Google Break-WIth-Tech Session CPD

Hi there everyone. Greetings from a geek-wannabe!  



Last week was one of the busiest weeks of the term as I had Term 1 report to work on, a class assembly presentation to practise with and last but not least, a Google session small group CPD to facilitate. It's great that we have a week-long break right after that as I could use some time away from the hustle and bustle of 'academia' life!

On Thursday 24th of May last week, I've offered a Google session mini CPD to a small group of colleagues who are keen to explore more about everything Google. It was the first self-initiated session for me as my previous experiences were of invitational basis.  

I started by discussing my desire to offer this CPD with my senior leaders which was much appreciated, therefore, approved to go on. The first step was to send a pre-session Google form to my colleagues to gauge interest and to find out more about their ability and comfort level with various topics that will be discussed during the session. 

Upon receiving responses, I then finalise the topics and shared it with my colleagues so that they'll have some ideas on what will go on during my session. The format of my session was designed in a 'choose-your-own-adventure' style; differentiated and self-paced learning which covered topics of their choice. (see Google slides below for more clarification) 






I think the session went well as most of the participants were able to 'take-away' at least two new things to be implemented in their classroom. It would be even better if I focused the 1-hour session on a specific topic, for example, Google Drive, as there were just too many to digest, too little time! However, I've shared the presentation slides for them to further explore on their own and at their own pace. 

After the session, another Google form was sent (unanimous responses) for feedback purpose which will be helpful because I can improve in the future and also understand my audience's perspective a little bit better. 
So, here's to a better and improved session next time! Sayonara!

Formative Assessment Tools Special

It's been a while since my last blog entry. I've been busy with work and other commitments and in the midst of that, I finally had the courage to take the Google Trainer Assessment which is one of the requirements for Google Trainer application and proud to say that I've passed! Google Trainer Certification, here I come!! 

This week's special will be featuring three online formative assessment tools which I've used with my students and will continue using when opportunities arise. You'll never believe how much excitement and engagement it brought to the class; some students were literally jumping in the air each time they answered the question correctly and begged me to play it again.

Quizizz and Kahoot are a fun multiplayer classroom activities, that allow all your students to practice together either in class (live mode) or at home. Both work on Android or IOS devices and do not require students logins. Plickers, on the other hand, is a simple tool that lets teachers collect real-time data without the need for student devices. 

Quizizz and Kahoot

Upon signing in to Quizizz and Kahoot, you can start by creating your own quiz or save time by searching for the ready-made quizzes by other educators. Once you're ready with the quiz, you can opt to play it in class-live mode or assign it as homework. 

Both Quizizz and Kahoot provide real-time data and allow you to download or share results or feedback with your students. It also integrate with Google Classroom so you can direct the students to the game page or assign as homework.

Live mode Quiz via Kahoot

Excitement while playing Kahoot

Video on How to Assign Homework Using Quizizz

Plickers

Picture this; your students taking a long time to log-in on the computer or even open the right app. For some reason, the device decided to act up at the exact moment you wanted to start your activity using one of the online tools.

Enter Plickers, a powerful online tool that gives all the student a chance to participate and engage in learning as well as providing instant feedback for a quick check of understanding. No device required for the students, just Plickers card printouts which can be used again and again. 

The idea is that once the quiz is launched live, students will answer by putting their card up to be scanned by the teacher's device. They will rotate their card according to their choice of answer. For instance, if your answer is B, then that alphabet should be positioned upright such as below.

An example of a Plickers card.

Check out the link below on how to get started:

Getting Started with Plickers 

Plickers Live View

Try these tools out as a fun starter, a short-burst activity in the middle of a session to check for understanding or as a plenary to consolidate learning. They'll have lots of fun and I bet you will too!