Reflections from ISTE 2018

I am very fortunate that this was my third time attending ISTE. My first time was as a techie ‍middle school language arts teacher in Atlanta (2014). My first time attending I didn’t know what to expect and was overwhelmed with so much to see and do. I do however have fond memories since I interviewed for my current job as an Educational Technology Specialist the day after the conference ended.

My second time attending ISTE was last year in San Antonio (2017) and it was a whirlwind of excitement and information.

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​​The best part of attending ISTE is getting to meet and chat with #edtech leaders and members of my Twitter PLN.

I’ve learned that ISTE can be both exhilarating and exhausting. It’s the occasion to learn and network with champion educators from around the globe.

​This year, I had a blast seeing fellow Discovery Education Network (DEN) Stars at the 13th annual DEN birthday party. I connected with fellow Google Trainers Eric Curts and Wanda Terral (Sketch note expert) at the Google for Education Certified Trainers & Innovators Meet-up. I got #FlipgridFever at the FlipGrid Speakeasy and chatted with two of my favorite #edtech gurus Tony Vincent & Leslie Fisher.  ​

​The best part of attending ISTE is getting to meet and chat with #edtech leaders and members of my Twitter PLN.

​During my time in Chicago, I walked 73,939 steps (33.36 miles). Hence, I am #ISTExhausted.

​Throughout the four days I was dashing around the conference center listening to meaningful keynotes, engaging presentations, humorous and relevant panels as well as exploring the innovative poster sessions and playground.

Of course I spent time in the expo checking out new #edtech tools and resources and visiting some of my favorites. (Quizizz, Kahoot!, Air Squirrels, BrainPOP, Boxlight, Google for Edu, Microsoft EDU, Nearpod, zSpace, NewsELA, BreakoutEDU, Soundtrap, and more). I did manage to add a few more t-shirts to my collection. ​

More T-shirts for my collection. 

​For me, the highlight of this year’s conference is that
​I had the opportunity to present two poster sessions.

​​* Check out my Green Screen
​   & Video Production Page

For me, the highlight of this year’s conference is that I had the opportunity to present two poster sessions. This was my first time presenting at ISTE and admittedly I was nervous. My first poster session was “Lights, Camera, Action! Video Production & the 4 C’s.”

​I was eager to share about what the amazing students of Atlanta Public Schools are doing including my middle school Shakespeare Film Project and Film Fest as well as other literature based video projects for middle & high school based on The Crucible, The Outsiders, To Kill a Mockingbird and Beowulf.

All student projects I shared about were engaging learning experiences which fostered 21st century skills (communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking). I discussed the project process, planning resources, devices/apps used and and film fest evaluation.

* Check out student films on my Tech Tips 411  YouTube channel. 🎬

 I shared tips and tricks for getting started with green screen video and my favorite iOS app from DoInk.  

​I even had a basic green screen set-up for attendees to get hands-on time with the app.

 I highlighted project ideas for all content areas and grade-levels.  I felt the session was a success, it was awesome meeting new people, sharing ideas and answering questions from educators interested in getting started with green screen video.

​My second poster session was “Let’s Get Googley!” sharing ideas and resources for using Google Apps for Education to foster the 21st Century 4 Cs.

I highlighted resources for projects using Google Drawings and other apps. I shared about two of my schools’ initiative to get all teacher’s Google Level 1 Certified (with nearly 50 teachers passing the level 1 exam).

​A number of the teachers I spoke with are using Google apps but not really using Drawings; which is my favorite app in the G-Suite.
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​I showcased student projects and shared Quick sheets for my Planet and Travel Poster Projects as well as creating memes and graphic organizers.

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​A number of the educators were excited about the resources and I have added to my #edtech PLN. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to highlight projects I am working on as part of the Instructional Technology Department.

​I am looking forward to carrying forward our projects this coming school year and integrating new ideas and resources gained at #ISTE18. I hope to continue my professional learning and networking next year in Philadelphia. ​