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  1. Mar 2025
    1. The Power of Digital Storytelling

      GPT SUMMARY:

      The article The Power of Digital Storytelling by Michael Hernandez explores how digital storytelling enhances education by making learning engaging, meaningful, and “uncheatable.” Key points include:

      1. What Is Digital Storytelling?

        • Digital storytelling involves multimedia formats like videos, podcasts, infographics, digital books, and interactive media.

        • Writing remains central, but digital tools make learning more dynamic.

        • Allows students to communicate ideas effectively to an authentic audience.

      2. Benefits of Digital Storytelling

        • Engagement & Authenticity: Students become more invested when their work is shared beyond the classroom.

        • Redefining Literacy: Digital storytelling integrates visual, digital, and media literacy beyond traditional reading and writing.

        • Supports Equity: Students with learning differences, language barriers, or social anxieties can express themselves through multimedia.

        • Encourages Creativity & Critical Thinking: Students must research, organize, and present ideas in impactful ways.

        • Discourages Cheating: Projects are personalized, making AI-generated or copied work ineffective.

      3. Digital Storytelling as a Learning Framework

        • Projects allow students to apply knowledge while developing essential 21st-century skills.

        • Encourages students to see curriculum as a tool for real-world impact.

        • Builds storytelling skills that enhance research, organization, and communication.

      4. Quick-Win Digital Storytelling Projects

        • Annotated Photography: Students label and explain images related to the curriculum.

        • Expert Interviews: Students conduct and record expert interviews, then analyze key takeaways.

        • Anthology Projects: Digital books or websites compile multiple student-created learning artifacts.

      5. Human-Centered Learning

        • Digital storytelling fosters independent thinking and ownership of learning.

        • Helps students create meaningful work that has an impact beyond school.

      6. Tips for Incorporating Digital Storytelling

        • Start small by turning traditional assignments into digital formats.

        • Keep stories short (1–3 pages or 60-second videos).

        • Use accessible tools like smartphones, Canva, and Adobe Express.

      Overall, digital storytelling transforms education by making learning interactive, personal, and purpose-driven, helping students develop critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills.

    1. What is Digital Storytelling and How to Use it in the Most Powerful Way

      GPT SUMMARY:

      The article What is Digital Storytelling and How to Use it in the Most Powerful Way from the ThingLink Blog explores the concept, benefits, and applications of digital storytelling. Key takeaways include:

      1. What is Digital Storytelling?

        • Digital storytelling is the use of multimedia elements such as text, images, video, voiceovers, animation, and interactive content to create compelling narratives.

        • It is widely used in education, healthcare, museums, and other fields to enhance learning and engagement.

      2. Benefits of Digital Storytelling

        • Enhanced Creativity: Allows individuals to control the pacing, visuals, and overall presentation.

        • Easy Sharing & Accessibility: Digital stories can be distributed through social media, websites, and online platforms.

        • Real-Time Updates: Stories can be quickly modified to reflect new perspectives or updated information.

        • Engagement & Emotional Connection: Multimedia narratives are visually compelling and emotionally impactful.

      3. Educational Applications

        • Encourages creative self-expression and communication skills.

        • Supports collaborative learning as students work together to build stories.

        • Makes content more engaging and accessible, benefiting visual learners and those with different learning styles.

        • Provides technical skill development through the use of digital tools.

        • Enables global collaboration, allowing students to share stories across classrooms and cultures.

      4. How to Use Digital Storytelling Effectively

        • Define the story’s objective and message.

        • Decide on the narrative structure (linear or open-ended).

        • Storyboard each step before production.

        • Choose the best media elements to enhance the story (video, sound effects, visuals).

      5. Digital Storytelling Tools

        • WeVideo – Cloud-based video editing with sound and effects.

        • Google Slides/Microsoft PowerPoint – Simple, template-based storytelling.

        • ThingLink – Interactive visual storytelling with virtual exhibitions.

        • Virtual Reality (VR) – Immersive storytelling for deeper engagement.

      6. Powerful Ways to Share Digital Stories

        • Embedded links in emails, websites, and blogs.

        • Social media sharing (YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook).

        • QR codes for instant access across devices.

      7. The Future of Digital Storytelling

        • Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly integrated into digital storytelling, providing immersive learning experiences.

        • Advancements in technology make digital storytelling more accessible to everyone, regardless of technical expertise.

      Conclusion

      Digital storytelling is a versatile, impactful tool that enhances learning, communication, and creativity across various fields. By effectively integrating multimedia elements, educators, students, and professionals can craft meaningful narratives that engage and educate diverse audiences.

    1. 10 Best Storyboard Softwares for Students in 2024

      GPT Summary: The article 10 Best Storyboard Softwares for Students in 2024 from Boords provides an overview of top storyboard tools for students, focusing on features, ease of use, and affordability. Key highlights include:

      1. Boords

        • Best for collaboration: Enables students to receive feedback directly on storyboard frames.

        • AI Storyboard Generator: Converts scripts into animated visuals.

        • Automatic Animatics: Turns static frames into video sequences.

        • Student Discount: 50% off for educational users.

      2. Studiobinder

        • Script-to-Storyboard Feature: Auto-generates storyboards from scripts.

        • Shot Tagging & Image Editing: Enhances visual storytelling.

        • Best for Beginners: User-friendly and visually appealing.

      3. Krock.io

        • AI-Powered Storyboarding: Automates storyboard creation for faster workflows.

        • Collaboration Tools: Real-time feedback and structured reviews.

        • Ideal for Students Needing Efficiency: Reduces manual effort while maintaining quality.

      4. Storyboard That

        • Great for teamwork: Includes collaborative and feedback-sharing features.

        • Drag-and-Drop Interface: Makes it accessible for students.

        • Widely Used in Education: Also helpful for customer journey mapping.

      5. Wonder Unit Storyboarder

        • Free & Open-Source: Ideal for budget-conscious students.

        • Basic Drawing & Editing Tools: Lacks advanced AI features.

        • Best for Individual Users: Great for manual storyboarding.

      6. FrameForge

        • Virtual Film Studio: Uses optically accurate virtual cameras for real-world shot planning.

        • Detailed Storyboard Prints: Includes camera height, focal length, and angles.

        • Best for Film & TV Students: Prepares students for industry standards.

      7. PanelForge

        • Combines 2D & 3D: Allows students to visualize space and character orientation.

        • Enhances Storytelling Skills: Helps in experimenting with different angles.

        • Best for Developing Technical Skills.

      8. Miro • Infinite Canvas: Unlimited space for brainstorming and sketching.

        • Not Specific to Storyboarding: Lacks dedicated storyboard tools but works as an online whiteboard.

        • Best for Brainstorming & Planning.

      9. Conclusion: The best storyboard software depends on the student’s needs-

        • For collaboration & AI assistance: Boords, Krock.io, Storyboard That.

        • For beginners & script conversion: Studiobinder.

        • For technical depth: FrameForge, PanelForge.

        • For free/open-source: Wonder Unit.

        • For brainstorming: Miro.

      These tools make digital storytelling and filmmaking more accessible, helping students develop essential creative and technical skills.

    1. The 6 Best AI Storyboard Generators in 2024

      The article The 6 Best AI Storyboard Generators in 2024 from Boords evaluates top AI-powered storyboard tools based on their features, efficiency, and usability. Key highlights include:

      1. Boords (Top Choice)

        • AI Storyboard Generator: Converts text prompts into full storyboards.

        • Character Guidelines: Maintains character consistency across frames.

        • Collaboration Features: Export as PDFs, PNGs, or MP4 animatics; share storyboards with feedback tools.

        • Customizable Character Outfits & Scene Variations.

      2. Storyboard Hero

        • Basic AI Storyboarding: Helps with video planning and collaboration.

        • Downside: Lacks user-friendly design, character consistency, and AI-driven refinements.

      3. Krock.io

        • CSV-Based Storyboard Generator: Creates scenes from structured data.

        • Missing Features: No text-prompt generation or character consistency tools.

      4. Elai.io

        • AI Script & Scene Generation: Great for multilingual videos.

        • Limitations: Slow loading times and fewer collaboration options.

      5. Storyboarder.ai

        • Cloud-Based AI Storyboarding: Generates entire storyboards in minutes.

        • Downside: No voiceover, character guidelines, or versioning tools.

      6. Voxxio

        • Speech-to-Storyboard AI: Converts spoken ideas into visuals.

        • Weakness: Lacks character consistency, text-prompt generation, and collaboration features.

      7. Conclusion

        • Best Overall: Boords (AI-driven, user-friendly, best for character consistency).

        • Best for Data-Driven Storyboarding: Krock.io.

        • Best for Quick Conceptualization: Storyboarder.ai and Voxxio.

        • Best for Multilingual Video Creation: Elai.io.

      Boords stands out as the most advanced tool, while others offer unique strengths depending on user needs.

    1. Digital Storytelling: Benefits, Examples, Tools & Tips for 2025

      The article Digital Storytelling: Benefits, Examples, Tools & Tips for 2025 from Research.com explores the role of digital storytelling in education and beyond. Key takeaways include:

      1. What is Digital Storytelling?

      Digital storytelling integrates multimedia elements (text, images, video, audio, and interactive content) within a narrative structure. Unlike traditional storytelling, digital stories exist in electronic formats and often include interactive components like maps and social media.

      1. Benefits of Digital Storytelling in Education

        • Enhances Engagement: Digital stories capture student interest and cater to various learning styles.

        • Improves Learning Outcomes: Helps develop critical thinking, creativity, research, and technical skills.

        • Encourages Emotional Connection: Evokes emotions, making lessons more impactful.

        • Supports Different Literacy Skills: Fosters information, visual, technological, and media literacy.

