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FlipGrid

When searching around for a new-to-me concept, teaching with tech approach or tech tool from a library-related blog I came across a blog with 27 Tech Tools Teachers Can Use to Inspire Classroom Creativity As I reviewed the list of tech tools one, FlipGrid kept popping out at me, and then I remembered why. In April, I help host EdCamp Palmetto. It was there where I first heard about the tech tool FlipGrid. I didn't think much of it then. As I browse twitter I continued to see #FlipGrid from some of the tech teachers I follow. So I thought, "let me see what teacher librarians are doing with this tech tool FlipGrid?" In my search, I came across the blog The Library Voice by Shannon McClintock Miller. In the blog post Shannon explains how she learned about FlipGrid and how she implemented it into her library with her second graders in the way of book talks. What a great way to show a real life example of the tech tool to readers. She then list other ways to use FlipGrid outside of the library, this makes FlipGrid relevant for everyone. Shannon ends the blog with tips on how to create and use your own FlipGrid.

With technology on the rise, and so many districts moving to 1:1 devices, districts and schools must have a technology plan. So new tech tools don't just become toys. Overbay, Mollette, and Vasu believe that administrators should have five principles in mind when implementing technology initiatives. They have put the principles as five lessons:
1. It's Not About Technology- the initiatives should start with people at the forefront.
2. Let the Plan Fit the School-know your clientele.
3. Build in Professional Development-train the trainer, you can't just drop iPods off and expect them to be used if no one know how to use them.
4. Give Collaboration Its Due- two or more heads are better then one, and makes integration of technology easier for teachers.
5. Become Turnover-Proof- there must be teacher buy-in. (2011)

In conclusion, with this weeks reading in mind, Shannon McClintock made FlipGrid a tech tool worth initiating. No matter what tech tool you want to explore, just because it is all the rave, make sure to review the five principles to make sure it is appropriate for your library.

McClintock, Shannon (2013, December 16). FlipGrid Allows For Students To Find Their Voice Giving Book Talks. Blogger. Retrieved from http://vanmeterlibraryvoice.blogspot.com/2013/12/flipgrid-allows-for-students-to-find.html

Overbay, A., Mollette, M., & Vasu, E. S. (2011). A Technology Plan That Works. Educational Leadership, 68(5), 56-59.











Comments

  1. Hey, Zoan. FlipGrid is a fantastic app with an easy format for teachers and students. I appreciate how you point out that no matter how new and flashy a tech tool may be, it is prudent to ensure that the tech tool suits the school's staff and their needs first and foremost.

    This post reminds me of when Promethean boards were brought to our school. One January, after winter break, we teachers returned to our classrooms to find our smartboards gone and the Promethean boards in place. No heads up and training was delayed until February. This roll out led to resentment from staff and half-hearted attempts to widely incorporate the Promethean boards. Consideration for staff and sensible logistics go a long way in ensuring that staff embraces new tech.

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  2. I love FlipGrid! I used it as a classroom teacher for my students to give feedback. Recently I've found it as a great way to get input from people any where in the world and have them speak directly to my audience. I was at a PD recently where the presenter had authors, administrators and school district leaders send 2-3 minute videos via FlipGrid to those of us as the training. It was such a cool experience getting to hear from all of these different people...and a message that was just for us! In the library, I wonder how many authors would be willing to do a short video for our students, like a shout-out...to get them excited about an author study. So many applications!

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