AES EdTech Hub
Tech User of the Month: Farah Azadeh of Maricopa County Adult Probation!
Farah Azadeh is an Adult Education Instructor who is participating in the Building an EdTech Strategy Toolkit course facilitated by Jeff Goumas. Her work in the course brought to light an innovative way to use Google’s Search features, specifically for translation and pronunciation assistance.
How did you discover Google’s Search features and what did you like about them?
As a curious person and an instructor, I’ve been a fan of Google Search for most of my internet life. When I began teaching 11 years ago, I had many students who couldn’t pronounce certain discipline-related words when they saw them on paper. When students got to the word, there was always hesitation as the student struggled to figure out how to pronounce the word. And like any other teacher, I would jump in to help the student figure it out. Well, fast forward to the 21st century and Google Search with features like pronounce and translate. The pronunciation feature allows students to enter “how to pronounce [insert vocabulary word]” and Google will not only provide the correct pronunciation, but it will also allow the student to practice with feedback! Google provides the pronunciation in American or British dialects. If the word is from another language, like "tortillas", the student can hear the Spanish pronunciation. Google also provides a visual of a mouth pronouncing the word, so non-English and native-English speakers can make sure they get it right.
What issue(s) did you set out to resolve by using the pronunciation feature?
My main goal was to help students and myself learn the correct pronunciation of discipline-related vocabulary in written text. Although I learned English at a young age, it wasn’t the main language spoken at home (Persian (Farsi) was) and not knowing how certain words were pronounced was always an obstacle for my family as we learned the language. I know many of our ESL students and native-English students have the same obstacle, so having Google Search as a tool is really helpful.
How have you integrated the pronunciation feature into your teaching?
When a new unit or lesson begins, students have a Google Sheet where they record discipline related vocabulary. They use Google Search to find and Sheets to record the following: the definition, how to pronounce the word, the word in a sentence, and if they wanted a related image (for words that have more than one meaning like "seal").
What outcomes did you see as a result of utilizing Google’s Search features?
So far I’ve noticed students are more open to reading! Many have shared with me that having the Google Search app on their phones has helped them with words they usually would skip over. They not only learn how to pronounce the word, but many take it a step further and look into the first couple of websites to satisfy their curiosity.
Below is a screenshot that Farah provided identifying the different features discussed above. Here is a link to the Google Sheet (you will need to 'make a copy') that is used in conjuction with the Google Search features outlined below.
This is a great way to utilize a tool that many teachers and students already have a comfort level using, and elevate its usefulness in a meaningful way!
P.S. Want to learn about other fresh EdTech strategies from the BEST course? Join us at TNT!
Are you or someone you know implementing technology into instruction in an innovative way?
Send nominations to [email protected]
State-Provided Online Curricula
1/7/2022: Check out Discovery Education's Newsletter & a How-To Video on Odysseyware's AZ Adult Ed Standards Alignment
Click here for to access Discovery Education's January Newsletter. To learn how to access AZ Adult Ed Standards within the Odysseyware platform to assign targeted lessons, click here.
12/3/2021: Account Cleanup!
Check out these tips for cleaning out teacher and student accounts that are no longer needed. Contact info for each curricula is also provided if further assistance is needed.
11/5/2021: Utilize Odysseyware's Digital Literacy Courses!
Access Odyssyeware's suite of digital literacy courses by searching for Electives, then select Digital Literacy. You will find everything from typing practice to creating media!
10/1/2021: NROC - AZ Adult Ed. Standards Alignment Tool!
This tool aligns NROC's Developmental Math, Algebra, and English courses to Arizona's Adult Education content standards. Use this to identify lessons that will help reinforce and extend learning for students inside and outside of the classroom. Click here to access, use the tabs at the bottom to toggle between classes.
8/6/2021: Attened NROC's Back-to-School Info Sessions!
Register for one, some, or all of the August Info Sessions - practical, 30-minute demonstrations designed to help you maximize NROC's adaptable and customizable courses and tools - and rest assured that you'll have everything you need to kickstart an effective 2021–22 academic year! If you're unable to attend, register anyway, and you'll get sent the recording(s). A list of the sessions available and registration information is available here.
7/2/2021: Start the Year with a Clean Slate!
If you haven't already, don't forget to conduct an end of year cleanup in all three of the online curricula for all students/teachers who have left the program to begin the new year with less (virtual) clutter! Reach out to our representatives below if you need assistance:
Sylvia Gomez for BurlingtonEnglish: [email protected]
Jason Gipson-Nahman for EdReady: [email protected]
Kim Nguyen for Odysseyware: [email protected]
Burlington Core Initial Teacher Training
Live Session: 09-December-2021 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Click here to register
On Demand Training; reach out to [email protected] to get registered!
Discovery Education Training
Lesson Design with Studio: 16-December-2021 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Click here to register
Studio is a space where teachers can design and assign highly engaging lesson activities. Additionally, students can create boards to demonstrate what they know, showcase digital skills, engage in academic discourse, and develop digital citizenship. During this session, participants will explore studio and learn how to combine digital content with effective teaching strategies to create multimedia studio boards.
Spotlight on Strategies: Click here to view recording
The Spotlight on Strategies (SOS) are creative, research-based instructional strategies, presented by teachers for teachers. These simple instructional strategies incorporate digital media in meaningful, effective, and practical ways. During this session, participants will take a deep dive into Discovery Education’s Spotlight on Strategies. Participants will have an opportunity to explore the strategies and create a plan for implementing them in their classrooms.
Odysseyware Initial Teacher Training
10-December-2021 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Click here to register
Arizona-Specific Resources
Blended & Virtual/Distance Learning Policy
The updated version includes pertinent AAEDMS information and features the newly approved online curricula. Click here to view.
