Topic: Technology

3 Top Tips to Start the School Year with Meaningful Tech

Posted on by Tiffani Brown

As educators prepare for another school year, the promise and pressure of educational technology looms large. With countless apps, platforms, and digital tools vying for classroom attention, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the possibilities—or paralyzed by the choices. The key to meaningful tech integration isn’t about using more tools; it’s about using the right tools well.

Here are three essential strategies to help you start the school year with purposeful, impactful technology use.

Tip 1: Choose Your Champions—Quality Over Quantity

One pitfall educators may experience is tool overload. Instead of trying to master every different platform you see on social media or in your colleagues orbits, identify 2-3 core technologies that align with your learning objectives and commit to mastering them. Bonus points if you can leverage a tool that your school or district already supports. They may already have resources, coaches, or trainings on those tools.

When selecting your tech champions, ask yourself: Does this tool solve a real problem in my classroom? Does it enhance learning in ways that wouldn’t be possible without it? Can I see myself and my students becoming genuinely proficient with it over time?

Remember, students learn better when they can develop deep familiarity with tools rather than constantly adapting to new interfaces. A well-implemented Google Workspace, learning management system, or creative platform will always outperform a scattered collection of half-learned applications.

Tip 2: Student Voice, Student Choice

The most meaningful technology integration happens when students have agency in their learning tools. Rather than mandating specific apps or platforms for every task, create opportunities for students to explore and advocate for the technologies that resonate with their learning styles and interests.

Consider starting the year with a “tech showcase” where students can demonstrate tools they already use for creativity, organization, or learning. Build choice into your assignments—let students choose between creating a video, podcast, infographic, or interactive presentation to demonstrate their understanding.

When students feel ownership over their digital tools, engagement naturally follows. They become collaborators in the learning process rather than passive recipients of predetermined tech experiences. This approach also prepares them for real-world scenarios where they’ll need to evaluate and select appropriate tools for different tasks.

Tip 3: Build AI Literacy for the Future

Artificial intelligence isn’t just coming to education—it’s already here. Rather than avoiding or fearing AI tools, this school year presents an opportunity to help students develop critical AI literacy skills that will serve them throughout their academic and professional lives.

Begin by becoming comfortable with AI tools yourself. Experiment with using AI for lesson planning, creating discussion questions, or generating multiple perspectives on complex topics. Once you’ve developed confidence with AI as an educator, you can better guide students in meaningful integration.

Make the most of well-crafted prompt stems when introducing AI to students. Try prompts like:

  • “Create a Socratic dialogue between [historical figure] and [modern expert] about [current issue] that reveals three different perspectives” or
  • “Generate a scenario where students must evaluate conflicting AI-generated arguments about [topic] and identify potential biases or gaps in reasoning” or
  • “Design a problem-solving activity where AI provides initial research, but students must synthesize, critique, and build upon that information to reach their own conclusions.”

Most importantly, focus on developing skills that complement AI: critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving. When students understand both AI’s capabilities and limitations, they’re better positioned to use these tools thoughtfully and effectively.

Moving Forward with Purpose

Meaningful technology integration isn’t about keeping up with the latest trends—it’s about thoughtfully selecting, implementing, and reflecting on the tools that truly enhance learning. By focusing your efforts, amplifying student voice, and preparing learners for an AI-enhanced future, you’ll create a classroom environment where technology serves learning rather than distracting from it.

As you embark on this school year, remember that the most powerful educational technology is still an engaged teacher working with curious students. Everything else is just a tool to help make that magic happen.

Written by Tiffani Brown, Program Specialist at CUE. This post has AI-supported content that was human-reviewed.

As educators prepare for another school year, the promise and pressure of educational technology looms large. With countless apps, platforms, and digital tools vying for classroom attention, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the possibilities—or paralyzed by the choices. The key to meaningful tech integration isn’t about using more tools; it’s about using the right tools well.

Here are three essential strategies to help you start the school year with purposeful, impactful technology use.

Tip 1: Choose Your Champions—Quality Over Quantity

One pitfall educators may experience is tool overload. Instead of trying to master every different platform you see on social media or in your colleagues orbits, identify 2-3 core technologies that align with your learning objectives and commit to mastering them. Bonus points if you can leverage a tool that your school or district already supports. They may already have resources, coaches, or trainings on those tools.

