MAPS
April 2014 / May 2014
Volume 11 Number 4
Media Matters
Teacher Librarians are the Heart of the School
In this video, principals talk about the importance of school teacher librarians. Take five and view it here. Pew Research Study Finds Americans Value Libraries A recent study reported some interesting facts about library use. Almost 70% of those surveyed fell into the medium and high library use groups. Even those who do not use a public library view libraries as adding value to the community. The most engaged tech users are also the strongest library users. Using technology does not exclude one from using a library. Read the report here. Did you know? There are more libraries than McDonald's in the United States. |
At the District Level
Information and Technology
Summer Technology Days
Since this is our last newsletter of the year, watch for an email toward the end of the year with more information concerning summer technology workdays and preparing your room for summer cleaning. You may want to start preparing by cleaning out trash, sent email, spam email, and storing all important documents on the server.
The dates are set for summer technology help. Plan for some time during your 1 1/2 "flex" days when help is available:
Funded Technology for 2014-15
The district software/media budget for next year will fund the items listed below. Thanks for your proposal submissions.
Spring Surveys and Testing
Eighth graders will be completing the 21st Century Skills testing during the week of April 21. This will be our first year with the new test and data will be collected and analyzed to drive curriculum. As in past years, a Grade 12 Exit survey and Staff Tech survey will be administered before school is out this spring. This data assists the team in programming and goal setting each year; thanks for taking the time to provide valuable input.
Tentative Goals for 2014-15
The list of tentative goals for 2014-15 will be presented to the School Board at their May meeting:
Effective Teaching and Learning
2013-14 General Information
The Information & Technology Team
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss at future meetings.
The Plan (completing the 2nd year of a 3-year plan)
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is posted at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
The plan will expire in June of 2015. A new Google site at the DPI will host new plans as they are submitted in the future, and the Information & Technology Team will spearhead the development of a new 3-year plan during the next school year. We may be soliciting input from you in conducting our needs assessment and developing goals for the 2015-18 plan.
Technology Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support; please sign up with Cathy Retzer.
Summer Technology Days
Since this is our last newsletter of the year, watch for an email toward the end of the year with more information concerning summer technology workdays and preparing your room for summer cleaning. You may want to start preparing by cleaning out trash, sent email, spam email, and storing all important documents on the server.
The dates are set for summer technology help. Plan for some time during your 1 1/2 "flex" days when help is available:
- MAMS: Wednesday. August 6, Thursday August 7
- MAES : Monday, August 11, Tuesday, August 12
- MASH : Wednesday, August 13, Thursday, August 14
- SES: Monday, August 18, Tuesday, August 19
Funded Technology for 2014-15
The district software/media budget for next year will fund the items listed below. Thanks for your proposal submissions.
- 21st Century Skills Online Testing, Grade 8
- Project Lead the Way/STEM, Science and Tech Ed, MAMS & MASH
- Virtual Business Sports Simulation, MASH
- Keyboard Covers, MAES & SES
- Ipad Apps, MAES & SES
- Gamemaker Studio Licensing, MASH
- Science Olympiad Software, MAMS
- Survey Monkey Subscription, District
- ISTE Membership, District
Spring Surveys and Testing
Eighth graders will be completing the 21st Century Skills testing during the week of April 21. This will be our first year with the new test and data will be collected and analyzed to drive curriculum. As in past years, a Grade 12 Exit survey and Staff Tech survey will be administered before school is out this spring. This data assists the team in programming and goal setting each year; thanks for taking the time to provide valuable input.
Tentative Goals for 2014-15
The list of tentative goals for 2014-15 will be presented to the School Board at their May meeting:
Effective Teaching and Learning
- Incorporate Google application skills in the common core curriculum for teaching and learning with Chromebooks
- Continue to support keyboarding instruction at all levels to state online student assessments in 2014-15
- Provide an environment for students to use BYOD (charging stations, workspace)
- Integrate wireless hardware/software at the middle school; pilot at the high school
- Support electronic delivery of scholarship materials and other guidance-related resources
- Continually evaluate usage of online resources (subscription sites) based on curriculum
- Provide ongoing support to staff for Skyward budgeting and purchasing
- Offer tech-related training on demand in different venues (one-to-one, after school, inservice, etc)
- Visit relevant policies that may impact goals, objectives, and/or activities in the Information & Technology Plan
- Evaluate technology staffing and support
- Incorporate Google application skills in the common core curriculum for teaching and learning with Chromebooks
- Continue to support keyboarding instruction at all levels to state online student assessments in 2014-15
2013-14 General Information
The Information & Technology Team
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss at future meetings.
