Collection
Apps as Lessons
Building tools instead of finding them, when the app becomes the curriculum.
Grounding AI in Their Own Handwriting
A metacognitive end-of-year chemistry portfolio built with NotebookLM and Gemini, where the AI can only synthesize what the student actually learned.
The App IS the Lesson
I stayed up late last week trying to record a lecture video on action potentials for my Neuroscience class. I kept redrawing the neuron, restarting the recording, trying to get the sequencing right...
AI and Media Literacy Lessons
When most people hear I’m teaching a new class called AI and Media Literacy , they assume it’s a sharp turn from chemistry. In some ways, they’re right. My TED Talk, 3 Rules to Spark Learning...
Pseudoservice and the Shift Toward Real Impact
For years, my Design for Social Good class has focused on building assistive technology devices, specifically computer switches for people with disabilities such as quadriplegia, cerebral palsy, and..
Exploring Robotics as a Model for the Human Nervous System
Today in neuroscience class, I introduced the students to an EV3 robotic input-output system, aiming to draw parallels between robotics and the human nervous system. I set up the robot with three...
Simulating Parkinson's: Using Electronics to Build Empathy
This lab activity takes students on a unique journey through the world of neuroscience and engineering to explore the complex nature of Parkinson's Disease. Students will simulate the motor...
Exploring Fentanyl's Risks: Using Chemistry to Imitate the Brain's Protective Layer
This lab activity directly tackles a pressing issue: the opioid crisis, with a spotlight on fentanyl, one of the most potent and problematic drugs out there. This isn't just any experiment; it's a...
Empowering the Visually Impaired: Innovations with Arduino Uno in Assistive Technology
My high school students are creating assistive devices for visually impaired individuals using the Arduino Uno platform. This project focuses on developing innovative digital mobility aids, utilizing.
Robotics for Social Good: 'Bomb Squad' Simulation
Robotics for Social Good: 'Bomb Squad' Simulation
Design for Social Good Curriculum
This will be my third year teaching an elective course called 'Design for Social Good'. This summer I assigned myself the task of creating the entire curriculum in the form of a student digital...
10 AI Classroom Applications
Below are 10 ways I have been leveraging AI in my classroom. Although STEM heavy, I am hopeful these applications will spark interest across disciplines. Unite ChatGPT and p5.js to make video game...
Protein Folding in Science Education: A Perfect Crosscutting Concept
The more I teach students in my Biochemistry class about the intricacies of Protein Folding, the more certain I become that it is a perfect learning medium for uniting various disciplines. From...
ChatGPT mRNA Translation Program
The video below shows how I used ChatGPT (inspired by a student request) to create an program capable of translating an mRNA sequence into a protein sequence using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files...
Fast AI Game Design Using ChatGPT and p5.js
Experimenting with leveraging ChatGPT as a medium for generating code to run simple JavaScript games in p5.js . My ultimate goal is to create a system where students can use both applications to...
Video Analysis Using Padlet
I'm having a great time using Padlet , and the automatically generated QR code provided, to facilitate quick video analysis (often in slow motion) of student work in the laboratory. Below is a...
Modeling Science Using ChatGPT and p5.js
Recently I have been exploring ways of using ChatGPT and p5.js together to create animations formy physics and chemistry classes. Below is my first attempt at generating a code for a bouncing ball...
Quadriplegic Controller Project: Engineering for Social Good
Using arduino leonardo to create assistive technology.
Assistive Technology Engineering Design Cycle
Using the 'shelf' feature in Padlet to track the Engineering Design Cycle process.
Using 'What If' Videos to Empower Thought Experiments During Distance Learning
Leveraging thought experiments to promote engagement in online learning.
My Camera Dilemma
Discussion around lecture efficacy in Zoom when students are, and are not, visible.
Feynman and Delayed Direct Instruction
How Richard Feynman embodied inquiry learning.
Zoom After Distance Learning
Using Zoom in the classroom after distance learning is over.
Linking to Specific Spots in Google Docs From an External Site
Tutorial for linking from outside websites to specific spots within a Google Doc.