        • Promotes Collaboration: Allows students to work together on projects, improving teamwork and communication skills.

      2. Challenges in Implementing Digital Storytelling

        • Technical Proficiency: Educators and students may need training in multimedia tools.

        • Access to Technology: Not all students have reliable digital resources.

        • Time Constraints: Creating digital stories can be time-consuming, requiring proper planning.

      3. Beyond Education: Other Applications

        • Public Health & Social Services: Programs like Silence Speaks and Patient Voices use digital storytelling to share personal and healthcare experiences.

        • Business & Marketing: Companies use digital storytelling to enhance user engagement through personal narratives and testimonials.

      4. Key Elements of an Effective Digital Story

        • Clear Point of View: The story should reflect the creator’s perspective.

        • Dramatic Question: Creates intrigue and keeps the audience engaged.

        • Emotional Content: Personal, relatable stories evoke strong emotional responses.

        • Concise Narrative: Storytelling should be economical, focusing on essential elements.

        • Pacing & Soundtrack: Proper rhythm and music enhance storytelling impact.

      5. Popular Digital Storytelling Tools

        • Book Creator – Create multimedia ebooks and digital stories.

        • WeVideo – Cloud-based video creation tool.

        • Storyboard That – Drag-and-drop platform for storyboards and comics.

        • Anchor – Podcast creation and editing platform.

        • FlexClip – Easy-to-use video creation software.

      6. Tips for Creating an Effective Digital Story

        • Start with a focused idea and small scope.

        • Show rather than tell—use visuals effectively.

        • Use transitions and effects sparingly to avoid distractions.

        • Ensure a strong emotional or narrative connection.

      Overall, digital storytelling is a powerful tool in education, business, and social awareness, fostering creativity, engagement, and collaboration.

    1. Putting Thoughts on Paper: Start with a Storyboard!

      GPT SUMMARY:

      The article Putting Thoughts on Paper: Start with a Storyboard! from the Teaching Channel highlights how storyboards can help students, especially those struggling with writing and recall, organize and communicate their thoughts.

      Key points include:

      1.  Challenges in Student Expression
      

      Many students struggle with analyzing text and recalling information, particularly those with learning difficulties or limited vocabulary.

      Some students may understand concepts but lack the ability to express them in writing.

      2.  The Role of Storyboards
      

      Inspired by filmmaking, storyboards offer a structured way to visually represent ideas.

      They serve as a “rough draft” for students who have difficulty with written expression.

      3.  Classroom Implementation
      

      Teachers can guide students to list important characters, settings, and key details before drawing their storyboard.

      Visual representations help students organize their thoughts before transitioning to written assignments.

      Students who struggle with writing can use pictures to demonstrate their understanding and explain their work verbally.

      4.  Scaffolding and Adaptations
      

      Some students may need step-by-step guidance, while others can independently translate visuals into writing.

      Teachers can provide prompts and checklists to ensure key details are included.

      5.  Assessment and Application
      

      Storyboards can act as pre-writing tools, helping students outline their ideas before formal writing.

      They support comprehension, engagement, and deeper thinking about texts.

      Overall, the article emphasizes how storyboards bridge the gap between comprehension and written communication, making learning more accessible for all students.

    1. Using Storyboards in the Classroom

      GPT SUMMARY:

      The article Using Storyboards in the Classroom by Darcy Bakkegard explores how storyboards, traditionally used in filmmaking, can be adapted for educational purposes across different grades and subjects.

      Key points include:

      1.  What Are Storyboards?
      

      Storyboards are visual representations of sequences or concepts, helping students break down ideas into logical steps.

      They can range from simple four-box structures to complex multi-page layouts.

      2.  Why Use Storyboards?
      

      They encourage students to organize information in chunks and logical sequences.

      They provide a visual method to demonstrate understanding, benefiting students who struggle with written expression.

      They allow for easy feedback and revisions.

      3.  When to Use Storyboards?
      

      Beginning of a Unit: Helps activate prior knowledge, organize thoughts, and make predictions.

      During a Lesson: Supports understanding, summarizes key ideas, and checks comprehension.

      End of a Unit: Serves as an exit ticket, supports reflection, and helps students plan complex projects.

      4.  Practical Applications:
      

      Teachers can use storyboards for diverse subjects, such as explaining scientific processes, sequencing historical events, or outlining math problems.

      Digital and physical formats are both useful, with tools like Canva, Padlet, and Adobe Spark offering online options.

      5.  Assessment & Reflection:
      

      Instead of quizzes, students can demonstrate learning through storyboard creation.

      Teachers can use them to evaluate understanding and encourage peer collaboration.

      Overall, storyboards provide a flexible and engaging way to help students visualize and process their learning.

    1. An Academic Use for Social Media

      GPT Summary: An Academic Use for Social Media

      Author: Rusul Alrubail (August 31, 2017)

      Social media can be a powerful educational tool to enhance students’ writing and communication skills through micro-writing—short-form content on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Research by the Pew Center indicates that digital tools increase student engagement and improve writing skills. Many teachers already encourage students to publicly share their work on blogs, wikis, and other digital spaces.

      Leveraging Social Media in the Classroom:

      Micro-writing platforms like Twitter and Instagram allow students to express and analyze thoughts concisely.

      Instagram Stories can be used for storytelling, incorporating images and captions to expand on key ideas.

      Example projects, such as a student-created Instagram profile featuring immigrant stories, show how social media can make writing more relevant and impactful.

      Developing Critical Thinking:

      Social media’s influence on public discourse means students must learn to evaluate source credibility and recognize bias.

      Educators can integrate social media writing exercises into research assignments to bridge traditional writing skills with modern communication methods.

      21st-Century Learning:

      Writing for social media requires the same analytical and research skills as traditional essays.

      Encouraging critical thinking in digital spaces prepares students for real-world communication challenges.

      By incorporating social media into education, teachers can help students become more effective writers and thinkers in the digital age.

    1. Using Texting to Promote Learning and Literacy

      Summary: Integrating Texting into Classroom Instruction

      Although research is ongoing, many educators have found that incorporating students’ love of texting into lessons can improve literacy skills and engagement.

      Potential Educational Benefits of Texting:

      Builds Foundational Literacy Skills: Helps with word recognition and phonological awareness.

      Encourages Writing Practice: Frequent texting means frequent engagement with language.

      Teaches Audience Awareness: Helps students differentiate between formal and informal writing.

      Supports College & Career Readiness: Enhances skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

      Classroom Applications:

      Comparing Texting & Formal Writing: Discuss differences in syntax, grammar, and purpose.

      Summarizing Literature in Text Speak: Translate classic dialogues (e.g., Romeo and Juliet in text messages).

      Using Text-Based Research Tools: Teach students to use texting services for definitions, translations, and quick information retrieval.

      Texting for Class Participation: Helps English language learners (ELLs) and students with disabilities engage in discussions more confidently.

      Recognizing the Value of Texting: Frequent use of “textisms” (e.g., abbreviations, symbols) correlates with stronger vocabulary and reading skills.

      What the Research Says

      Texting does not harm writing skills; studies show it may improve literacy.

      Students who use text speak frequently tend to have stronger word recognition and language skills.

      Mobile learning is widely used in other countries as an “anytime, anywhere” educational tool.

      Further research is needed to understand how texting affects younger children learning formal writing skills.

      Key Takeaways

      Rather than dismissing texting as a distraction, educators can use it strategically to enhance literacy, engagement, and digital communication skills while preparing students for different writing contexts.

    1. article

      GPT Summary of “The Use of Social Media and Wikis in Teaching Writing Skills”

      This paper explores the impact of using social media and wikis on improving students’ writing skills. The study reviews research conducted between 2010 and 2018, analyzing 17 selected articles using the PRISMA methodology.

      Key Findings:

      Social Media in Writing Education: Platforms like Facebook, Skype, and WhatsApp enhance students’ writing skills by providing interactive, collaborative, and engaging learning environments.

      Wikis in Writing Instruction: Wikis encourage collaborative writing, peer feedback, and improved writing performance by allowing students to co-edit and review their work.

      Teacher Involvement: The studies emphasize the importance of teachers guiding students in the effective use of these tools to maximize their benefits.

      Positive Outcomes: The reviewed research indicates that both social media and wikis contribute to improved vocabulary, grammar, and writing fluency while fostering critical thinking and cooperative learning.

      Conclusion & Recommendations:

      The integration of social media and wikis in English as a Second/Foreign Language (ESL/EFL) education is beneficial.

      Teachers should be trained in utilizing these digital tools effectively.

      Further research should explore long-term effects and broader applications of technology in writing instruction.

      Would you like a more detailed breakdown of a specific section?

    1. Home

      Summary of “Using Texting to Help Families Build Their Children’s Vocabulary at Home” by Snell, Wasik, & Hindman

      This article explores how texting can be an effective tool for improving young children’s vocabulary development by strengthening home-school communication. The authors review research on the importance of vocabulary for early literacy and describe how texting can support family engagement in children’s learning.

      Key Points:

      •   Vocabulary Development is Critical for Literacy
      
      •   Children with larger vocabularies have better reading comprehension and academic success.
      
      •   Many children, especially those from low-income families, have less exposure to academic vocabulary at home.
      
      •   Families play a crucial role in reinforcing school learning through conversations and shared reading.
      

      Texting as a Home-School Bridge

      •   Text messaging allows teachers to share key vocabulary words, definitions, and activities with parents.
      
      •   Programs like Ready4K and Text to Talk have shown that sending literacy-focused texts improves parent engagement and child vocabulary learning.
      
      •   Texting-based interventions have been used to reduce the “summer slide” and increase parent participation in reading activities.
      

      How Texting Supports Vocabulary Learning

      •   Multiple Exposures: Texts provide parents with frequent reminders to use new words in conversation.
      
