(Check out the new Google Tip "Google Bookmarks"on the right )
Recently the Technology Department attended the National CUE Conference along with teachers and staff from other Vacaville Sites. For those of you unfamiliar with CUE it stands for Computer Using Educators. The conference offers a wide variety of classes ranging from Classroom Ed-tech tools to Administrator Level Management Practices.
We would like to share a few tips and resources that you might find useful.
Bootstrap Coding
If you are looking for a free online place for students to learn and practice coding, bootstrapworld.org could be the place for you. In addition to coding Bootstrap has a very mathematical slant, with particular attention given to algebra.
The workshop was presented by a math teacher who was very enthusiastic about the application of Bootstrap in his classroom. He was particularly pleased with the results he's been seeing in his underserved student populations. In many cases students who would otherwise shy away from STEM careers have found a door into STEM thanks to Bootstrap.
If you would like to know more about Bootstrap please contact Aaron Stephens
Google Plus Communities
Google Plus Communities has some of the best resources and collaboration available. Each of us has access to Google Plus through our District Accounts.
Many people are unfamiliar with the all the capabilities of Google Plus and think of it only as some obscure Social Networking Site. It is so much more!
I use my district Google Plus account to subscribe to several technology communities. These communities are incredibly powerful as a means to share and receive amazing ideas on how to incorporate technology into the classroom. They are also invaluable when you have questions. There is always someone out there with great answers and ideas.
If you subscribe to any of the Google Apps Communities they even have people directly from Google who often monitor and answer questions. Below is a list of some of my favorite Google Plus Communities.
To search for Communities, Click on the Home button to expand the menu and then select "Communities". You will see a search bar where you can search for communities that match your interests.
Notice also that you have the ability to Create a Community. This is a great way to share ideas within a department, school, or even district.
If you would like to know more about Google Plus Communities please contact Dawn Marsh.
CUE Rundown
Christy Ireland from Buckingham created a fabulous presentation, along with others from her site who attended, to share with their staff. She has graciously offered to share here with all of you as well. Click here to view her presentation. Great job!!