When selecting your tech champions, ask yourself: Does this tool solve a real problem in my classroom? Does it enhance learning in ways that wouldn’t be possible without it? Can I see myself and my students becoming genuinely proficient with it over time?

Remember, students learn better when they can develop deep familiarity with tools rather than constantly adapting to new interfaces. A well-implemented Google Workspace, learning management system, or creative platform will always outperform a scattered collection of half-learned applications.

Tip 2: Student Voice, Student Choice

The most meaningful technology integration happens when students have agency in their learning tools. Rather than mandating specific apps or platforms for every task, create opportunities for students to explore and advocate for the technologies that resonate with their learning styles and interests.

Consider starting the year with a “tech showcase” where students can demonstrate tools they already use for creativity, organization, or learning. Build choice into your assignments—let students choose between creating a video, podcast, infographic, or interactive presentation to demonstrate their understanding.

When students feel ownership over their digital tools, engagement naturally follows. They become collaborators in the learning process rather than passive recipients of predetermined tech experiences. This approach also prepares them for real-world scenarios where they’ll need to evaluate and select appropriate tools for different tasks.

Tip 3: Build AI Literacy for the Future

Artificial intelligence isn’t just coming to education—it’s already here. Rather than avoiding or fearing AI tools, this school year presents an opportunity to help students develop critical AI literacy skills that will serve them throughout their academic and professional lives.

Begin by becoming comfortable with AI tools yourself. Experiment with using AI for lesson planning, creating discussion questions, or generating multiple perspectives on complex topics. Once you’ve developed confidence with AI as an educator, you can better guide students in meaningful integration.

Make the most of well-crafted prompt stems when introducing AI to students. Try prompts like:

  • “Create a Socratic dialogue between [historical figure] and [modern expert] about [current issue] that reveals three different perspectives” or
  • “Generate a scenario where students must evaluate conflicting AI-generated arguments about [topic] and identify potential biases or gaps in reasoning” or
  • “Design a problem-solving activity where AI provides initial research, but students must synthesize, critique, and build upon that information to reach their own conclusions.”

Most importantly, focus on developing skills that complement AI: critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving. When students understand both AI’s capabilities and limitations, they’re better positioned to use these tools thoughtfully and effectively.

Moving Forward with Purpose

Meaningful technology integration isn’t about keeping up with the latest trends—it’s about thoughtfully selecting, implementing, and reflecting on the tools that truly enhance learning. By focusing your efforts, amplifying student voice, and preparing learners for an AI-enhanced future, you’ll create a classroom environment where technology serves learning rather than distracting from it.

As you embark on this school year, remember that the most powerful educational technology is still an engaged teacher working with curious students. Everything else is just a tool to help make that magic happen.

Written by Tiffani Brown, Program Specialist at CUE. This post has AI-supported content that was human-reviewed.

AI in Education: What School Leaders Need to Do This Year

Posted on by Rae Fearing

On July 21, 2025, the U.S. Department of Education published a Proposed Priority and Definitions—Secretary’s Supplemental Priority and Definitions on Advancing Artificial Intelligence in Education (Docket ID ED‑2025‑OS‑0118, FR Doc 2025‑13650, 90 FR 34203–34206)1 for a 30‑day public comment period a proposed priority that could shape the next decade of learning: Advancing Artificial Intelligence in Education. It’s not just a funding move—it’s a signal. A signal that the future of education is now, and it will be influenced, shaped, and redefined by AI.

What should school leaders do this year to prepare?

This is bigger than adopting a tool or adding an AI training to your PD calendar. Forward thinking leaders will use this year strategically to ensure all staff build awareness and confidence around AI, what it is, how it’s showing up in education, and how to integrate it thoughtfully into teaching and learning. It’s not about turning everyone into AI experts, it’s about making sure no one is left out of the conversation.

Why This Matters Now

We are no longer at the beginning of the AI conversation. We’re at the inflection point.
The Department’s proposed definition of AI literacy sets a powerful foundation:
“The technical knowledge, durable skills, and future-ready attitudes required to thrive in a world influenced by AI. It enables learners to engage, create with, manage, and design AI, while critically evaluating its benefits, risks, and implications.”

AI literacy isn’t just for coders or tech electives. It’s for every student. And every educator needs to be ready to help students meet that challenge.

