LibGuides can be generic research resources, but can also be created using specific resources for a class or even specific for one project. Tami Harbold, high school media specialist, shared that teachers can embed a LibGuide link in their web page or give the link address to students so that they will have access to reputable resources and information specific to the course or project. LibGuides can include podcasts/videos of mini research lessons taught by the librarian. At the middle school Coleen Foreman is excited about having the ability to assist teachers with research as well as developing subject specific resource guides. Joanna Knott, intermediate school media specialist, shared that there are many uses for LibGuides. Below are some ways that she could think of, but she indicated there are probably more as will be discovered the more LibGuides are used.
LibGuides could be used for:
- flipped classroom concept: Students will be able to access digital resources (videos, primary, documents, websites) from one centralized location at home to prepare for the upcoming lessons/activities in class.
- platform to house unit resources in one location so that entire teams of teachers have access to the same quality information.
- teachers can video essential lessons and upload them so students can watch them at home, when absent, to review, etc.
- the ability to search multiple databases from a single, embedded frame streamlines research
- LibGuides can be updated instantly -- if there's a broken link or video that needs to be embedded, the librarian can make the fix quickly, so little instructional time is lost
Joanna indicated that LibGuides are a professional, digital repository of resources to be used for instruction and student discovery. A teacher may request to have specific information on it (for instance, Mrs. Knott's Research Guide for Theme 1).
The media specialists are excited about this new digital capability that can be accessed via the web and all are encouraged to contact your media specialist so she can help you pull resources together for you and your students.
Check out your buildings LibGuides: NOHS LibGuide, NOMS LibGuide, CVIS LibGuide,
Google Classroom - Update
Apps to Consider
30hands Storyteller is the easiest way to tell a story, explain a concept or flip a classroom. Create a multimedia presentation in minutes and publish it as a video to share. We designed the tool to be simple and fast, so it takes backseat to learning and expression. In a single class period, students can complete a video activity. Mapping these activities to a longer project helps students make PBL projects authentic and fun.30 hands a digital storytelling app.This app comes in a free and pro version. The pro version has additional features that would also allow you to use it as a tool to flip your classroom. |
Buzz Math With a name like BuzzMath Middle School, you might think this is a math game app designed to entertain middle school kids. Quite the opposite is true- Buzzmath is for serious math students who need (or want) a well-designed, step-by-step program that reinforces math concepts taught in 6th-8th grades, aligned to Common Core standards. |