MACUL Conference 2011

Monster Mayhem and More Video Conference Collaborations

• Thursday, March 17, 2011
• Time: 3:00-4:00 PM

Learn about a unique collaborative videoconference project. Two classrooms pair up and create a monster. Each class writes a description of their monster. Each class recreates the other class’ monster and then via video conference they compare the monsters. Other examples of engaging collaborations will also be shared.

Handouts:

Resources:

• Whirlidurb programs
• Video overviews
  

Connect with us:

• Mailing List (open to all) Join now to get updates and connection information.
• Main website
  http://www.whirlidurb.com/
  
• Twitter: @whirlidurb
• Facebook: Whirlidurb Fanpage

Video Conference Playground at ISTE 2011

Work has begun on the Video Conference Playground at ISTE 2011. Last year, I led a band of pirates as we shared our passion for video conferencing with others in Denver. Here are some of the pictures from last summer.

This year, in Philly, the playground will be even bigger with more connections and equipment for you to learn about in a fun, hands-on environment.

We are looking for more people to help us create an exceptional learning experience for attendees who want to learn more about the power of video conferencing in the curriculum.

Want to Be a Pirate?

1. Be a remote site. We will need people to video conference with on Wednesday, June 29 from 9:00-1:00 PM EASTERN time. We are looking for content providers and educators who are doing classroom-to-classroom collaborations. Submit your information here. We will fit in as many different providers and collaborations as we can!
2. Help us onsite in Philadelphia. We need pirate guides at the playground and help with the IVC Showcases. Submit your contact information here.

Want to Learn About Video Conferencing

1. Support Video Conferencing at ISTE by attending these sessions if you are onsite in Philadelphia. Janine made a great list of all of them on her blog.
2. If you are interested in in depth learning, join Janine or me in our workshops on Sunday. These are both full day sessions to give adequate time for hands-on and questions.

• Workshop: 8:30-3:30 Creating Environmental Literacy with Technology and Learning Communities by Roxanne Glaser of Whirlidurb and Christina and Rich Hum from Kigluait. This workshop focuses on how to use the technology in a meaningful way with project-based learning.
• Workshop: 8:30-3:30 Building Digital Age Communication and Collaboration Skills with Videoconferencing by Janine Lim.

The playground is sponsored by the SIGIVC group. IVC stands for interactive video conferencing.

SIG IVC Twitterfountatin

Be patient. This little widget is working hard to grab all the tweets and pics from our first IVC Playground. We had a great time sharing our enthusiasm and passion for video conferencing.

Many thanks to all the helping hands and staff from zoos, museums, and other organizations that made this a smashing success.

We are already planning for Philly.

ISTE Workshop: A Novel Hour

I began ISTE on Sunday teaching a 3-hour workshop on our “Novel in an Hour” project. Christina and Rich Hum from Kigluait Educational Adventures in Talkeetna, Alaska co-taught the session with me.

The goals of the session were for participants to experience Skype and H.323 video conferencing and learn how to use a wiki and Glogster. I designed it to be hands-on from the beginning with about half of the time for learning the technology and the second half applying the technologies within the novel in an hour format. This would have worked perfectly….in a 6 hour workshop format! Here is a link to the workshop wiki.

I love the Plus/Delta format and am going to analyze the workshop through that lens.

Plus (+)

• Two screens was wonderful. Had Polycom connection on one and desktop showing on the other.
• Pre-workshop survey to help understand the needs of participants.
• Workshop wiki to organize information by co-teachers for participants. (This also worked for Rich to see what our participants were creating.)
• The assessment piece! (Even though we did not get to it, we had a rubric to assess the presentations and other creations by the participants and a post-workshop survey to gauge their learning.)
• Hands-on with laptops.
• Co-teaching with Christina and Rich! That gives such pop to use the video conferencing technology to span the distance and show participants the power of connecting with experts.
• The video conference connections were beautiful!
• Pass out the bookmarks and let people know about additional learning opportunities related to video conferencing throughout the conference.