Key Priorities for Leaders to Focus On This Year

Let’s cut through the 1,000-foot policy language and get specific about what this means for school and district leaders.

Here are three priorities to focus on right now:

Priority 1:  Invest in Educator Learning First

Before we ask teachers to teach about AI or integrate AI into their classrooms, we need to start by investing in their confidence and understanding.

This includes:

  • Professional learning that explains how AI works (and where it doesn’t)
  • Opportunities to explore ethical questions around AI in instruction and student use
  • Support for integrating AI into their own workflows—lesson planning, assessment, communication

This school year is the time to start building lasting capacity—not just offering one-off training.
Ask yourself: Do your teachers have the language, space, and tools to talk about AI with their students confidently?

Priority 2:  Infuse AI Literacy Across the Curriculum

AI should not live in a single elective or tech department. It should show up in social studies, where students analyze bias in algorithmic decision-making. In English, where they learn to spot AI-generated misinformation. In science, where students explore data, pattern recognition, and models.

This year, challenge your team to:

  • Identify natural crossovers between current curriculum and AI concepts
  • Pilot AI literacy units that connect to real-world issues
  • Talk about AI as a human issue, not just a technical one

Priority 3: Leverage AI to Support Learning and Innovation

There’s a lot of hype around AI tools. Some of it’s legit. Some of it’s smoke and mirrors.
But here’s the part we should pay attention to:

  • How might AI help us address the long-standing challenges that have nothing to do with technology?
  • Can AI help us personalize learning in ways that support students with disabilities or multilingual learners?
  • Can it free up time for teachers by handling repetitive admin tasks?
  • Can we use AI to offer high-quality tutoring or college and career guidance in schools that have never had access before?

Where to Start (Even If You’re Not “Ready”)

Many schools don’t have an AI plan and that’s okay. Here’s what you can do now:

  • Do an audit: What AI tools are already being used in your schools—officially or unofficially?
  • Ask your staff: What do they want and need to learn about AI this year?
  • Identify a small, focused pilot project (AI in tutoring? PD workflow? Student media literacy unit?)
  • Assemble an internal working group to keep the conversation moving—and build momentum.

You don’t need a finished plan to make progress—these early actions help build staff awareness, build momentum toward AI literacy, and create a strong foundation for future planning.

What This Priority Could Mean for Funding & Strategy

This new federal priority lays the groundwork for future funding opportunities that will reward the districts already doing the work. That means this year’s efforts can double as strategy and grant prep.

Use this year to:

  • Document your teacher training efforts
  • Design programs that align with the proposed categories (dual enrollment, certifications, teacher prep, etc.)
  • Gather evidence of what’s working—those data points will matter when the next round of funding opens up

This new proposed priority from the U.S. Department of Education gives school leaders an opportunity to take a thoughtful, proactive approach to AI without rushing, overhauling everything, or getting lost in the buzz. You don’t need your staff to be an AI experts, you need to be clear about your goals for teaching and learning, and willing to ask how AI fits into that vision.

Start small and use the ideas in this post to:

  • Ground your team in a shared understanding of what AI literacy means.
  • Build confidence and clarity through targeted professional learning.
  • Create safe spaces for teachers to experiment, reflect, and collaborate.
  • Center your decisions on what’s best for students, not just what’s trending.

AI is already part of our world and school leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about asking the right questions, bringing your educators into the conversation, and making intentional moves.

The U.S. Department of Education’s proposed priority offers a clear invitation for schools to lead this work with purpose and reflection. If you haven’t already, take a moment to review the proposal and consider submitting a comment at this link by selecting ‘public comments’ in the menu bar on the left. Your voice as a school leader matters in shaping how this policy supports the real work happening in classrooms every day.

  1. U.S. Department of Education. Proposed Priority and Definitions—Secretary’s Supplemental Priority and Definitions on Advancing Artificial Intelligence in Education. Federal Register, Vol. 90, No. 139, July 21, 2025, pp. 34203–34206. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/07/21/2025-13650 ↩︎

Leading the Way: Media Literacy for EdTech Leaders

Posted on by TeamCalie

Join us for the 10th Annual U.S. Media Literacy Week, hosted by NAMLE (National Association for Media Literacy Education) from October 21-25! As tech leaders in your schools and districts, you already understand the importance of integrating innovative tools into your teaching. Media literacy is a crucial component of preparing students to critically analyze information and navigate the digital landscape with confidence.