The Plan (completing the 2nd year of a 3-year plan)
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is posted at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
The plan will expire in June of 2015. A new Google site at the DPI will host new plans as they are submitted in the future, and the Information & Technology Team will spearhead the development of a new 3-year plan during the next school year. We may be soliciting input from you in conducting our needs assessment and developing goals for the 2015-18 plan.
Technology Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support; please sign up with Cathy Retzer.
- MAES: Cathy Retzer
- SES: Wendy Fritz, Cathy Retzer (1 day/week);
- MAMS: Christie Wirz
- MASH: Pat Eloranta
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT- Core Assistive Technology Team
Members: Caroline Radlinger, OTR; Mike Daniels, PT; Sheryl Balciar, SLP;
Eliza Decker, SLP; Ann Jochimsen, SLP
PODD Communication Books
Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display (PODD) is a means of selecting and organizing whole word and symbol vocabulary in a communication book or on a speech generating device so that people with complex communication needs and their communication partners can communicate more easily. PODD is an example of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
We all use multiple communication methods, such as speech gestures, facial expressions, and writing. A PODD is designed to be just one tool for communication in a person’s toolbox of communication methods.
We have a few students who are using PODD. Please see a CATT member for more information.
News You Can Use
Speak Up America: Survey Results
The Speak Up America survey results are in. This past week, the results were shared at a Congressional hearing.
Key Results:
More girls than boys are using some digital tools
One-quarter of students in grades 3-5 and nearly one-third of students in grades 6-12 say that they are using a mobile device provided by their school to support schoolwork
Students taking tests online increased from 32 percent to 47 percent in the past four years
Only one-third of middle school students say that for schoolwork reading, they prefer to read digital materials rather than printed materials
More boys are interested in a STEM career than girls.
Click the graphic on the left to view
Read more:
Website
Download the enture report
Speak Up in the News▪
One-Third of U.S. Students Use School-Issued Mobile Devices, THE Journal
▪ Students Want More Alignment of Tech In and Out of School, Mind/Shift
▪ Use of Digital Tools Rises, but 'STEM' Gender Gap Persists, Survey Finds,
Key Results:
More girls than boys are using some digital tools
One-quarter of students in grades 3-5 and nearly one-third of students in grades 6-12 say that they are using a mobile device provided by their school to support schoolwork
Students taking tests online increased from 32 percent to 47 percent in the past four years
Only one-third of middle school students say that for schoolwork reading, they prefer to read digital materials rather than printed materials
More boys are interested in a STEM career than girls.
Click the graphic on the left to view
Read more:
Website
Download the enture report
Speak Up in the News▪
One-Third of U.S. Students Use School-Issued Mobile Devices, THE Journal
▪ Students Want More Alignment of Tech In and Out of School, Mind/Shift
▪ Use of Digital Tools Rises, but 'STEM' Gender Gap Persists, Survey Finds,
Time to Celebrate
April is School Library Media Month, and April 14-18 is National Library Week. Watch for celebrations in your building.
This School Chooses to Limit Technology
A non-profit, independent school in Oregon chooses to finally add three computers in 2012. This interview in Education World presents an interesting discussion about limiting technology and stressing the importance of people. Read the article here, and vote. |
|
Copyright Corner
Removing Illegal Uploads is an Uphill Battle
As a copyright holder, you have the right to say when and where your material is used. With the ease of uploading, many artists are finding it difficult to keep up with the volume of illegal posts. The staggering statistics:
"from March to August 2013, the Motion Picture Association of America’s six member studios sent 13.2 million takedown requests to remove infringing files from non-user generated content web sites (such as cyberlockers) and 12 million requests to remove links to infringing content available on sites from search results. That’s over 25 million takedown notices…. from six companies…. in six months. Additionally, in January of 2013, Google received its 100 millionth music piracy notice from the recording industry."
Spiwak, Lawrence J. " Doing nothing is not an option to stop on-line piracy." 25 March 2014. The Hill. Web. 26 March 2014.
MAPS
February 2014 / March 2014
Volume 11 Number 3
Media Matters
At the District Level
Information and Technology
Top 100 Apps & Sites for 2013!
