There was another great week of #EdTechTidBits! Continuing reading for a new Computer Science for grades 4-8, resources on DIY PD, a way to build digital LEGO models, and an inspiring TEDx talk!
Start a Google CS First Club at Your School this Summer!
Back in April, +Suan Yeo announced a new Computer Science program offered by Google, called CS First.
CS First is a free programming club for students in grades 4 - 8. It currently includes 8 different theme based club choices (from Fashion & Design, to Game Design, and even Sports).
Teachers can sign up to host a CS First Club at their school or in their community and receive free printed materials. There is a built in dashboard that allows the teacher to track student progress. The set up is very easy and includes scheduling, technology checklists, and a way to inform your volunteers.
If you're looking for a fun and engaging summer school or after summer school option, try a Google CS First Club!
 |
| Start your first CS First Club! |
DIY Professional Development Roundup by Edutopia
I came across a great Edutopia article that was recently updated in April. It's a roundup of links and resources all about the DIY Professional Development movement. On demand and do-it-yourself PD has been on the rise, and this collection of resources is a great place to get started! Everything from unconferences, to social media, and growing your PLN. DIY PD allows you learn what you want, when you want it, wherever you want it. Who can argue with that?
Build Lego Creations Digitally with Lego Digital Designer
My favorite activity as a child was building with legos. I not only enjoyed building the box models, but I spent hours creating new things from my wild imagination!
Now that we are deep into the digital age, what if we could construct lego models digitally? Well, apparently you can, and I had no idea until now! I introduce you to the Lego Digital Designer application.
The app is available for FREE from LEGO.com! You can literally build anything you want with practically any lego piece in any color. You can print or export your creations when you're finished! And you can even print a building instruction guide to give to your friends! What I also like about this is you can even build with Lego Mindstorms, so if you use the kits in class or have a lego robotics team, this might be a great starting point before the actual construction phase.
Inspire Your Students to be Makers & Inventors
Here is an inspiring TEDx talk by 15-year-old inventor, Chase Lewis. He has invented two life-saving devices and wants to convey to everyone young and old that we are ALL inventors. You just have to have an idea and a passion to create.
Thanks for checking out this edition of #EdTechTidBits of the Week! See you next week!
Do you have any #EdTechTidBits to share?
Add them in the comments below or use the hashtag.
No comments :
Post a Comment