Chrome apps and extensions

I've been playing with some apps and extensions in Chrome.  In the past, I've used apps like SeeSaw with my Kindergarten students so I'm comfortable using apps and adding more as needed, but I knew that I was going to have to expand my repertoire now that I'm changing grade levels.  I specifically need to learn how to use some things that will be helpful in managing Chromebooks with my intermediate students and also some software that kids can use to learn and do presentations.  Because I needed to have a link to submit for this project, I played with PowToons and edited the ready-made first day of school video.  I'm still struggling with how to play this video from start to finish without clicking to the next slide and also how to share it without publishing it publicly on the web.

Challenge: PowToon

What did you create and why?
I created a PowToon to use with my students on the first day of school.  I thought it would be a fun way to introduce myself to them.

What went well for you?
Everything went pretty well.  PowToons has a quick, easy tutorial to get you started, both in video format and in a clickable format.  It was nice that PowToons has some ready made PowToons that you can edit.

What was challenging?
The most difficult part for me was to stop messing around with it!  I could spend way too much time with this app!  The other thing I thought was difficult was how to save it somewhere I can find it. 

What did you enjoy?
I enjoyed creating a PowToon that is usable right away. I was also able to link it to my facebook account so my friends could watch it and offer suggestions.  I was also able to link it on my SWIFT page, so parents and students can watch it at home.

What ideas do you have for using this tool with your students, grade level, staff or to communicate with families?
I plan on using this on the first day of school.  I think it would be fun to use at Curriculum Night, too and to share it with other teachers at my grade level.  Maybe we could created one for our opening assembly!

Here is the link to my PowToon.
https://www.powtoon.com/g/bVtLgAvbcLm/1/

Welcome!

This blog is the shared space for technology campers taking part in the Edmonds Technology Summer Camp! Through a series of creative and fun challenges you will build your own knowledge and skill using technology. The learning from each challenge can be used in your classroom with students, with your grade level/department or with your staff. Each challenge asks you to share your thinking on this group blog as a brief reflection. 

The reflection should capture your experience and your thinking about the challenge and the tool you explored. Here are some questions to help you as you write your blog posts: 

• What did you create, and why? 
• What went well for you?
• What was challenging?
• What did you enjoy? 
• What ideas do you have for using this tool with your students, grade level, staff or to communicate with families? 

Please use these questions as a starting point and add any other thoughts and ideas.

View posts submitted by authors on the Technology Summer Camp Blog #1