Here’s how you can enhance your edtech practices and make media literacy a powerful tool in your classroom:

NAMLE (National Association for Media Literacy Education)

  • What It Offers: NAMLE, the official host of Media Literacy Week, provides an array of resources, including videos, webinars, and toolkits, all designed to help teachers incorporate media literacy into their lessons. They also host the Media Literacy Resource Showcase during the week, where educators can explore the latest tools and strategies for teaching these critical skills.
  • Free Teacher Accounts: No account is necessary, and many of NAMLE’s resources, webinars, and events are freely accessible on their website.
  • Why It’s Great for Innovators: NAMLE’s comprehensive materials support you in staying ahead of the curve, offering cutting-edge strategies and resources to integrate media literacy seamlessly into your technology-rich classroom.

AllSides for Schools

  • What It Offers: AllSides for Schools provides a Media Bias Chart and curated news stories from across the political spectrum, helping students compare diverse perspectives on the same issue. This resource can be easily integrated into your existing digital curriculum to promote critical thinking and nuanced discussion in the classroom.
  • Free Teacher Accounts: Yes, AllSides offers free teacher accounts, giving you access to lesson plans, discussion guides, and a range of interactive media bias tools.
  • Why It’s Great for Innovators: You can use AllSides to create interactive lessons where students analyze bias using digital tools, enhancing their media literacy skills while promoting digital age thinking.

Checkology by the News Literacy Project

  • What It Offers: Checkology is an interactive platform that guides students through real-world scenarios to teach them how to recognize misinformation, evaluate sources, and understand the role of the media in a democracy. It’s an ideal resource for tech leaders who want to add more immersive, student-led learning experiences to their classroom.
  • Free Teacher Accounts: Yes, Checkology offers free accounts with access to most of its core media literacy lessons.
  • Why It’s Great for Innovators: Checkology’s gamified learning modules allow students to engage in simulations where they become media detectives, building crucial literacy skills while leveraging your classroom’s technology tools.

How This Supports Your Innovative Teaching Practices:

  • AllSides For Schools and Checkology both integrate seamlessly with the digital tools and learning management systems you’re already using, enabling you to enhance student engagement and create dynamic, interactive lessons.
  • By incorporating these media literacy tools, you’ll empower students to become critical thinkers and responsible digital citizens, preparing them for the challenges of a tech-driven world.
  • These resources promote student-centered learning, allowing you to facilitate discussions that foster a deeper understanding of the digital media landscape.

ISTE DigCit Competencies

In today’s digital world, every school needs a robust digital citizenship program to ensure students are safe, responsible, and proactive online. The ISTE Digital Citizenship Competencies are a great starting point, shifting the focus from what students shouldn’t do to empowering them with the skills and mindset to become thoughtful, empathetic digital citizens. By incorporating these competencies alongside media literacy tools like AllSides and Checkology, educators can create a holistic approach to teaching students how to navigate, evaluate, and contribute to the digital world. Explore ISTE’s comprehensive resources here.

Leverage these powerful tools during Media Literacy Week to inspire students to critically engage with the world around them while furthering your innovative teaching practices. Let’s continue to lead the way in digital education this October!

Creating Classrooms That Shine with Student-Centered Learning Strategies

Posted on by TeamCalie

Creating a vibrant, student-centered learning environment is a transformative journey filled with excitement and possibility. As we consider how our learning spaces will welcome our learners back to school, let’s embrace the opportunity to reimagine our classrooms with strategies that celebrate and amplify student voice and choice while supporting each unique learner. This Edutopia video, “How to Set Up a Learner-Centered Classroom,” provides practical tips and real-world examples to help you visualize and actualize your ideas. It’s not just about setting up a space; it’s about cultivating a dynamic community where every student feels supported and inspired.

Collaborative Classroom Design

Another innovative strategy is setting up a Calming or Peace Corner—a designated space for students to retreat and self-regulate when they feel overwhelmed. This is also referred to as a Calm Corner, Reflection Station, or Mindfulness Area. Whatever you call it, make sure that this area is a positive, reflective space rather than a punitive one, allowing students to recharge and return to learning with a clear mind.  Read about Incorporating a Calming Corner Into Station Rotations for dozens of ideas to get you started. Bridging Apps even has a list of helpful apps for students to help them regulate and calm down for early elementary, upper elementary, middle school, and high school.

