VSTE

Virginia Society for Technology in Education

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Big Deal Book, November 15, 2023

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VSTE partners with Big Deal Media to bring you carefully curated resources designed for K-12 educators. Grants, competitions, web-based and mobile resources and more. We select our favorites from each newsletter but be sure to scroll down and view the whole newsletter. And, since not all the Big Deal Book resources are time sensitive, we provide an archive for you to browse. See the whole newsletter & subscribe on this website.

This newsletter will help you with Global Holiday Music, Hour of Code, Digital Children’s Books & More...

 

Holiday Music from Around the Globes

The holiday season is upon us, and festive songs are filling the airwaves everywhere we go. Most of those songs are popular hits such as “Jingle Bells,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “White Christmas.” But many holiday songs we hear don’t reflect the wide variety of wintery tunes streaming in other parts of the world. The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in Phoenix, Arizona, reminds us of the diverse cultures and traditions that exist in other countries.

 

SPOTLIGHT! On AI Tools to Enhance Classroom Experiences

The landscape is rapidly evolving for artificial intelligence (AI) experiences in the K–12 setting. While AI is advancing, it is still growing and finding ways to be implemented safely and accurately. Here are a few examples to help educators untangle the complex web of free and freemium AI tools.

 

Hour of Code—With or Without AI

Your class or group can join millions around the world participating in the Hour of Code, a free introduction to computer science through engaging activities and videos for learners of all skill levels. The Hour of Code is organized by Code.org and driven by a coalition of partners, including Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and the College Board.

 

Digital Library of Children’s Books for Online and Offline Reading

Let’s Read promotes reading skills and presents books by local authors and illustrators that are available in many underrepresented languages, as well as English. Teachers, parents, and children can enjoy reading the engaging and colorful storybooks in the free Let’s Read digital library.

 

 

The Archives

Unleashing Creativity: Dive into the Hour of Code this Computer Science Education Week! (December 4-8, 2023)

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Fellow educators and digital trailblazers, as we gear up to celebrate the first birthday of ChatGPT, let's not forget to infuse that spirit of innovation into our classrooms. And what better way to do it than by diving headfirst into the exhilarating world of coding and artificial intelligence during Computer Science Education Week/ Hour of Code!

The Hour of Code: More Than Just One Hour

Imagine a movement that began with a simple one-hour coding challenge and transformed into a global phenomenon that transcends age, expertise, and geography. That's the magic of the Hour of Code – a celebration, a learning extravaganza, and a rallying cry for equity in education. And guess what? This year's shindig is powered by over 400 partners, 20,000 educators, and a whopping 58,000 volunteers. Talk about a coding party of epic proportions!

Whether you're a coding maestro or someone who's just testing the waters, the Hour of Code invites everyone to join in on the coding fiesta. And the best part? Zip, zilch, nada experience required! It's a digital playground where anyone, anywhere can dip their toes into the wonders of coding and AI.

Why Should We Care About Computer Science?

Now, you might be wondering, why all the hype around computer science? Well, buckle up, because computer science is the secret sauce transforming every industry on the planet. It's not just about future jobs; it's about nurturing creativity and problem-solving skills that are crucial for any career path in the 21st century.

And here's the kicker – computing occupations are not just the fastest-growing; they're also the best-paying jobs and the largest sector for all new wages in the US. So, when we say every child deserves a shot at success, we mean it! In the state of Virginia, there are currently thousands of computer science related jobs that are going unfilled because we don’t have enough people in the workforce that have computer science training or education.

Student Engagement: Where Fun Meets Learning

Recent surveys spill the beans – students LOVE computer science! In the realm of classes that students adore, computer science and engineering are right up there, trailing only behind performing arts, art, and design. The Hour of Code taps into this infectious enthusiasm, turning learning into an adventure with activities featuring beloved characters from Minecraft, Star Wars, Disney's Frozen, Angry Birds, and Plants vs. Zombies.

 

Beyond the Hour of Code: Making It Stick

Now, the Hour of Code isn't a one-and-done deal. It's an open invitation to infuse lasting change into our schools. Don't limit coding to just an hour – weave high-quality computer science into your curriculum and consider hopping on board professional development workshops. Let's not just ride the coding wave; let's make it a permanent fixture in our schools!

Mark Your Calendars: December 4-8, 2023

The Hour of Code isn't just a random day on the calendar; it's an annual global event celebrated during Computer Science Education Week. And guess what? This year's coding extravaganza is all set to take place from December 4-8, 2023. So, clear your schedules, rally the troops, and get ready to embark on a digital journey that promises to be nothing short of epic!

Flexibility and Ease: Start Anytime, Anywhere

And here's the best part – the Hour of Code is all about flexibility and ease. While traditionally celebrated during Computer Science Education Week, you're not confined to dates. Start your Hour of Code event whenever it fits into your school calendar. No need for event registrations – just jump in and let the coding adventure begin!

Conclusion: Let's Ignite the Digital Spark!

As we celebrate ChatGPT's first year, let's channel that same spirit of innovation into our classrooms. The Hour of Code isn't just an event; it's a movement that empowers educators, inspires students, and paves the way for a future where digital literacy is a fundamental skill. Join us in unleashing the potential within every learner, one line of code at a time.

Ready to dive in? Head over to HourOfCode.com and let the coding adventure begin!