Tech & Learning magazine has released their choices for the Top 100 Education Apps and Sites for 2013. Check it out.
Ten Tech Skills Every Educator Should Have
THE Journal surveyed readers from around the country to get a snapshot of the ten key tech competencies every educator should have in 2014. Check out the results of that survey.
Eighth Grade Technology Testing
After piloting Tech Literacy and 21st Century Skills tests at Learning.com, the Information & Technology Committee has made the decision to switch from the Tech Literacy test to the 21st Century Skills test starting with the class of 2018. Fifth graders will no longer be tested. The test will be scheduled for April 2014, and results will be reported to the School Board in May. More information about this new test can be found on Learning.com.
Technology Training
Planning is underway for integrating Google Chromebooks at the middle school in the 2014-15 school year. Introduction to Chromebooks was provided to MAMS staff at the January inservice. Classroom sets of Chromebooks will be used to supplement core classrooms (English, Social Studies, Science) and students will have the opportunity to use these devices to support their learning. The high school is scheduled for the following year and a discussion about Chrome apps took place at the MASH staff meeting in January. What is a Chromebook?
Software/Media Needs
The District Information and Technology Committee is accepting requests for 2014-2015. Please return your request form to Cathy Retzer, MAES & SES; Christie Wirz, MAMS and Kristi DeBruyne, MASH by Friday, February 28. Download from the MAPS Information & Technology page. Scroll down the left side and look for the link under Forms... If you have questions or need help in locating vendors, pricing, etc. please contact Kristi DeBruyne. The team will be meeting to look at requests and you will be notified of acceptance within a month.
Please forward any hardware requests to Dennis Hinderliter and Special Education requests to Joseph Greget.
Keyboarding
Teachers at MAES, SES, and MAMS continue to work with 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students on keyboarding skill building in preparation for the smarter-balanced assessments fast approaching. If you are looking to do some practice with your students, check out http://www.typingweb.com and http://www.typingtest.com.
Technology Policies 2013-14
Revisions to the following district policies related to technology are either in process or have been approved this year:
2013-14 General Information
The Information & Technology Team
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss at future meetings.
The Plan
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is posted at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
You will also find links to results of the Spring 2013 surveys of Grade 12 and Staff Tech Support/Staff Development.
Technology Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support; please sign up with Cathy Retzer.
Top 100 Apps & Sites for 2013!
Tech & Learning magazine has released their choices for the Top 100 Education Apps and Sites for 2013. Check it out.
Ten Tech Skills Every Educator Should Have
THE Journal surveyed readers from around the country to get a snapshot of the ten key tech competencies every educator should have in 2014. Check out the results of that survey.
Eighth Grade Technology Testing
After piloting Tech Literacy and 21st Century Skills tests at Learning.com, the Information & Technology Committee has made the decision to switch from the Tech Literacy test to the 21st Century Skills test starting with the class of 2018. Fifth graders will no longer be tested. The test will be scheduled for April 2014, and results will be reported to the School Board in May. More information about this new test can be found on Learning.com.
Technology Training
Planning is underway for integrating Google Chromebooks at the middle school in the 2014-15 school year. Introduction to Chromebooks was provided to MAMS staff at the January inservice. Classroom sets of Chromebooks will be used to supplement core classrooms (English, Social Studies, Science) and students will have the opportunity to use these devices to support their learning. The high school is scheduled for the following year and a discussion about Chrome apps took place at the MASH staff meeting in January. What is a Chromebook?
Software/Media Needs
The District Information and Technology Committee is accepting requests for 2014-2015. Please return your request form to Cathy Retzer, MAES & SES; Christie Wirz, MAMS and Kristi DeBruyne, MASH by Friday, February 28. Download from the MAPS Information & Technology page. Scroll down the left side and look for the link under Forms... If you have questions or need help in locating vendors, pricing, etc. please contact Kristi DeBruyne. The team will be meeting to look at requests and you will be notified of acceptance within a month.
Please forward any hardware requests to Dennis Hinderliter and Special Education requests to Joseph Greget.
Keyboarding
Teachers at MAES, SES, and MAMS continue to work with 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students on keyboarding skill building in preparation for the smarter-balanced assessments fast approaching. If you are looking to do some practice with your students, check out http://www.typingweb.com and http://www.typingtest.com.
