House of #EdTech

In this episode of House of #EdTech, host Chris Nesi discusses the importance of critically evaluating educational technology in classrooms. He shares insights from Jessica Grose's NYT article about ensuring tech tools serve educational purposes and protect student privacy. The episode features the announcement of MagicSchool.ai as the 2024 HOET Final Four Winner and an EdTech recommendation for Vocabulary Quest, a gamified vocabulary learning platform. Additionally, Chris bids farewell to SatChat, reflecting on its impact on the education community.

Resources Mentioned:

• MagicSchool.ai - 2024 HOET Final Four Winner
• Vocabulary Quest - EdTech Recommendation
• Every Tech Tool in the Classroom Should Be Ruthlessly Evaluated - Article by Jessica Grose
• SatChat - Discussion on SatChat ending

2024 HOET Final Four Winner: MagicSchool.ai

We're excited to announce MagicSchool.ai as the 2024 HOET Final Four Winner! MagicSchool.ai stands out for its innovative approach to personalized learning and real-time performance assessment. This AI-based tool is transforming how students engage with educational content, making learning more interactive and effective. Congratulations to MagicSchool.ai for this well-deserved recognition.

EdTech Thought: The End of an Era? Goodbye SatChat

We begin with a reflective EdTech Thought segment, marking the end of an era with the conclusion of SatChat. For years, SatChat has been a cornerstone of the education community, providing a platform for educators to connect, share insights, and grow together. Hosts Billy Krakower, Scott Rocco, and Brad Currie have created a lasting legacy, and we take a moment to honor their contributions and discuss the future of such initiatives in the education space.

EdTech Recommendation: Vocabulary Quest

Our EdTech Recommendation for this episode is Vocabulary Quest, an innovative platform that gamifies vocabulary learning. Whether you're a student, professional, or language enthusiast, Vocabulary Quest transforms the often tedious task of memorizing new words into an engaging adventure. With gamified levels, interactive stories, puzzles, and personalized learning paths, this tool not only makes learning fun but also significantly boosts retention rates.

Here's why Vocabulary Quest stands out:

• Gamified Learning: Turn vocabulary acquisition into an exciting game with progressive challenges.
• Personalized Stories and Puzzles: Engage with content tailored to your interests, enhancing learning efficiency.
• Advanced AI Memory Aids: Benefit from mnemonic devices, imagery, and associations designed to make words stick.
• Comprehensive Exam Preparation: Ideal for students preparing for exams like the SAT, ACT, or SSAT.
• Professional Communication: Elevate your career by mastering the right words for effective communication.

Featured Content: Ruthlessly Evaluating EdTech Tools

In our featured content, we dive into Jessica Grose's compelling article, "Every Tech Tool in the Classroom Should Be Ruthlessly Evaluated," published in The New York Times on April 24, 2024. Grose highlights the complex and often problematic landscape of educational technology, urging educators to take control of tech integration in their classrooms. Key takeaways from the article include:

• Educator-Driven Tech Use: Technology should be selected based on data and teacher experience, not dictated by tech companies.
• Commercial Origins of EdTech: Many tools were initially created for commercial purposes, which may not align with educational outcomes.
• Necessity and Good Standard: Schools should assess whether a tech tool is essential and beneficial from ethical and pedagogical perspectives.
• Privacy Concerns: Protecting student data is paramount. Solutions include destroying data after use and establishing an independent body to oversee digital product quality.
• Centralized Tech-Vetting: Post-pandemic, there is a need for standardized evaluation of tech tools at the district level.
• Classroom-Level Audits: Regularly audit tech tools to ensure they serve their intended purpose without creating additional problems.
• Authentic Connections: Beyond academics, technology should foster human relationships and community building in schools.

Announcements:

• Welcome the newest member of the Education Podcast Network, the Resilient Teacher Podcast hosted by Brittany Blackwell!

#EdTech Thought:

• Topic: The Role of Former Educators in Addressing the Teacher Shortage
• Discussion: A snarky yet thought-provoking commentary on how individuals who used to teach and now pontificate about education could consider returning to the classroom to help alleviate the current teacher shortage.

Featured Content:

• EdTech Final 4:
  • MagicSchool vs. Grammarly: Dive into a head-to-head comparison of these two powerful tools designed to enhance writing and grammar skills. Which one will come out on top? Explore MagicSchool | Discover Grammarly
  • SchoolAI vs. Quillbot: In this battle of AI-driven writing assistants, we compare SchoolAI's innovative approach to Quillbot's established prowess. Who will reign supreme in the world of automated writing improvement? Check out SchoolAI | Learn about Quillbot
  • Where's Diffit?: Get to know "Where's Diffit?" and its potential impact on education, all while drawing an interesting parallel to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). Discover Diffit?
• Vote for the winner!

