Google Drawings Cheat Sheet As Requested, Here is a Cheat Sheet for Google Drawings! Google Drawings is very powerful, yet under-utilized tool! This Google Drawings Cheat Sheet will help new and experienced users learn how to use Google Drawings, including menu highlights and special, contextual menus. This one was a challenge to create, and turned out much longer than intended. But I felt there were some tools and features that had to be included. Take a look and explore this very versatile tool for teachers and students! Use it, share it, and increase your knowledge and skills of Google Apps!!! Save to your Google Drive using the button below, or use the download button below the embedded document. Google Drawings Cheat Sheet by kbell6 Google Drawings Cheat Sheet.pdf File Size: 1156 kb File Type: pdf Download File Check out this infographic: 10 Ways to Use Google Drawings in the Classroom! How do you use Google Drawings? Please share in the comments below. Want more? Get all the Google Cheat Sheets and Guides here. Did you know Shake Up Learning now has its very own Google Chrome extension? Install the extension to stay up-to-date with the latest posts and resources from ShakeUpLearning.com. Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events: WEMTA, March 22-24 (Wisconsin Dells, WI)

Fantastic Chrome Apps & Extensions Here are EVEN MORE Chrome Apps and Extensions! (More than 60 total!) I'm a crazy Chrome Addict! My list keeps growing! Chrome is such a powerful browser, and can offer so much to enhance learning and productivity. My original list is now broken into two, separate lists: one for Chrome apps and one for Chrome extensions. The extension list is still, by far, the longest, but look for that to change soon.  There is a little something for everybody. These lists will continue to grow and evolve, and that is why I keep them on their own resource pages on this site (much easier to maintain). Explore these lists and try something new today! Favorite Chrome Apps Favorite Chrome Extensions Also check out my latest Confessions of a Chrome Addict presentation from TCEA! I do this preso often and try to keep it fresh, and offer new apps and extensions each time. This one is loaded 40 Chrome Apps, Extensions, and tips and tricks a long the way! Enjoy!  What are you favorite Chrome apps and extensions? Please share in the comments below! Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events: Virginia Summit Featuring Google for Education, March 7-8 (Charlottesville, VA) WEMTA, March 22-24 (Wisconsin Dells, WI)

Google Cheat Sheets for Teachers and Students in one, convenient, PDF eBook! More than 32 pages of cheat sheets, tips and more!  8 Cheat Sheets in one eBook! Google Cheat Sheets eBook This ebook includes 8 Google Cheat Sheets for Teachers and Students! Each cheat sheet is filled with tips, tricks, and how-to information to take your Google Apps skills to the next level. Learn more about what Google Apps has to offer you and your students and become a more productive user. Includes:  NEW Google Drive Cheat Sheet Google Docs Cheat Sheet Google Forms Cheat Sheet Google Slides Cheat Sheet Google Sheets Cheat Sheet Google Drawings Cheat Sheet Google Drive for iOS Cheat Sheet Google Chrome Cheat Sheet AND...Tips, Tricks and links along the way! Get the FREE eBook when you Subscribe to Shake Up Learning! (details below) Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events: Virginia Summit Featuring Google for Education, March 7-8 (Charlottesville, VA)  WEMTA, March 22-24 (Wisconsin Dells, WI)

How to Maximize the EdCamp Experience (Click to view full size image) 6 Tips to Maximize the EdCamp Experience There are so many wonderful reasons that I love EdCamps! I enjoy both attending EdCamps as a participant, and organizing EdCamps to help other educators discover the power of the unconference! After another successful year of EdCamp Awesome, I thought it would be useful to share some tips to help educators maximize the EdCamp Experience. Below are some tips for new and experienced EdCampers! What is EdCamp? (Click here to see learn more about the EdCamp Movement.) Prepare for EdCamp the day before (or earlier)!The day or night before, prepare for the event so you are ready to maximize your learning and your experience! 1. CHARGE YOUR DEVICES I recommend you bring at least two devices so you have a backup when your battery runs low. Sometimes power outlets can be inconvenient, and you don't want to be tethered to a wall and miss something awesome! I prefer to bring my smart phone and my tablet. This way I can travel light, but still be prepared to take notes, share on social media, take lots of pictures and learn new tricks! Laptops or Chromebooks are also great choices, and may come in handy if you facilitate a session, but are more burdensome to carry. 2. PREPARE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS Every EdCamp will have its own official hashtag (i.e. #EdCampAwesome). If you are already on social media, especially Twitter, go ahead and save the hashtag in the Twitter application of your choice. Add a new column in Tweet Deck or Hootsuite, or your favorite app to follow the hashtag and start the collaboration early! Check out who is already tweeting with the hashtag, who will be there, and share your own post to let others know you are coming.  The Day of EdCamp Prepare for your day of learning and collaboration! 3. ARRIVE EARLY!  Be sure to arrive early to make the most of the networking time! Meet and collaborate with as many educators as you can. Look for Twitter handles on attendee name badges so you can expand your PLN and follow them on Twitter. You also want to have plenty of time to suggest topics for sessions. If you have never used Twitter, be sure to suggest it and ask for it to be in the first block. That way Twitter newbies can learn and practice their new Twitter skills all day! Be brave and put your name on a topic to facilitate! Any teacher can facilitate a discussion. You do not have to be the expert. 4. TWEET OFTEN! Twitter can really enrich the EdCamp experience! Be sure to share what you learn on Twitter. Favorite the tweets of others you want to come back to, and let Twitter serve as some of your note-taking. EdCampers across the globe follow the hashtags to learn along with you. Who knows, you might inspire the next EdCamp! 5. TAKE COLLABORATIVE NOTES I'm a huge fan of collaborative note-taking. (See my previous post on Collaborative Note-Taking with Google Docs.) But I also picked up a new strategy at FETC using Google Slides. This is a great way to take collaborative notes for conferences and EdCamps. One person will create and share publicly a Google Slides presentation. Then participants create a new slide and add notes for each session they attend. At the end of the event you have everything in one share presentation! 6. STAY LATE Not only to I recommend coming early, but I also encourage you to stay for the entire event--even stay late! Most EdCamps have lots of fun door prizes that are given away throughout the day, or at the end of the day. You don't want to miss out on a free iPad or Chromebook! Not to mention, you will want to stay late to continue the collaboration and networking. Keep learning, expanding your PLN, make the most of the EdCamp experience! What are your tips for maximizing the EdCamp experience? Please share in the comments below. Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events: Virginia Summit Featuring Google for Education, March 7-8 (Charlottesville, VA)  WEMTA, March 22-24 (Wisconsin Dells, WI)