Technology Policies 2013-14
Revisions to the following district policies related to technology are either in process or have been approved this year:
- IIBGB - Software Regulations
- IIBGC - Copyright Policy and Procedures
- IIBC - Instructional Materials Centers/ School Libraries
- IIBD - Interlibrary Load of Materials
2013-14 General Information
The Information & Technology Team
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss at future meetings.
The Plan
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is posted at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
You will also find links to results of the Spring 2013 surveys of Grade 12 and Staff Tech Support/Staff Development.
Technology Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support; please sign up with Cathy Retzer.
- MAES: Cathy Retzer
- SES: Wendy Fritz, Cathy Retzer (1 day/week);
- MAMS: Christie Wirz
- MASH: Pat Eloranta
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT- Core Assistive Technology Team
Members: Caroline Radlinger, OTR; Mike Daniels, PT; Sheryl Balciar, SLP;
Eliza Decker, SLP; Ann Jochimsen, SLP
Adaptive kitchen tools can help our students become more independent with cooking tasks. Take a look at some tools that are being used in the Medford School District.
Adaptive cutting boards have prongs to secure food so it does not roll and also helps keep your fingers safe when cutting.
News You Can Use
Pages vs Pixels
Scientists are beginning to discover that screen time may not be the best way to learn and remember. This study published in Scientific American in November 2013 exposes how the brain differs in the way we process digital and print. Maybe the good old book is still the way to go? Read the article here.
More from Naomi Harm
Our January inservice featured Naomi Harm working with our MAMS staff and Chromebooks. This newsletter from Naomi's compnay IEC, (Innovative Educational Consulting) is full of useful sites, tips and tricks. Download it here.
Copyright Corner
Image Infringement
Two recent lawsuits involving photographs remind us to require students to cite their images and the cost of violating the law. One involves the US Postal Service and the use of a picture of the Statue of Liberty on a stamp. The other is the result of a radio station using photographs from a ESPN photographer on a website.
You LMS can help you with citation instruction.
US Postal Service
ESPN photographer
Learn more at the Copyright and Fair Use Cafe.
You LMS can help you with citation instruction.
US Postal Service
ESPN photographer
Learn more at the Copyright and Fair Use Cafe.
MAPS
December 2013 / January 2014
Volume 11 Number 2
Media Matters
Author Neil Gaiman recently spoke at a The Reading Agency on the future of reading and libraries. He explains that reading, particularly fiction, fires the imagination and drives us to learn more.
Why does our future rely on libraries, reading and daydreaming?
Read his speech here.
Are school libraries on the way out? Not by a longshot. This article from the March 2013 District Administrator illustrates the ways that school libraries are still a vital part of the educational process. Download theartilce below.
Why does our future rely on libraries, reading and daydreaming?
Read his speech here.
Are school libraries on the way out? Not by a longshot. This article from the March 2013 District Administrator illustrates the ways that school libraries are still a vital part of the educational process. Download theartilce below.
trantodig.pdf | |
File Size: | 957 kb |
File Type: |
At the District Level
Information and Technology
The Information & Technology Team
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss at future meetings.
The Plan
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is posted at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
You will also find links to results of the Spring 2013 surveys of Grade 12 and Staff Tech Support/Staff Development.
Eighth Grade Technology Testing
The Information & Technology Committee is currently doing pilot testing of Tech Literacy and 21st Century Skills tests through Learning.com. For the past 7 years, both 5th and 8th grade classes in Medford have taken the Tech Literacy test. Committee members are taking that test along with the recently released 21st Century Skills test and will be making recommendations about switching to this new test for the class of 2018. Regardless of the test chosen, fifth graders will no longer be tested. For a synopsis of test results over the past 7 years, please visit http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/Documents/Tech%20Literacy%20Summary.pdf
Technology Policies for Revision this year:
The following district policies related to technology are up for review/revision this year:
Technology Showcase/Teaser
Pat Eloranta and Kristi DeBruyne did a short demonstration of the web tool, Pixlr, at the MAMS November staff meeting. A demo of Pixlr will be done at the December MASH staff meeting. The Tech Teaser for MASH in November was QR codes. If you are interested in creating your own codes, check out this web site: http://www.mobile-barcodes.com/
Keyboarding
Teachers at MAES, SES, and MAMS continue to work with 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students on keyboarding skill building, in preparation for the smarter-balanced assessments fast approaching. If you are looking to do some practice with your students, check out http://www.typingweb.com and http://www.typingtest.com.