Delta (Δ)

• Skype did not work. Could not connect or accept contacts. Could not chat. Would work via the app on the iPhone. It was weird and quite frustrating. Shane and Paul tested the network and for a while we thought it was that funky bug back when 4.0 first came out and you have to share contacts with the 3.8 software. Ultimately, we think it was bandwidth because four ladies who stayed after finally got it working.
• Make this a 6 hour session. 75% of the participants were new or newish to many of the technologies and we needed all morning to tinker with them before hitting the application of the technologies into the novel in an hour format.
• Switch the screens. Put the Polycom screen closest to the camera so that when they are working with the remote, they will be able to look at the remote site without looking across the room.
• Need to completely test ALL technologies. We lost a lot of time tinkering with Skype. The positive is that we modeled problem-solving in the context of learning new technologies.

Questions

• Can you change a regular Glogster account into an edu? Or do you have to make another account?
• Why could we not get Skype to work? I want to agree it was bandwidth, but I was able to connect just fine with everyone that I already had in my contact list. It was such a mystery.

Video Conference Playground at ISTE10

This year, I had the opportunity to lead the team to develop and manage the Interactive Video Conference Playground at ISTE10 in Denver. It was a great honor for me. The Pirate Crew was Janine Lim, Audra May, Lori Colwill, and Anne Marie Millar with the superb technical support from Paul Heironymus, Shane Howard, and Craig Mollerstuen.

The idea began last summer at NECC in D.C. Anne Marie and I attended several showcase sessions and listened to the questions at the end of the sessions and many people were confused about the technology and were not getting accurate answers to their questions. So, we pitched to idea to the SIG leadership and next thing I know, I am leading a team to create a playground.

Early in the planning process, we established our goals and objectives for the playground and our planning wiki so that all could contribute in a decentralized planning process. This is crucial to achieve maximum results from a high-functioning team.

Purpose: To share our passion for interactive H323 video conferencing with others in a hands-on, easy to learn format.

Strategies

1. Develop a fun theme for the playground that costumes, print materials and content providers could easily join in. (Pirates!)
2. Develop a web presence to continue sharing information after the playground.
3. Market the playground using printed bookmarks beginning on Sunday with the first workshop at 8:30 AM. Pirates passed out bookmarks during the IVC Showcase, SIG Open House, poster sessions and any additional sessions related to interactive video conferencing.
4. Have volunteers “be the pirates”. Many people kept seeing pirates and joined us Wednesday to learn and participate.
5. Create partnerships with providers and obtain a hefty amount of swag and pirate booty to give away. The total this year was over $4000 in prizes.
6. Design the playground around constructivist learning theory and differentiated strategies. We could share information with the novice to the expert in an engaging, hands-on format.

Design

• Set up 6 islands where participants could practice dialing, muting/unmuting, moving the camera and talk with someone trying to discover where that person was located.
• The Pirate Queen would welcome participants and issue them their letter of marque to enter the playground.
• Provide the “island pirate guides” with instructions on how to let the participant drive the interactions. We wanted this experience similar to the first day in small groups during JAZZ.
• Establish a rotation of content providers to be connected for one hour at a time. (During the playground, we connected with 30 different locations.)
• Anyone who visited at least 3 islands was eligible to participate in our drawing for content provider programs, online classes to learn more about video conferencing, workshops on various topics, and gift cards.

Outcomes

1. 132 participants completed the scavenger hunt and registered to win prizes.
2. Volunteers who originally offered to help for one hour stayed the entire length of the playground.
3. The Pirate Crew provided flexible support during the entire playground.

Ideas for 2011

• Add some Virtual Pirates (VPs) who cannot attend the conference IRL, but have some creative projects or collaborations to share. Think mini-showcase.
• Strengthen the vendor/pirate guide structure and relationship so that we have additional knowledge in the playground.
• Continue to recruit additional pirates so that our crew can have a break during the playground. The Queen got quite tired.
• Better signage for Treasure Island.

