Category Archives: General

Recommended EdTech Tool: Quizlet

QuizletThis week CMLE highlights the Quizlet learning site; A clearinghouse of content created by teachers. In its basic form, the subject matter is presented as a virtual flashcard that allows the content to be read and/or spoken.  To capture the attention of various types of learners (visual, verbal, etc.), the learner may select how the content is arranged-image only, answer only, or both. Then the learner is able to study, test, self assess and even select associated games. As a  teacher, you  may also incorporate tools to embed the content in a presentation to a class, print materials for handouts, etc.

How is this tool relevant to libraries?

Libraries themselves are clearinghouses of information. Media Specialists/Librarians are stewards of this information by assisting learners to both assess and properly incorporate their findings. In the search box on the Quizlet site, I entered the word “library”. Several links appeared. Here is an example of what I found: 16 Basic Library Terms students need to know when using the media center.

How to use this tool?

  • Search for a specific subject in the box located along the top of the site.
  • A list of multiple prerecorded flashcards will appear.
    • Hover over the title for additional information.
  • Click on the link to begin testing out the content provided.
    • Some information is offered in another language.

Remember teachers are free to become content creators as well as users!

Play Boxes Deconstructed!

Some rights reserved by Mags20_eb
Some rights reserved by Mags20_eb

Recently the Association for Library Services to Children (ALSC), in keeping with their target audience (children), blogged about play-spaces in libraries. But with limited space and the possibility of heavy usage, some libraries may need to look for another alternative. The solution, mini play boxes.  A “play box” is a themed collection of play objects and various manipulatives that are chosen specifically to highlight and enhance early learning. Learn more at ALSC.

According to Deborah J. Leong, PhD and Elena Bodrova, PhD there is a growing body of research that shows a link between play and the development of cognitive and social skills, enhanced social development, improved literacy skills and increases in other areas of academic learning.

Lego Mania!

Some rights reserved by Dave Catchpole
Some rights reserved by Dave Catchpole

In keeping with our children’s theme for the week of April 25th, Just for Fun, CMLE connects our readers with Book Riot who posted

8 Insane & Literary Lego Projects.

These towering  three dimensional literary marvels are sure to rekindle the child-like spirit in all of us!

The LEGO Group is a privately held company based in Denmark. Founded in 132, the company is still owned and operated by the the founding Kirk Kristiansen family. Over the last 80 years this small carpenter’s workshop has re-positioned itself as a modern, global enterprise. It is the fourth-largest manufacturer of toys in more than 30 countries around the world (Tine Froberg Mortensen, 2012)

Feature Libraries: Children’s and Book Day!

Some rights reserved by Pat Mora
Some rights reserved by Pat Mora

April 30th is a celebration of children, families and reading!

The creative world of fantasy, colorful graphic books, sumptuous story lines and classic tales epitomize the ideals of a child’s world where anything is possible.
The first celebration of Children’s Day occurred in 1925 to bring to the forefront the importance of children and their well-being. Then in 1996, author Pat Mora proposed linking Children’s Day and Book Day; marrying the two concepts into what we know it as today.

Consider how your library can encourage reading and imagination on Children’s and Book Day Tuesday, April 30th?

  • Ideas and additional information can be found at the American Libraries Association website.
  • Resources for children’s books appeared in a previous CMLE post for D.E.A.R. Day which includes the 2013 List of Notable Children’s Books.

Justin Beiber’s Cat In the Hat

Some rights reserved by Breit Bart
Some rights reserved by Breit Bart

Engage elementary students in your library with this resource-presenting a classic story in a contemporary format. The 19-year old Canadian pop musician, actor, and singer-songwriter, Justin Beiber posted a YouTube video reading the popular 1957 Dr. Suess book, The Cat in the Hat (8:28 Minutes).

Tip: Consider sharing this link with your teachers to recognize Children’s Day/Book Day! It would make an easy and flexible story time tool.