How to Be Awesome at #EdCamp Poster | www.ShakeUpLearning.com | #edchat #hackpd #teaching The #EdCamp Revolution is here to stay! Have you attended an EdCamp yet? Well, you should!  In case you haven't been paying attention, the EdCamp movement is changing the way educators connect and learn. Every educator, teacher, administrator, consultant--anyone in the field of education should experience an Edcamp. Here is a poster that I have shared through social media many times before. This poster is meant to guide the EdCamp experience, and help EdCampers remain in the spirit of the unconference, which is participant-driven! EdCamp sessions are not planned, and definitely not prepared PowerPoint presentations. Let discussion and participants guide the learning! [Full disclosure: I did NOT create this. The graphics were created by Tom Nielsen, a colleague of mine. The original content was passed on to me through social media, and I am not sure who wrote the words. (Please let me know so that I can give credit.)] Below the poster is a link to a folder with multiple versions (.png and .pdf) of the poster to be used by other EdCampers and EdCamp organizers. Feel free to share and use. -----> Click here to access the How to Be Awesome at EdCamp Posters. What do you love about EdCamp? Please share in the comments below! Related Posts:  How to Maximize the EdCamp Experience: 6 Tips [infographic] EdCamp Resources Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events: WEMTA, March 22-24 (Wisconsin Dells, WI) #GAFETalk Event with TextHelp, April 8-9 (Denver and Colorado Springs

The Golden Treasures of Google! - Part 1Most of us know of the Googley Goodness of Google Drive and related apps for education, but did you know there is much, much more that Google offers for FREE! There are so many hidden gems for teachers and students. This blog series will explore the lesser-known Google tools. (It wouldn't all fit in one post, and I find something new and interesting all the time!) Some of theses tools are made by Google, Inc., and some are made possible with Google tools. Either way, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to get your Google on! This post will focus on tools that utilize Google Maps, Street View and Google Earth.(I am also working on a new Thinglink with all of the Golden Treasures of Google! Look for that soon!)Create and share custom Google Maps!My Maps (formerly Maps Engine Lite)In the Classroom:Create interactive lesson journeysVisit historical landmarksTravel through a Novel or StoryCreate an Amazing Race adventure!My Maps Cheat Sheet (by Jennifer Judkins)Smarty PinsSmarty PinsGoogle Maps based geography and trivia game.Google generates a random trivia question about a specific city or country, and you must drop  a pin on the correct location on the map. Players can choose from six trivia categories: Featured Topics, Arts & Culture, Science & Geography, Sports & Games, Entertainment, History & Current Events.Although you cannot choose the location for your students, this is still a fun way to introduce some geography to your students.Geo GuesserGame using Google Maps StreetView that drops the player in a random location and challenges them to find out where they are. You cannot choose an exact location, you can choose from collections of cities, countries and continents. Perfect for a little social studies virtual excursion!Google Lit TripsFrom the Google Lit Trips website, "Google Lit Trips are free downloadable files that mark the journeys of characters from famous literature on the surface of Google Earth. At each location along the journey there are placemarks with pop-up windows containing a variety of resources including relevant media, thought provoking discussion starters, and links to supplementary information about "real world" references made in that particular portion of the story."As a former ELAR teacher, I LOVE this! What a fun way to explore and integrate Google Earth in the classroom!Tour BuilderCreate and Tell Stories through Google Earth!View Gallery of StoriesCreate Your Own ToursGreat for Student ProjectsNote: Only works in 32-bit browsers (use Firefox or Safari)-- I know! Hard to believe!Must have the Google Earth plug-inWhat are your favorite Google tools? Please share in the comments below.Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:WEMTA, March 22-24 (Wisconsin Dells, WI)#GAFETalk Event with TextHelp, April 8-9 (Denver and Colorado Springs)#GoogleEduOnAir (May 8-9)#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)

The Golden Treasures of Google! Part 2Google offer us so many fabulous projects and tools! Are You Ready for More?Welcome to Part 2 in this series: The Golden Treasures of Google! The Fabulous Tools You Don't Know About!Part 2 will focus on some fabulous data tools! Check out what data-driven Googliness lies below!--->Did you miss Part 1 in this series: Google Maps, Street View and Earth?Google TrendsExplore Google trending search topics with Google Trends. See what's trending, what's popular, and much more data!Also, check out these special treasures:Hot TrendsA Year in Search 2014In the Classroom: Google Trends is a great discussion starter. Ask students to analyze the data, make predictions, and talk about how the world is changing.Google CorrelateGoogle CorrelateGoogle Correlate is actually a part of Google Trends. It finds search patterns which correspond with real-world trends. Check out this great Comic Book explanation of Google Correlate!Flu TrendsTutorialSearch by DrawingIn the Classroom: Google Correlate is a great tool for finding correlations with current events like the Ebola outbreak. It is also a great way to explain the difference between correlation and causation to students!Ngram ViewerNgram ViewerNgram Viewer is a part of Google Books. Five MILLION books have been archived covering a span of the last 500 years, and Google has made the data from those books searchable. Visualise the rise and fall of particular keywords across 5 million books and 500 years! In the Classroom: This tool would be great for having students research keywords around a historical event like World War II and do a comparison with published works and popular authors of the time in Ngram Viewer.Google Public Data ExplorerThe Google Public Data Explorer makes large datasets that are made publically available by the government and other agencies easy to explore, visualize and communicate. Here you can find everything from unemployment and population to Ebola and weather.Four types of visualizations : line chartbar chartmapscatter plotBonus: You can now upload your own data sets.In the classroom: There are so many ways that this data and the visualizations could be used in the classroom. These statistics would be great for research projects, geography, authentic math problems, and more!Did you miss Part 1 in this series: Google Maps, Street View and Earth?What are your favorite Google tools? Please share in the comments below.Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#GAFETalk Event with TextHelp, April 8-9 (Denver and Colorado Springs)#GoogleEduOnAir (May 8-9)#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)

So, have you heard the news about the fabulous new event that Texthelp is hosting for educators in Denver? It’s called GAFE Talk, and it features Google Apps for Education! Need I say more??? The folks at Texthelp have been working hard to make this a valuable learning experience for educators. If that’s not enough to pique your interest, then keep reading to learn more.  Below are five reasons to attend GAFE Talk:1 - FREE EventDid I mention the GAFE Talk seminar is completely FREE? Awesome, right?! The event on April 8th is already sold out. The Denver location was so popular that they added an extra day. Register here to attend on April 9th.2 - Authorized Google Education TrainersThe featured speakers at this seminar are authorized Google Education Trainers, so you know you will be getting information from those in the know. Jason Carroll and I will be leading presentations throughout the day to help educators learn how to support ALL learners with Google Apps for Education. That’s right! I will be in Colorado, shaking things up. Are you ready?3 - Learn How to Support Learners of All Abilities with GAFESupporting learners of ALL abilities in the classroom is a challenge for teachers everywhere. Using Google Apps for Education can empower teachers and students. The GAFE Talk seminar will focus on easy-to-use tools and strategies that teachers and students will love. Below are just some of the topics I will cover at GAFE Talk:Discover a Better Way of Learning: Less "Teching," More Teaching with Google Apps for EducationUsing Google Chrome to Support Struggling Readers and English Language LearnersImproving Writing and Research with Google Apps and Add-OnsMobile Learning with Google Apps for Education4 - Guest Speaker from Google!We have a very special guest speaker from Google that will be talking about the Google Play for Education store, your one stop shop for class content! Get an inside look at the valuable content in the store, including apps, books, videos and more!5 - FREE Texthelp Tools for Participants!You heard me. Participants will receive FREE tools from Texthelp, including Read & Write for Google, Fluency Tutor, and Teach for Google---all at no cost! Texthelp has some wonderful tools to help you support ALL learners in your classroom. Not only will you learn about these tools during the event, but you get to take them home for free!Join me next week in Colorado at GAFE Talk, and if you can’t be there in person, be sure to follow the hashtag: #GAFETalk. I’m so excited to be a part of this event, and I hope to see you there! Want a #GAFETalk event in your area? Let them know and tweet with the hashtag. Look for more resources from this event to be posted soon! What are your favorite Texthelp tools? Please share in the comments below!Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#GAFETalk Event with TextHelp, April 8-9 (Denver, CO)#GoogleEduOnAir (May 8-9)#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)TCEA Area 16 Conference, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)Prosper ISD Tech Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference, June 11 (Wylie, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philedelphia, PA)