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Developing a Social Contract

Building a classroom community starts with establishing clear expectations. Instead of imposing rules, work with your students to create a social contract or a set of norms. This process gives them a sense of ownership and accountability. Once the contract is agreed upon and signed off by your students, display it prominently in the classroom as a constant reminder of their shared commitments.

Creating a Calming Corner

Another innovative strategy is setting up a Calming or Peace Corner—a designated space for students to retreat and self-regulate when they feel overwhelmed. This is also referred to as a Calm Corner, Reflection Station, or Mindfulness Area. Whatever you call it, make sure that this area is a positive, reflective space rather than a punitive one, allowing students to recharge and return to learning with a clear mind.  Read about Incorporating a Calming Corner Into Station Rotations for dozens of ideas to get you started. Bridging Apps even has a list of helpful apps for students to help them regulate and calm down for early elementary, upper elementary, middle school, and high school.

Routine Discussions and Active Listening

Integrating daily routines for open discussions can significantly enhance student engagement. Morning meetings, for example, provide a structured opportunity for every Two young students happily engaged in reading together, fostering a learner-centered classroom environment student to voice their thoughts and listen to others. For older students, Socratic Circles can foster deeper conversations and respectful debate, promoting critical thinking and empathy.

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Empowering Student Voices

Above all, empowering student voices and supporting every student is key to a thriving classroom environment. Sharing the floor with students and encouraging open dialogue helps them feel heard and respected. Whether you plan for this time or allow it to happen organically, we can all benefit from putting energy toward hosting discussion spaces rather than leading them. This approach not only builds their confidence but also strengthens the classroom community.

Implementing these practices can transform your classroom into a dynamic and supportive space where every student thrives. Let’s embark on this journey together, creating classrooms that are not just places of learning, but communities where joy, creativity, and connection flourish.

Secure Your Communication: Cybersecurity Tips for Educators

Posted on by TeamCalie

June is National Internet Safety Month

As your schedule becomes more personalized and less tethered to your school or home internet networks, it’s a good idea to take a moment and review some best practices when it comes to keeping you and your communication safe and secure. Ensuring email security is crucial to protect student information and maintain trust within the educational community. It’s also just as important to understand the basic concepts of cybersecurity. 

Here are some essential security tips and resources for educators to consider and explore as you launch into summer vacation.

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1. Create Strong, Unique Passwords

A strong password is your first line of defense against unauthorized access. Use a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdays or common words. Consider using a password manager to generate and store unique passwords for each account securely.

PRO TIP: Use tools like www.random.org’s Random Password Generator to help keep your passwords fresh and safe. 

2. Recognize Phishing Attempts

Phishing emails attempt to trick you into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links. Be wary of emails from unknown senders or those that create a sense of urgency. Look for red flags such as poor grammar, suspicious attachments, or links that don’t match the sender’s domain. If in doubt, verify the email’s legitimacy by contacting the sender directly through a trusted communication channel.

PRO TIP: Try your hand at practicing to identify phishing attempts through the Google Phishing Quiz powered by Jigsaw.

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3. Understand Cybersecurity and Have Fun Doing It

Cybersecurity is crucial for all users and educators in 2024 because the increasing reliance on digital tools and online platforms makes us more vulnerable to cyber threats. Protecting sensitive information, such as student data and personal details, is essential to maintain trust and privacy. Additionally, understanding cybersecurity helps educators create a safe learning environment and empowers students to navigate the digital world securely.

PRO TIP: Understand cybersecurity by playing Cyber Awareness Challenge by the US Department of Defense. This engaging, interactive game helps you navigate various scenarios, including email safety, ensuring you learn vital cybersecurity skills in an enjoyable and memorable way. 

During National Internet Safety Month, remember to take the lead and help safeguard your communication and protect the sensitive student information you handle daily. Prioritizing cybersecurity not only protects you but also fosters a safe and trustworthy educational environment for everyone involved.

Simple Steps for Crafting a District AI Policy: How to share this infographic with school leaders

Posted on by TeamCalie

If you’ve been paying attention to how tech is transforming education this past year, you know AI is on the scene. It’s not just a buzzword anymore; it’s real, and it’s happening now. As exciting as it is, bringing AI into our schools isn’t just about flipping a switch. We need to be smart and strategic about it. Based on the Edutopia article, “4 Simple Steps for Crafting a District AI Policy,” this original CUE infographic includes tips covering everything from ethics to practical applications of AI.