Thankful for My Flipped Classroom Past
Leveraging Flipped Classroom strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Spark Learning Masterclass: Part III Recording
Recording of the third part of a masterclass series on leveraging the Hero's Journey as a lesson planning framework.
Simplifying Online Instruction Documentation
Using Google Docs to create simplifying and streamlined student interactive lesson plan.
Spark Learning Masterclass: Part II Recording
Click here to access the second of three recordings for my 'Spark Learning' Masterclass. This session explored research and strategies related to student exploration once curiosity has been...
Tech Mashups Examples
Examples of various technology used to teach Biology and Chemistry protein folding and lab based stoichiometry simulations.
ThingLink as Cognitive Anchor
Using the app Thinglink to help teach concept that all relate to once central theme.
Extension Phase of Inquiry-Cycle Explained
Final portion of 5E Inquiry Learning Cycle on Hemoglobin explained and links to resources provided.
Online Teaching Tools
Technology leveraged thus far during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Padlet
Introduction Padlet as an important tool in my EdTech Toolbox.
The Infinite Thinking Machine
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Empowering Fine Motor Control Using 'Drawdio'.
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Activity Notebook Template
In my never-ending quest to simplify my instructional process, I created this template for my students to record their activity investigations for next semester.
S I M P L I F Y I N G: New Class Website Approach
Lately I have been obsessed with simplifying my curriculum. That is, drastically decreasing the Extraneous Cognitive load of all materials, technology, etc. Perhaps I'm just maturing as an educator?..
Surprise Sub Lesson: Generic Legos & Google Docs
About three months ago I did something I often do but I am embarrassed to admit: I assigned a 'sub lesson' when absent, asked students to submit evidence of completion, and then... ...wait for it.....
5E Lesson Example: Cellular Respiration w/Crosscutting NGSS Integration.
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Sparking Curiosity in the Humanities: Data Visualization
As a science teacher, I often get the following statement when working with other educators: 'Sparking student interest in the Sciences is just easier. You get to show cool demonstrations and...
Revised 5E-Hero's Journey Lesson Planning Template
Revised 5E-Hero's Journey Lesson Planning Template! | written to annoying lengths about my love for the connection between the 5E Inquiry Learning Cycle.
My Winter Break Top 10!
Classes start back up tomorrow, and two weeks of winter break provided a much needed break from thinking about teaching... NOT! Teaching is my hobby, and while I had a nice time, space away from...
New Grading Experiment: Student Tracking for Enhanced Metacognition
New Grading Experiment: Student Tracking for Enhanced Metacognition | Philosophically, I appreciate the debate over grading in schools. Cyales of Learning.
Google Slides Lab Report: A Simple, Tangible, Reasonable Solution
Google Slides Lab| I have written in the past about my transition from formal lab reporting to the use of Google Slides as a student form of reporting lab work.
Hacking the Sub Lesson: Videos IN Google Forms.
Hacking the Sub Lesson: Videos IN Google Forms | I hate missing class. I love nothing more than being with my 9th grade Biology students and 10th grade Honors.
10 New Teaching Ideas That Surface Over Thanksgiving Break!
I am obsessed with the craft of teaching. I think about it constantly. Thus, in addition to the incredible time with family ands friends that the Thanksgiving offers
Editing Videos for Involuntary Curiosity: 3 Chemistry Examples
When reading the research on Curiosity , Involuntary Curiosity is of particular interest to us teachers. Defined by Loewenstein (1994) as curiosity that '...arises spontaneously as a result of...
Link External Page to a Specific Google Doc Section
CYCLES OF LEARNING
5 Ways to Embed Coding & Electronics into Your Science Curriculum
If you are like me as a science teacher, you simultaneously live the acronym 'STEM' and are exhausted by its overuse in nearly every blog, set of state standards
How to 'ClassSource” a Simple, Meaningful, and USEFUL Review Document
Before every major assessment I like to facilitate review activities in class. That being said, I can only handle the Kahoot theme song so much Cycles of Learning
8 Awesome Inquiry Lesson Cycles!
A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of working with the science educators at D211 in Chicago's Northwest Suburbs. As part of the workshop, all teachers were challenged to work in discipline specific...