Technology Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support; please sign up with Cathy Retzer.
The Information & Technology Team
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss at future meetings.
The Plan
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is posted at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
You will also find links to results of the Spring 2013 surveys of Grade 12 and Staff Tech Support/Staff Development.
Eighth Grade Technology Testing
The Information & Technology Committee is currently doing pilot testing of Tech Literacy and 21st Century Skills tests through Learning.com. For the past 7 years, both 5th and 8th grade classes in Medford have taken the Tech Literacy test. Committee members are taking that test along with the recently released 21st Century Skills test and will be making recommendations about switching to this new test for the class of 2018. Regardless of the test chosen, fifth graders will no longer be tested. For a synopsis of test results over the past 7 years, please visit http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/Documents/Tech%20Literacy%20Summary.pdf
Technology Policies for Revision this year:
The following district policies related to technology are up for review/revision this year:
- IIBGB - Software Regulations
- IIBGC - Copyright Policy and Procedures
- IIBC - Instructional Materials Centers/ School Libraries
- IIBD - Interlibrary Load of Materials
Technology Showcase/Teaser
Pat Eloranta and Kristi DeBruyne did a short demonstration of the web tool, Pixlr, at the MAMS November staff meeting. A demo of Pixlr will be done at the December MASH staff meeting. The Tech Teaser for MASH in November was QR codes. If you are interested in creating your own codes, check out this web site: http://www.mobile-barcodes.com/
Keyboarding
Teachers at MAES, SES, and MAMS continue to work with 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students on keyboarding skill building, in preparation for the smarter-balanced assessments fast approaching. If you are looking to do some practice with your students, check out http://www.typingweb.com and http://www.typingtest.com.
Technology Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support; please sign up with Cathy Retzer.
- MAES: Cathy Retzer
- SES: Wendy Fritz, Cathy Retzer (1 day/week);
- MAMS: Christie Wirz
- MASH: Pat Eloranta
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT- Core Assistive Technology Team
Members: Caroline Radlinger, OTR; Mike Daniels, PT; Sheryl Balciar, SLP;
Eliza Decker, SLP; Ann Jochimsen, SLP
Sensory Tools
There are many tools that can be utilized to help a student attend to their school work. These tools can be checked out through the CATT team. These tools help provide movement so students can focus on their academics. Here are some examples:
There are many tools that can be utilized to help a student attend to their school work. These tools can be checked out through the CATT team. These tools help provide movement so students can focus on their academics. Here are some examples:
News You Can Use
Tweet Ready?
If you are considering using Twitter in the classroom, KQED Education has great tips and tricks here.
Learning Express Users
Please note: the update of Learning Express and the shift to a new platform requires users to re-register their accounts. Existing accounts will not be carried over to the new version. Work done on the old Learning Express will be not be available after January 3, 2014. Please encourage your students to finish all coursework before January 3, 2014. Users should register for a new account at their earliest convenience after January 3rd.
Soundzabound for iPad/iPhone
The Wisconsin Media Lap recently announced an app for using Soundzabound on ipads and iphones. Soundzabound offers a great collection of royality-free, ready to use sound and music clips. Click here to see the video tutorial.
Thank You
The MASH Library Club Barnes and Noble Bookfair was a success. Thank you for your purchases and support. Some of the money we earned will be donated to First Book, putting books into the hands of underprivleged children. Read more here.
Badgerlink Facelift
The Badgerlink website has been updated and the new look is very user-friendly. The interface is visually appealing and you may now narrow your search by type of user/content area.
BadgerLink is Wisconsin’s online library which provides access to licensed content such as magazines, newspapers, scholarly articles, videos, images, and music. These resources are provided exclusively for use by all Wisconsin residents and are materials that are not available through regular search engines such as Google. Read all about the resources here.
Badgerlink also supports going "paperless" by providing permanent links to articles that you can paste on your website for quick access. As an example, click here for an article on the Science of Interest from School Library Journal. If you would like help using Badgerlink, contact your building Library Media Specialist.
Check out the new Badgerlink homepage.
The Badgerlink website has been updated and the new look is very user-friendly. The interface is visually appealing and you may now narrow your search by type of user/content area.