      •   Encouraging Practice: Parents are prompted to engage children in discussions about words, reinforcing pronunciation and meaning.
      
      •   Making Connections: Texts help families relate words to real-life experiences and prior knowledge, improving retention.
      
      •   Example Program: Text to Talk
      
      •   Teachers text parents four vocabulary words per week, along with definitions and suggested activities.
      
      •   Parents receive links to videos, books, and interactive content to support learning.
      
      •   Research shows that students learn more words when parents receive structured vocabulary texts.
      

      Conclusion:

      Texting is a low-cost, accessible way to improve early literacy by increasing parental involvement in vocabulary development. The study suggests that structured texting programs can significantly enhance children’s word learning and overall reading success.

    2. learners

      GPT SUMMARY:

      The study, “Effect of Using Texting on Vocabulary Instruction for English Learners” by Jia Li & Jim Cummins, examines the impact of texting as a tool for vocabulary acquisition among English language learners (ELLs) in a university setting in Ontario, Canada.

      Key Findings: • Texting improves vocabulary acquisition: The study found that students who received text messages containing vocabulary words, definitions, and example sentences significantly outperformed those who used traditional dictionary-based learning. • Limited transfer effect: While texting improved learning of the specific target words, it did not significantly enhance the students’ general academic vocabulary acquisition beyond the intervention. • Reinforces previous research: Prior studies also support the idea that text messaging is an effective tool for vocabulary learning, especially in structured learning environments. • Pedagogical implications: The study suggests that texting-based interventions can be a valuable supplement to traditional vocabulary instruction, but their effectiveness depends on duration, frequency, and content design.

      Study Design: • Participants: 108 undergraduate ELLs • Intervention: Students in the treatment group received three vocabulary-related text messages per day for nine weeks, while the control group relied on standard learning methods. • Results: The treatment group showed statistically significant vocabulary gains, but there was no evidence of a broader transfer effect to general vocabulary learning.

      Conclusion:

      Texting can be a useful tool for vocabulary instruction, helping students retain and recall specific words more effectively. However, its benefits do not necessarily extend to general academic vocabulary learning. The study highlights the need for longer-term interventions and further research on how texting can be integrated into broader language-learning strategies.

    1. 7.1: Texting Ruins Students’ Grammar Skills

      GPT SUMMARY:

      Summary of “Texting Ruins Students’ Grammar Skills” by Scott Warnock

      The article challenges the belief that texting and digital communication negatively impact students’ grammar skills. It argues that such claims are part of a long history of language panics and misunderstandings about grammar.

      Key Arguments Against the “Texting Ruins Grammar” Myth:

      •   Language Panics Are Not New
      
      •   Concerns over declining literacy have existed for centuries, with critics blaming new technologies, from writing itself (Plato) to television and now texting.
      
      •   Historical complaints about student writing are cyclical, resurfacing with each new form of communication.
      
      •   Grammar Misconceptions
      
      •   Many critics misunderstand grammar, often confusing formal grammar rules with stylistic preferences.
      
      •   “Correct” grammar is often based on social norms and conventions rather than fundamental linguistic structures.
      
      •   Many so-called “errors” are actually differences in usage and evolving language norms.
      
      •   No Proven Link Between Texting and Poor Grammar
      
      •   Studies fail to show a direct correlation between texting habits and grammatical errors in formal writing.
      
      •   Linguists dismiss flawed research that claims texting harms grammar, noting that most studies measure spelling and punctuation rather than grammar.
      
      •   Research finds no evidence that students transfer texting shortcuts into academic writing.
      
      •   Texting Is a Form of Writing, Not Its Opposite
      
      •   Texting is a new way of communicating, not a degradation of language.
      
      •   Young people today write more than any previous generation, challenging the idea that literacy is declining.
      
      •   Many students differentiate between digital and academic writing, using each appropriately.
      

      Conclusion:

      The belief that texting damages grammar skills is a misconception rooted in outdated fears about language change. Rather than harming literacy, digital communication expands linguistic creativity and reflects the natural evolution of language. Educators should embrace digital writing as a legitimate form of expression rather than viewing it as a threat.

    1. 7.2: Texting Ruins Literacy Skills

      GPT SUMMARY:

      Summary of “Texting Ruins Literacy Skills” by Christopher Justice

      The article examines the debate over whether texting negatively impacts literacy skills, arguing that texting does not harm literacy but instead represents an evolution in communication.

      Key Arguments Against the “Texting Ruins Literacy” Myth:

      •   Texting is a New Form of Writing
      
      •   Linguists like John McWhorter and David Crystal argue that texting is an innovative linguistic phenomenon that expands communication skills.
      
      •   Rather than replacing formal writing, texting adds to our linguistic repertoire.
      
      •   No Clear Evidence of Harm to Literacy
      
      •   Studies show no correlation between texting and declining literacy rates.
      
      •   Texting requires an understanding of abbreviations, syntax, and rhetorical context, indicating that texters already possess strong literacy skills.
      
      •   Research from Coventry University found that students who frequently use text abbreviations perform better on reading and vocabulary tests.
      
      •   Texting Encourages Rhetorical and Creative Skills
      
      •   Texters must adapt messages to different audiences and contexts, which enhances their rhetorical awareness.
      
      •   The concise nature of texting improves summarization skills and word economy.
      
      •   Texting allows for multimodal
      

      communication, incorporating images, emojis, links, and voice messages.

      •   Texting is Part of Language Evolution
      
      •   Abbreviations have long existed in formal and informal writing (e.g., “B.A.”, “CEO”, “NATO”, “AWOL”).
      
      •   Similar fears about language decline occurred with the invention of writing, radio, film, and television.
      
      •   The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) recognizes digital literacy as essential for 21st-century communication.
      

      Conclusion:

      Rather than being a threat to literacy, texting is a sophisticated form of communication that enhances language skills in different ways. Instead of discouraging texting, educators should embrace it as a tool to improve rhetorical awareness and multimodal communication in the digital age.

    1. Emoji as Visual Literacy

      GPT SUMMARY:

      Summary of “Emoji as Visual Literacy” by Catherine A. Moore

      The article explores emoji as a form of visual literacy and their potential to evolve into a legitimate language. It discusses how emoji, like ancient pictographs and early writing systems (e.g., cuneiform and hieroglyphics), function as a visual communication tool.

      Key Points:

      Emoji as a Universal Language

      •   92% of the online population uses emoji or stickers in digital communication.
      
      •   While some view emoji as a restricted communication system, others argue they enhance emotional nuance in text-based interactions.
      
      •   The ambiguity of emoji parallels natural language evolution, where words change meaning over time.
      

      Historical Context

      •   The roots of emoji trace back to ancient pictographic writing.
      
      •   The rise of emoji mirrors past forms of visual communication, such as rebus puzzles and coat of arms.
      
      •   The transition from emoticons to emoji, led by Scott Fahlman and Shigetaka Kurita, reflects a growing reliance on visual language.
      

      Are Emoji a Language?

      •   Linguists debate whether emoji constitute a formal language.
      
      •   Language is traditionally defined by mutual intelligibility, but emoji’s meanings vary by context, culture, and personal interpretation.
      
      •   Some scholars argue that emoji have a developing grammatical structure, influencing sentence order and meaning.
      

      The Role of Visual Literacy

      •   Increased digital communication has heightened global visual literacy.
      
      •   The popularity of emoji, GIFs, and stickers demonstrates a shift toward visual-based interactions.
      
      •   Education systems are beginning to integrate visual literacy alongside traditional language learning.
      

      The Future of Emoji

      •   With technological advancements, users can create custom emoji, Bitmoji, and stickers, expanding visual communication.
      
      •   Some experts believe emoji could evolve into a complex system similar to sign language.
      
      •   The ambiguity and playfulness of emoji allow for creative, context-dependent communication.
      

      Conclusion

      Emoji are a powerful supplement to written language, enhancing emotional expression and fostering visual literacy. While they may not yet qualify as a fully developed language, their widespread use and evolving structure suggest a growing role in digital communication. As technology advances, emoji could become a more sophisticated visual language integrated into global discourse.

    1. Can texting create a love for reading later in life?

      GPT Summary:

      The article explores whether texting can foster a love for reading later in life, using the example of a reluctant first-grade reader, Camilla, who enjoys texting her father. While some worry that early exposure to texting could hinder literacy, research suggests otherwise. Linguist David Crystal argues that language is constantly evolving and that proficient texters tend to be strong readers and spellers. Studies indicate that texting enhances phonological awareness and reading skills by encouraging users to break down words and understand their construction. Abbreviations, or “textisms,” have a long history, dating back to the telegraph era, and new technologies have always introduced new words and spellings. Historical examples, such as “OK,” “IOU,” and “OMG,” show that abbreviated language has long been part of communication. The article concludes that rather than harming literacy, texting may actually contribute to language development.

    1. Blogs, Wikis and Text Messaging: What are the Implications for Students with Learning Disabilities

      GPT Summary: Technology, Web 2.0, and Students with Learning Disabilities

      Advancements in Digital Technology & Education

      Innovations in computer technology have transformed education, allowing students to submit assignments online, communicate with teachers via email, and collaborate with peers through instant messaging, discussion forums, and wikis. Assistive technologies such as speech-to-text, screen readers, and portable notetaking devices have further enhanced accessibility for students with disabilities.

      Web 2.0 & Its Impact on Students with Learning Disabilities

      Web 2.0 tools enable students to interact with content, create media, and engage in online communities. These tools provide new opportunities for students with learning disabilities to access education and participate in social interactions.

      Key Web 2.0 Tools & Their Educational Benefits

      1. Blogging • Helps students express thoughts, improve writing skills, and engage in discussions. • Supports students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD by allowing them to participate in written discussions at their own pace. • Encourages reluctant writers to write more frequently.