State-Approved Online Curricula Info-graphic
This info-graphic contains the approved online curriculum for the Learner Mastery Model and Clock-Time Model as well as tips for success regarding reporting proxy hours in AAEDMS and the Teacher Verification Model! Click here to view.
AZ Library Resources for Internet Challenges
State Land Department’s Statewide Map of Public Wifi Hotspots: https://azland.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=20dd52ea241e42f0932ac1a27580f3e0
A Tucson Based Group is Mapping Wifi and Food Distribution Sites for Their Communities: https://www.c2cpima.org/district_resources
Wifi Hotspot Lending Program Update: recently awarded funding for 16 libraries to start or continue lending programs, and with the CARES Act stimulus funding are in the process of awarding additional funding for hotspot lending. Reach out to your local library to see if they are a participant of this program.
AZ Library Tech Access Phoneline: Get FREE tech help with anything from help with computer issues, finding free wifi hotspots, to using your smartphone to access email and other apps!
Teacher Verification Model
Blended Learning Certification (TVM requirement)
Focus: Ensure an understanding of blended learning as a mode of instruction. You will also have a thorough understanding, and provide evidence to show as such, of the 'teacher verification model'. Click here to enroll
After you've completed the Blended Learning Certification course, submit an assignment for the TVM using this Resource Evaluation Tool Template.
Click here for a video walkthrough of the template.
Teacher Verification Model Lesson Repository with Search Feature!
Use this Google Sheet to filter and search for TVM submissions from around the state. Click here for an instructional video and/or follow the steps below on how to navigate it:
Click the link above then select “Make a copy”
Use the drop-down boxes to select your filter/search criteria
Delete the cell to clear the filter
EdTech Tools & Training
Sandbox Office Hours (will resume in February)
Sandbox Office Hours has an additional feature! We will still be utilizing the flipped model of blended learning by posting a video that introduces an EdTech tool to be viewed asynchronously one week, and then the following week, offer a chance to practice using that tool with a member of the EdTech team at the ready to assist and answer any questions you might have. After you've played around with a tool and determined it can fulfill a need for other teachers at your program, you (or your administrator) can request an additional training session to be held virtually for your program! Use the EdTech Training Catalog to help you fill out this Form and put in your request!
Tech Tools for Sandbox Office Hours
It can be difficult to know what purpose a tool serves just by the name. So, we have created a table that tells you a bit more about the tool and how it could be used to enhance instruction (categories are based on COABE’s session ‘The Seven Elements of aHighly Effective Remote Teaching/Learning Program’). Once you’ve watched the video for the tool of your choice, don’t forget to pop in to a Sandbox Office Hour session to get your questions answered!
EdTech Tools & Strategies for Distance Learning YouTube Channel
Check out all of our past sessions featuring digital tools that enhance instruction presented by the EdTech Team and AZ's Awesome Teachers! Click here to see the entire playlist!
Digital Tools for Different Access Scenarios
Check out this table that briefly describes various digital tools that can be used in all access scenarios (from a computer with reliable internet to a cell phone with unreliable internet to no internet or computer access)
HyFlex Model Info
There has been a lot of talk about the HyFlex model of instruction. Check out this infographic to learn a bit more about what it entails and how to get started. Check back next month for more tips on this model!
NEW: HyFlex Choice Board! Click here to learn about engagement strategies, technology tips, and more!
Instructional Strategies
Focus: Instructional strategies that are often referred to as 'The Marzano 9’, along with a range of technology tools that can be integrated into your instruction. Click here to enroll
Google Sites for Assessment
Focus: Building a Google Site with a YouTube video, a Google Form, and some written guidance for students to follow. Click here to enroll
Digital Literacy Resources & Training
Digital Literacy Supports for Students & Teachers
- Northstar Digital Literacy has NSOL platform courses freely available at the moment, including: Basic Computer Skills, Email, Microsoft Word, and Career Search Skills.
Microsoft has a pair of digital literacy courses that go from basic computer skills to collaboration online.
Too busy to read? Check out this ISTE Podcast about Edtech questions.
Facebook has a Digital Literacy Library with 5 different modules of free lessons covering Privacy & Reputation, Identity Exploration, Positive Behavior, and more.
Google has an extensive list of courses geared towards adult learners in their Applied Digital Skills program.
KQED has a host of courses with instructors in mind that help with modern media such as video production and interactive media.
NEW! Digital Literacy for Teachers (Intermediate level)
Focus: Internet security, copyright & fair use, the Creative Commons, creating engaging presentations, utilizing feedback tools, creating surveys, and analyzing survey results. Click here to enroll
Digital Literacy for Teachers (Beginner to Intermediate levels)
Focus: Introductory training on Microsoft Office Suite and Google G Suite to support Digital Literacy in the classroom. Click here to enroll
Self-Paced Online Courses - Earn 4 hours of PD for each one!
NEW! Digital Literacy for Teachers (Intermediate level)
Focus: Internet security, copyright & fair use, the Creative Commons, creating engaging presentations, utilizing feedback tools, creating surveys, and analyzing survey results. Click here to enroll
Digital Literacy for Teachers (Beginner to Intermediate levels)
Focus: Introductory training on Microsoft Office Suite and Google G Suite to support Digital Literacy in the classroom. Click here to enroll
Instructional Strategies
Focus: Instructional strategies that are often referred to as 'The Marzano 9’, along with a range of technology tools that can be integrated into your instruction. Click here to enroll
Google Sites for Assessment
Focus: Building a Google Site with a YouTube video, a Google Form, and some written guidance for students to follow. Click here to enroll
Blended Learning Certification (TVM requirement)
Focus: Ensure an understanding of blended learning as a mode of instruction. You will also have a thorough understanding, and provide evidence to show as such, of the 'teacher verification model'. Click here to enroll