Think about this infographic as a helpful conversation-starter to navigate the steps needed to develop policies in our AI world. It breaks down the complexities into manageable pieces, helping you and your leadership team understand concepts like data privacy, AI bias, and how to use these tools effectively. Feel empowered to discuss how AI has the potential to benefit everyone and align with your district’s mission and values. And feel free to remind your team that a strong and thoughtful policy will help avoid pitfalls like biased algorithms and security issues while promoting innovation.

So how can you get this information to the right people on your team? 

  • Distribute through Email: Email distribution can provide direct access to the infographic, allowing leaders to review and reflect on the content at their convenience. 

Here’s a sample AI Prompt for a related email that you can customize for your community:

  • You are an educator concerned about developing an AI policy for <your school district> but unable to draft the policy yourself. Compose an email to <your school leader> sharing an infographic that discusses simple steps to crafting a district AI policy. The email is the beginning of a conversation, so make sure the tone is <friendly, approachable, and action-oriented.> Offer to assist in the policy development and explain that you’re willing to meet to discuss this further.
  • Print Copies and Hand Them Out: Hand out printed copies of the infographic to your peers or drop it into their mailboxes. Having a printed copy of the resource on your desk can actually serve as a reminder to follow up about it and learn more.
  • Share at a Staff Meetings: Share the infographic during leadership meetings, weekly staff meetings, and professional development workshops. This opens up the floor for discussions and helps turn these ideas into action plans.

Get inspiration from these discussion stems and make them you own:

  • “A big takeaway from this infographic is how we need to think about ethical concerns, like…”
  • “To keep our district on the cutting edge with AI, we can use the tips in this infographic by…”
  • “Using the insights from this infographic in our plans, we can really boost our teaching methods by…”
  • “One key point is how we can use AI to better support our students’ learning needs, such as…”
  • “The infographic highlights the importance of involving caregivers in the AI policy process by…”

Discuss at a Personal Meeting: Make an appointment with your school leader/s and offer the infographic in advance. Making sure you both come to the meeting aware of the topic and the resource being shared increases confidence and creates a more comfortable starting place for discussion.

Find Someone to Share it on Your Behalf: Not in a position to meet with the school leaders who need this information? Seek out someone who can present it to the leadership team for you. Connecting with thought partners and advocates is a crucial step in building capacity.

You are already dialed into this important conversation by simply exploring this infographic. Now, you’re ready to spread this resource through multiple channels. Make sure you’ve done your part to ensure that everyone is prepared to use AI in a way that’s ethical, effective, and ultimately awesome for our students.

Leading the AI Charge: Community Colleges and K-12 Schools Set to Shine

Posted on by TeamCalie

In a recent press release from the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) introduced the NSF AI Education Act of 2024, and it’s set to transform AI education across the nation. This bipartisan bill is packed with incredible opportunities for K-16 educators, and here’s why you should be pumped about it.

EXPANDING SCHOLARSHIPS AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

First off, this legislation is all about expanding access to scholarships and professional development in AI and quantum studies, thanks to the National Science Foundation (NSF). Imagine our students diving deep into the world of AI with undergraduate and graduate scholarships, or our colleagues upskilling through fellowships and hands-on learning experiences. This is particularly game-changing for those of us working in rural areas, community colleges, and underserved communities, ensuring everyone gets a fair shot at AI education.

MANDATORY INTEGRATION OF AI SKILLS INTO K12 CURRICULUM

For our K-12 teachers, the bill mandates the creation of comprehensive guidance to weave AI skills into our classrooms. We’re talking about top-notch teaching tools and publicly available resources focused on reaching low-income, rural, and tribal students. This means we’ll have the support we need to prepare our students for the fast-growing AI job market, making sure no one gets left behind.

AI EDUCATION & RESEARCH HUBS AT COMMUNITY COLLEGES

The bill plans to establish at least five “Centers of AI Excellence” across the country. These hubs will focus on AI education and research, promoting best practices and spreading knowledge far and wide. For those of us in California, which boasts a wealth of community colleges, this is a golden opportunity to lead the charge in AI education and innovation.

