Instructional Technology Newsletter

Screencastify is a screen recording tool. CSDNR teachers have access to the unlimited version. Screencastify also offers professional development for teachers. Check out this upcoming workshop on Creating Effective Instructional Videos. They also offer a multitude of on-demand videos that range from Screencasting for Improved Reading Fluency to Providing Meaningful Feedback with Screencastify. They also offer information on how to use Screencastify to connect and engage with parents.

Screencastify can be used to create lessons, demonstrate how to do something on the computer or even record videos with voiceovers and commentary. The videos that you create can be downloaded as MP4 files or can be saved in your Google drive. Check out this brief video on how to use it with other instructional videos. There is also a Screencastify Starter Guide. Take a look at this guide to get started with making and editing your Screencastify videos.

Nearpod now offers immersive reader to its users. Students will be able to have text read to them in Nearpod text slides. Here is a short video on using immersive reader with Nearpod.

Additionally, Nearpod has its own YouTube Channel. Take a look at the many resources that have been compiled. There are videos on how to use Virtual Field Trips as well as PHeT Simulations. Many other topics are covered.

Nearpod also offers live and on-demand webinars. You can access all of their support materials and resources from their Teacher Resources Page. Check out the interactive calendar to sign up for live workshops.

Don't forget that Google Slides can easily be turned into Nearpod Lessons. Watch this four minute video to learn how to use Nearpod with Google Slides.

Have you thought about using Zoom Registration for your classes? Here is a short video on how to utilize this feature in Zoom. It is easy to use and you can even ask students questions prior to your class meeting. You can always get a report on who attended your class whether you use the registration feature or not.

All new software must be compliant with Ed Law 2-D. This law requires software vendors to have more stringent privacy policies to protect student privacy and data. If you are looking for a new software title, check out the privacy policy. Use EducationFramework.com to see how the software is rated. Everyone in the District has access to Education Framework by using your Google Credentials.

There are also ways that teachers can protect student data during virtual and classroom settings.

Ways to protect student data include:

• Make sure during screen shares that student data is not shown.
• Do not use software applications that require student logins that have not been vetted by the district.
• Do not share student login information, especially if their username includes student IDs
• Take a look at this short video on protecting student data

If you are looking to procure new software, you need to fill out the Software Recommendation Form. To speed up the process, remember to take a look at EducationFramework.com for compliance with Ed Law 2-D.