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I've heard Anne Jenks share numerous times the importance of teaching coding in school, especially with so many STEM professions available . If computer science careers are the number one source of jobs in the US, then we should have more computer science graduates, and therefore more coding/programming opportunities in K-12 classrooms. Urgency with coding in classrooms now for jobs in the future #cue16 #gccue pic.twitter.com/oDGiOX7M7d — Tracy Watanabe (@tracywatanabe) March 17, 2016 The time is now to start teaching digital fluency and coding as part of literacy. Being literate in today's world, includes computer literacy. Luckily, there are organizations, such as Code.org , dedicated to giving students opportunities to learn computer science. How do you get started? Below are a few places for getting started: Device Elementary Secondary iPad Daisy the Dinosaur Tickle  (older app) Hopscotch Scratch Jr. Cargo-Bot Tickle Laptop/Desktop Scra...

In this post, my focus is sharing some of the math resources that I heard about during "Core technologies for the Common Core" by Kyle Brumbaugh and Elizabeth Calhoon at #ISTE2014 . I'll also add a few ideas of my own. Math in the real world Students should be able to apply mathematical concepts to real world issues . In the real world , math doesn't come in a box labeled, "Today you will only use your multiplying with fractions skill." In the real world, students must use critical thinking to solve problems. As math is taught, it must be relevant to our students by connecting to the real world. Technology can assist in relevancy by giving students access to real-time data, current information, interactive tools, and audiences beyond the four classroom walls. Use appropriate tools strategically  Students are asked to choose appropriate tools strategically when solving math problems. Appropriate tools include traditional tools such as ru...

Just a few weeks ago, I was asked by our Governing Board if some students and teachers could share about Project Based Learning at the next Board Meeting, and it was easy to say yes because PBL has found a home at AJUSD.   Solar exploration in Mrs. Hamman's 5th grade class This STEM project was student driven. They researched problems and solutions on their own, and concluded that solar energy could help solve problems with purifying drinking water and eliminating the health hazards and environmental damage of cooking fires. Here's an overview of their project, created by the students: Listen to this insightful student reflection (also inside the Popplet above): I loved how their reflection captured the authenticity of the learning driven by their interests, the rigor of the project, the relevance to them and others, their responsibility and commitment to their learning, and the insight gained from this PBL. Water quality in Mrs. Go...