The Golden Treasures of Google - Part 3The Golden Treasures of Google! The Fabulous Tools You Don't Know About! Part 3 - SEARCH!Here we go again! I'm not sure how many parts will be in this series because there are just so MANY hidden treasures with Google! (Actually, I think I could blog for a couple years with this topic!) We are not even scratching the surface my friends! So here is Part 3...Are you ready to learn about some new ways to search with Google?Below are some Google search engines, tips and tricks to help you sharpen your search skills. Check out The Golden Treasures of Google - Part 3 (SEARCH)!--->Did you miss Part 1 and 2 in this series? The Golden Treasures of Google - Part 1: Google Maps, Street View and Google Earth The Golden Treasures of Google - Part 2: DATAReverse Image SearchYou have probably searched Google Images many times, but did you know you can actually reverse the process and start your search with an image?!! Yes, you can! Watch the video below to learn more.In the classroom: It's as easy and drag-and-drop, and this is a great way to drive student inquiry in the classroom. What if inquiry and research could begin with an image, a portrait, a historical place, and you let students discover the content on their own?Custom Search EngineCreate your own custom search engine to search only the sites you add to the engine. The video below was designed for the business world, but will help you grasp the idea.In the Classroom: Use the Custom Search Engine to create customized searches for student research projects or to search your classroom or campus website. You could also have students create them--after they find valid and reliable sources of course!Google AlertsGoogle Alerts allows you to set up alerts for certain information online. You will receive an email when something new is found online. This is a way to monitor the web for things that are posted about you, your school, or other things that interest you.Keep an eye on your digital footprint.Find out the latest on ISTE 2015 (or other events).Follow companies, events, movie stars, athletes...whatever you want!In the Classroom: First of all, you should Google yourself on a regular basis, and you should teach your students to do the same. I use Google Alerts to keep an eye on my digital footprint. You could have students set up alerts to monitor topics they are interested in, researching or studying, follow current events, politics, elections. The limits are endless.What Do You Love? (wdyl)This is a fun search engine that encourages you to search for things you love, and the engine works its magic searching across multiple Google products. Below is a screenshot of my search for puppies. (I guess there weren't any trends for puppies.)In the Classroom: I think this WDYL would be a great way to kick off a passion project for Genius Hour! You could also use this to get to know your students, drive discussions and research.Let Me Google That For You (lmgtfy)My sarcastic side can't help but love this! This tool is for those people who bug you with tons of questions instead of just Googling it for themselves! What this witty little tool will do is actually take a screencast of you typing in the keywords and show the results! Go try it now...I'll wait.If you are like me, when someone asks me a question that I don't know the answer to, I Google it! So hold on, let me Google that for you!In the Classroom: Use this tool to let students show you how they found their results. (Thanks to a participant at #WEMTA15 for that suggestion!) I also think this is a great tool for students to teach teachers (and other students) how to improve their search skills.What are your favorite Google tools? Please share in the comments below.Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#GAFETalk Event with TextHelp, April 8-9 (Denver, CO)#GoogleEduOnAir (May 8-9)#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)Prosper ISD Tech Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference, June 11 (Wylie, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philedelphia, PA)

Google Chrome Apps for Leveled ReadingChrome Apps for Leveled ReadingIf you have followed this blog for very long, then you know that I am a self-professed Chrome Addict. I love it! I love the fact that I can customize it to fit my needs, but I love it even more because we can customize it to fit the needs of learners! Below are just a few Google Chrome Apps to support readers in the classroom. These apps offer various ways find leveled reading material (by Lexile and grade level), as well as many other robust features!Newsela (Freemium: Grades 3-12)Newsela publishes and adapts daily news articles at 5 reading levels from grades 3-12, and aligned quizzes. This is a great resource for non-fiction text!  Students and teachers can login with their Google accounts. Teachers can assign articles and monitor progress. Below is a video to help you get started with Newsela.Fluency Tutor for Google (Freemium: Age 6 and up)Fluency Tutor for Google is much more than just an app for leveled reading passages. This is a very robust tool that allows teachers to assign leveled reading passages, add your own reading passages, and more. Students can also practice and record their reading to improve fluency, and teachers can listen to the recordings when convenient. There is so much to this tool! It could have been the subject of this entire post! Watch the video below to learn more.Fluency Tutor for Google (Teacher App)Fluency Tutor for Google (Student App)Books That Grow (Free: Grades 2-12)Books That Grow is a leveled reading application with over 100 eBooks. Teachers can assign reading to their classroom, and monitor student reading student progress. Books That Grow also allows the students to signup on their own to find reading at their own level. (See levels here.) Watch the video below to learn more.What are your favorite Google tools to support reading? Please share in the comments below.Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#GoogleEduOnAir (May 8-9)#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)Prosper ISD Tech Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference, June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)

Collaborative Magnetic Poetry with Google DrawingsJust in time for National Poetry Month: Collaborative Magnetic Poetry with Google Drawings!That's right! I've created a magnetic poetry interactive template with Google Drawings that you and your students can use to get creative during National Poetry Month. You can use this as an independent activity, or take it a step further and make it a collaborative activity and see how the poetry evolves. You can use the "magnets" included, or even add your own text boxes to extend the activity.Have some fun! Click here to make a copy of the template, and save it to your Google Drive, or use the button below.Collaborative Poetry TemplateUPDATE!: See fifth grade students having some fun with magnetic poetry below. Please feel free to share your kiddos. I love seeing this! Thank you to Lynn Kleinmeyer and her students in Iowa for sharing.5th grade Ss LOVED using @ShakeUpLearning's "Magnetic" Poetry during #library today! @lbahrke #lctitanhill #GAFE pic.twitter.com/fdbws5zxAo— Lynn Kleinmeyer (@THLibrariZen) April 21, 2015Here is another fabulous example from Mrs. Kane's 8th grade class in New Jersey!@shakeuplearning Our collaborative magnetic poetry using the words from "A Midsummer Night's Dream" #googledrawing pic.twitter.com/K4DQZP1xAr— Kane's 8th Graders (@AWKaneGT) April 28, 2015And here are some high school examples from Virginia! Thanks @Techy_Margaret!More student work @ShakeUpLearning from our HS ESOL students for #NationalPoetryMonth #EarthDay pic.twitter.com/VxIacc8M9e— Margaret (@Techy_Margaret) April 29, 2015Share your poetry and your student's poetry in the comments below! I'd love to see what you create!Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#TechUpTxState EdTech Conference at Texas State University (San Marcos, TX)#GoogleEduOnAir (May 8-9)#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)Prosper ISD Tech Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference, June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)

The Golden Treasures of Google - Part 4The Golden Treasures of Google! The Fabulous Things You Don't Know About! Part 4: Student InitiativesYep! There's always more Googley Goodness to share so expect these treasures to keep on coming! Today's post is focused on some very special initiatives that Google offers for K-12 students. Below are some fantastic ways to let your students shine! These are great ways to tap into your students' creativity and prepare them for the future.--->Did you miss Part 1, 2 or 3 in this series? The Golden Treasures of Google - Part 1: Google Maps, Street View and Google Earth The Golden Treasures of Google - Part 2: DATAThe Golden Treasures of Google - Part 3: SearchGoogle Science FairThis one is first because the deadline to participate in next month! The Google Science Fair is an online competition for ages 13-18. This project encourages students to change the world through scientific inquiry.  This is an amazing opportunity for students, and a chance to further those STEM skills!Get lesson plans and starter kitDeadline is May 19Below is a YouTube Playlist of the past Google Science Fair Finalists and Winners:Made With CodeMade With Code is an exciting project designed to close the gender gap in the programming industry, and give girls and young women fun ways to learn how to code. Fun projects like this dress, and even coding the Christmas Trees at the White House!The website is loaded with resources, including these fabulous projects.Watch the video below, and help spread the word to girls and young women!Doodle 4 GoogleUnleash the creativity in your students with the Doodle 4 Google Competition! This annual competition will return in September 2015 is for grades K-12 and features some major prizes! The National Winner gets their artwork featured on the Google homepage and gets a $30k scholarship for college!Doodles will be grouped and judged by the following grade groups:Grades K-3Grades 4-5Grades 6-7Grades 8-9Grades 10-12View the 2014 Doodle 4 Google WinnersWhat are your favorite Google Projects and Initiatives? Please share in the comments below.Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#TechUpTxState EdTech Conference at Texas State University (San Marcos, TX)#GoogleEduOnAir (May 8-9)#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)Prosper ISD Tech Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference, June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)

Turn a YouTube Clip into a GIFGoogle Tips & Tricks: Turn a YouTube Video into a GIF! Animated GIF images are so much fun, and can make it really easy to show students and teachers how to do things. This is an easy trick using a tool called GIFYT. Simply type the letters GIF after www., and before youtube, and you will be directed to the site to create our GIF. These GIFs can be up to 15 seconds long, and you can select the exact portion of the video you wish to use. See the example and steps below.Step 1: Using your browser, locate the video on YouTube that you wish to convert to an animated gif image.Step 2: Type, "gif" between the "www." and "youtube" portion of the URL (see below).Step 3: You will be taken to a configuration window. Using the slider select the portion of the video you wish to convert, and select the duration (up to 15 seconds). (I know how silly I look! I can't wink ;).)Step 4: Add a title and click create! Voila! You did it! Remember that animated GIFs will only work if they are linked or embedded, so grab the link or embed code and add it to your website, blog, Google Doc or Google Slide. (See my silly example from my GTA application video below. I used the embed code which also ties in some extra links and social media options.)What are your favorite ways to create or use animated GIF images? Please share in the comments below!Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#TechUpTxState EdTech Conference at Texas State University (San Marcos, TX)#GoogleEduOnAir (May 8-9)#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)Prosper ISD Tech Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference, June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)

Maximize Google Drive on the iPadAs I have mentioned before, we have come a long way with using Google Apps on the iPad! There have been a lot of updates to the Google Drive app over the last year, and you may have missed some handy features. Below are a few tricks to help you make the most of using Google Drive on the iPad. This article will show you how to manage multiple accounts, passcode protect Google Drive, and how to upload from other Google Drive accounts, camera roll, iCloud, Dropbox and more!Manage Multiple AccountsDo you have more than one Google account? I have several, and it's nice that I can log in to multiple accounts through the Google Drive for iOS app. Here's how:1. From the Google Drive App, tap on the menu button (top left).2. Tap your account name.3. From here, select, "Add another account," and login to your other Google account. Once you have added each of your accounts, you can follow the steps above to toggle between your accounts.This feature can also make shared iPads a bit easier. Add this feature with the tip below and help keep students from accidentally logging into the wrong account.Passcode Protect Google Drive AccountsProtect your Google Drive files with a passcode. You can passcode protect each Google Drive account with a different code. When you passcode protect your account, you will be prompted for the passcode each time you open the Google Drive apps. If you have a newer iPad/iPhone with Touch ID, you can also login with Touch ID. Here's how to set a Passcode Lock for each Google Account:Go to Settings (top left corner)Next, tap Passcode Lock > Enable Passcode Lock to "On". You will then be prompted to set the passcode (and re-enter to confirm). After confirmed, you can choose to have the passcode "Always Lock," and it will require that you enter the passcode each time you return to Google Drive.Shared iPad Tip: (Thank you to the fabulous +Jody Green for sharing this tip!) We all know that shared iPads present a lot of challenges, and logging in and out of Google Accounts can take a lot of extra time. Jody has students store their individual accounts in their assigned iPads with a passcode lock. This way students can only access their own accounts, and keep students from accidentally logging in with the wrong account.Upload Files to Google Drive from Camera Roll, iCloud, Dropbox and More!There are now many ways to upload files to Google Drive, including connections to third party storage apps. Below are three options for uploading to Google Drive in the iOS app.Upload files or videos from the Camera Roll: Access photos, videos and screenshots that you have saved to your Google Drive. This method is a great way to move files created with other apps into Drive (i.e. iMovie).Use Camera: Use the camera directly from the Google Drive app to directly upload photos and videos to Google Drive. This function will still save to your camera roll as well, but with photos and videos safely stored in Drive, you can delete from your iOS device to save precious storage! (Note: Always verify that the photos and videos are saved in Drive before deleting from the camera roll.)Upload files: From here you will see various options depending on the other apps you have installed. Upload files from iCloud, another Google Drive account, Dropbox and more! (To enable, click on + > Upload Files > More.)Ready to learn more about using Google on the iPad? Watch my online session this Saturday, May 9th for the Google Edu On Air conference for Educators: The Best of Both Worlds: Google Apps for the iPad.Register for the full, two-day event here.Watch my session live on this page. (Video embedded below.)What are your favorite tips for using Google Drive on the iPad? Please share in the comments below.Click here for even more resources for using Google on the iPad.Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#GoogleEduOnAir (May 8-9)#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)Prosper ISD Tech Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference, June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Related Posts:Google Apps for the iPad and iOS (The COMPLETE List!)5 Tips for Using Google Apps on the iPad

My Top 10 Tips for Successful Technology Integration in the ClassroomI am super excited to share this update with you! My Top Ten Tech Tips for Successful Technology Integration were originally shared last July (2014). These are the tips that I often refer to when helping teachers dip their toes into the technology integration waters. It's easy to become overwhelmed by technology and planning. These tips will make the process so much easier!Today, I'm honored to share a sketch version of my tips by the fabulously talented Sylvia Duckworth! (She makes me look good! ;))Top 10 Tech Tips for TeachersDownload the full resolution version below.toptentechtipssketch.jpgFile Size:465 kbFile Type:jpgDownload FileBelow is the original graphic poster I created (with Canva in case you were interested). You can also download a pdf version for printing below.top_10_tech_tips_for_teachers.pdfFile Size:2516 kbFile Type:pdfDownload FileWhat are your favorite technology integration tips? Please share in the comments below!Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#TXGoo15, May 16: Texas Summit feature Google for Education (New Caney, TX)TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)#ProsperTrendingNow Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference (Keynote), June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)Missouri Google Summit, July 11-12 (Kansas City, MO)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Texserve's 2nd Annual "Bridging the Gap: Technology & Instruction" Symposium (Keynote), July 30 (Dallas, TX)

5 Reasons You Must Read Ditch That Text BookEnter to Win Your FREE Copy of Ditch That Textbook: Free Your Teaching and Revolutionize Your Classroom!I am so excited to announce that my friend and colleague, Matt Miller, from www.DitchThatTextbook.com, has written an incredible book entitled, "Ditch That Textbook: Free Your Teaching and Revolutionize Your Classroom."  It was an honor to write an endorsement for this book, where I touted it as a MUST READ for teachers. Today, I’d like to share with you Five Reasons Why You Must Read Ditch That Textbook! But wait...there’s more! I’m also excited to announce that I have THREE copies to give away to Shake Up Learning readers. Don’t you just love FREE resources?5 Reasons You Must Read: Ditch That Textbook: Free Your Teaching and Revolutionize Your Classroom1.  A Focus on Good Pedagogy, not just TechnologyMatt does a fantastic job of breaking things down for teachers, and focusing on sound pedagogy and student learning throughout the book. With sections on mindset, and task over tool, Ditch That Textbook, helps explain the why and not just the how-to part of the process.2. Building Relationships with StudentsIn Chapter 11, Win and Influence Students, Matt takes Carnegie’s (How to Win and Influence People) principles to a new level by applying them to the classroom. These active strategies will help you build strong and trusting relationships with your students.3. Ditch that MindsetMindset is at least half the battle of any worthwhile change. Ditch That Textbook has an entire section dedicated to changing mindsets and working toward positive change. 4. Practical Steps for Any TeachersMatt offers practical guidance that any teacher can follow. This excellent book not only offers tips that the most novice teacher can follow, but also advice that can take more experienced teachers to the next level in their classroom.5. Classroom TransformationIf you are looking to make that shift to a more student-centered classroom that will help prepare your students for the future, look no further! Ditch That Textbook: Free Your Teaching and Revolutionize Your Classroom is just the guide that you need to take your classroom to the next level.Click to set custom HTMLWin a FREE Copy of Ditch That Textbook!Now that you have been given a taste of the great content included in the book, it's time to give you a chance to win a copy for yourself! Enter below for your chance to win! The sweepstakes will run until Tuesay, May 26 at 11:59 PM. Winners will be notified via email on May 27th. Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)#ProsperTrendingNow Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference (Keynote), June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)Missouri Google Summit, July 11-12 (Kansas City, MO)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Texserve's 2nd Annual "Bridging the Gap: Technology & Instruction" Symposium (Keynote), July 30 (Dallas, TX)

How to Manage Multiple Google AccountsYou're Doing it Wrong! Managing/Toggling Between Multiple Google AccountsThis is one of my favorite Google tips and has made my life so much easier!  A lot of Google users have more than one Google account, often a school account and a personal account. If you are like me, you have like fifteen accounts. Logging in and out can be an absolute pain! But I am here to show you a better way! I find that a lot of users do not even know about this tip, so I felt like I should create a tutorial.The video tutorial shows the wrong way, how to fix it, and how to toggle between your Google accounts the right way--using Google Chrome.How to Manage Multiple Google Accounts TutorialStop Using the "Add Account" MethodUse Google Chrome and Login to Chrome!Hopefully, you know this already but the key to using the strategy in the video requires that you use Google Chrome. So forget that Internet Explorer exists, give up your Firefox addiction and make the switch!New to Chrome? Check out these resources to help you make the switch:Google Chrome Cheat SheetMy Favorite Chrome AppsMy Favorite Chrome ExtensionsGet the Shake Up Learning Chrome ExtensionIf you are currently toggling between accounts using the "add account," button under your account information near the top right of Google Drive (see video), you are doing it wrong! Yes, I used this method for a while before I learned there was a better way. This may be working fine for you now, but I guarantee you will eventually run into issues like I did. Watch the video and find out how.Set up Chrome Profiles for Each of Your Google AccountsThis is one of my favorite Google Chrome features! This allows you to set up a profile for each of your Google accounts--each with its own set of apps, extensions and themes. This is also a great way to set up a shared computer, or to set up Chrome with different restrictions for your children. (More on that in another post!) Once you have this set-up, toggling between multiple Google accounts becomes so much easier!Get More Google Tricks and TipsWhat are your favorite Google Tips? Please share in the comments below.Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)#ProsperTrendingNow Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference (Keynote), June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)Missouri Google Summit, July 11-12 (Kansas City, MO)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Texserve's 2nd Annual "Bridging the Gap: Technology & Instruction" Symposium (Keynote), July 30 (Dallas, TX)Hunt County Tech Camp, Aug. 4 (Commerce, TX)Revolutionize Learning Conference, Aug. 5 (Royse City, TX)

#EdCampUSAOn Friday, May 29, I had the privilege to attend #EdCampUSA (aka EdCamp DOED) in Washington D.C. This was no ordinary EdCamp. This EdCamp was held at the U.S. Department of Education with Edcampers from across the U.S. The room was filled with many members of my PLN, some I have never met in person, and many new educational leaders I was ecstatic to meet (see the list of Edcampers)! Oh, and the U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, happened to make a surprise appearance!The morning began like most EdCamps, networking and building the schedule. Kristen Swanson and Hadley Ferguson kicked things off with a great introduction and a few updates on the EdCamp Foundation. See the #EdCampUSA Schedule and Collaborative Notes here.I learned so much and left with so many new ideas that my head has been spinning for the past few days. One thing was definitely clear. There were some common threads that were consistent in all of the sessions I attended.Relationships Are Key to SuccessNo matter what topic we were discussing, eventually the conversation would circle back to building relationships. For classroom teachers, building relationships with students is crucial to success and learning. For administrators and other educational leaders, relationships set the tone for success on campus, in the district and beyond. Cultivating relationships with teachers and staff is a crucial step to classroom transformation and innovation. But another critical relationship that I decided to explore at #EdCampUSA is the relationship with pre-service teachers, professors, and institutions.There is a gap between K-12 and higher education. Please don't mistake this as a blanket statement about every pre-service program, but there are many institutions that are still delivering lots of lecture and powerpoint, and totally missing the boat on both student-centered learning for pre-service teachers and modeling digital learning strategies. I don't have any answers, but I know there is work to be done to bridge this gap.How great would it be to get pre-service teachers attending EdCamps? I've had a few a the EdCamps I have been involved with, and it is a great opportunity for future teachers that is easily overlooked.Every Voice MattersAnother common thread that I found in all of my conversations at #EdCampUSA was a focus on voice, not just student voice, but also the teacher's voice. That's what is so powerful about the EdCamp model, it is participant-driven and gives teachers a voice and choice in their learning. Student voice in professional learning has piqued my interest recently, and I find it interesting to hear how other educators are emphasizing the importance of student voice in the classroom, and teacher voice in professional learning--yet again, another reason why relationships are key!After experiencing the power of a student panel in professional learning first-hand (during my day job), I want more! It's so important to consider what our students believe and experience as learners. Have you stopped to ask your students what they think are the characteristics of a successful learner? Or what their most powerful learning experience entailed? The answers might surprise you!Digital LeadershipAs leaders, we have to model what we want to see in our teachers and in our classrooms. It's not enough to rely on those tech-savvy superstars to lead the way. Leadership shouldn't have to include the word digital these days, it should be implied, but it is not. There are not enough leaders who are modeling digital strategies and social media usage. Again, not a blanket statement, but there are not enough educational leaders taking on the role of being a digital leader for teachers, students, and staff. We have to stop focusing on digital tools and focus on how to leverage technology to transform learning!Click to Tweet: "Leadership shouldn't have to include the word digital these days, it should be implied, but it is not."- @ShakeUpLearningSpeaking of digital leadership...While waiting for Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, to arrive on Friday, we were tasked with tweeting Arne about our day. So happy to see digital leadership in our U.S. Department of Education! Below is a storify of some of the tweets from the day.(Be sure you scroll past the tweets to learn more about EdCamps!)[View the story "#EdCampUSA messages for @arneduncan" on Storify]GET YOURSELF TO AN EDCAMP!EdCamps are happening everywhere across the country! Stop making excuses and go! I'm shocked at how many educators I know that still haven't attended an EdCamp. So if you are reading this and have no idea what I'm talking about, I've added some information below.Visit EdCamp.org to Learn More about EdCampsFind an EdCamp Near YouEdCamp 101TEDxPhiladelphiaED by Kristen Swanson on EdCampWhat do you think of the EdCamp Model? Please share in the comments below.Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:TCEA Area 16 Conference Jamboree, June 4 (Amarillo, TX)#ProsperTrendingNow Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference (Keynote), June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)Missouri Google Summit, July 11-12 (Kansas City, MO)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Texserve's 2nd Annual "Bridging the Gap: Technology & Instruction" Symposium (Keynote), July 30 (Dallas, TX)Hunt County Tech Camp, Aug. 4 (Commerce, TX)Revolutionize Learning Conference, Aug. 5 (Royse City, TX)

