Edmonds Digital Learning

When I was in the classroom, my two go-to tools were PowerPoint and Google Forms -- the former for delivering visual content and lesson instructions, the latter for formative assessment.  It was disjointed, but it worked for me. With the move to online content and 1:1 classrooms, I knew there had to be a slicker, more integrated way of carrying out these same functions.  Enter: Nearpod . Using a similar interface to Google Slides , Nearpod allows you to create online slideshows with the added benefit of embedding quizzes, surveys, and even freehand drawing (for maths problems!) into your slide deck. What's more, students can sign-in to your slideshow using a PC, Chromebook , or their mobile device to view the content along with you, and take part in the interactive activities. Transitioning to the new system is easy, as Nearpod will import your existing PowerPoint or PDF files and convert them into its own format. The system is "freemium," mean...

You may have heard a lot about the "flipped classroom" which, if you're worried, has nothing to do with upturned furniture.  It's part of the blended learning model of instruction, where online learning is integrated into a regular classroom. The "flip" occurs when students use homework time to view lectures, videos, or lessons, and are then able to spend more time in class working with their teacher to increase their understanding. There are several resources out there that are free to use, and may align perfectly with your curriculum.  (Just do a quick search on YouTube to get started.)  But what happens when a resource isn't available, or what's available differs from your own methodology, or if it just isn't very good? This guide will show you how to capture and create your own online lessons.  Full instructions and videos are after the jump.

Glasbergen, Randy. "Randy Glasbergen – Today's Cartoon."  Randy Glasbergen Todays Cartoon . (Cartoon ID:  toon-1377) Web. 17 Oct. 2014. < http://www.glasbergen.com/office-cartoons-2/ >. A caffeine injection is not the answer, instead use your stylus! Who has actually used their laptop as a tablet or used their stylus for a writing tool since first receiving the device?  For some, receiving a new computer is exciting, but for others it induces anxiety because you just figured out the old device. One of the unique features of the Lenovo Yoga is the fact that it has multiple uses.  This is good news for those individuals who happen to write quickly, type slowly, or think better with handwritten notes, but still want to make sure that the information is legible.    In a few quick steps you can convert your handwritten notes into typed text without needing to type the information yourself.  YIPPEE!!! Taking Notes Using the Stylus ...