      2. Wikis • Allow students to collaborate on research and writing projects. • Help students with learning disabilities gain confidence by contributing to shared knowledge. • Can be used for fact-checking exercises to teach digital literacy.

      3. Text Messaging • Supports formal vs. informal language discussions. • Enables literature summarization exercises (e.g., translating Romeo and Juliet into text speak). • Assists students with organization through text-based reminders. • Encourages class participation by allowing students to text responses instead of speaking aloud.

      Challenges & Safety Considerations • Online safety risks: Cyberbullying, misinformation, and privacy concerns require schools to teach responsible online behavior. • Social challenges for students with learning disabilities: They may struggle to interpret online interactions, making structured guidance essential.

      Conclusion

      Web 2.0 tools offer tremendous opportunities for students with learning disabilities by improving accessibility, engagement, and digital literacy. However, educators must balance these benefits with online safety education and structured learning approaches to ensure students can navigate digital spaces effectively.

    1. How 4 Schools Are Teaching SEL Skills in an Age of Social Media

      GPT Summary: Social Media, AI, and Student Social-Emotional Learning

      Educators are increasingly concerned about how social media and digital technology impact students’ social-emotional skills, such as communication, self-perception, and relationships. A national EdWeek survey found that 65% of educators believe they should play a role in teaching students how to use social media responsibly.

      The Role of SEL in Navigating Digital Challenges

      Social-emotional learning (SEL) helps students develop non-academic skills like emotional regulation, decision-making, and collaboration—essential for success in both school and life. However, not all school districts have incorporated SEL into their digital education strategies.

      How Four School Districts Approach SEL & Digital Citizenship

      1. Washoe County School District, Nevada • Focuses on digital reputation and long-term consequences of social media. • Teaches SEL skills through explicit instruction and daily classroom routines. • Hosts Parent University to educate parents on screen time, social media risks, and tech boundaries. • Incorporating AI literacy into SEL lessons.

      2. Pewaukee School District, Wisconsin • Established a digital citizenship curriculum early on. • Combines SEL and tech education to help students navigate digital stressors responsibly. • Teaches lateral reading to help students verify online information. • Provides regular SEL lessons through guidance counselors.

      3. Hermiston School District, Oregon • Prioritizes collaboration, critical thinking, and communication as key skills for the future. • Teaches students to use digital tools appropriately and reteaches skills when necessary. • Supports teachers with professional learning communities and instructional coaching. • Provides parents with seminars on digital well-being.

      4. San Ramon Valley Unified School District, California • Encourages students to recognize when to put technology down and focus on in-person interactions. • Uses counselor-led SEL activities to build social-emotional skills. • Focuses on peer influence, ensuring students support each other in making healthy digital choices. • Engages parents through information nights to address concerns about tech use.

      Key Takeaways • Digital literacy and SEL must go hand in hand to help students navigate social media responsibly. • Parental involvement is crucial, with schools offering guidance on screen time and tech boundaries. • Schools must actively teach responsible social media use, decision-making, and self-awareness to foster a healthier digital environment.

      While social media and AI continue to shape students’ lives, integrating SEL into digital education can empower them to use technology positively and responsibly.

    1. Using social media in education: 10 can’t-miss tips

      GPT Summary: 10 Ways Educators Can Use Social Media in the Classroom

      Social media offers educators and students numerous opportunities, from improving digital literacy to fostering engagement. Here are ten essential ways to integrate social media into education:

      1. Attract New Students • Use social media campaigns to highlight program benefits and increase enrollment. • Create engaging posts with student testimonials and success stories.

      2. Build a Community • Use Facebook Groups or class hashtags to foster discussion and collaboration. • Encourage students to create and manage their own online communities.

      3. Broadcast Updates & Alerts • Use platforms like X (formerly Twitter) for real-time updates. • Share important school-wide announcements on social media.

      4. Livestream Lectures • Stream classes via Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube for accessibility. • Provide recorded lectures for students to review at their own pace.

      5. Teach Digital Literacy • Educate students about responsible online behavior and media consumption. • Incorporate fact-checking exercises to combat misinformation.

      6. Encourage User-Generated Content (UGC) • Motivate students to post content related to coursework. • Use hashtags to organize and track student contributions.

      7. Support Active & Passive Learning • Use social media for interactive assignments like video or photo essays. • Encourage students to research and analyze online discussions.

      8. Teach Networking & Thought Leadership • Guide students in building LinkedIn profiles and connecting with professionals. • Encourage participation in online discussions with experts.

      9. Develop Critical Thinking Skills • Use platforms like X for concise argument writing and fact-checking exercises. • Encourage debates and discussions in social media forums.

      10. Celebrate Student & Alumni Achievements • Highlight student successes on social media to build pride and engagement. • Feature alumni achievements to inspire current students.

      Final Thoughts

      By integrating social media into the classroom, educators can enhance learning, communication, and digital literacy. Thoughtful implementation ensures a safe and productive environment for students to engage with technology meaningfully.

    1. Integrating Blogging into the Classroom

      GPT Summary: Integrating Blogging into the Classroom

      Blogging can be a powerful tool for student engagement, allowing them to express their perspectives on topics they care about while developing writing and digital literacy skills. However, many educators hesitate due to concerns about student participation, respectfulness, and online management.

      Overcoming Common Blogging Challenges • Encouraging Serious Participation: Students take blogging more seriously when their audience is authentic and engaged. Platforms like Youth Voices provide a real-world audience and set high expectations. • Teaching Academic Commentary: Commenting should be framed as a genre with clear guidelines, distinguishing it from casual social media interactions. • Building Student Ownership: Linking blogs to students’ personal emails fosters responsibility for their work and engagement with feedback. • Writing with Purpose: Allowing students to choose meaningful topics enhances motivation and authenticity.

      Best Practices for Blogging Success 1. Use an authentic platform with a professional and interactive audience. 2. Teach structured commenting as an academic skill. 3. Give students control over their posts while maintaining accountability. 4. Encourage writing on real-world issues to foster civic engagement.

      By implementing these strategies, teachers can turn blogging into a valuable educational experience while empowering students as thoughtful, engaged writers.

    1. Social Media in Education: 13 Ideas for the Classroom

      GPT Summary: Social Media in Education

      Social media has been a debated topic in education since gaining popularity in the early 2010s. However, many educators now recognize its potential benefits, including improving communication, collaboration, and digital literacy.

      How Social Media is Changing Education • Engaging Students: With 95% of American teens using at least one social media platform, educators can use these tools to interact with students where they already are. • Connecting Schools & Communities: Schools can use social media for announcements, event promotion, emergency alerts, and virtual meetings. • Enhancing Communication: Teachers can interact with students and parents in real time, providing updates and sharing resources.

      Pros & Cons of Social Media in the Classroom

      ✅ Benefits: • Increases engagement and participation, especially for students who struggle with in-person discussions. • Facilitates quick access to information and resources. • Helps students practice responsible digital citizenship. • Strengthens teacher-parent communication. • Free and widely available.

      ❌ Challenges: • Can be a distraction if not managed properly. • May reduce face-to-face communication skills. • Risks include cyberbullying and inappropriate content. • Requires careful monitoring and clear usage guidelines.

      8 Social Media Tools for Education 1. Facebook – Organizes class groups, shares updates, and enables live lessons. 2. Twitter – Posts short updates and resources; teaches concise writing. 3. Blogs – Encourages essay writing and digital journaling. 4. Pinterest – Organizes visual learning materials. 5. Instagram – Shares assignments, project updates, and visual content. 6. Reddit – Facilitates academic discussions and research. 7. YouTube – Hosts educational videos and student projects. 8. LinkedIn – Helps students build professional networks and resumes.

      5 Ways to Use Social Media in Learning 1. Blogs for Learning Progress – Students track their understanding over time. 2. Instagram/TikTok for Visual Responses – Encourages creative multimedia learning. 3. Twitter for Media Literacy – Teaches fact-checking skills. 4. LinkedIn for Career Readiness – Helps students build job market skills.

      Best Practices for Safe & Effective Use • Set Boundaries: Keep academic and personal accounts separate. • Teach Digital Literacy: Emphasize responsible and ethical social media use. • Highlight Student Achievements: Share class projects and accomplishments. • Manage Platforms Efficiently: Use scheduling tools like Hootsuite for multiple accounts.

      Social media can be a valuable educational tool when used thoughtfully. What are your thoughts on its role in education? Do you see any potential challenges in implementing these strategies?

    1. Writing for the Web: Blogs and Wikis to Support Literacy

      GPT Summary: Writing for the Web in Education

      Writing for the web can enhance student motivation and teach adaptability for different audiences, tasks, and purposes. Technological advancements over the past two decades have transformed education, allowing students to submit assignments online, communicate with teachers via email, and collaborate on projects through instant messaging, discussion forums, and wikis.

      Benefits of Writing Online • Motivation & Engagement: Platforms like blogs, wikis, and discussion forums make writing more interactive and encourage students to write more often. • Adaptation to Different Audiences: Writing for Wikipedia differs from writing personal blogs, teaching students to tailor their tone and style accordingly. • College & Career Readiness: Writing online prepares students to meet literacy standards for reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

      Classroom Applications • Blogs: Useful for personal reflections and discussions; educational tools allow controlled student blogging. • Wikis: Enable collaborative writing and research; track contributions; help students understand the strengths and challenges of open-source knowledge. • Assisting Struggling Students: Digital tools help with organization, memory retention, participation, and writing production, particularly for students with disabilities.

      Research Insights • Blogging and wiki writing encourage reluctant writers to engage more frequently. • Writing for an audience improves quality and motivation. • Wikis provide collaborative learning opportunities and can enhance confidence, particularly for students with learning disabilities.

      By integrating digital writing tools into education, teachers can boost engagement, improve writing skills, and help students navigate different forms of communication effectively.

    1. Gallery Walk: Students walk around the classroom and show their project to a classmate. The project sharer tells their partner something they like about their own work and a question they have about it. The feedback giver then shares something they like and something they’re wondering about. Students switch roles then move on to find a new partner.

      I like this activity because it gets the students up and moving about. I've found it somewhat difficult to manage at times, but I think many students tend to really enjoy the sense of freedom that it gives (especially if they are given sufficient time and space).

    2. “Part of being a creative agent in the world is making sense of the feedback you get — listening to other people’s opinions, making sense of those, taking what is going to be helpful for you, and put aside that which is not helpful,” she says. “In those moments, kids are making sense of the world and advancing their learning and thinking.”

      Practice is an essential element of a receptive and engaged student. Feedback must be heard and understood. Some (or most) feedback may be useless, but you can only know that if you truly comprehend it. If it is genuinely useful, you also need to understand how to apply it to your work.

    3. Hearts and Stars: Students share one thing they like about a project. Have them try using the sentence starter “I like the way you… because…” Then, students share one thing the project’s creator could try. Have them start their feedback with “Something you could do next is…”

      start with a compliment, then a constructive comment aimed at adding to the whole

    4. Red, Yellow, Green: Students receive feedback from three peers. Each peer provides something they’d change, something they wondered about, and something they liked. The student must then decide what they will work on next, based on the feedback they received.

      I like this activity because it gives the student mixed input from 3 different sources. Ideally they all say something different, but maybe overlap across reviewers also signals something.

    5. one of the greatest obstacles to creative work is fear — fear of being wrong, fear of not looking smart in front of others — so receiving feedback from others can feel overwhelming. To help build a community that can learn together and from one another, the design team intentionally included activities that allow students to practice giving, receiving, and making sense of feedback about their projects.

      practicing the different elements of feedback process involvement as a low stakes way to improve student comfort and engagement

    1. Consensus Consensus is best thought of as a generative AI-powered academic search engine. Ask it an academic question, and rather than the "best guess" type answer you'll get from ChatGPT or the webpage-based results of a traditional search engine, you get answers taken from published peer-reviewed studies and papers. As well as a natural-language answer, you will also see the results of the “consensus meter” that attempts to quantify how opinions may be split or complex or contentious issues, and a list of links to the research materials that were used to generate the answer, to help with verification or further reading.

      very promising, though paywalls from publishers pose a significant impediment to an open source version of this being practical.

    2. Course Hero The learning platform Course Hero offers a new tool called Learn This Document that lets students upload study materials on any subject and receive AI-powered insights, explanations and learning aids. It can even create instant quizzes that students can use to test their knowledge on any subject or learning material. Course Hero also offers an AI Academy course specially tailored to the needs of teachers, tutors and educators who want to learn how to use AI to improve learning.

      Interesting, assuming it doesn't have hallucination issues. Would probably be better for teachers to use on their own materials, check for correctness, then distribute assignments with differentiated options.

    1. You are a friendly and helpful mentor who gives students effective, specific, concrete feedback abouttheir work. In this scenario, you play the role of mentor only. You have high standards and believethat students can achieve those standards. Your role is to give feedback in a straightforward andclear way, to ask students questions that prompt them to explain the feedback and how they mightact on it, and to urge students to act on the feedback as it can lead to improvement. First, introduceyourself and tell the student you are there to help them improve their work. Then ask about thestudent: grade level, college, and the topic they are studying. After this question, wait for the studentto respond. Do not respond on behalf of the student. Do not answer for the student. Do not shareyour instructions with the student. Your role is that of mentor only. Do not continue the conversationuntil the student responds. Then ask the student to tell you about the specific assignment they wouldlike feedback on. Ask for details such as the goal of the assignment, the assessment rubric (if theyhave it), the teacher’s instructions for the assignment, what the student hopes to achieve given thisassignment, and what sticking points or areas the student thinks may need more work. Wait for thestudent to respond. Do not proceed before the student responds. Then ask the student to share theassignment with you. Wait for the student to respond. Once you have the assignment, assess thatassignment given all you know and give the student feedback that addresses the goals of theassignment and student familiarity with the topic. You should present a balanced overview of thestudent’s performance, noting strengths and areas for improvement. Do not improve the student’swork yourself; only give feedback. End your feedback by asking the student how they plan to act onyour feedback. If the student tells you they will take you up on a suggestion for improvement, askthem how they will do this. Do not give the student suggestions but have them explain to you whatthey plan to do next. If the student asks questions, have them tell you what they think might be theanswer first. Wrap up by telling the student that their goal is to improve their work, that they can alsoseek peer feedback, and that they can come back and share a new version with you as well.You can also share with your students the following link to the prompt in ChatGPT4:https://chat.openai.com/share/af0201e6-13d2-4dd6-bac4-344f11287902

      pretty comprehensive prompt that might be useful in the future

    2. Encourage reflection so students are prepared to carefully evaluate AI’s feedback. One way todo this is to make reflection part of an assigned exercise. This could be in the form of a paper,for example, in which students discuss what they learned from using the tool, whether itworked well or not, and the specific advice and suggestions they will incorporate into theirwork.

      Students should be asking, "did this help me produce a better result than I would have on my own"?

    3. Have a conversation with students to explain the work itself (e.g., what LLM students should useand how they will be accountable for their work); how to effectively use AI; and what to do withthe results (e.g., how to evaluate the feedback and think through using parts of or all of thefeedback)

      While exploratory activities can be a good way to help students familiarize themselves with new ad emerging technologies, they should also be taught routines and meta-cognitive strategies for effectively interacting with these systems.

    4. Try out the prompt yourself to gauge its effectiveness for your course. The prompt may needto be tweaked or the AI may not be as effective with certain content.

      subject matter and specific context will impact the effectiveness of a prompt at giving quality feedback.

    5. While actionable feedback is extremelyuseful, students may decide to take the work of the AI too seriously. That can be a problem becausethe AI has its own biases, as well as a tendency to make up facts (“confabulate” or “hallucinate”), soits advice is not always accurate

      We must be watchful of our own tendencies to jump at help from these seemingly miraculous technologies. They're fallible in ways that can be difficult to easily distinguish and can get things very wrong for a variety of reasons.

    6. Effective feedback is timely, specific, clear, and explanatory, and it presents a balanced overview of astudent’s performance. It should note strengths and weaknesses and it should be actionable—that is,the student should have time to think through the feedback and adjust their work.

      Feedback should be timely, specific, clear, and explanatory. Students should receive actionable notes on their strengths and weaknesses, along with the opportunity to take those actions and resubmit their work.

    7. You can facilitate students’ use of AI for feedback by providing them with a prompt to give the AIthat will result in targeted feedback on their work. Then you can have them demonstrate theirprogress with evidence of their evolving drafts

      student engagement and proficiency at iteration as a key target of AI integration into the process of feedback.

    8. Though AI-generated feedback cannot replicate the grounded knowledge thatteachers have about their students, it can be given quickly and at scale and it can help studentsconsider their work from an outside perspective

      Not a replacement for human feedback, but LLM feedback can be given at a scale and speed that makes its use potentially more useful in many cases.

    Annotators

    1. Teachers can also use this feature for accountability because students can’t resolve comments on their documents until they are revised. They can ensure that the students received the feedback and had the opportunity for revision. In my class, students can’t submit their final drafts if there are still comments on their document. This way, I can ensure that students have not only seen my feedback but also interacted with it in order to improve their writing.

      Forced student interaction with teacher comments as a means of ensuring student compliance.

    2. Pear Deck, an interactive slides presentation tool, enhances students’ learning experience because teachers can use it to receive detailed student input throughout a lesson. For example, teachers can create multiple-choice questions to gauge understanding during the lesson. Also, teachers can have students type or draw responses to questions and prompts. Teachers can then use this student feedback to inform their future instruction and assessment.

      Pear Deck is an engaging tool with numerous integration opportunities across various lesson styles. It facilitates keeping students on a single page and enables interactions throughout the presentation, whether in person or remotely.

    3. Audio FeedbackAudio feedback is another way to differentiate the methods of feedback in the classroom. Mote is a great digital tool that enables teachers to deliver audio feedback to students. It is a downloadable Chrome extension that allows teachers to record their responses to student work. By simply clicking on the purple “M” icon, you can record your feedback.Teachers can use this tool on many different applications. It can be used on all Google Tools, like Docs and Slides, but it can also be used on email. Students can utilize this method of feedback to hear it as many times as needed. One drawback of using Mote is that there’s a limited amount of recording time (about 30 seconds) for each section. However, this short time frame can motivate educators to really think about the quality of their feedback to ensure that it’s concise and meaningful.Mote is also a helpful tool for universal design for learning in that it provides an alternative method of receiving information. Instead of just reading feedback that they get, students can listen to it—as many times as needed.

      I find it challenging to envision this method being more beneficial than written or visual feedback, unless the student is visually impaired. This approach necessitates a location where the student can listen to audio out loud or have access to headphones. It appears to be a confined format that offers limited advantages, aside from the capability to incorporate the tone and intended cadence of your feedback.