BadgerLink is Wisconsin’s online library which provides access to licensed content such as magazines, newspapers, scholarly articles, videos, images, and music. These resources are provided exclusively for use by all Wisconsin residents and are materials that are not available through regular search engines such as Google. Read all about the resources here.
Badgerlink also supports going "paperless" by providing permanent links to articles that you can paste on your website for quick access. As an example, click here for an article on the Science of Interest from School Library Journal. If you would like help using Badgerlink, contact your building Library Media Specialist.
Check out the new Badgerlink homepage.
Copyright Corner
Google Books and Fair Use
Google Books has been wrestling with lawsuits brought on by the Authors Guild since 2005. Google scanned portions of books and made them available online without the author's permission. The lawsuit claimed copyright infringement, while Google held firm that the practice was within fair use. Judge Denny Chin ruled in favor of Google on November 18, 2013. The judge decided that the portion scanned and the benefit to society outweigh the claim that authors' will lose revenue. Will this go to the Supreme Court?
Read more:
Education Community Responds to Google Fair Use Ruling
Google Defeats Authors
Learn more at the Copyright and Fair Use Cafe.
Read more:
Education Community Responds to Google Fair Use Ruling
Google Defeats Authors
Learn more at the Copyright and Fair Use Cafe.
MAPS
October / November 2013
Volume 11 Number 1
Media Matters
School Library Journal recently published results of a Pew Research study that found teens still value library services. The study of 16-29 year-olds finds that even though teens are tech-savvy, they still use print books, appreciate professional librarians, and can be found studying, reading and browsing in a traditional library.
Read a summary of the report here.
Read a summary of the report here.
At the District Level
Information and Technology
The Information & Technology Team
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. The team will be meeting on October 22. Lisa Vanusek-Hartl will be sharing some information about the ipad class she recently completed. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss.
The Plan
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is posted at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
You will also find links to results of the Spring 2013 surveys of Grade 12 and Staff Tech Support/Staff Development.
Focus Goals
Some tech-related goals for 2013-14 include: Investigating a switch to 21st Century Skills Testing rather than Tech Literacay testing in Grade 8, Evaluating elementary keyboarding curriculum in the district to prepare for online assessments, Reviewing wireless access within the district, Implementing "teacher showcasing" as an option for staff development, Reviewing relevant district policies.
Technology Policies Changed for 2013-14
Please visit http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/Documents/Screencasts/Policy%20Changes%20video.mp4 to review changes in policies/procedures for this year.
Technology Showcase
Pat Eloranta and Kristi DeBruyne did a short demonstration of the web tool, Pixlr, at the MAES October staff meeting on October 7.
Elementary Keyboarding
With online Smarter Balanced Assessments and ACTs on the horizon, The businss & IT Department is studying the elementary keyboarding curriculum in the district this year. Based on Written-Language Production Standards for Handwriting & Keyboarding, Grades K-8, students should generally be able to key approximately 5 words per minute x the grade level. It is strongly recommended that all teachers in the appropriate grade levels, follow the recommended time frame and wpm goals listed below:
3rd grade-- Introduction to and practice through the home row keys (5-10 wpm looking at keyboard); time frame is flexible to complete the task. Please consider including the All the Right Type web site on your weekly homework sheet to remind parents that children may access the software and practice at home.
4th grade-- 6 wks., 1/2 hour per day; consecutive days whenever possible covering a minimum of all alphabetic keys (10-15 wpm with increased proportion of time looking at screen or copy). Teachers are also asked to complete a 10-15 second observation of each student (using 3-point rubric) for touch typing technique in the final week and record that observation Being able to type mostly looking at the screen or copy is the ultimate goal, and that will be reinforced as students move forward.
5th grade-- 3 wks, 1/2 hour per day; consecutive days (15-20 wpm mostly looking at screen or copy)
6th grade-- 3 wks, 1/2 hour per day; consecutive days (20-25 wpm looking at screen or copy)
7th - 8th grade-- Students will continue with keyboarding reinforcement and testing in their 7th and 8th grade computer classes
Technology Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support; please sign up with Cathy Retzer. For October, Kristi will be visiting MAES on the 7th and SES on the 22nd.
The Information & Technology Team
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. The team will be meeting on October 22. Lisa Vanusek-Hartl will be sharing some information about the ipad class she recently completed. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss.