New, SIMPLIFIED, Student Portfolio System (or 'feeling the fear of not being 'innovative' enough this year')
In past years I always had students create either a blog or a website to publicly share their work and curate their progress. Click here for an example. While I believe deeply in students...
Secret to Fixing BAD Classroom Presentations!
Power Point, Keynote, Presentations
5 Meaningful Ways to Leverage the 'MakeyMakey' in Your Teaching
Arduinoi, MakeyMakey, Invention, Assistive Technology
3 Ways to Simplify, Streamline, and Empower Your Lesson Design
3 Ways to Simplify, Streamline, and Empower Your Lesson Design
Structure for Authentic Reading in My Biology Class.
Biology, Literacy, Google Docs, Spreadsheet, Reading, Medicine.
Mass Group Google Doc Editing During Class
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Making the Most Out of the Most LEGIT Google Doc Feature
Inserting a picture directly from the webcam of your computer into a Google Document is a, IMO, freaking powerfully simple strategy in the classroom. Read more here.
Google, Document, Curation, Creation, Textbook
Student Created and Curated Textbook
Google, Document, Template, URL
Google Drive Template to Customized Short URL, template with students or teachers whom I am working with for a short period of time, this process works great.
Movies, Clips, Curiosity, Spark, Videos
My 15 Favorite Movie Clips to Use as Science Curiosity Sparks, Strategically leveraging clips from movies that show various phenomena. Read more: Cycles of Learning.
Curiosity, Technology, Chemistry
Most powerful ways to spark Involuntary Curiosity in students is to strategically trim a video clip to remove content or present an unresolved of the content.
Student Curated Study Guides via G. Form File Submission
Student Curated Study Guides via G. Form File Submission | Last year a new feature was added to Google Forms which allows users to submit a file. Cycles of Learning.
Comprehensive 'STEM' (DIY Titration Drop Counter)
Last week, in an effort to keep both my sections of Honors Chemistry moving at the same pace, I found myself with a day to spare in one section. Cycles of learning
Show Your Work!
'Show Your Work!' by Austin Kleon was a very important book for me as an educator. Albeit short, and a bit polarizing, the book reminded me that it sharing the process of my work, not just...
DIY Arduino Leonardo MakeyMakey
CYCLES OF LEARNING
EdTech Team Hangout on Blended Learning
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Assistive Technology Course Using Arduino & MakeyMakey: From Design to Delivery
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Authentic Audiences: Moving Beyond the Blog Post
Like many teachers, I have always struggled with making assessment meaningful for students. After reading Show Your Work by Austin Kleon I moved from student Google Doc lab reports in chemistry class.
Structured Space: littleBits-NXT Smash & the Robot Flamethrower.
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Human-Centered Design and the 'MakeyMakey'
Human-Centered Design and the 'MakeyMakey' - recently gave my robotics students an invention challenge using the MakeyMakey designed. Cycles of Learning
Sharing Written Work Through 'Snapshots'
Years ago I wrote a post about using the webcam 'Snapshot' feature to share student work. Click here to read. Nearly four years ago, many tech strategies.
Keynote Presentation & Online Courses
Keynote Presentation & Online Courses | I have received many requests for recorded versions of a Keynote presentation on the relationship between the Hero's Journey
Assistive Technology with MakeyMakey
CYCLES OF LEARNING
My Two Current EdTech Obsessions
CYCLES OF LEARNING
littleBits Interview
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Student Blogging
Experimenting this year with very organized student blogging. With respect to assessment, at the conclusion of every learning cycle students take a quiz.
Explosive Science Camp: Day 1
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Leveraging iPhoto for Review/Problem-Solving Sessions
CYCLES OF LEARNING
'Idea Dump': Quickly Curate & Share Creativity
I love teaching. Chances are, if you have made it to this blog post, you also love teaching. Among the myriad of reasons, I love the creative process teaching requires. We, as educators, must...