Google Chrome Extensions for School Administrators, Leaders, or Anyone!Apps & Extensions for School LeadersAs I prepare to deliver some Google training for school administrators, I thought it would be useful to share my list of Chrome Apps and Extensions. Going Google isn't as simple as flipping a switch. It takes careful planning and meaningful implementation for everyone in the district. I am a firm believer that implementing Google Apps (or anything else) should be led by school administrators, not the so-called "techies," of the district. As leaders, it is important to model the tools and strategies you want to see in the classroom. So whether you are just jumping in or an avid Google user, I hope these lists can help you further your skills. This list is just a starting place, depending on your own needs and preferences, this list can vary. This list is a great starting place for just about anyone: teachers, students, staff or anyone who is using Google Apps. These will help you kick things off with Google Apps and be more productive. For even more Chrome Apps and Extensions, please visit my lists below: Favorite Chrome AppsFavorite Chrome ExtensionsClick to Tweet: "As leaders, it is important to model the tools and strategies you want to see in the classroom." - @ShakeUpLearningChrome Apps for Google Drive: I'm going to focus on the basics first. The Chrome Apps for Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides will take you to the homepage for that app. The Chrome Apps for Forms and Drawings will create a new file with one click, as they do not have home pages at this time. Gmail and Calendar are shortcuts to each app as well. Google DriveDocsSheetsSlidesFormsDrawingsGmailCalendarDocHub: Securely view, edit and sign PDFs. Fill forms. Merge documents and reorder pages. Create templates. DocHub is 100% free. This is great for signing documents electronically! A must have app!Since Chrome Apps are mostly just short-cuts this list could go on forever, but I just wanted to stick to the basics. Have another app suggestion? Please share in the comments below.Chrome Extensions: Below are twelve Google Chrome Extensions to help you be a more productive and efficient school administrator.Black Menu for Google: This is a great extension that allows you access your Google Apps from the extension in Chrome, search Google, and more. Send from Gmail: This extension makes sending links a snap! Click on the extension from any webpage you would like to email. A Gmail compose window pops up, and the name of the article is automatically inserted in the subject line, and the link is inserted in the body of the message. All you need to do is to type in who you are sending it to and click send!Tab Scissors: One of my faves, this extension allows you to split two tabs into equal parts across the screen. Great for when you need to view two tabs on the same screen. (Perfect for viewing and entering data!) Tab Glue: If you get tab scissors, you need tab glue. Tab glue will magically glue the tabs back into one window again with one click! Grammarly Spell Checker and Grammar Checker: I use Grammarly daily, and I paid for the premium version which gives you additional features if you write a lot online. But the free version is amazing! Great for proofreading and avoiding embarrassing mistakes.Docs PDF/PPT Viewer : If you use the Chrome browser, and you should, you NEED the Docs/PDF/PowerPoint Viewer extension. I have used this extension for so long, and it is so seamless that I forgot it's actually an extension and not just a feature of Google Chrome. This extension will allow you to view PDF documents and PowerPoint files on the web without the need for downloading and taking up storage on your computer. Learn more about this extension here.Google Mail Checker: This extension will allow you to see how many unread messages you have in your gmail, and you can click the extension to go directly to your inbox.Google Calendar: Easily access a list of events in your calendar. This is great for getting a quick view of upcoming events in your calendar.Office Editing for Docs, Sheets and Slides: If you need to view of edit any Microsoft Office files, this is your new best friend! Use this extension to view and edit Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files inside Google Drive.goo.gl URL Shortener: This handy URL shortener will allow you to shorten your links right from the extension. Shortening URLs is great for sharing links on social media, newsletters, and email. Bonus: you also get a QR code without leaving the page or extension. All of your links are saved to your Google account and you can check the statistics to see how many clicks your links get.Adblock Plus: This extension will block a lot of unwanted pop-up ads and malware. Used by over 50 million people.This list is a great start for school leaders, administrators, or teachers and staff. Since Chrome can be completely customized, the possibilities are endless. If there is a feature you are looking for, explore the Chrome Web Store because there is a good chance someone else has already developed an app or extension for that!What are your favorite Apps and Extensions? Please share in the comments below!Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:#ProsperTrendingNow Conference, June 10 (Prosper, TX)Speed 21 Conference (Keynote), June 11 (Wylie, TX)Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)Missouri Google Summit, July 11-12 (Kansas City, MO)California Google Summit, July 18-19 (Palo Alto, CA)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Texserve's 2nd Annual "Bridging the Gap: Technology & Instruction" Symposium (Keynote), July 30 (Dallas, TX)Hunt County Tech Camp, Aug. 4 (Commerce, TX)Revolutionize Learning Conference, Aug. 5 (Royse City, TX)