We will be gathering additional data via our post-playground survey and will be sharing ideas during the coming year. All in all, it was a great way to introduce video conferencing to attendees. Thank you to ISTE for their support and the SIG IVC for permitting The Pirate Crew to create a fun, learning environment. See you in Philly next summer.

Louisiana DLA

Thank you for joining me today for our “Teaching Teachers Through Student Projects” session. Here are all the links that I referenced today.

Project Links

• Shane Sings
• Monster Mayhem
• Read Around the Planet
• Mystery Quest USA

Resource Sites

• Whirlidurb Video Conference Projects
  Memberships available for schools with IP-based H.323 systems
• Blog: VC Rox
• Blog: VC Outonalim
• Projects Template Wiki
  Example for how to support a video conference project
• Projects Templates (Booklet)
  Ideas for how to structure video conference connections that support the curriculum
• 20 Days to Better VC Projects
  Janine Lim and I partner each January on a 20 Day Challenge focusing on some aspect of video conferencing. This year, we share tips for better projects.

ISTE Workshop in Denver

A Novel Hour: Extend Reading with Wikis, Skype, and Videoconferencing

Sunday, 6/27/2010, 8:30am–11:30am
Roxanne Glaser, Content Director of Whirlidurb, with Christina Hum and Rich Hum

Discover how to use wikis, Skype, and videoconferencing to create highly engaging learning environments for intermediate and middle school learners.

Read More

Thank you for your time and attendance this morning, and hope you have a great conference. ~Roxanne

MACUL 2010

This afternoon, I presented a session at MACUL 2010 about the classic matching project used by so many in videoconferencing. It goes by many names: Monster Exchange, Monster Trade, Monster Match. Thank you to Janine Lim for being an excellent facilitator.

The basics of the project.

1. Find a partner.
2. Create a monster.
3. Write a description.
4. Exchange descriptions with your partner.
5. Create a second monster and try to match the original.
6. Meet in video conference to see if there is a match.

Why?

• Helps teachers integrate technology with supports and protocols.
• Moves ideas to implementation.

What Learning?

• Writing (How To, Sequencing, Descriptive)
• Math (measurement, angles)
• Reading (comprehension, following directions)
• Listening, speaking, problem-solving, alternative strategies

Adaptations

• Turkey Trade, Turkey Match, Ship Shape Turkey
• Easter Bunny Match
• Snowman Match
• Story Illustration Match

Links and Resources

• tweets from MACUL
• Making Learning Whole by David Perkins
• Linchpin by Seth Godin | blog via Twitter
• Presentation Zen Design by Garr Reynolds | web | @presentationzen
• Roxanne Glaser | Whirlidurb | blog VC Rox | @whirlidurb
• Janine Lim | blog VC Outonalim | @outonalim
• dana boyd | blog | @zephora
• Silvia Tolisano | blog | @langwitches

IVC Sessions at TxDLA 2010

There is still time to make your plans to join us in Houston at the Texas Distance Learning Association conference March 21-24. The program is posted online and here is a list of the video conference sessions that I found. Many sessions are being presented by our JAZZ participants! Remember these are dates and times that are current now, but are subject to change. Hope to see you in Houston.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Beyond Topic: Using Content Providers to Add Depth to Learning

10:30-11:15am

• Description: What does math have to do with Christopher Columbus or literature with the Golden Age of Piracy? Learn how classroom learning can be enhanced by utilizing interactive videoconferencing
• Presenter: Ms. Anne Marie Millar, Manager of Distance Learning Programs, The Mariners’ Museum

The Emerging Technology Game

10:30am-12:15pm

• Description: The Emerging Technology Game is a fun and interactive look at technology trends that are not yet standard in classroom and school configurations.
• Presenter: Mr. Paul Hieronymus, Consultant for Technology Integration, Northern Ohio Research & Training Technology Hub (NORT2H)

Teaching Teachers Through Student Projects: Implementing Curriculum Videoconferencing