Using OneTab to Facilitate Google Drive Portfolio Assessment
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Video in Google Forms!
No words needed! This is freaking awesome:
Using G.Drive App to Facilitate Student 'Think-Alouds'
My favorite updated Google Drive feature is the ability to record video that is uploaded directly to your Google Drive account from the mobile app . Below are a few images:
Hack #1: Apple TV/iPHone/Doc Cam
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Jay Silver Interview: Pedagogy of Makey Makey Video
CYCLES OF LEARNING
Bedley Bros. Episode #19
Had a great conversation with the Bedley Bros . about inquiry today. Check it out below:
Spontaneous Blogger Posts via Text & Email
PD and classroom tool. When facilitating a workshop with teachers I have been using Blogger to create our resource spontaneously as the session progresses.
Word Clouds
For the past few years I have been experimenting with word clouds, specifically using Wordle , and more recently, Word Sift . Traditionally I have only used them to create clouds of student...
Online Review Session System
Online Review Session System - my AP Chemistry final we conducted a review session using a charango, a free chat service and educreations. Cycles of Learning.
Student Final Review Videos
The week before our AP Chemistry final exam I always provide my students with a practice exam. would spend a ridiculously long period of time creating screencast
Explore-Apply over Break: Paperless Turn-In
Although I am against assigning problems for students to do over holidays, the realities of teaching an AP curriculum sometimes demand that I do. This Thanksgiving break came directly in the middle...
Inquiry Videos & Full-Screen YouTube Hack
Inspired by a fabulous Dan Meyer session I attended at my school last month, I have begun the process of trying to re-frame as many released AP Chemistry problems into inquiry videos as...
Tailored Feedback w/ G. Forms 'Branching' & 'FormEmailer' Script
When off-loading content delivery, pairing the assignment with a Google form for reflection and critical analysis of the video/text, etc., is a powerful way to facilitate metacognition, but also...
Google Snapshot Jigsaw
As a science instructor, I find myself spending a lot of time debating, creating and reflecting on the “explore” phase of the l earning cycle . Naturally, “hooking” students, building...
Harnessing the Power of Edit Confirmation
The model shows a simple allocation where video that is used to spark inquiry is allocated to the classroom space or “community” and video that is used for content delivery is allocated to the...
Techsmith Video
I was honored for my classroom at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory to be featured in a video by Techsmith last Fall. Not only do I use many of their products, I am constantly inspired by...
Video as an Instructional Device
This summer I spent a lot of time trying to organize my thoughts about the use of video as an instructional device. Currently in my practice, I use video for a) content delivery after inquiry and b)..
SBG and Evernote
Last fall I began implementing a simplistic version of Standards Based Grading (SBG) in our chemistry class. Click here to read more. In this version, students are encouraged to reassess...
Self-Grading Google Form
CYCLES OF LEARNING
How fast am I walking (First Display Recorder attempt)
Instead of driving to STEM camp this morning, I decided to walk, and use the Display Recorde r app to screencast the little ball on the map directions. I uploaded the video to YouTube, and when I...
Reflection App
Reflection App allows you to mirror your iPhone 4S or iPad display directly onto your max OSX computer. See the below video for an overview:
Embedding Educreations Profile in Site
This post serves as a screencast extension to last week’s post:
Quick Tutorials
Out of the five iPad whiteboard recording apps available, Educreations and Showme are the only two apps that include an online hosting service where videos are stored for public access....
CLS Tech Conference/Vimeo Chapter Markers
I was honored to speak at the California League of Middle and High School’s annual RTI and Technology Conference this Friday. Below is screncast of my presentation recorded using Screenflow ....
Importance of a Reflection Mechanism
have written often about how including a google form to track student qualitative and quantitative reflection of instructional videos has made all the difference in my class. The below video...
Negotiating the Access Issue
Whether you are implementing some form of flip instruction, using an online assessment system such as ALEKS, or requiring your students to engage
Student Chomps
prepare for upcoming exam on gases, students worked in groups to make instructional videos using screenchomp. Below are the steps I used to facilitate the process: