Moodle Basics

Moodle is a very effective example of a Course Management System (CMS).  It is a web based tool that we can use to create a digital learning environment.  We store it on our servers and retain maximum control.  It is secure and easy to manage.  You can easily handout documents, turn in assignments, create forums,…

Creating Videos for Class

One thing that has been used a lot during 1:1 implementations and in general, is the production and use of videos by teachers for students.  You can record yourself working through problems for students to review or see if they were sick, you can record a discussion to have your students analyze and you can…

Trend Lines in LibreOffice

Using a trend line on a set of plotted data is a very important tool in many subjects.  Google Spreadsheets can simulate this but it is not a smooth process yet.  Instead we can use LibreOffice to add a trend line to our data.     1.  Open up LibreOffice and select the Spreadsheets option.…

Google+ Hangouts

Google+ Hangouts is a new tool that can really help us move things beyond our four walls.  I have used Hangouts to take part in discussions in my online Masters classes and I have also used it just to connect with friends that live across the country.  As a teacher, you can easily use this…

Formative Assessment Tools

There are a good number of digital tools out there that allow you to do a formative assessment in your class.  (Reminder = formative assessments are used to help guide (inform) instruction, not to end a unit or to determine a grade.)  I will go over 2 of the big tools out there that you…

Creating a Google Site – Basics

A class website can be very useful in the learning environment for students.  You can create a place that is the starting point for your class that contains links, resources, class calendar, forum posts, news and updates.  The website can also be a great way to make connections with parents.     A Google Site…

Adding Voice Comments to a Google Doc

The company behind the Voice Comments tool for Google Docs has updated their tool to include more features and to improve others.  The tool has been greatly improved and should be a lot easier to use.  The video below shows exactly how to use the new tool but you can also go to this site…

Using a Google Form to Share Student Work

If you want students to be able to view each other’s work during a class, there is a good number of ways to do this.  Which way works best for you will depend on your background in using the tools and what tools you already use.  One easy way is to use a Google Form…

Create Your Own Google Map

1.  Make sure you are logged into your google account.   2.  Go to maps.google.com 3.  Click on “my places”   4.  Click on “create map” 5.  Give your map a title and a description.   6.  Select “public” or “unlisted”, if you are using this for a class and do not want everyone else…