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Toolbox or Tool belt: Picking the Right Tool for the Job

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HBGCC - 214A

Interactive Session

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Session description

As edtech tools evolve, app-smashing becomes unnecessary. This session helps educators streamline their tool belts by evaluating multifunctional tools that meet diverse needs. Participants will learn to assess whether a single tool can replace multiple apps, ensuring effective use without complicating their tech ecosystem.

Outline

Introduction (5 minutes):
Brief overview of the session goals and importance of evaluating multifunctional ed tech tools.
Quick poll to gauge participants’ familiarity with app-smashing and multifunctional tools.

Case Studies (15 minutes):
Present 2 examples of multifunctional ed tech tools (e.g., Google Classroom, Flipgrid).
Highlight their evolution and current capabilities.
Discuss benefits and challenges in a classroom setting.

Evaluation Framework Introduction (10 minutes):
Introduce a structured framework for assessing multifunctional tools.
Explain key criteria: Pedagogical Alignment, Feature Richness, Ease of Use, Privacy and Security.

Hands-On Evaluation (15 minutes):
Participants break into small groups to evaluate a tool using the provided framework.
Each group assesses different aspects and prepares brief findings.

Group Share and Discussion (10 minutes):
Groups share their evaluations and insights with the whole session.
Discuss how the tools can reduce the need for app-smashing and enhance classroom practices.

Reflection and Q&A (5 minutes):
Open floor for questions and reflections on applying the framework to participants' contexts.
Encourage sharing of additional experiences or challenges.

Materials Provided:
Evaluation framework handout.
Tool comparison chart for future reference.

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Supporting research

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Presenters

Jessica Campos

Teacher/Educational Technologist

Mesquite ISD

Sherrie Orr

Teacher

Aubrey ISD

Paula Taylor

Director of Educational Partnerships

Discovery Education

Session specifications

Topic:

Instructional Design and Strategies

Grade level:

PK-12

Audience:

Librarian, Teacher, Technology Coach/Trainer

Attendee devices:

Devices required

Attendee device specification:

Laptop: Chromebook, Mac, PC

Participant accounts, software and other materials:

none requires, but attendees will be invited to create accounts.

Subject area:

Teacher Education, Interdisciplinary (STEM/STEAM)

ISTE Standards:

For Educators:
Designer

Use technology to create, adapt and personalize learning experiences that foster independent learning and accommodate learner differences and needs.

Facilitator

Create learning opportunities that challenge students to use a design process and/or computational thinking to innovate and solve problems.

For Students:
Empowered Learner

Understand fundamental concepts of how technology works, demonstrate the ability to choose and use current technologies effectively, and are adept at thoughtfully exploring emerging technologies.

TLPs:

Prioritize authentic experiences

Disclosure:

The submitter of this session has been supported by a company whose product is being included in the session

Influencer Disclosure:

This session includes a presenter that indicated a “material connection” to a brand that includes a personal, family or employment relationship, or a financial relationship. See individual speaker menu for disclosure information.