50 Things with Google ClassroomEnter for your chance to win a copy of Alice Keeler and Libbi Miller's new book: 50 Things You Can Do with Google Classroom!Looking for the perfect summer read to sharpen your Google skills? Look no further! 50 Things You Can Do with Google Classroom is an easy read that will help you get started with using Google Classroom, and sharpen your Google Apps skills along the way. This guide is easy to follow with step-by-step instructions and practical ideas for any grade level or subject area.I want to send a special thank you to my friend, Alice Keeler, for giving me two copies of her book to give away to Shake Up Learning readers. Follow Alice's blog, www.AliceKeeler.com, for great Google resources.Enter today for your chance to win a copy. The sweepstakes will run from June 15 until June 25 at 11:59 PM CST, and you have multiple ways to enter below. (You must live in the continental U.S. to win.) But if you can't wait, go ahead and order the book from Amazon (paperback or Kindle)! What are you reading this summer? Please share in the comments below!Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:Texas ASCD Ignite, June 15-17 (Irving, TX)iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)Missouri Google Summit, July 11-12 (Kansas City, MO)California Google Summit, July 18-19 (Palo Alto, CA)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Texserve's 2nd Annual "Bridging the Gap: Technology & Instruction" Symposium (Keynote), July 30 (Dallas, TX)Hunt County Tech Camp, Aug. 4 (Commerce, TX)Revolutionize Learning Conference, Aug. 5 (Royse City, TX)

The Teachers Guide to PinterestGetting Started with Pinterest!I'm surprised to find out how many educators are still not using Pinterest! So I've decided to put together this guide to help new users get started, and help more advanced users find great educational content. So why not use the summer to get acquainted with Pinterest and find some great resources for the next school year!Guys, Pinterest is not just for the ladies! I have a brother-in-law with a "Man Cave," board to prove it! Give it a shot. Watch the video below if you are new to Pinterest, and still don't quite get it.What is Pinterest?Pinterest is a visual bookmarking tool, where users save bookmarks or "pins" onto their virtual "boards" to organize and revisit. Pinterest is also a very powerful search engine! Use it to find and discover new ideas for the classroom, for your home and your life.Get Started!Now, go set up your account at www.Pinterest.com and get started! Stay tuned for more posts in this series to learn more about who and what to follow, and how to make the most of Pinterest in the classroom. And if you just can't wait, explore my previous Pinterest posts linked below.35 Educators You Should Follow on PinterestCreate Beautiful Pinterest Board CoversWhat do you love about Pinterest? Please share in the comments below!Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:iPadpalooza, June 23-25 (Austin, TX)ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)Missouri Google Summit, July 11-12 (Kansas City, MO)California Google Summit, July 18-19 (Palo Alto, CA)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Texserve's 2nd Annual "Bridging the Gap: Technology & Instruction" Symposium (Keynote), July 30 (Dallas, TX)Hunt County Tech Camp, Aug. 4 (Commerce, TX)Revolutionize Learning Conference, Aug. 5 (Royse City, TX)

4 NEW Google Certifications! Plus a NEW Google Training Center!New and Updated Google Educator Certifications!I spend a lot of time helping other educators prepare for Google Certifications, and I am happy to share some new information today. In conjunction with the release of a brand new Google Education Training Center, Google has revealed its new certification to the masses. We have some new titles, badges, and wonderful ways to learn to implement Google Apps in the classroom.Google for Education CertificationsThere are officially three different Google certification programs for educators (and yes, we can now officially use the word, "certification," in all three): Google Certified Educator (level 1 and level 2), Google for Education Certified Trainer, and Google for Education Certified Innovator. Each certification level gets a brand new badge as well.Below are the details on the new Google Education Certifications, which is how it is stated on Google's new Training Center. The details below come directly from Google.The Google for Education team manages three different certification programs to meet the professional development needs of our school community:Google Certified Educator (Level 1): Designed for educators and classroom teachers who wish to demonstrate proficiency in using Google for Education tools. The Level 1 status indicates that an educator is able to successfully implement Google Apps for Education into their teaching practice in order to enhance teaching and learning. Google Certified Educator (Level 2): The Level 2 status indicates that an educator is able to successfully integrate a wider range of Google for Education tools and other technologies in order to transform their teaching practice.Google for Education Certified Trainer: Designed for individuals who deliver training or professional development to other educators. You may be a professional trainer at a partner organization; tech integrator or coach at a school or district; or maybe an independent consultant. This program requires you to have experience delivering training on Google for Education tools.Gather Your Prerequisites:Candidates for the Google for Education Certified Trainer program must demonstrate subject-matter expertise by achieving the Trainer Essentials certificate and delivering Google for Education training. All existing Google Educator certificates are also valid for application.Trainer Essentials Certificate + experience delivering Google for Education trainingNote: Google Certified Educator Level 1 and Level 2 certificates are not valid for application.Apply (Applications will re-open on July 8, 2015.):We accept and review applications every quarter. The application allows you to show us your training experience, style, and strategy.Training ExperienceProvide a training resume highlighting relevant work experience, training and speaking sessions, and other awards or certifications. Please limit to 2 pages. See example.Provide 3 references for trainings you've delivered in the past year - ideally from 3 different training sessions and/or organizations. Your references will receive a short survey to complete about their experience with your training.Training StyleSubmit a 2-minute video showcasing your training skills. The video should highlight one feature of Google Apps for Education, Chromebooks, Chrome, or Android Tablets with Play for Education in a classroom or school setting. Screencasts are preferred. See example.Training StrategyCreate a case study (using this template) that will give us a good understanding of your training strategy, including planning, implementation, evaluation, and sample learning materials. See example.Google for Education Certified Innovator: Designed for education thought-leaders who create new and innovative projects using Google for Education tools.Gather Your PrequisitesCandidates for the Google for Education Certified Innovator program are selected based on their professional experience, their passion for teaching and learning, their innovative use of technology in school settings and their potential impact on other educators.Google Certified Educator Level 2 + Demonstrate a history of innovation in schoolsApplyYou must attend a Google for Education Innovation Academy as the first step in becoming a Certified Innovator. Applications will open and close on a rolling basis and will be based on location. (Note: No dates have been released yet for the Innovation Academies).At the Google for Education Innovation Academy you will discover how to unlock creativity, translate insights into solutions, experiment rapidly, and build an effective innovation culture in your own schools and organizations. You'll come away with practical approaches, valuable tools and techniques, and the beginnings of an Innovation Project. The Innovation Academy is just the beginning of a journey with your peers - and Google - to impact education in your communities.Design an Innovation ProjectInnovation Projects are the tools through which Innovators implement and measure their impact. While the mission and outcomes of each Innovation Project will vary from person-to-person, here are some principles that will guide development:Have a mission that matters: Your mission should be something you care about and has the potential to touch many livesThink big but start small: No matter how ambitious the plan is, you have to start somewhereIterate and fail fast: We're not looking for perfection, we're looking for continual innovationShare everything: Encourage discussion, collaboration, and the exchange of ideasSpark with imagination, fuel with data: Use data to backup your insights or help you pivot directionsAll projects should drive change in education, impact educators and students, and be documented for other educators to follow.The Transition from other Google CertificationsAs we transition to this new system, there are many questions about your current certifications and where do we go from here. Here is a link to a document from Google explaining the transition to the new certifications. Hopefully, this will help answer a lot of your questions.FREE Webinar Overview Coming Soon!I will be offering a FREE webinar overview of the new certifications very soon. Sign-up here to be notified on the details of this event.The NEW Google Education Training CenterNot to be overshadowed by the news about the certifications, a new Google Training Center has been revealed. It was a great honor to be a part of this project and develop some of the lessons for educators.The new training center is designed to help teachers learn how to meaningfully integrate Google tools in the classroom with lesson ideas and facilitation tips. With both fundamentals and advanced levels, there is training to support all levels. You will also find resources and how-to training for all of the tools and devices. This is such a valuable resource for educators! Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:ISTE, June 28-July 1 (Philadelphia, PA)Missouri Google Summit, July 11-12 (Kansas City, MO)California Google Summit, July 18-19 (Palo Alto, CA)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Texserve's 2nd Annual "Bridging the Gap: Technology & Instruction" Symposium (Keynote), July 30 (Dallas, TX)Hunt County Tech Camp, Aug. 4 (Commerce, TX)Revolutionize Learning Conference, Aug. 5 (Royse City, TX)

