The number 23 is pretty popular these days, and the ilibrarian at OEDb has once again produced a new list of 23 of her best book apps, along with a new feature for comics and manga too. Note: You don’t necessarily need multiple book apps, one great one may be all you need. The tools listed in this popular blog post are the ones with the largest libraries, best features, and the most bang for your buck. Check out the 2014 OEDb list to find out which ones made the cut.
Many schools are laying plans now for some sort of staff development activities over the summer, many dealing with tech integration. School media specialists can play an important role in helping teachers understand how technology can enrich their subject expertise, and help plan and provide learning activities that engage students. The linked article discusses the right balance between teaching and tech integration, and also shares three (not 30) valued, multifaceted tech tools. Edutopia provides the details and finer points at Finding the Right Balance with Technology in the Classroom
At the recent MEMO Conference, I saw adults during an unconference discussion circle literally explode with excitement when they were talking about their “makey makey” kits and what they had done with them. It was hard to get a coherent thought out of the group for a while! Basically, they were talking about feeling alive and having fun while “smashing” electronics and everyday objects. It seems that lots of schools and libraries have been trying these kits out, and the students love it! Example: Build a piano keyboard with bananas! If you are interested in learning more about the maker movement, and makey-makey kits, check out the following links! Oh, and if you watch the Jay Silver TED Talk below (you really must), fasten your seatbelts!
Note: Makey Makey is based on research at the MIT Media Lab.
This link was submitted by one of our devoted readers, who declared, “this is not about libraries specifically, but too beautiful to pass up.” I could not agree more, but held it through wind and snow, waiting for the true kiss of spring before sharing. I think it is safe now; a good reminder of the beauty of nature if we slow down and take time to see!
Just for Fun, Ready Set Go! http://tinyurl.com/n5x9ejm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 9, 2014
CONTACT: Josh Collins, MDE
651.582.8205
josh.collins@state.mn.us
ROSEVILLE – Today, Minnesota Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius released the following statement after Governor Mark Dayton signed the Safe and Supportive Schools Act:
“Today, I stand with students, parents, and educators across the state to say thank you to Governor Dayton and the Minnesota Legislature for supporting and passing the Safe and Supportive Schools Act. All of our students deserve safe and supportive places where they can learn, thrive and succeed. With Governor Dayton’s signature, Minnesota will no longer have one of the weakest anti-bullying laws in the nation, but instead will have a law that states clearly that Minnesotans are united in putting our students’ safety first.”