In this episode, I share the B.R.A.I.N. framework for interacting effectively with AI in education.

EdTech Recommendation

Humy.ai - A platform designed specifically for social studies and history educators. Humy.ai offers personalized tutoring, generates assignments, provides feedback, and enables the creation of custom AI tutors and assignments. It aims to make classes more engaging and interactive by integrating AI into the learning process. For more information, visit humy.ai.

Featured Content

Use Your B.R.A.I.N. - A framework for interacting effectively with AI in education:

• Be Specific: Clearly define your questions or needs to get accurate and useful AI responses.
• Relevance is Key: Ensure your input is relevant to your goals to enhance the quality of AI responses.
• Adapt and Ask for Help: If the AI's response isn't what you expected, refine your questions or provide more details.
• Interact: Engage in a back-and-forth dialogue with AI to refine and direct it towards the desired outcome.
• No Yapping: Add phrases like "No Yapping" or "Keep it Short" to the end of a prompt to limit the AI's output.

Feedback

After the last episode's edtech thought Brooke, Leo, Derek, and Steve reached out to share words of support and encouragement. Thank you so much for reaching out!

Explore how integrating technology into PBL can enhance the learning experience, making it more accessible, engaging, and impactful for students.

#EdTech Thought: Are You Really Trying?

In this segment, I ask myself if I am doing all that I could be doing because I am experiencing some self-doubt.

#EdTech Recommendation: Brisk Teaching

Discover Brisk Teaching, a free AI-powered Chrome extension designed to save teachers time. With features like personalized material creation, targeted feedback, and AI writing detection, Brisk Teaching is revolutionizing the way educators approach lesson planning and student interaction. Learn more and download Brisk Teaching from the Chrome Web Store.

Featured Content: How to Use EdTech for Project-Based Learning

Explore the transformative power of integrating technology into project-based learning. We discuss how EdTech tools can provide students with access to diverse resources, facilitate collaboration, and offer innovative ways to showcase their learning. From the planning stages to assessment, discover how technology can make PBL more accessible, dynamic, and impactful.

How do we choose the right edtech tools for our project? Here are some tips:

1. Tech Must Align with Learning Objectives: Ensure that the tool supports the goals of your project. If you're focusing on data analysis, a tool like Google Sheets might be more appropriate than video editing software.
2. Consider Age Appropriateness: The tools should be suitable for the age group of your students. It should have an intuitive interface and appropriate safety features.
3. Check for Collaboration Features: Since PBL is all about teamwork, look for tools that facilitate collaboration. Features like real-time editing, commenting, and sharing are essential.
4. Evaluate Accessibility: Ensure that the tool is accessible to all students. It should work on various devices and platforms, as not all students may have access to the latest technology.
5. Assess Cost and Privacy: Be mindful of the tool's cost and its privacy policies. Many tools offer free versions for educators, but make sure they comply with your school's data privacy regulations.

Resources mentioned:

• Trello: A project management tool that allows users to organize tasks, set deadlines, and collaborate with team members.
• Asana: A web and mobile application designed to help teams organize, track, and manage their work.
• Google Docs: A web-based word processor that allows real-time collaboration and sharing of documents.
• Google Keep: A note-taking service included as part of the free, web-based Google Docs Editors suite offered by Google.
• Canva: An online design and publishing tool that allows users to create graphics, presentations, and other visual content.
• Flip (formerly Flipgrid): A video discussion platform that allows students to create and share short videos on various topics.
• Miro: A visual workspace for innovation where teams manage projects, design products, and build the future together.
• Padlet: Make beautiful boards to collect, organize, and present anything.
• Zotero: A free, easy-to-use tool to help you collect, organize, cite, and share research.

Just Give It A Try - Bonus Recommendation!

Tired of formatting issues when copying and pasting from AI tools like ChatGPT? Check out the Google Docs add-on "Markdown to Docs" to effortlessly convert markdown formatting into traditional document formatting.

Introduction:

• Special mentions: Happy Birthday to Christie Cloud & Glenn Robbins.
• Platform updates: RadioPublic & Google Podcasts are shutting down! Visit chrisnesi.com/follow to find a new podcast listening app!