AI RESEARCH GRANTS FOR INNOVATIONS IN AGRICULTURE

And let’s not forget our friends in the agricultural sector. The bill authorizes grants for AI research and training through Land-Grant Universities and the Cooperative Extension Service. This is about equipping our farmers with cutting-edge AI tools to boost crop production, showing that AI’s impact reaches every corner of our lives.

Senator Cantwell stresses the urgency of preparing for tomorrow’s tech jobs today, highlighting the booming demand for AI expertise. Senator Moran echoes this, emphasizing the critical need to invest in STEM education to stay competitive globally. This bill builds on Cantwell’s previous initiatives like the Future of AI Innovation Act and the CHIPS and Science Act, reinforcing her commitment to keeping the U.S. at the forefront of AI and emerging technologies.

For all educators, the NSF AI Education Act of 2024 is a beacon of innovation. It’s not just about enhancing AI education; it’s about empowering us to inspire and equip the next generation of tech leaders. So let’s get ready to embrace these new opportunities, engage with these legislative developments, and continue to drive innovation in our classrooms. The future is bright, and it’s ours to shape!

Top 5 Education Research Podcasts

Posted on by TeamCalie

Here are 5 educator podcasters who are also engaged in research or feature current researchers. These podcasts provide valuable insights into current educational research and its practical applications for educators.

1.  The Learning Scientists Podcast

This podcast focuses on evidence-based practice in education. Hosted by cognitive psychologists, it covers topics like learning theories and effective teaching strategies.

2. The Education Gadfly Show (Fordham Institute)

Discussions of recent education news, usually featuring Fordham’s Mike Petrilli and David Griffith. Then Amber Northern will recap a recent research study.

3. Meet the Education Researcher (Monash University)

Emerging issues and the latest ideas from across the world of education research. This is a monthly podcast that covers innovative research that will certainly expand your thinking.

4. Naylor’s Natter (Phil Naylor)

Phil Naylor’s podcast focuses on evidenced based teaching and features discussions with educators and researchers about the latest developments in teaching and learning. His episodes often highlight current research and its implications for classroom practice.

5. Truth for Teachers Podcast (Angela Watson)

Angela Watson provides actionable advice for teachers, often drawing from educational research to support her tips on classroom management, productivity, and teacher wellbeing.

Elevating K-12 Classrooms with Comprehensive Media Literacy

Posted on by TeamCalie

From Legislation to Learning

  • With the passage of AB 873 (requiring media literacy throughout English, science, math, and history), media literacy implementation is necessary. Wasn’t media literacy always necessary? This bill comes with concerns of low media literacy skills and the insurgence of Web 3.0 with the intent “to ensure that all pupils in California are prepared with media literacy skills necessary to safely, responsibly, and critically consume and use social media and other forms of media.” We already had SB 830 (2018) stemming from concerns of low media skills and insurgence of web 2.0 with the intent “…to ensure that young adults are prepared with media literacy skills necessary to safely, responsibly, and critically consume and use social media and other forms of media.” 

Access to more information further heightens the importance of media literacy skills.

  • Media literacy is essential in today’s digital age, where we are constantly bombarded with information from various sources. Being able to distinguish fact from fiction is even more imperative. When memes influence thinking, students need to be able to critically evaluate and analyze content, including media messages and articles in a textbook. Further, being able to discern intent and distinguish between misinformation and disinformation empowers students to navigate the complex landscape of information, enabling them to make informed decisions and contribute to a healthier media ecosystem.

Media literacy is key to accessing, understanding, creating, and responsibly sharing information

  • Internet use is on the rise. Production and sharing of media are on the rise. Generative Artificial Intelligence is everywhere. The latest technology bombardment of generative artificial intelligence showcases a collective need and weakness of media literacy skills. This is not to be another thing on top of all the things we already do, not an assembly, not a stand-alone lesson, not a checkbox. Rather, incorporate the skills into what you are already doing, continual development, and practice for our ever-changing world.

-Katie McNamara, Director of the Teacher Librarian Program at Fresno Pacific University

A perfect starting point is asking questions
Initial Factual QuestionsDeeper Conceptual QuestionsInquiry Questions
Who created the content? What is their intent? How does this make me feel?Who is being left out? What is being prioritized? What is the call to action?What do I need to know to understand this better? What am I wondering about?