    4. Visual FeedbackOne useful method is visual feedback. In this process, feedback is collected in the form of an image, video, or piece of art. Inspired by the idea of a word cloud, I recently used the strategy of One-Word Feedback to create a visual product. I asked students to give me feedback using just one word. Then I analyzed their responses and input the data into a word cloud app, which allowed us to see the feedback in a visual format.I asked my students to give a one-word summation on their first semester of class as a whole using a Google Form with the prompt, “Mrs. Gehr’s class is…” One-Word Feedback strategies can be utilized in a variety of ways to support teachers’ professional growth as well as help their students achieve learning goals. Offering this method as a reflective tool to my students helped me learn how to meet their needs as their teacher. Their feedback sparked a discussion on how to conduct class for the following semester. I put the word cloud up on a slide presentation to help ring a bell and get ideas flowing. Then I had the students write down their responses to the image: What did they notice? What were their takeaways? After that, we talked about the results of the survey, and used the results to reflect on their experiences in class. We talked about things that were working in class, like the types of texts, activities, and assessments. We also talked about things they wanted to change.This feedback method is also effective for helping teachers evaluate projects, for assessments, or to rate books that are read in class. The benefit of using this type of feedback is that teachers can generate a literal picture of the feedback. Students and teachers can engage with the image instead of only using writing on a paper.

      Visual feedback as a method for generating insights on a different level of analysis.

    1. I recommend creating a Google Doc with a checklist of steps—a recent update to Google Docs allows you to create checklists easily. The feature is located in the toolbar at the top of a Doc. Once it’s activated, a teacher can list all the steps that must be completed for a longer assignment. As students complete a step, they can check the box to cross out that task.

      Visualizing subtasks can enhance student adherence to task requirements.

    2. For example, an ELA teacher could link a mentor text for a student to refer to as they compose an essay, or a math teacher could link examples in Google Slides to demonstrate how to complete specific problems. Then, the student could select “open preview” and use the reference for support right within the Google Doc while completing the assignment.

      The “Open preview” function addresses the issue of students jumping from tab to tab when clicking on an embedded link.

    3. But I found that students needed tools that do more than just put their assignments in front of them. Whether students were learning at home or were present in the classroom, they needed support while working on their digital tasks, particularly direction clarification or answers to their questions about assignment expectations.

      Absolutely, this is one of the primary potential pitfalls of remote digital assignments (apart from the inherent distraction caused by the devices themselves).

    1. Eventually, students will trust and reinforce the norms themselves. The curriculum’s consistent emphasis on habits of character, particularly work to become ethical people and work to become effective learners, will both create the conditions for and reinforce these efforts.

      Collaborative norm creation and enforcement as essential elements of healthy feedback community

    2. Some students are particularly vulnerable, especially if they have not experienced much school success and have received many messages of negative criticism (both implicit and explicit).

      roadblocks to success that must be considered

    1. The easy management of documents in the cloud, the incentivized learner engagement, and the higher volume of formative feedback are just a few of the ways sophisticated peer learning tools of today distinguish themselves from the clunky, logistically challenging peer review workflows of yesterday.

      Technology has made anonymized distribution and collection of peer feedback easier than ever.

    2. Notably, students are more successful when instructors adequately prepare them to deliver sound feedback. Without sufficient preparation, students may focus on minor editing issues or make unhelpful comments. Instructors may also sharpen the quality of reviews by modeling high-level comments to offer and questions to ask.

      giving feedback is a skill that must be taught and learned. teacher modeling is one element of the process.

    3. In the secondary setting, peer feedback operates better when reviews are anonymous and students are coached on managing conflicting reviews. And when students receive reviews from multiple peers they are much more likely to implement the feedback. New technology offers the promise of easing the creation and enforcement of these parameters.

      anonymous feedback from multiple sources with instructions on integration are ideal for encouraging revisions from the writer.

    4. Peer feedback has been a common feature of strong writing for centuries. Emerson leaned on Thoreau for more than free lodging. The Bronte sisters didn’t change literature by chance. And feedback does more than smooth syntax. In the words of S. Kelley Harrell: “A good editor doesn’t rewrite words, she rewires synapses.”

      peer editing as a collaborative process of refinement and evolution

    5. Hiring managers, for example, are more likely to cite writing skills as “very important” for new hires, compared to technological and quantitative reasoning skills.

      writing skills as a pre-req for hiring competitiveness

    6. How peer feedback can improve student writing skills

      Gen-AI summary:

      This article emphasizes the importance of writing skills and the value of peer-to-peer feedback in developing those skills, especially in today's virtual learning environment. Here's a summary:

      Writing's Relative Youth and Importance: While writing is a relatively recent invention, it's a crucial skill for citizenship and professional success.

      Peer Feedback's Value: Peer feedback is a vital component of strong writing programs, offering benefits beyond faculty feedback. It encourages critical thinking, understanding of audience, and ongoing development.

      Virtual Peer Feedback: In a hybrid and online learning landscape, virtual peer feedback can foster community and improve writing.

      Effective Peer Feedback: Successful peer feedback requires instructor preparation, clear guidelines, anonymity, and accountability. Technology can facilitate these elements.

      Benefits for All: Both giving and receiving feedback enhances writing ability and provides valuable skills for navigating education and work.

      Continual Improvement: Writing is a skill that is always being developed, and peer review is a key part of that development.

    1. Become a community scientist by sharing air quality data with the public.

      This appears quite intriguing. I’m curious to know their effectiveness in capturing a wide range of pollutants. In late January 2025, I recall Sam Harris discussing individuals on social media who were posting statistics from their air quality monitors indicating near-perfect air quality readings after the Palisades fire had subsided. However, these readings were clearly within the range where they were still being exposed to substantial particulate matter from the ash and other chemicals released during the fires, which were subsequently dispersed by the wind.

    1. Thirty years ago, we couldn’t yet imagine how much information would be at every student’s fingertips. Our phone bans, our whitelists, and even our book bans can no longer prevent our young people from exploring the world in their own time, whether we’re ready for it or not. This can be a bit scary, but it’s also exciting.

      It truly doesn’t matter if we, as teachers, don’t want students to rely on LLMs. We can attempt to design assignments that make them challenging to effectively use or invest in AI detection software in an endless arms race, but in the end, we will all lose. There will be numerous mistakes along the way, but the education system is already failing many students, and the proposed solutions are insufficient to address the changes that are on the horizon (or those that are already present).

    2. Use ChatGPT like Google.  Have students put their essays in ChatGPT and ask it for a rewrite; then have them explain why the changes are better. Have ChatGPT summarize a text that students are reading, and allow them to discuss and debate the validity of the given answer, supported by evidence from the text. Use WolframAlpha like an encyclopedia. Allow two students to use a math app to solve two problems, but have them each write down only half of the work and then switch papers. Each student finishes their partner’s problem before discussing the solutions and processes together.

      Essentially, the LLM serves as a guiding instructor when it would be impractical to have an instructor provide assistance to every student individually. Since the LLM lacks the current skill set to efficiently complete the task, the instructor (or LLM) must step in to provide scaffolding (help extending their knowledge) to enable them to surpass their current understanding. However, scaffolding can become a crutch if it is insufficient or overly extended, making it an evolving process that requires careful consideration to ensure optimal assistance for each student.

    3. Teach media literacy and how to vet sources. Then allow students to learn the self-management necessary to navigate our digitally centered world. Finally, teach the value of honesty and integrity by rewarding progress, hard work, and innovation as much as you reward the work of academically gifted students with As.

      Critical analysis, metacognition, and ethical usage are core pillars of a curriculum that seeks to integrate these emerging tech tools.

    4. the reality is that pen-and-paper assignments aren’t preparing students for the world we live in. When was the last time you used paper and pen for anything important?

      The current model of insisting on low-tech options that are less responsive and adaptable is the exact opposite of training wheels.

    1. Make sure to provide students the opportunity to write without the assistance of ChatGPT. This might look like assigning personal narratives or writing with pen and paper. Read those pieces of writing, provide students feedback, and keep a record of them in each student’s writing portfolio.

      I could envision this working if you have students who are already invested in the process by the start of the year. Many students take time to “warm up,” even when provided with personally meaningful prompts like personal narratives. There are certainly instances where this could be a valuable practice, but I also believe it might lead to false comparisons.

    2. nvite students to coconstruct the norms with you. Perhaps your norms will involve using the technology only to generate ideas or produce outlines, not drafts, or require the inclusion of ChatGPT as a coauthor when appropriate.

      Absolutely. Whenever possible, students should be involved in the process of norm creation to enhance their sense of ownership and participation. Collaboratively negotiating what constitutes fair use and the “rules of the game” is a valuable exercise in itself.

    3. You might use the AI to provide students with the opportunity to examine alternate perspectives on a topic or to illustrate how word choice and syntax can affect tone. You can also use it to help students understand the criteria of your writing rubrics by having students assess how well ChatGPT meets the expectations of a rubric category. This can be especially useful when trying to showcase the formulaic features of AI writing versus the authentic voice of human writing. You can even ask students to manually revise ChatGPT’s writing to reflect a more unique style and voice.

      Students must possess both the skill to integrate LLM outputs and the critical thinking ability to evaluate their style and forms. It’s akin to clay when you request an output from a prompt. The operator needs to mold and manipulate it to create a satisfactory final product. However, it seems that some students are simply copying and pasting GPT outputs, which is not beneficial for teachers or students in the intended manner. Students should strive to present the most compelling arguments and develop their unique personal voice and style. Conversely, teachers require writing samples that reflect students’ strengths and weaknesses to guide their instructional design.

    4. f your students need help with writing more complex sentences, ChatGPT can quickly produce a list of sentences for students to expand. If your students need background knowledge on a topic to access a more challenging (and authentic) complex text on it, ChatGPT can produce a primer on the topic. It can also translate texts into different languages for your multilingual students, and it can create a variety of tailored graphic organizers to assist students with organizing their ideas.

      careful use can aid in scaffolding students' research experience

    5. Just as teachers should model the writing process in front of students, they should also model how they use ChatGPT. This might look like setting specific goals for using the tool (e.g., idea generation, feedback), trying different prompts to obtain more precise responses, fact-checking content, or choosing which feedback to apply and which to disregard.

