCicco, Kevin Bradbeer, Marlena Rivett, Katina Papulkas, Stephen Hurley and David Carruthers.

 Canadian EdTech Summit, Ignite the Night, with Brian Aspinall and Jennifer Casa-Todd and friends was AMAZING! Yes, I stuck out the day into the evening because I was not missing a chance to listen to all these educators in one place, share their Ignite Talks. From 'Being really good at playing the game of school: We Must Do Better' by Jenn Giffen to 'TEDEdClubs promoting curiousity, creativity and community' by Will Gourley to 'What social media are you on and what will I learn about you' by Jennifer Casa-Todd and much, much more!

Anxiously awaiting the opening of MindShare WorkSpace before the end of this year! A co-working innovative space committed to nurture a partnering working community.

 A shout out to Stephen Hurley for providing live broadcasting of the day via voicED.ca #voicEdRadio.  



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Sunday, November 5, 2017

TDSB Google Camp 5.0


I know, it seems like not long ago that I posted about the awesome TDSB Google Camp 4.0 and …. here I am reflecting on TDSB Google Camp 5.0!

What could I possibly say that would be different than what I have already shared? Well, the awesomeness continues with educators intrinsically motivated with the spirit of life-long learning!

It was wonderful to have so many presenters returning and new presenters from across TDSB stepping up to share teaching practices, focussing on Global Competencies and leveraging technology.

TDSB Google Camp is a conference for TDSB educators by TDSB educators looking to build their Professional Learning Network beyond like-minded peers. The presentations ranged from hands-on workshops to inspire sessions from beginners to power users of G-Suite Apps. It is an opportunity to seek out stories and experiences from educators and students who struggled, persevered and reflected on taking ideas and putting them into action.

Keynote Speaker Tanya Avrith titled “The New Normal” focussed on teaching, learning and growing in a rapidly changing world. The importance to foster a culture of reflection continues to be invaluable as we consider how we have shifted our teaching practices for our Generation Z learners. “Children today will never know a world without technology”, and we must not teach the way we were taught. “We need to have our students share their learning using different modalities.” We must think about how we can reach our students and rethink what is best for our Generation Z learners in our classroom. During reflection and intentional planning/teaching questions ourselves: “What am I doing this?” and “Is this what is best for my learner?” But let us not forget that tech is only a tool that is constantly evolving. What our learners need most are passionate teachers! “Good teaching is good teaching. That’s what will transform your student's.” Truer words have never been spoken!


What an honour it was to present at the 5th annual Google Camp along with former students! True examples of student voice is provided when students have opportunities to speak to educators and be leaders in discussions or responding to questions on how we can all learn from one another. Global Competencies: Entrepreneurship & GSuite Apps: Students will be immersed in various Global Competencies as they explore design thinking, inquiry and reflecting on their learning. Our young entrepreneurs realize that their actions will impact students within the community by building awareness on various issues, while raising funds towards for a local charity. Check out my slide deck HERE. Check it out on Periscope HERE.

I could highlight awesome sessions, but really that would be too narrow as I was only able to check out 3 sessions live. BUT as I walked through the hallways from one session to another, I could hear the enthusiasm in conversations of teachers sharing their take-aways. I appreciated the honesty (& politeness) of teachers who left during sessions when they realized that they were not ready yet and found another session that fit their needs to get started and move forward. The day had something for everyone at all levels of the school board from Elementary to Secondary to Administration and a ‘fire-place’ discussion setting with Peter Singh, CTO. I admire educators who offered several sessions throughout the day to meet the needs of our guests like Arianna Lambert, Laura Collins, Kate Miles, Jason Trihn and Hella Richter-Glinos and many more!
What more can be said about the conference? During the Demo Slam and end of day prize incentives, it was still a full house of educators taking in every last moment! SLAM!

It is always an honour to be on a crew like the Social Media Crew with Shawn Spencer, Mahfuza Rahman and Tim Barker. Throughout the day Tweeting out from the @TDSB_TLT #TDSBCamp account capturing the learning, sharing, and ‘a-ha’ moments. Let’s not forget the sessions the were live-streaming via Periscope for educators unable to attend, to watch from the comfort of their homes. Check all this out https://www.pscp.tv/TDSB_TLT/follow.