Below you will find various resources to help your media literacy journey. They range from lessons you can use tomorrow to webinars for personal learning. Your School’s Teacher Librarian is the BEST resource you can access. They are trained in providing instruction in media literacy and are ready to collaborate with you.

Center for Media Literacy
Center for Media Literacy (CML) is an educational organization dedicated to promoting and supporting media literacy education as a framework for accessing, analyzing, evaluating, creating, and interacting with media content.

Critical Media Project
Critical Media Project (CMP) is a free media literacy web resource for educators and students (ages 8-21) that enhances young people’s critical thinking and empathy and builds on their capacities to advocate for change around questions of identity.

Center for Media and Information Literacy
The CMIL works with educators, scholars, parents, children, youth, and the media industry to advance critical analysis of media and the implementation of media literacy programs and advocate for media literacy education.

Media Education Lab
The Media Education Lab is an online community that advances the field of digital and media literacy education through leadership development, scholarship, and community engagement.

The Media Spot
The Media Spot promotes media literacy through collaborative media productions, K-12 staff and curriculum development, and partnerships with environmentally and socially progressive organizations.

Media Power Youth
Media Power Youth provides young people, parents, educators, and communities with curricula, training and workshops to build media literacy knowledge and critical-thinking skills to navigate our media-rich world.

Crash Course Web Series

Civic Online Reasoning
It’s our desire that the skills students learn through the COR curriculum will not only make them better students but better-informed citizens able to participate in our democracy in an educated and responsible way.

KQED

Media Smarts (Canada)
MediaSmarts has been developing digital media literacy programs and resources for Canadian homes, schools and communities since 1996. Our work falls into three main areas: education, public awareness, and research and policy.

News Literacy Project
The News Literacy Project, a nonpartisan education nonprofit, is building a national movement to advance the practice of news literacy throughout American society, creating better informed, more engaged and more empowered individuals — and ultimately a stronger democracy.

California Better Together (Must Register for a Free Account)

TinEye Reverse Image Search

  • Using TinEye, you can search by image or perform what we call a reverse image search. You can do that by uploading an image or searching by URL. You can also simply drag and drop your images to start your search.

A Fresh Take on Media Literacy in the Era of AI

In an era where generative AI produces content at the speed of thought, media literacy is no longer just a beneficial skill but an imperative. Educators face the intricate task of deciphering between AI-generated content and genuine human creation. The classroom is at the forefront of this shifting landscape. View this edWebinar to dive deep into the future of media literacy, with a special focus on the advancements of generative AI

NAMLE
NAMLE aims to make media literacy highly valued and widely practiced as an essential life skill.

5 “Back from Break” Activities To Support A Student Centric Classroom

Posted on by TeamCalie

In a student centric learning environment, teachers create positive experiences when they structure activities with agency, opportunity, and community building. The open ended learning activities below will help students integrate back to classroom learning while feeling valued and part of the group. Share how these activities work for you on social media and tag @cueinc and hashtag #backfrombreak.

Phenomenal Photos: Use awe inspiring photos (from NGSS Phenomena) to boost creativity and build vocabulary. Post a photo for students and ask them to write or draw 5 wonderings about what they see. Encourage students to ask questions about what they see and write them down. Here is a Canva slides template to get you started.

Listmania: Warm up student thinking by providing a topic and ask students to type, write, or draw as many things they can think of related to that topic in 60 seconds. Let students share 1-2 things they jotted down so others can add to their own lists! Starter ideas: Winter Words, Cold Things, January. Get more topic ideas here. 

Return Rally Cards: Using slides, docs, or paper, have students write a welcome back greeting card for a classmate. Ideas to include: 3 fun things I hope we get to do before the end of the year or What are 3 ways you know you are back at school – list one thing you hear, one thing you see, and one thing you smell). Get a Return Rally Card Template to use with students.

Odd One Out: Play this Google Arts and Culture game as a whole class, in pairs or individually. Can students spot the odd one out? Guess the AI generated “imposters” hidden among the artworks on Google Arts & Culture. After playing the game let students share in pairs or groups what clues they looked for to help them determine which images may have been AI generate.

Quick Draw: As a class or individually, students can help teach a neural network by adding their drawings to the world’s largest doodling data set. In Quick Draw drawings are shared publicly to help with machine learning research. All individuals draw differently and students can participate and help contribute to machine learning with their own unique style.