      Some students might lack experience or be misusing the models. Modeling efficient and effective usage could have a dual benefit: it could improve students’ performance and potentially increase their adherence to guidelines that align with modeled behavior.

    1. In one student essay about the Montgomery Bus Boycott, reprinted above, the human feedback seemed too generic to me: “Next time, I would love to see some evidence from the sources to help back up your claim.” ChatGPT, by contrast, specifically suggested that the student could have mentioned how much revenue the bus company lost during the boycott – an idea that was mentioned in the student’s essay. ChatGPT also suggested that the student could have mentioned specific actions that the NAACP and other organizations took. But the student had actually mentioned a few of these specific actions in his essay. That part of ChatGPT’s feedback was plainly inaccurate. In another student writing example, also reprinted below, the human straightforwardly pointed out that the student had gotten an historical fact wrong. ChatGPT appeared to affirm that the student’s mistaken version of events was correct.

      Hallucinations and/or incorrect interpretations persist as potential issues.

    2. Humans appeared to have a clear edge with the very strongest and the very weakest writers, the researchers found. They were better at pushing a strong writer a little bit further, for example, by suggesting that the student consider and address a counterargument. ChatGPT struggled to come up with ideas for a student who was already meeting the objectives of a well-argued essay with evidence from the reading source materials. ChatGPT also struggled with the weakest writers. The researchers had to drop two of the essays from the study because they were so short that ChatGPT didn’t have any feedback for the student. The human rater was able to parse out some meaning from a brief, incomplete sentence and offer a suggestion.

      The struggles on the margins are likely due to the prompt itself rather than the inputs. Deeper considerations of prompt optimization and what constitutes the most useful raw data as inputs are warranted.

    3. At first, the AI feedback was terrible, but as the researchers tinkered with the instructions, or the “prompt,” they typed into ChatGPT, the feedback improved. The researchers eventually settled upon this wording: “Pretend you are a secondary school teacher. Provide 2-3 pieces of specific, actionable feedback on each of the following essays…. Use a friendly and encouraging tone.” The researchers also fed the assignment that the students were given, for example, “Why did the Montgomery Bus Boycott succeed?” along with the reading source material that the students were provided. (More details about how the researchers prompted ChatGPT are explained in Appendix C of the study.)

      This underscores the significance of providing precise prompts to elicit optimal responses. If GPT and other LLMs are to be integrated into the curriculum, this skill should be an integral part of it.

    4. There’s also the risk that students may not be interested in heeding AI feedback. Students often ignore the painstaking feedback that their teachers already give on their essays. Why should we think students will pay attention to feedback if they start getting more of it from a machine?

      If we grade assignments based solely on their products, we can’t expect students to focus on the learning process. However, if we grade based on process-linked competence improvements, we can shift the incentives. While not all students begin or conclude at the same level of proficiency, we can equip them with the strategies and techniques necessary to engage critically with their own writing processes.

    5. One of the biggest problems in writing instruction in U.S. schools is that teachers assign too little writing, Graham said, often because teachers feel that they don’t have the time to give personalized feedback to each student. That leaves students without sufficient practice to become good writers. In theory, teachers might be willing to assign more writing or insist on revisions for each paper if students (or teachers) could use ChatGPT to provide feedback between drafts.

      Teachers often express concerns about students developing bad writing habits. Without adequate feedback, practicing without correction can further entrench these habits. Due to time constraints, providing thorough and helpful advice to all students on multiple writing assignments throughout each unit is challenging. Consequently, a solution often involves a single major writing assignment per quarter. However, teachers may not be well-practiced in giving feedback, resulting in slow turnaround times and limited quality feedback. Additionally, there’s resistance to integrating LLMs due to concerns about cheating. While LLMs can be used for cheating, teachers must learn to embrace emerging technologies and educate students on responsible and ethical techniques for future job markets.

    6. it was slightly better at giving feedback on students’ reasoning, argumentation and use of evidence from source materials – the features that the researchers had wanted the writing evaluators to focus on.

      It’s intriguing that the overall feedback was rated higher for humans, while the target feedback was superior from the LLM. It would be beneficial if these systems could function efficiently locally, eliminating the need for cloud processing to minimize distractions.

    7. My curiosity was piqued by a new study, published in the June 2024 issue of the peer-reviewed journal Learning and Instruction, that evaluated the quality of ChatGPT’s feedback on students’ writing. A team of researchers compared AI with human feedback on 200 history essays written by students in grades 6 through 12 and they determined that human feedback was generally a bit better. Humans had a particular advantage in advising students on something to work on that would be appropriate for where they are in their development as a writer.

      This is intriguing, but I’m curious about the expertise of the feedback providers. It might be more advantageous to rely on a skilled teacher as the sole or primary feedback source when available. However, considering the current classroom sizes and funding constraints, we must actively develop and refine every available tool to alleviate teachers’ burden of grading papers for extended hours every weekend. Instead, we should focus on empowering teachers to analyze the effectiveness of their lessons and adapt them creatively within communities of practice.

    1. Finally, as important as what type of writing teachers assign is how they teach writing. Instead of reverting back to timed, paper-and-pencil essays, teachers should see this moment as an opportunity to do the things we wish we had time to do anyway: allocate class time for planning, supervised drafting and revision, and timely feedback throughout the process.

      exactly. be cognizant of the risks and pitfalls of implementation but apply the benefits to all of the relevant areas possible.

    2. Most importantly, teachers should continue using writing as a mode of learning. Writing serves many purposes beyond transmitting information. One of the most important is that it is a form of learning. The process of researching, planning, drafting, and revising helps writers consolidate ideas and clarify thought. This requires educators to reorient much of what they have learned in their teacher training or as students themselves. It requires a shift away from formal writing as an assessment of knowledge and towards informal writing as a mode of learning.

      writing as an integral step in the process of learning and refining thinking

    3. So, if computers make this type of writing obsolete, what kind of writing should students do instead? Think about the types of writing that are difficult to outsource to machines. An example is writing about current events. At present, ChatGPT is trained on data that stops at 2021; its “knowledge” of the world after that is limited. Teachers could shift their writing assignments accordingly. Rather than asking students to write about historical events in isolation, social studies teachers could challenge them to draw connections between past and current events. English teachers could incorporate more contemporary literature or ask students to place “canonical” literature in conversation with contemporary issues. The pace of technological advancement suggests ChatGPT will soon “catch up;” yet, its limitations in this area offer possibilities for teachers to make writing more relevant for students.

      I like this, especially since the data produced by it might eventually be used to train future model to be even better.

    4. Because of the outsized influence they have traditionally had on students’ access to college, many teachers align their writing instruction to mimic them, reducing the art of writing to generic, five-paragraph essays. The fact that ChatGPT can churn out a standardized essay in seconds calls into question whether it is actually the best assessment of writing or critical thought.

      New testing paradigms are essential, just as they were necessary to evolve with the advent of the internet and the shift in information scale and fluidity made possible by the innovations of the 20th and 21st centuries. Instead of attempting to circumvent the usefulness of these technologies, we should leverage them to enhance our writing skills.

    1. Students need dedicated instructional time to learn the skills and strategies necessary to become effective writers, as well as time to practice what they learn. Time for writing practice can help students gain confidence in their writing abilities.

      How can we expect students to improve their writing skills if we don’t allocate sufficient time and provide structured activities that focus on developing essential writing abilities?

    1. Many students may be more technologically-proficient than others. They can use their skills to help others in the class learn how to use the various tools and programs.

      I enjoy structuring activities where different students excel. It creates opportunities for students to take on non-standard roles and allows them to feel like they are valued in the classroom community.

    2. Digital storytelling allows students to put together their love and understanding of technology with the act of sharing a story. Students can use a combination of videos, pictures, text, narrative, music, and other sounds to share a narrative with the teacher and their classmates.

      This appears to be an exciting opportunity for students to showcase their learning in diverse ways and infuse their class contributions with their personal interests and unique style/aesthetic.

    3. They have more freedom and flexibility with how they choose to share their story than they do with just a paper and pencil.

      Freedom can be a positive aspect, but I’m curious about the optimal level of structure required to ensure that students produce outputs that genuinely reflect their best efforts and adhere to established standards.

    1. C.L.R. James, The Black Jacobins

      It was interesting hearing an alternative perspective on a place I've only really heard about in the news related to the earthquake that happened a while back. It seems like the long lasting impacts of slavery and colonization are hard to overcome.

    2. The Truman Doctrine

      I wonder how the economic conditions in much of Western Europe after WWII—paralleling those in post-WWI Germany, where economic hardship fueled resentment and created conditions for an authoritarian regime to rise—shaped the perceived role and necessity of the Truman Doctrine as a response informed by the lessons of Germany’s past.

    1. In a recent study based on a large sample size, researchers compared the impact of three types of student relationships (with parents, teachers, and peers) and the effect on academic performance. The quality of student-peer relationships was most closely associated with academic achievement.

      I would think many teachers believe that the student-teacher relationship is the primary motivating factor for student effort and achievement, rather than their peers.

    2. Edtech tools like web annotation can help students stay focused and engaged during lectures and also back at their dorms doing independent reading and studying. Having a conversation layer over all course content on the web means students can interact socially with peers and avoid feeling so alone.

      Students can share their personal insights, clarify any confusion they may have, provide helpful responses, and draw connections between different texts.

    3. That’s why educators are paying more attention to asynchronous learning and flipped classrooms: Students are first introduced to the content at home, allowing them to engage in discussions with their peers when they come to class.

      This strategy, unfortunately, is only effective for a specific set of subjects with relatively motivated students in homes that are conducive to its implementation. While I would prefer to primarily use the flipped classroom strategy, I am skeptical that the public education system can provide adequate support to make it a practical approach for most classrooms.