With that, the day wrapped up and all the ‘behind-the-scenes’ Google Camp crew members of high school volunteers packed away equipment bringing an end to another successful TDSB Google Camp. Looking forward to TDSB Google Camp 6.0!

 Thank you Kevin Bradbeer, Carlo DiFelice, Shelley Lowry, Marlena Rivett, Peter Singh, Manon Gardner and TDSB_IT Services for the opportunity to be a part of the Google Camp crew.

 A shout-out to the TDSB Google Camp Committee I was proud to be a part of for making the day even more special with your support, attention to detail and all of the awesomeness that made this day great!


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Saturday, October 14, 2017

EdTech Camp 2017


The day started off quite early for a Saturday morning with dreary, dark, grey skies and pockets of rain. This was quickly replaced with warm smiles, high energy and enthusiastic chatter as soon as I entered Richmond Green S.S. in Richmond Hill, Ontario.


Kimberly Pollishuke and Jennifer Giffen, along with their @YRDSBdlrt EdTechCamp committee thought of everything! Greeters everywhere! iPads on the ready to greet and register guests who hacked their badges and then made their way to the photo booth! The cafeteria was set-up in the EdTEchCamp colours from signs to table top decor, stickers and more!
It was wonderful to connect with educators and students face-to-face that I have been following and learning from via Twitter! As well as reconnecting with educators & friends who I haven't seen in quite some time. A shoutout to all the TDSB presenters and guests who were there today!

Keynote Speaker Kevin Brookhouser captured our attention with a question "How do we motivate students to be problem solvers?" Focussing on the importance of providing students with opportunities to train their brain to overcome Functional Fixedness by instilling Autonomy, Mastery (not a grade) & Purpose. For students to learn beyond impressing their teachers and pleasing their parents! Creating a class community where students share bad ideas and fail... learning to work through their struggles and really be creative with their thinking. Kevin shared how he embeds Google inspired 20% time; doing passion work. Taking the culture of learning experiences from Teacher Centered to Student Centered to Audience Centered.
Then I had the utmost privilege to co-present with three of my former Grade 6 students: Student Voice via ePortfolios using Google Sites! A visual representation of students achievements, reflections and learning goals. Part of creating a pathway to success is to provide students opportunities and time in class for students to reflect on their learning, struggles and successes. This needs to be built within the classroom culture. Taking this path in an online digital environment that is organized, interactive, easy to build upon and accessible to students Google Drive tasks. Taking my students on a reflective journey and making learning transparent is important. Students have access to online manipulatives, video clips and various teacher/student generated challenges to discuss, share, document and provide descriptive feedback within Google apps (such as Google Docs & Sheets) and then reflecting on their learning goals in Google Sites ePortfolio.
ePortfolio Guiding Questions:
* What was the focus of the learning/task?
** What new learning did you gain and how would you use this new learning?
*** How might you further build upon your ideas or overcome challenges you encountered?
Students need to consider assessment for/as learning more valuable than assessment of learning; that learning doesn't end after a test, exam or culminating task.


Students own their ePortfolio!
Students build their digital presence beyond the classroom!
 
According to SociaLeadia author Jennifer Casa-Todd, by the end of high school, students should be able to google their name: “If I google search your name, what will I learn about you?” It is important for educators to model, guide and promote positive digital citizenship and responsibility.
Thank you @YRDSBdlrt for providing this forum for my students to share about their learning experiences!!!

I tinkered with arduino being provided with very much needed support from Richmond Green S.S. student leaders and Mr Alexander Laserson. This was followed by attending Austin Gagnier’s session on Coding K-8 where I finally had the opportunity to see him in action! More importantly, he introduced me to Coding with Chrome extension that I can use on my Chromebooks… thus allowing more students to code, test and then sync with our Sphero’s with less wait time!
The day wrapped up with a talented crew of educators competing in a DEMO SLAM for a year's worth of bragging rights. True entertainment, knowledge sharing and just a great time for laughs!

Congratulations Kimberly, Jennifer and the @YRDSBdlrt EdTechCamp committee for a great day!

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