SMILE Factor

Season 2 of #SMILEFactor is live. Laurie and Matt are excited to be back and sharing innovative teaching methods, the latest educational trends, and incredible stories.

In this episode of  SMILE Factor , we take a moment to reflect on the journey through our first session. Join us as we revisit the key insights, moments of inspiration, and the valuable lessons we've learned along the way. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just tuning in, this wrap-up is packed with takeaways that will help you ignite creativity and innovation in your own back-to-schoo...

This episode we welcome in Gabriel Carrillo  to talk back to school activities. Follow Gabe at @EdTechBites Husband, Father, 2011  #AZTEA  Teacher of the Year. Host of The  #EdTechBites  Podcast. GCE Level 1 and 2.  #Nearpod #Pionear   Website: edtechbites.com

As the new school year kicks off, it's time to recharge, rethink, and refocus! In this episode of  SMILEFactor , we're diving into innovative professional learning ideas that will empower educators to bring their best to the classroom. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting your journey, we've got strategies, tips, and creative approaches that will inspire and energize...

Join us on this inspiring episode of SMILE Factor as we dive deep into back-to-school ideas with Grade 2 teacher Christine Bemis. Christine shares her expert tips on making meaningful connections with students and building a welcoming classroom environment from day one. From creative icebreakers to inclusive activities, discover how to set the stage for a successful school year where every student...

Welcome to SMILE Factor In this special back-to-school episode, we're focusing on Back to School ideas. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring ideas to help you kick off the school year with a smile. Join us as we discuss innovative classroom setups, engaging learning activities, and ways to create a positive school culture. SMILE Factor has all the tools you need to make t...

In this episode, Amy DelCorvo CEO/Executive Director at NYSCATE stops in to share the impact of state organizations and how to maximize offering to enhance your own growth. Learn about her journey in education and her impact on NYSCATE. Show Notes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024⁠

In this episode we share our experiences and recommendations when exploring a partnership with a solution provider and how to launch a new digital platform in a district. Show Notes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024⁠

In this episode we share our reflections on ISTE and the impact it made on us.  Additionally, how will we use the content from this event to support our work. Show Notes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024⁠

Laurie and Matt share their ISTE advice, stories, and support to maximize your event. Show Notes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024⁠

We welcome ISTE CXO Jennifer Ragan-Fore Jennifer is the Chief Experience Officer for ISTE and shares all the excitements and happenings at ISTE 24. Show Notes: ⁠⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

In this episode we welcome Jaime Donally to the podcast and talk all things #ARVRinEDU Jaime Donally #ARVRinEDU @JaimeDonally #ARVRinEDU  Founder + Speaker  @ARVRinEDU ® |  @ISTE Author |  @EdSurge Columnist |  #AR   #VR   #XR   #AI  |  @GlobalMaker #GlobalMakerDay  |  #Pathfinder @identityauto Website: ARVRinEDU.com Show Notes: ⁠⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

Being an educational influencer involves leveraging social media platforms to share knowledge, resources, and inspiration. It requires creating engaging, informative content tailored to diverse learning styles. Join Laurie and Matt to learn strategies to take the next step. Educational influencers often collaborate with other educators, attend relevant events, and stay updated on the latest teachi...

The weather is getting nicer, and the school year is ending. It's hard for students to stay focused, and sometimes, it's even more challenging for educators. We cram in field trips and awards ceremonies after testing, which can give the impression that "teaching is done." We understand this time of year can be hectic, exhausting, and stressful for teachers and school leaders so w...

Creativity in schools fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and innovation. It enhances student engagement, encourages self-expression, and prepares students for future challenges by cultivating adaptability and diverse perspectives. Integrating creativity in education promotes holistic development and lifelong learning. In this episode we talk about impactful ideas and the variety of...

Aimee Bloom  @AJBloom2pnt0 Supervisor of Instructional Technology,  #ISTEcert   #ISTECertTrainer   #Wakelet  AMB,  #Google  Trainer, Certified  #BrainPOP  &  #Nearpod  Pionear Edtech coaching is pivotal in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of educational technology. These coaches serve as guides, empowering educators to harness technology effectively in their teaching practices. By offeri...

Lesson planning with digital tools is vital for modern education. It enhances engagement, catering to diverse learning styles. Digital resources offer interactive and multimedia elements, fostering deeper understanding. They facilitate collaboration, communication, and critical thinking, preparing students for the digital age. Effective integration boosts student motivation and achievement, ensuri...

In this episode we talk about more tools we couldn't fit into last week's show that are impactful BUT you may not have heard about them.......until NOW Such as Storyboard that: https://www.storyboardthat.com/ Which Face is Real: https://www.whichfaceisreal.com/ Trello: https://trello.com/en Information is Beautiful: https://informationisbeautiful.net/ Hello, Ruby: https://www.helloruby.com...

In this episode we talk about tools or recourse that are impactful BUT you may not have heard about them.......until NOW Tools such as: Mathigon: https://mathigon.org/activities NY Times Learning Activities: https://www.nytimes.com/spotlight/learning-activities-for-students CMA Working in Harmony: https://www.cmaworkinginharmony.com/ Poll everywhere: https://www.polleverywhere.com/ Mentimeter: htt...

Laurie and Matt dive into some lesser know Google tools to enhance your work and student exploration. Google has revolutionized education, providing instant access to vast knowledge resources. Its suite of tools like Google Docs, Drive, and Classroom streamline collaboration, organization, and learning. Google search facilitates research, enabling students to explore topics comprehensively. Now le...

Laurie and Matt welcome Carl Hooker, author of Learning Evolution, to talk the importance, evolution, and ideas for AI in K-12 education. Show Notes: bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024 ⁠⁠⁠⁠

In SMILE Factor episode 13, Matt and Laurie welcome in Digital Citizenship Institute (@digcitinstitute) CEO Marialice B.F.X. Curran, Ph. D.(@mbfxc) to talk DigCit Global Showcase. Digital Citizenship Summit is April 5, 19, 22 & 26 Show Notes: ⁠⁠⁠bit.ly/SMILEFactorPodcast2024

Utilizing EdTech tools in K-5 education enhances engagement, fosters critical thinking, and tailors learning to individual needs. It cultivates digital literacy from a young age, preparing students for future technological landscapes. Moreover, it facilitates collaboration and empowers educators to provide personalized learning experiences, nurturing holistic development. In this episode we talk a...

Laurie and Matt dive into the benefits and impact design thinking can have on learning. One of the primary benefits of design thinking in K-12 education is its ability to foster creativity. Traditional educational models often prioritize rote learning and standardized assessments, leaving little room for students to explore their creative potential. Design thinking, however, encourages students to...

Laurie and Matt embark on a journey through the dynamic landscape of educational technology and assessment. In this podcast, we delve deep into the intersection of digital innovation and the evaluation of learning outcomes. Join us as we navigate the complexities and opportunities presented by EdTech tools in shaping the assessment process. From AI-driven adaptive learning platforms to immersive v...