EDU AI Tool: NotebookLM
Looking for a smarter, more flexible way to learn or teach? Google’s NotebookLM, launched in 2023, is an AI tool that turns articles, videos, and PDFs into personalized, conversational podcasts! Imagine summarizing all your educational resources into a podcast you can listen to while commuting, exercising, or just relaxing. Whether you’re an educator creating dynamic lesson content or a student juggling assignments, NotebookLM makes multitasking a breeze. Simply upload your materials, select the ones you want to summarize, and with just a few clicks, you’ll have an engaging audio overview that feels like a real conversation. Perfect for auditory learners…
A Few of My Favorite Library Things!
After rewatching *The Sound of Music*, I was inspired to share some of my favorite library tools and items! As a school librarian, I'm always on the lookout for resources that make my job easier, engage students, and add a little fun to our daily routine. In this blog post, I’ll highlight some essentials that have become staples in my library setup. From innovative shelf labeling solutions to creative ways to display read-alikes, these items have transformed my space. I’ll also introduce some engaging activities, like using button makers and board games, that spark joy and excitement among students. Plus,…
AI Prompt Engineering Part 1: RECAP
Curious about how to get the most out of AI? It all starts with prompt engineering—the key to unlocking powerful, precise responses from chatbots. Whether you’re crafting lessons, answering complex questions, or just experimenting with AI, the prompts you use make all the difference. In my latest blog, I dive into a practical framework called RECAP that will take your AI interactions to the next level. From defining your role to tailoring results for specific audiences, this simple model can transform how you and your students work with AI. Ready to start refining your prompts and getting better results?
Creative Library Displays: Adding a Dynamic Twist
While scrolling through TikTok, I found a great video by @the.laser.libraria showcasing a fun Open House idea for libraries or classroom collections. Inspired by @thebookwrangler’s resources, I put my own spin on the concept, which I am excited to share with you! This display works for both nonfiction and fiction books, using dynamic shelving techniques to make collections engaging and easy to browse. The Canva template I created includes everything you need—signs, editable tags, and fun sneaker pages. I hope this inspires you to try new display ideas in your library and make your collection more inviting for readers!
Graphic Novels are Reading!!
Graphic novels and webcomics are reshaping how we experience stories. These visual narratives deliver quick, engaging content that resonates with readers of all ages. Once considered a niche, they now fill a crucial gap in literature, offering an accessible and dynamic way to enjoy storytelling in today’s fast-paced world.
Book Review: The Infused AI Classroom by Holly Clark
I connected with Holly Clark during an AI training session, and her book, Infused AI Classroom, truly stands out. Unlike many AI books that focus on tools and tricks, Holly emphasizes pedagogy and transformative teaching techniques. This approach equips both students and educators to harness AI's full potential. Discover why Holly's insights are a game-changer for education!
Schoolai.com – Sandbox Chatbots for Students
With so many AI tools available, deciding which ones are worth your time can be challenging. In New York, using any tool with students involves ensuring data protection, which limits many options. That’s why I'm excited about Schoolai.com—no student login required! This multifaceted platform harnesses AI within a safe, controlled environment. Teachers can create custom chatbots, known as Sidekicks, to enhance learning experiences without distractions. Schoolai.com offers a practical, secure way to integrate AI into education, making it a valuable asset for any educator. Ready to explore? Create your free teacher account today!
EduProtocol: Iron Chef
The Iron Chef EduProtocol is revolutionizing classroom dynamics, promoting collaboration, critical thinking, and dynamic presentations. Students work together, race against the clock, and distill their research into engaging, concise presentations. This fast-paced activity mimics the excitement of the "Iron Chef" TV show, turning learning into an exhilarating challenge. By transforming the presentation process, students avoid common pitfalls like overloading slides with text. Instead, they focus on highlighting key points and enhancing their speaking skills. Weekly practice with the Iron Chef EduProtocol builds confidence, teamwork, and presentation prowess, creating an energetic and engaging classroom environment where students thrive.
Beyond the Headlines: Teaching Confirmation Bias in Media
Discover how I collaborated with ELA teachers to integrate media literacy lessons using KQED's "Above the Noise" videos. Learn how I created an engaging Hyperdoc on confirmation bias and cognitive bias, helping students spot fake news. Dive into innovative resources and techniques to enhance your classroom's critical thinking skills.
Booktalking: Crowdsourcing Your Reading
Discover the power of peer recommendations with "Crowdsourcing Your Reading," a pandemic-inspired booktalk activity. Using Goodreads and collaborative tools, students share their favorite books, creating a vibrant reading community. This engaging method not only introduces teens to valuable reading resources but also fosters a love for literature through authentic peer endorsements.