11:30am-12:15pm

• Description: After you conduct the traditional videoconferencing demo and get teachers excited, what is the next step? Few teachers will embrace the technology and create their first connection on their own. Managed student projects are the key to bridging the implementation gap. (Vendor Showcase)
• Presenters: Roxanne Glaser and Shane Howard, Whirlidurb, and Janine Lim, Instructional Technology Consultant, Berrien RESA

Win, Lose, or Draw! (aka Pictionary)

11:30am-12:15pm

• Description: Would you like to better understand the power of videoconferencing? Then plan to join us to learn how others are using videoconferencing, to gain resources, and to participate in a curriculum focused videoconferencing connection.(Vendor Showcase)
• Presenter: Kenneth Conn, Education Account Manager, Data Projections, Inc

Literature Study – Travel Beyond the Book

3:45-4:30pm

• Description: Learn how to leverage the magic of videoconferencing technology to engage your students in authentic, meaningful conversations in your reading classroom
• Presenter: Linda Mcdonald, Technology Integration Specialist, Katy ISD

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Increasing Use of Curriculum Videoconferencing: Recent International Research

10:30-11:15am

• Description: Do you want to increase your school’s use of videoconferencing in the curriculum? What key factors are important in your implementation of videoconferencing?
• Presenter: Janine Lim,Instructional Technology Consultant, Berrien RESA

Twitter Me More of This, Twitter Me More of That

10:30-11:15am

• Description: Are your friends and colleagues talking about Twitter and asking you if you are on Twitter? This session will focus on the what, how, why, who, when, and where of Twitter and provide you with some resources.
• Presenter: Kenneth Conn, Education Account Manager, Data Projections, Inc

Science, History, Art: Any Time, Any Space with Connect2Texas Videoconferencing

10:30-11:15am

• Description: Connect2Texas interactive videoconferencing provides high quality content programs for students. Art, history, science, cowgirls, bats, and immigration…these are just a few of the areas connected in these interactive lessons.
• Presenter: Laurie Hogle, Distance Learning Specialist, Education Service Center Region XI

Best Practices in Distance Learning with Video Conferencing and Streaming

2:15-3:00pm

• Description: In today’s session we will examine how you can extend the reach of instructors, accelerate learning, and decrease the time and expense associated with travel by implementing a virtual face-to-face interactive learning environment.
• Presenters: Polycom Education Team, Marci Powell, Elaine Shuck, Jennifer Hicks, and Brian Sellers (Vendor Showcase)

Video conferencing and Streaming Distribution for Distance Learning

2:15-3:00pm

• Description: How using video conferencing and streaming technologies can impact teaching and learning in the classroom. Applications such as virtual field trips, content creation, remote teaching, classroom recording, VCR tape conversion will be discussed. (Vendor Showcase)
• Presenter: Pat Cassella, VP, Marketing, IDSolutions, Inc.

We Do Student Developed Video Projects– You Can Too

3:15-4:00pm

• Description: Presented by a panel of practicing teachers, this session is a must for anyone thinking about joining this exciting field. If you are in the K-12 environment, this is one breakout session you do not want to miss!
• Presenters: Tommy Bearden, Distance Learning Consultant, Region 14 Education Service Center and teachers from Snyder Elementary, Breckenridge Jr. High, Snyder Jr. High, and Roscoe High School.

7 Steps to Success–Technology Grants for Distance Learning

5:00-5:45pm

• Description: Where do we find that support in 2010? We will discuss the current state of technology funding nationally and statewide and suggest a 7 Step Process to help you successfully capture available funds.
• Presenter: Mr. Andrew Knox, Sr. Area Grant Manager

Passport to Safety

5:00-5:45pm (2009 Don Foshee grant winner)

• Description: What you don”t know CAN hurt you! As the 2009 winner of the Don Foshee Memorial Grant, Humble ISD proposed to design and deliver a curriculum of cybersafety lessons for K-12 classes delivered via videoconference.
• Presenter: Angela Conrad, Distance Learning Specialist, Humble ISD

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

“Houston, We Have A Problem!”