Share Your Voice ChallengeThe #ShakeUpLearning Share Your Voice Challenge!Today, I am delivering a five-minute Ignite presentation at ISTE. The subject of my Ignite is my reluctant journey into blogging. Below is a summary of my presentation and a challenge for educators. Will you take the challenge?A Perfectionist with Paralysis: Letting Go and Sharing Your Voice!I didn’t think my voice mattered. I didn’t think I had anything original to share. Why would anyone listen to me when there were so many other amazing educational bloggers sharing resources online--doing it better than I ever could. Why would I want to leave my perfectly comfortable position as a lurker on the sidelines? What if I fall flat on my face? These were the thoughts that haunted me before I committed to becoming a blogger.I had started a blog several times with the best of intentions. I spent countless hours researching the best platforms, templates, plugins, hosting options, and developing the perfect title for my blog--never satisfied with the results and never getting my feet off the ground. I would never be good enough. I was a perfectionist with paralysis. When I was a classroom teacher, my students occasionally blogged. Now, as an instructional leader, I encourage teachers to blog with their students. However, I was not an example for them to follow. I let my excuses get in the way. I let my fear of rejection and failure hold me back. Feelings of inadequacy and rejection had immobilized me.I wanted to launch my blog not only with the perfect content, but also with perfectly customized images and stellar resources and stand out in the crowd of educational bloggers. I wanted it to be EPIC from day one.My blog will never be perfect, that was just an excuse. So, I decided to let it go and focus on another skill that I speak on almost daily: risk taking! So in January of 2014 (see my first blog post here), I took a risk and put myself out there, put my blog out there, imperfections and all. I finally decided to go all in. I had to overcome my fear of not being good enough. I no longer let my need for perfection, however unattainable, stand in the way of my contribution to the world.First, let me tell you that educational bloggers and blog readers are VERY forgiving and supportive. The first time someone pointed to a mistake on my blog, I took it personally and would worry about it for days. But the more content I created, and the more support I felt from the community, the more my insecurities melted away. Yes, I made and still do make a lot of mistakes, but I have learned to let it go. Most of the time, criticism from fellow educators is handed out with a dose of kindness and compliments. We are very lucky to be in a community of educators that offer grace and overwhelming support for one another. I never expected blogging to flip my career on its head, but it did! Honestly, I never thought about the community that I was joining or creating on my own until it was there. Educators began leaving comments, sharing their ideas and greatly expanding my personal learning network. I have connected with some of the most inspiring teachers in the world! I would not be standing before you today if it weren’t for the support and encouragement of the educators who believed in me, and showed me the value of my authentic voice. My voice does matter! I do have something to contribute to the global educational community...and so do you AND your students!I am not an expert. I am a learner, a learner first! We are all growing and learning together, and should always be first and foremost learners. And guess what? The best bloggers are learners, not writers. And the moment you begin sharing original thoughts, ideas and content for online, you have become an educational leader and example for your students and peers. The Share Your Voice ChallengeAre you still sitting on the sidelines? This is my challenge to other educators that are like me: What are you holding back? What risks do you need to take to push yourself further, to push your students further? While I believe there is value in blogging for educators at any level, that may not be your calling. What are your God-given talents? What is your passion?  Be yourself and let your personality shine through everything that you do. Every single person in this audience has something unique to share, something that is authentically you, and other educators and students can learn from you.We live in a connected world, where your voice can be heard if you want it to be. And guess what, the more we model connecting, curating and sharing our own unique passions for our students, he more likely they are to take a risk and share their own voice.Every voice matters! Don't be afraid of failure, or let your need for perfection paralyze your contribution to the world. I invite you all to my blog, shakeuplearning.com, to take the challenge to Shake things up and Share YOUR VOICE!If you are willing to accept the challenge and try something new like blogging to share your own unique voice and passions, leave a comment below and share the risk you plan to take. This risk may be blogging, or anything else you feel led to try. I've also created a badge for you to use on your website, blog, or wherever you like. Be sure to use the #shakeuplearning hashtag to share your journey on social media. I can't wait to see and hear from you!every_voice_matters_badge.jpgFile Size:118 kbFile Type:jpgDownload File

The Teacher's Guide to Pinterest: Part 2The Teacher's Guide to Pinterest - Part 2: Follow Your InterestsUse Pinterest to Follow What Interests You!Pinterest is a powerful search engine for finding and discovering new ideas, DIY projects, beautiful infographics, AND a phenomenal tool for finding and curating classroom resources! I promise you Pinterest is NOT just for women looking at crafts and recipes! So just in case you don’t believe me, I have put together this guide for teachers, educators, and educational leaders looking to make the most out of Pinterest.Today’s post is focused on a lesser-known way to discover pins that interest you. Did you know you can not only follow people and boards, but you can follow topics that interest you? I just began exploring this option, and it has opened up a whole new world. But I wish Pinterest made this easier to do…To follow your interests, start with one of the Pinterest categories, like "Education." (Click here to see Pinterest categories.) After selecting a category, you will see related interests at the top.Interests Related to EducationIt takes a while to drill-down to your favorite niches. I really had to dig to find the specific interests that I wanted.Once you have selected an interest, a small, red "follow" button will appear. This allows you to follow interests just like following a person or a board.Click to Follow an InterestYou can also see what interests other Pinners are following by clicking on their account > following. Three tabs will appear at the top. If they are following any interests, you will see them listed under the first tab. You can see the interests I follow here.25 Education and Technology Interests for Teachers to Follow on PinterestAnd to save you some time, I’ve done some of the digging for you and found some of my favorite educational interests below. Just click the link and "follow!" Pinterest will then begin to add pins based on these interest into your feed.EducationMathScienceLanguage ArtsSocial StudiesSpecial EducationArt EducationPhysical EducationEducational TechnologyTechnology IntegrationGoogleGoogle DriveBlended LearningDigital CitizenshipProject Based LearningProfessional DevelopmentInstructional StrategiesVirtual RealityWearable TechnologyAugmented RealityiPadAndroidLearningChoice BoardsMinecraftOther Posts in This Series:The Teacher's Guide to Pinterest - Part 1: What is Pinterest?more coming soon!What are your favorite interests to follow on Pinterest? Please share in the comments below!Kasey Bell will be presenting at the following upcoming events:Missouri Google Summit, July 11-12 (Kansas City, MO)California Google Summit, July 18-19 (Palo Alto, CA)TIA 2015, July 21-22 (Denton, TX)Texserve's 2nd Annual "Bridging the Gap: Technology & Instruction" Symposium (Keynote), July 30 (Dallas, TX)Hunt County Tech Camp, Aug. 4 (Commerce, TX)Revolutionize Learning Conference, Aug. 5 (Royse City, TX)