SPS Digital Learning Hour

In this special finale, join me as I sit down with two remarkable educators: Fay Dolson and Anna Meyerhoff . These passionate Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers share their insights, experiences, and challenges in teaching Computer Science (CS) to students who are just embarking on their educational journey. Remember, every journey begins with a single step, and these young learners are taking their...

In this podcast episode, we conclude our journey through “Power Up Your Classroom” by Lindsay Blass and Cate Tolnai. We delve into the final two levels, exploring strategies to build a vibrant community and take the leap into Game-Based Learning (GBL) and Gamification . Tune in for practical insights and inspiration! Don’t miss the valuable resources linked in this episode for further exploration....

Do if you want to power up your assessment practices and help students genuinely enjoy the journey of demonstrating mastery? In this episode we talk about starting small by integrating one or two engaging tools like Quizziz, Quizlet Live, Blooket or more into your everyday instruction. By leveraging game mechanics, you can provide feedback effectively with your students so you can spend more time...

In this week's episode, I delved into the world of student-led game design within the classroom. As we examine Level 4 of Power Up Your Classroom, we'll learn how empowering students to become creators, rather than mere consumers of content, can ignite a white-hot passion inside of the students and spur growth at an untold pace.  Tools Available in Springfield: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Office 365⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠...

In this episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour, we dive into the theme ‘Choose Your Own Adventure.’ Discover how offering choices in the classroom can empower and engage students, create a safe space for exploration and failure, and enhance learning experiences. We’ll discuss the significance of audience, purpose, design, and relationships, and share how you can infuse more fun into your interac...

In this podcast episode we dive into level 3 of Power Up Your Learning. Throughout this episode we will look at how the authors explain how game-based learning (GBL) requires a clear structure, design and purpose to be effective and engaging. I also dive into some examples of what GBL can look like in the classroom, but I spend a majority of time on one model in particular, Breakout EDU . Tools Av...

We've got an exciting interview lined up with Melissa Zeitz from Zanetti Montessori School. She's doing some amazing work in Computer Science with her Pre K to 8th graders. In this interview we cover a wide range of CS curriculum and tools ranging from robots like Kibo to cool audio tools projects with Audacity. Tune in to get inspired and learn something new! Tools Melissa Discusses: Nati...

In Level 1 of Power Up Your Classroom we delve into the why of the game. By understanding the unique characteristics of gamification and game-based learning, we will be prepared to integrate both types into our classrooms. My goal for today’s episode is to give you a greater understanding of the why behind Gamification and Game-Based Learning and the what they are. You might even begin to see how...

Have you ever wondered how games can make learning more fun and effective? How can you use game elements like points, badges, leaderboards, or stories to motivate and engage your students?   If these questions perk your curiosity, then you are in the right place. During this podcast season we will be doing a book study of Power Up Your Classroom by Lindsey Blass & Cate Tolnai. This book is a p...

Welcome to the highly anticipated season premiere of the SPS Digital Learning Hour! In this episode, join me, Mike Thomas, as I provide an update on the latest happenings within the Springfield Public School district. Get ready for an engaging season filled with insightful book talks, the possibility of venturing into vodcasts, and a sneak peek into some captivating interviews. I wanted to sound e...

Join us in this episode as we delve into the finale of The Distance Learning Playbook Module 9: Learning, Distance or Otherwise. In a world that is upside down, maintaining a positive learning environment takes center stage. But what exactly does that mean? In this episode, we uncover the essence of a positive learning environment — one where students feel safe, respected, and motivated to give th...

Welcome to Module 8 The Distance Learning Playbook! In this enlightening episode, we delve into a topic that lies at the heart of effective learning: the pivotal roles of feedback, assessment, and grading. Join me as we explore the profound impact these elements have on the educational journey. In the digital realm of education, where physical presence is replaced by virtual connections, the signi...

Welcome to the latest episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour! In this week's installment, I explore the content of Modules 6 & 7 from the Distance Learning Playbook. Join me as we navigate through the pages of the Distance Learning Playbook and dissect the strategies it offers for creating tasks that truly captivate students' attention. But that's not all – we won't just be c...

Welcome to The SPS Digital Learning Hour, where I invite you to join me on a deep dive into the ever-evolving landscape of education. In this episode, we delve into Module 5 of The Distance Learning Playbook, titled "Teacher Clarity at a Distance," authored by Doug Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. Together, we'll uncover the critical role of clarity in creating meaningful learnin...

In today's enlightening installment, our focus is on a crucial topic: Teacher Credibility at a Distance. But don't be fooled! This module isn't just for remote learning situations; it applies to in-person education as well. In a traditional classroom, teachers have an array of tools to establish credibility with their students. However, in a distance learning environment, the game chan...

I'm excited to dive into module three of the highly acclaimed book, "The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting" by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. Join me as we explore the fascinating world of distance learning and how it applies to our experiences in the classroom, both in-person and virtually.  If you haven't ha...

Welcome to this special replay episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour podcast, originally aired in February 2021. In this episode, I dive into module two of the highly popular book, "The Distance Learning Playbook," by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. This time around, I revisit the episode with some fresh thoughts and reflections, providing you with new insights and perspe...

Prepare yourself for an exciting new episode as I delve into the book, "The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting" authored by the esteemed Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie.  In this series of episodes, I will personally guide you through a profound exploration of each chapter, offering candid insights, personal takeaways, a...

Welcome to another exciting episode of SPS Digital Learning Hour! In this episode, we gather insights from five esteemed teachers representing kindergarten to twelfth grade in Springfield as we delve into the fascinating world of Chat GPT. Join us as we engage in a thought-provoking discussion on this hot new topic.  Our panel of teachers shares their perspectives on generative text programs, expl...

Join us this week for a special episode of our podcast as we sit down with some incredible interns from Putnam. These students have a unique story to tell as they transition from being students at Putnam to becoming future college students. We'll hear all about their journey, from their early days in elementary school to their current experiences as interns. Throughout the episode, we'll d...

Join us in this episode as we chat with Matt, a former 9th grade teacher from NYC who now works with us at SPS in Western Mass. Matt shares his journey from being a young teacher with computer skills to running and organizing technology for schools. He talks about his experience using Chromebooks and Google Classroom and how he encouraged his students to create podcasts to showcase their knowledge...

In this podcast, Victoria Ellis shares her journey of 15 years in education, starting as a paraeducator. She is now working as a Middle School math teacher at the Springfield Virtual School for Springfield Public Schools. She talks about how she found her calling as a teacher and the challenges she has faced in her journey. Victoria emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between using phy...

At the SPS Digital Learning Hour, we take great pride in highlighting the diverse experiences of teachers at various stages of their careers. This week, we had the pleasure of interviewing David Steinberg from German Gerena Community School. David, who previously worked as a consultant in the private sector, made the decision to switch to a career in education after substitute teaching in his free...

For this week’s podcast we are going back to the summer and learning all about what Barbara Cheney from Indian Orchard.  Barbara’s experiences range from kindergarten all the way through 12th grade. We discussed teaching early in her career through Covid to now. I have always loved teaching Summer School, and Barbara is part of a cool program during summer school through the Inventor’s Hall o...

This week I am bringing you an incredibly special episode. Over the summer I met Karen Toro and Courtney Ciras from Alice B. Beal Elementary School.  During the summer, as teachers, we can really develop new practices in a low-pressure environment. This also means that we get to try new things.  With close to 25 years teaching experience combined and Karen coming up through the Springfie...