8:45-9:30am

• Description: Learn how Hays CISD utilizes distance learning tools to solve problems. Hays CISD “Mission Control” will share initiatives, sample projects, and best practices in videoconferencing and online learning.
• Presenter: Christie Rickert, Distance Learning Specialist, Hays CISD

Blast Off with K-12 Video Conferencing

8:45-9:30am

• Description: How do you start? What resources are available? What will be the best use of your time and efforts? These were our questions as we explored the universe of distance learning for the first time in years. Learn to avoid our mistakes and be able to replicate our successes.
• Presenters: Terice Ahr, Instructional Technology Coordinator, Vicki Ventura, Instructional Technology Coordinator, and Mr. Brent Harris, Director of Technology, Belton Independent School District

Transforming Texas Museums and Science Centers Through Advanced Networks

8:45-9:30am

• Description: Representatives from I2-connected museums and science centers will discuss how advanced networking technology changed their opportunities for outreach on a state, national and global scale.
• Presenters: Gerri Maglia, Education Specialist, Texas Education Telecommunications Network, Laurie Hogle, Coordinator of Telecommunications and Distance Learning, Education Service Center Region XI

Iconology Loves Technology at the Amon Carter Museum

9:45-10:30am

• Description: Learn to integrate an art museum’s technology-based resources, including on-line teaching guides, bookmarking sites, and interactive videoconferences into your classroom or on-line curriculum and instruction.
• Presenters: Nancy Strickland, Distance Learning Manager, Amon Carter Museum and Katherine Moloney, Teaching Resources Coordinator, Amon Carter Museum

Kudos and Caveats: Teaching Photography via Videoconference

10:45-11:30am

• Description: Gain tips for teaching photography using videoconferencing and an image hosting site. Cleveland Museum of Art educators share program design ideas, dos and don”ts for implementing the course and resources related to visual literacy.
• Presenters: Dale Hilton, Director, Distance Learning, The Cleveland Museum of Art

Reading 2.0: Bluebonnet Books, Baylor University, and Effective Learning Technologies

10:45-11:30am

• Description: The Bluebonnet Conference project combines Moodle and videoconferencing in partnership with classroom teachers and Baylor University pre-service teachers to get students reading and writing.
• Presenters: Roxanne Glaser, Whirlidurb, and Margaret Thomson, Senior Lecturer, Curriculum and Instruction, Baylor University

Collaborating….Any Time, Any Space

11:45am-12:30pm

• Descripton: Participants will explore collaborative projects implemented district-wide via distance in Fort Bend ISD. This session will provide lesson ideas and a wealth of resources for utilizing videoconferencing technology to enhance instruction.
• Presenters: Corlette Hill, Educational Technology Specialist and Chad Jones, Instructional Technologist, Lamar Consolidated ISD

Distance Learning 2.0: Webcams in the Classroom

11:45am-12:30pm (2009 Don Foshee grant winner)

• Description: Develop a Distance Learning program using Web 2.0 tools and a webcam. Learn about web tools such as Skype, Tokbox, and DimDim to collaborate with classooms next door and around the world. See teacher examples, ideas, and more.
• Presenters: Dwight Goodwin, ITS, Birdville ISD

Experience Interactive Learning through Videoconferencing with NASA’s Digital Learning Network

11:45am-12:30pm

• Description: Free, interactive programs allow your students to learn more about Earth and the universe beyond through video-conferencing and Web casts. Students of all ages can participate in live events featuring NASA experts and education specialists.
• Presenters: Nathan Lang, Supervisor, NASA Digital Learning Network and NASA team

K-12 Music Distance Learning @ Manhattan School of Music

11:45am-12:30pm

• Description: Manhattan School of Music instituted a groundbreaking distance learning program in 1996-the first at a music conservatory-and has since been devoted to exploring the use of videoconference technology for music education.
• Presenters: Juliana Han, Distance Learning Program Coordinator, Manhattan School of Music