Exploring Tools to Support Digital Book Cover Creation

Robert Abraham, Director of Educational Strategies

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 5:00PM – 6:15PM

Exhibit Hall – Palms Conf. Center

Students already know that an impressive cover can make a book stand out on the shelf. This session will cover how you can challenge your students to be illustrators by designing their own digital book covers. We’ll dive into the different programs out there and describe their features. Instilling a love for reading in students includes calling attention to all the different formats of literature, including eBooks and digital books. This activity is not only an opportunity for students to show off their creativity, but students can turn to eBooks already out there for inspiration as they design. It’s far from debatable that visuals are great for ELLs and any student who may be coming to your ELA lesson with limited background knowledge. Beginning with explicit modeling of the different visual elements of a book cover, either digital or hard copy, can help these students immensely.

Empowering Media Specialists: Integrating STEM into Library Programs

Robert Abraham, Director of Educational Strategies

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 5:00PM – 6:15PM

Exhibit Hall – Palms Conf. Center

In an increasingly technology-driven world, media specialists play a pivotal role in fostering students’ interest and proficiency in STEM fields. This presentation aims to empower media specialists with innovative strategies and resources to seamlessly integrate STEM concepts and activities into library programs, enriching the educational experience and nurturing a culture of inquiry and innovation among students. The session begins with an exploration of the importance of STEM education and its relevance in preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century. Participants will examine the interdisciplinary nature of STEM learning and its alignment with key educational goals, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.

Empowering Students with Dyslexia and Learning Differences: Leveraging Microsoft and Google Tools for Academic Success

Robert Abraham, Director of Educational Strategies

Thursday, November 21, 2024 | 8:00AM – 8:45AM

Diamond 1

Dyslexia and other learning differences can present significant challenges for individuals when it comes to reading, writing, and overall communication. Fortunately, there are numerous technology tools available to help individuals with dyslexia and other learning differences. One of the most popular tools is Microsoft’s suite of products. Office 365 and Microsoft Office offer free tools to aid teachers, students, and individuals with both reading and oral skills. Google also has many free tools available to assist those in need. In this session we will discuss these tools and see them in action along with other resources like Flip.

3D Design with Primary in Mind

Nicole Mathew, Senior Curriculum Specialist

Thursday, November 21, 2024 | 1:45PM – 2:05PM

Exhibit Hall- Palms Conf. Center

3D printing is at the forefront of the ever-changing landscape of industrial technology. Anyone can be at the cusp of this innovative design and additive manufacturing method, even our youngest students! In this session, we’ll tackle how to engage PK-2 learners in the 3D design and printing process. Uncover a variety of tools, activities, and strategies you can use to help you, and your students get started today.

Virtual Road Trip with Google My Maps, a PBL Activity for Media Specialists and Classroom Teachers

Robert Abraham, Director of Educational Strategies

Thursday, November 21, 2024 | 4:15PM – 5:00PM

Nautilus C Room

This session is a discussion on project-based learning (PBL) centered around Google apps and featuring Google My Maps. We will explore using Google Docs, Forms, Sheets and Sites to gather information for a virtual road trip that will be mapped out using Google My Maps. The purpose of this session is to introduce Google My Maps and integrate it into a Project Based Learning Activity. It can be used in multiple grade levels as well as interdisciplinary. It has a strong ELA component which is beneficial to media specialists and librarians. Participants will understand the elements of a project-based activity and be introduced to the features of Google My Maps. Educators will be able to use the information to craft their own independent or collaborative map. Examples of virtual field trips and virtual scavenger hunts will be shared.

Engaging the 21st Century Learner: Using Technology to Improve Literacy in the Classroom

Nicole Mathew, Senior Curriculum Specialist

Friday, November 22, 2024 | 10:00AM – 10:45AM

Nautilus C Room

In today’s digital world, effective learning goes far beyond the use of textbooks and lectures. In this session, we will explore how we can leverage technology to create engaging and media-literate classrooms. Through Google Workspace tools, game-based learning, and platforms such as Edpuzzle and Newsela, you will be able to walk away with plenty of ideas to successfully use technology to improve literacy in the classroom while fostering student success.