 

Fara T. Faust is an Instructional Technology Specialist with Virginia Beach City Public Schools, a CodeVA facilitator, and Director on the VSTE Board of Directors. She can be reached at farafaust@vste.org.

 

Virginia Speak Up Survey

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From the Office of Educational Technology & Classroom Innovation newsletter from the VA Department of Education.

Project Tomorrow Speak Up logo

Virginia Speak Up Survey is available now!

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has partnered with Project Tomorrow to administer surveys in the areas of educational technology. The Virginia Speak Up surveys are a semi-customized set of questions for students, educators, administrators, and parents. Schools and districts will be able to access their own data for planning purposes. Speak Up is an annual research project conducted by Project Tomorrow, a national education nonprofit group that collects and reports on the views of K-12 students, teachers, administrators, and parents on education and technology.

To get started with the Virginia Speak Up, designate a local school division Virginia Speak Up administrator who will register with Project Tomorrow. Once the administrator has completed the form, the Speak Up team will email customized links for the school division’s schools. We have developed a virtual welcome packet including general information about the project, instructions for the surveys, ideas for how you can use your data, promotional materials to help you spread the word about the project to your school(s), and more. Surveys are available from October 26th, 2023, to January 31, 2024. If you are new to Speak Up, we hope this webpage helps answer any questions you may have.

Questions may be directed to Calypso Gilstrap, Associate Director, by phone at (804) 750-8708 or via email at Calypso.Gilstrap@doe.virginia.gov in the Office of Educational Technology and Classroom Innovation.

DEI Committee Webinar to Prep. for an Amazing VSTE Experience!

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Attend an amazing VSTE DEI Committee webinar with panelists that will help all Reach The Peak: Leveraging VSTE For Your Professional Growth at the 2023 VSTE Conference.  REGISTER HERE!

VSTE DEI Logo

The VSTE Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee extend an invitation to attend an amazing webinar with panelists that will help all Reach The Peak: Leveraging VSTE For Your Professional Growth at the 2023 VSTE Conference.  Watch the recording!

 

Join Us in Making a Difference: VSTE’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

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written by VSTE's DEI Committee Chair, Lynmara Colón

Attend an amazing VSTE DEI Committee webinar with panelists that will help all Reach The Peak: Leveraging VSTE For Your Professional Growth at the 2023 VSTE Conference.  REGISTER HERE!

VSTE DEI Logo

My years as a VSTE board member have taught me a lot about the power of serving in spaces where one can advocate for students from different backgrounds. Over the years, I have met countless educators all over the state committed to supporting students and providing them access to technology in many different ways.

At VSTE, we are thrilled to announce our unwavering commitment to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in technology. We understand the importance of this work, and we have actively engaged with a wide range of stakeholders across the state, listening to their needs and gathering insights on what they are looking for in DEI efforts from the organization.

Throughout these conversations, it has become abundantly clear that many of you share a strong desire to gain more knowledge and guidance on supporting marginalized student groups, women, and minorities within the technology sector while seeking opportunities to grow in your roles. We've also learned that many of our members are concerned about securing funding for DEI initiatives to improve the educational experiences in your school divisions. In response to these needs, we are excited to launch a series of webinars where you can hear from experts from various fields who will share their knowledge and passion on these critical topics.

VSTE 23 "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" Logo

Our upcoming VSTE conference, set to take place on December 3-5, promises to be an invaluable space for you to dive deep into these crucial subjects. Here's what you can expect from the conference:

  1. Expert Insights: Our lineup of speakers includes experts making magic happen in these spaces, focusing on supporting English Learners and students with disabilities, mentoring, culturally responsive practices, and leadership in diverse school divisions across the state. Their presentations and discussions will provide actionable strategies and innovative ideas to drive DEI forward. Every year, I leave with notes and ideas that have helped me enhance some of the initiatives in my school division.
  2. Networking Opportunities: The conference will offer numerous opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, educators, and advocates who share your passion for this work in technology. By engaging in these connections, you'll gain new insights, ideas, collaborations, and friendships that can help advance your advocacy work. I make it a point to make at least 3 connections across the state. These new friends have been a lifesaver in helping me process my learning after the conference. Every year, I look forward to seeing them again!
  3. Growth and Empowerment: The VSTE conference is not just about learning; it's about empowering you to make a tangible difference in your field. We aim to equip you with the resources, tools, and learning experiences necessary to create an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. The keynote sessions are powerful and always packed with great wisdom. I make it a point to attend a session on something new. It forces me to get curious and grow about new things.

At VSTE, our ultimate goal is to foster a sense of belonging for everyone, where technology becomes a powerful tool for educators to create conditions for every student to succeed. We believe that by working together and sharing our knowledge and experiences, we can significantly impact the lives of those historically underserved in the technology sector.

To that end, we extend an invitation to attend an amazing VSTE DEI Committee webinar with panelists that will help all Reach The Peak: Leveraging VSTE For Your Professional Growth at the 2023 VSTE Conference.  REGISTER HERE!

We hope to see you at the conference in December, where we will embark on an exciting journey toward a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Let's create a magical and transformative experience that will impact all educators and students in Virginia.

Join us in this magical adventure. Together we can make a difference because “Ain’t no Mountain High Enough!”. We can't wait to connect with you at the VSTE conference.