The Plan
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is posted at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
You will also find links to results of the Spring 2013 surveys of Grade 12 and Staff Tech Support/Staff Development.
Focus Goals
Some tech-related goals for 2013-14 include: Investigating a switch to 21st Century Skills Testing rather than Tech Literacay testing in Grade 8, Evaluating elementary keyboarding curriculum in the district to prepare for online assessments, Reviewing wireless access within the district, Implementing "teacher showcasing" as an option for staff development, Reviewing relevant district policies.
Technology Policies Changed for 2013-14
Please visit http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/Documents/Screencasts/Policy%20Changes%20video.mp4 to review changes in policies/procedures for this year.
Technology Showcase
Pat Eloranta and Kristi DeBruyne did a short demonstration of the web tool, Pixlr, at the MAES October staff meeting on October 7.
Elementary Keyboarding
With online Smarter Balanced Assessments and ACTs on the horizon, The businss & IT Department is studying the elementary keyboarding curriculum in the district this year. Based on Written-Language Production Standards for Handwriting & Keyboarding, Grades K-8, students should generally be able to key approximately 5 words per minute x the grade level. It is strongly recommended that all teachers in the appropriate grade levels, follow the recommended time frame and wpm goals listed below:
3rd grade-- Introduction to and practice through the home row keys (5-10 wpm looking at keyboard); time frame is flexible to complete the task. Please consider including the All the Right Type web site on your weekly homework sheet to remind parents that children may access the software and practice at home.
4th grade-- 6 wks., 1/2 hour per day; consecutive days whenever possible covering a minimum of all alphabetic keys (10-15 wpm with increased proportion of time looking at screen or copy). Teachers are also asked to complete a 10-15 second observation of each student (using 3-point rubric) for touch typing technique in the final week and record that observation Being able to type mostly looking at the screen or copy is the ultimate goal, and that will be reinforced as students move forward.
5th grade-- 3 wks, 1/2 hour per day; consecutive days (15-20 wpm mostly looking at screen or copy)
6th grade-- 3 wks, 1/2 hour per day; consecutive days (20-25 wpm looking at screen or copy)
7th - 8th grade-- Students will continue with keyboarding reinforcement and testing in their 7th and 8th grade computer classes
Technology Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support; please sign up with Cathy Retzer. For October, Kristi will be visiting MAES on the 7th and SES on the 22nd.
- MAES: Cathy Retzer
- SES: Wendy Fritz, Cathy Retzer (1 day/week);
- MAMS: Christie Wirz
- MASH: Pat Eloranta
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT- Core Assistive Technology Team
Members: Caroline Radlinger, OTR; Mike Daniels, PT; Sheryl Balciar, SLP;
Eliza Decker, SLP; Ann Jochimsen, SLP
What is CATT?
The Medford Area School District has a Core Assistive Technology Team (CATT) comprised of three speech and language pathologists, an occupational therapist, and a physical therapist. Our team works together to identify assistive technology needs for students. Assistive technology may enhance communication, socialization, academics,and gross or fine motor skills. See a member to ask for a trial of equipment or suggestions.
The Medford Area School District has a Core Assistive Technology Team (CATT) comprised of three speech and language pathologists, an occupational therapist, and a physical therapist. Our team works together to identify assistive technology needs for students. Assistive technology may enhance communication, socialization, academics,and gross or fine motor skills. See a member to ask for a trial of equipment or suggestions.
News You Can Use
Speak UP
The 2nd annual report of Speak Up was recently released. This nation-wide survey collects data from students, parents and K-12 educators. Some major findings include: Sixty-five percent of middle school and 80% of high school students use a smartphone; the number of middle school students with a personal tablet doubled in one year to 52%.
Click here to download the full report.
Ipad Blog
Check out the popular Ipad4school weekly blog for ipad integration ideas. Richard Wells shares tips for success, new apps, techniques and sound teaching advice.
Copyright Corner
Anti-Piracy Lessons
California Schools are soon to adapt an anti-piracy curriculum that has many people concerned. The curriculum that has been formed by recording industry and internet service provider leaders and does not currently reflect the concept of "Fair Use". The curriculum sends the message that you must always ask permission to use others' works. The Fair Use Guidelines are not the law, but an agreed upon level of use that protects you from lawsuit. Complaints have been registered and the final draft may tone down the message that permission is always needed.
Read the Wired Magazine Article here.
Read the Wired Magazine Article here.