#EdTech Recommendations:

• The Magazine Rack: A vast collection of digitized magazines. Access here: The Magazine Rack
• Classroomscreen: A versatile tool for teachers, offering a customizable browser tab for classroom management. Free with daily resets, paid version available for saving setups. Learn more at Classroomscreen
• AI Created Jeopardy: Create engaging Jeopardy games using AI at ALMANACK.ai. Free account available.
• AskYourPDF.com: A resource for PDF queries and information based on PDF files you provide.

Featured Content:

The Need for Digital Equity: Revisiting the conversation from episode 210, delving into why digital equity and access are critical in education.

I dive into the critical issue of digital equity and access in education. As our world becomes increasingly digitized, the necessity for equal access to technology and internet connectivity in learning environments has never been more vital.

I kick off the episode by defining what digital equity and access truly mean and why they're essential components of modern education. The conversation then shifts to the stark realities of the digital divide, as we explore how disparities in access impact student learning and success, sharing compelling real-life examples.

The journey continues as I tackle the challenges schools and communities face in providing equal digital access. I discuss various obstacles, from funding to infrastructure.

Policy and advocacy take center stage in another segment, where I delve into how educational policies can influence and improve digital equity.

Finally, I look into the future, speculating on emerging trends and the evolution of digital equity. This segment is a call to action, encouraging listeners to consider their role in advocating for and contributing to a future where digital access is a given for every student.

Just Give It A Try:

• Inspiring Thoughts Daily: A daily motivational podcast by ME. Get your daily dose of inspiration at Inspiring Thoughts Daily

Discover the key skills for thriving in an AI-centric educational landscape. This episode offers insightful thoughts on integrating technical, cognitive, and socio-emotional skills into teaching, preparing students for a AI-driven future.

#EdTech Thought - January Pick-Me-Up

As teachers, you are more than just instructors; you are mentors, guides, and sometimes even friends to your students. Your resilience and dedication, often unnoticed, are crucial in shaping not just individual lives but entire societies. This segment serves as a reminder of the immense impact educators have beyond just academic teaching.

#EdTech Recommendation - QR Codes on Your Classroom Door

Monica Burns' recent post, 12 TIPS FOR CLASSROOM DOOR DECORATIONS WITH QR CODES has inspired me, and I've added four more innovative uses for QR codes on your classroom door. These include a Feedback or Suggestion Box, Class Blog or Website, Daily Inspirational Quotes, and Audio Messages. These tools are designed to enhance communication and inspiration in the classroom.

Featured Content

I explore the essential skills students need to thrive in the AI era. These skills range from technical proficiencies like understanding AI and machine learning to socio-emotional skills such as collaboration and emotional intelligence. The content aims to prepare educators to equip students for a rapidly changing future that is integrated with AI.

These skills include understanding AI and machine learning, programming, data literacy, critical thinking, adaptability, innovation, collaboration, emotional intelligence, digital literacy, and cybersecurity awareness. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of self-motivated learning and resilience, skills that are essential for lifelong learning in a technology-centric world. With educational systems incorporating these skills into curricula, this episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and students preparing for a future workforce dominated by AI.

Just Give It A Try

Join our new texting community on GroupMe! This is a free platform that I'm using with my Rutgers classes this semester. To join, visit https://chrisnesi.com/textme. Remember, I will be shutting down the Remind group at the end of February 2024, so make sure to switch over to stay connected.

Intro

• Welcome to a special bonus episode of House of #EdTech, where I'm celebrating a remarkable 10-year journey!

My Memories of the Last 10 Years

• Reflecting on a decade of growth, challenges, and triumphs.
• The evolution of educational technology over these years.

Inspiration for the Show

• Sharing the spark that ignited the idea for House of #EdTech.

Recording and Publishing That First Episode

• The excitement and nervousness of bringing the first episode to life.
• Overcoming initial hurdles and learning along the way.

House of #EdTech - episode 1

• A nostalgic snippet from the very first episode.

Favorite Episodes

• 3 - Joe Iacono
• 14, 52, 54, 66, 76, 92, 138 - Katelyn
• 117, 137 - Miles
• 100, 108 - Dad
• 59 - Stacey & AJ Interviewed Me

By the Numbers

• 10 Years = 120 months, 521 weeks, 3,652 days, 87,648 hours, 5,258,880 minutes, 315,532,800 seconds.
• 239 official episodes.
• 1,457,893 total downloads.

Awesome Supporters

• Expressing heartfelt gratitude to all supporters.
• Jeff Herb - 1st supporter, sticking with us for 211 episodes.
• Leo Calbusch - Our latest awesome supporter.
• Acknowledging former and current Awesome Supporters.
• Special mention to Stacey Lindes - my 1st fan.
• Derek Larson - Fill-in host and the creator of the Smackdown sheet.