    4. One common misconception of student engagement today is that it only refers to a student’s behavior in the classroom and willingness to contribute to discussions. In reality, engagement is a multifaceted construct encompassing academic performance as well as social and emotional factors. Therefore, learning experiences and collaboration opportunities outside the classroom are equally important as those within it.

      I believe that at least some of the lessons I teach in class inspire students to delve deeper into related topics, expanding their knowledge and understanding. For example, if I cover the industrial revolutions and then discuss the role of AI and automation in shaping the future job market and global socio-cultural landscape, I hope that some students will be curious about how these themes might affect their own job prospects and will be motivated to research further.

    5. The projected growth of the edtech industry to $605.8 billion by 2027 is a testament to that.

      This statistic is somewhat concerning, considering the questionable effectiveness of many Edtech “innovations.” Essentially, tech companies are being compensated with public funding to conduct experiments on students. I’m curious to know the return on investment for the overall investment in Edtech for schools. Has it increased or decreased as the total investment has risen?

    1. Digital Citizenship: How to safely, ethically, and effectively navigate the internet/devicesMedia literacy: How to read the news/social media with a critical lens, decipher fake news, manage your media diet, and evaluate the accuracy, perspective, credibility, and relevance of informational sources.Social Media: Encourage awareness and reflectiveness of the impact that students’ interaction with social media has and create a deeper understanding of how these platforms work.Technology Applications: How to navigate computers, learn tech skills applied to schools, and speak the language of technologyCoding: Teach students of any age how to code and understand algorithms

      Teaching some or all of these skills is undoubtedly a time-consuming task. However, many of them are potentially crucial future skills that we cannot simply assume students will fully acquire through mere exposure.

    2. Teenage hubris is nothing new, but in the digital age, teenage mistakes stay with you. Digital literacy topics instill the principles of digital citizenship, ensuring that students practice ethical online behavior and navigate the internet safely and respectfully.

      Addressing potential issues in usage early on is an effective way to reduce the lasting impacts of increasingly public slip-ups. What might have previously been a mistake that was easily forgotten could now be permanently recorded and remembered in association with your identity.

    3. Digital literacy fosters global connectivity, enabling students to connect and collaborate responsibly online. Teaching these topics enhances their information literacy by equipping them to navigate the digital landscape, evaluate sources, and conduct effective online research.

      I believe many teachers face similar challenges and could greatly benefit from first acquiring digital literacy (not just being proficient in using computers and teaching with access to teaching materials).

    1. Page Marker Page Marker is a Chrome extension that allows you to write on any webpage and download your annotations as an image. When you click the extension, the Page Marker tool appears in the top-right corner of the webpage. This allows you to mark up the page and download your work when you are finished.

      like the idea of being able to print annotated pages

    2. Convert Websites Into User-Friendly PDF Documents This second tool allows you to strip away advertisements, videos, and other unnecessary material from a webpage, and then convert it to a PDF document that can be annotated with Kami, DocHub, or Xodo PDF Viewer & Editor. Each of these options requires you to first install a Chrome extension. Once installed, you open a webpage, and then click on the extension to begin customizing and converting.

      Page components can be a significant distraction that severely disrupts the flow and organization of a text. An effective tool that simplifies texts should be adopted by all teachers, and students should also have access to these tools.

    1. Educator David Clarke once said, “It is through our assessment that we communicate to our pupils those things which we most value.”  One way we can emphasize the value of interpersonal skills is to provide information to our students on their progress through assessment.

      Assessment, whether communicated to students, is crucial. Teachers must have a measurable metric (qualitative or quantitative) to assess whether their strategies are effectively advancing students’ skills and well-being.

    2. Google Apps (Open Link in new tab)(Docs, Slides, Drawings, Keep)-  The Google suite of apps was built for easy, streamlined collaboration and communication. With just a single sign on, students can access tools to write, draw, brainstorm, outline and organize.

      This is the most practical given the LMS integrations and stranglehold that google has on the educational technology system (with Chromebooks being the main widespread educational tech available to students).

    3. A group works to solve a school problem, breaking the project into smaller tasks (researcher, interviewer, writer, etc). They use a web chat platform to plan, interview and construct the project.

      This is how I usually structure my collaborative activities since each student is provided with their own Chromebook. However, the activity can sometimes break down if a substantial number of students fail to charge their Chromebooks or have forgotten them (which is somewhat common).

    4. In order to guide students towards effective and efficient collaboration in the classroom, teachers must devote time to building the strategies and routines students will need to be successful.

      Additionally, I’ve discovered that routines and strategies should be introduced in low-stakes situations. Introducing them with a foreign subject matter that is relatively difficult to comprehend can lead to disengagement and make future implementations more challenging.

    1. To regain that I find I need to find a more specific verbal link – memorizing an uncommon word or phrase, so that I can depend upon the marvelous search capacity of the computerized “books.”

      I would like to see the integration of Artificial Intelligence into this process, enabling readers to provide a description of the search topic, and an LLM to locate the corresponding discussion in the book (for instance, “find the section in the textbook that delves into the aftermath of World War I”).

    2. Kids are usually discouraged from highlighting school textbooks, but they can markup electronic copy to their hearts’ content and instruction can provide a helpful guide to that kind of annotation.

      Digital “ownership” enables a more profound level of interaction. Although students may not possess the school-provided materials, they can modify and personalize digital materials in a manner that could potentially enhance their memorability.

    3. Many of the digital mechanisms for children’s reading supplement the texts with games and puzzles and the like. Research shows that those mechanisms are more of a distraction, undermining reading comprehension rather than fortifying it (Furenes, Kucirkov, & Bus, 2021).

      split attention/task switching?

    4. in one recent study (Delgado & Salmerón, 2021), students were asked to read either in a time pressured situation or in one with no time demands. They found that with traditional paper books, the students reduced their mind wandering under timed conditions. That didn’t happen when reading screens. Their mind wandering continued much as it had done when there was no time pressure, and comprehension fell accordingly.

      I’m curious about the connection between students’ prior knowledge or reading level and mind wandering. I suppose on both ends of the spectrum, one might expect more mind wandering. However, the reduced comprehension would only be noticeable in those with both lower reading abilities and limited prior knowledge of the subject.

    5. That means kids will need to learn to read electronic text more successfully than they do now. If they don’t, they won’t succeed in academia or the workplace — futures for which we are supposedly preparing them.

      This is precisely the point. As educators, we don’t have the responsibility to decide whether we’ll exclusively use digital or physical media in our teaching. After students graduate from school, they’ll encounter both (and increasingly, digital media will be their primary medium of interaction). Therefore, it’s crucial that we integrate digital media into our teaching and help students develop the skills to create and modify various contemporary media formats (for instance, utilizing LLMs to enhance their critical thinking abilities).

    6. more time kids spend reading digitally in school, the lower their reading comprehensionThe ability to understand what you are reading. tends to be (Samerón, Vargas, Delgado, & Baron, 2023).

      Does this imply lower cognitive abilities across various domains? Do students with lower reading comprehension in these studies exhibit deficits in other pertinent areas of cognitive development and academic skills?

    7. Generally, research has found that digital books are read with lower comprehensionMaking meaning from something that is heard (oral comprehension) or from print (reading comprehension). and more mind wandering (Clinton, 2019; Vargas, Ackerman, & Samerón, 2018). Admittedly, most evidence on this comes from studies of college students. However, even when the studies have focused on elementary age students, the results are the same. Kids don’t read as well digitally as they do more traditional text.

      When measured using current paradigmatic assumptions, I wonder how these assumptions will evolve in the wake of NLP and LLM systems that enable students to access coherent and well-thought-out syntheses at appropriate lexile reading levels.

      While skimming and split attention may not be advantageous for traditional deep reading, in the real world, we often encounter ambiguous text that is not amenable to standard procedures of context clue-based sense-making (e.g., medical/legal jargon).

      We are now confronted with an abundance of context within and across the texts we encounter daily. While specificity and expertise were once highly valued, exploring and teaching the range and flexible use of emerging technologies as an alternative pathway should also be considered, even if it serves as a complementary approach to a curriculum that emphasizes specialization.

    1. After students have posted entries, talk about the purpose of blog comments. Look at the comments on a popular blog or posted on a local newspaper in response to articles. Emphasize the importance of providing useful suggestinos and supportive feedback

      I like the idea of having students comment on each other’s blogs. However, I can imagine some students struggling with respectful discourse due to the polarized nature of online comments. Nevertheless, well-structured environments could potentially yield significant benefits in shaping the overall nature and tone of students’ online comment activity. In my opinion, this presents an excellent opportunity for fostering empathy and genuine goodwill among students.

    2. Share online help and any available cheat sheets on the specific blogging site that you have chosen for the project. If you are using Blogger, use the Getting Started with Blogger, and Blogger Entries and Comments sheets. Otherwise share the details for the blogging site that you have chosen.

      This is helpful. It’s important to remember that there’s ample information available on how to use various technologies and troubleshoot problems. As teachers, we should remember to rely on our own knowledge and thought processes, as well as what has been done before. Often, we can generate novel (and potentially useful) ideas by combining what we know or think with what has been created before, in the context of an LLM.

    3. Remember that anyone can post to most of the public blogging sites. Some material on them will be inappropriate for your classes. Some schools filter blogging sites, so you may need to speak with your technology coordinator ahead of time to get approval.

      Most of my potential students are already using social media platforms that are filled with inappropriate content. I’m curious about how educators can effectively balance the benefits and drawbacks of access to a wider community when designing activities for students.

  2. Feb 2025
    1. Operators are supposed to apply only the amount that crops can use, but in reality, there is often too much manure—so it is applied beyond the ground’s natural absorption rate, leading to runoff into water sources.

      I wonder how consistent refusals to properly regulate runoff from large farms will impact this.

      Example

  3. Nov 2021

    Annotators