Because of HoET...

• How HoET gave me the confidence to put my voice out there.
• Believing in the value of what I have to say.

Awards

• 2015 Educator's Voice
• 2016 EdTech Digest Leadership Award
• 2018 EdTech Digest Top-100 EdTech Influencer
• 2019 K-12 Education 30 Must-Follow IT Influencer
• 2021 Learning Ladders Best Educational Podcaster

Travel and Conferences

• Memorable trips to Utah, Alabama.
• Experiences at EdCamps, NJECC, ISTE, and Podcast Movement

Rutgers Professor since 2016

• The journey of becoming and being a professor at Rutgers.

The Pod Journal

• A dive into the creation and impact of The Pod Journal.

I Like to Podcast and You Will Too!

• Discussing my guide to podcasting and its influence. Purchase your copy!

Education Podcast Network

• The growth and success of the Education Podcast Network.

Podcast Editor

• Role and experiences as a podcast editor for:
  • Google Teacher Podcast
  • Partial Credit
  • Assist Learning Podcast
  • The Infused Classroom Podcast
  • Zebra Podcast Network
• PodcastPD
• Chase for 28
• Knock Knock, Who's There?
• Behind the Mic: Voices of the EPN
• Inspiring Thoughts Daily

Celebrate the 10th House of #EdTech Smackdown with Episode 239, a dynamic Smackdown showcasing the most innovative educational technology tools of 2023. Passionate educators and technology enthusiasts, dive into an exciting array of EdTech tools and predictions for the new year. This episode features engaging discussions on tools and emerging platforms.

Special contributions from the EdTech community, including voicemails and emails, enrich the conversation with real-world insights and applications. Whether you're a seasoned educator or exploring the world of EdTech, this episode offers a treasure trove of ideas, inspirations, and tools to revolutionize your approach to teaching and learning in 2024.

2023 Smackdown

Contributions from my community, including:

• Stephanie Howell on Kami
• Carlos Garza on Cell Phones in Education, Curipod, and Mastodon
• Katrina Haynes on Nearpod
• Bryon Carpenter on Adobe Express
• Stacy Fleming's insights on EdPuzzle
• Cam Ross recommends Diffit and Canva Magic for engaging lessons
• Leo's thoughts on ChatGPT
• Chris Stuchko's take on Magic School AI
• David Sandlin's submission of Tinkercad for 3D model designing
• Mel A's roundup of tools like Quizizz, Blooket, EdPuzzle, Adobe Express, and Loom

Feedback & Shout Outs

Stephanie Skrocki - Thank you for the email re: Episode 237

Featured Content

Welcome to Episode 238 of the House of #EdTech Podcast! In this episode, I share my recent appearance on an episode of Teachers on Fire, hosted by Tim Cavey. I participated in a live debate addressing a highly relevant topic in education: "Should student phones be banned from our K-12 schools?" I debated Dr. Matt Rhoads, who brought his extensive experience in education and technology to this thought-provoking discussion.

Debate Overview:

The debate revolves around using cell phones in K-12 educational settings, weighing the benefits and drawbacks. Our guests offer diverse viewpoints:

• My Perspective: Advocating against banning cell phones, I emphasizes the importance of leveraging these powerful tools for learning and teaching responsible digital citizenship. I highlighted the potential of cell phones for research, collaboration, creativity, and communication.

• Dr. Matt Rhoads's Viewpoint: Supporting the ban, Dr. Rhoads underscores concerns about declining academic performance, mental health crises, cyberbullying, and distractions caused by cell phones. He argues for using school-issued devices to teach digital citizenship while maintaining a focused learning environment.

Discussion Highlights:

1. Learning Tools vs. Distractions: The debate delves into whether cell phones are indispensable educational tools or sources of distraction and decline in academic performance.

2. Digital Citizenship and Responsibility: I argue that school cell phones offer opportunities to teach digital responsibility, while Matt suggests that the risks outweigh the benefits.

3. Mental Health and Bullying: Matt raises concerns about the impact of cell phones on student mental health and bullying, advocating for a safer school environment free from these influences.

4. Communication and Safety: The conversation touches on the role of cell phones in ensuring student safety and communication, especially in emergencies.

Conclusion:

The episode concludes without a definitive resolution but provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of both sides. The guests agree on the need for community involvement in decision-making regarding technology in schools.

Connect with Tim and Matt

• Tim Cavey - https://www.youtube.com/@TeachersOnFire
• Dr. Matt Rhoads - https://matthewrhoads.com/