Teachers First - Thinking Teachers Teaching Thinkers

Take your Canva skills to the next level by harnessing the power of AI to create more engaging and interactive instructional materials. In this workshop, you'll discover how Canva's AI Magic features can streamline your lesson preparation, generate creative content, and enhance student learning experiences. Learn to use AI-powered tools for text generation, image creation, and design enhancement while maintaining pedagogical effectiveness. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Master Canva's AI Magic tools (Magic Design, Magic Edit, and Magic Write) to enhance instructional materials. 2. Create differentiated learning resources using AI-assisted features while maintaining instructional integrity. 3. Develop practical strategies for incorporating AI-enhanced Canva projects into existing lesson plans and assignments. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): artificial intelligence (187), creating media (17), professional development (392)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from May 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

In today's digital age, the ability to critically evaluate information and engage responsibly online is essential. This workshop is designed to equip educators with the tools and strategies they need to help students recognize bias, misinformation, and propaganda. Participants will explore methods for enhancing students' critical thinking skills, fostering responsible digital citizenship, and preparing students for active and informed civic engagement, including voting. Join us to empower the next generation of digital citizens! As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Identify misinformation and teach source credibility. 2. Promote critical thinking and analytical skills. 3. Encourage ethical online behavior and respect for diverse perspectives. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): digital citizenship (90), evaluating sources (30), professional development (392)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from April 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Discover the power of using instructional video in your classroom by exploring Clipchamp, Microsoft's user-friendly video editing tool. In this workshop, you'll learn to create engaging videos that enhance instruction, support differentiation, and cater to the needs of all learners, including multilingual students. This session will equip you with the skills you need to leverage Clipchamp's latest features for effective teaching and assessment. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Master the fundamentals of Clipchamp. 2. Implement strategies for using video content to differentiate instruction. 3. Collaborate on strategies for incorporating Clipchamp into classroom instruction and assessment. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): creating media (17), professional development (392), video (267)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from April 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Discover free digital tools that empower students to creatively demonstrate their learning! Explore the TeachersFirst Edge--a collection of web-based resources that enable quick, engaging project creation. Learn how students can easily make explainer images, concept maps, videos, and more to showcase their understanding across different subject areas. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Navigate and understand the organization of TeachersFirst Edge resource categories. 2. Identify and select free digital tools that support creative, student-centered knowledge demonstration. 3. Develop a practical plan for integrating an Edge tool into an upcoming instructional unit by creating a sample learning artifact. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): creating media (17), professional development (392), student-centered (8)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from April 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Dive deeper into Project Zero Thinking Routines to focus on perspective-taking strategies that build empathy and social-emotional skills. This workshop explores innovative ways to help students think about their thinking, listen with understanding, and take responsible risks. You'll learn how to integrate digital tools and AI technologies to transform perspective-taking routines into engaging, interactive experiences. Discover practical techniques for fostering empathy, critical thinking, and meaningful classroom discussions that encourage students to see the world through diverse lenses. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Understand perspective-taking thinking routines and their impact on developing students' empathy and social-emotional skills. 2. Develop strategies to help students reflect on their thinking processes and listen with understanding and empathy. 3. Integrate digital tools and technologies to enhance perspective-taking thinking routines. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): critical thinking (136), differentiation (85), empathy (36), professional development (392), social and emotional learning (109)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from April 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

HyperDocs have evolved beyond simple digital worksheets into powerful, flexible learning experiences that transform classroom instruction. In this workshop, participants will discover how to leverage HyperDocs as versatile instructional tools that support diverse learners, empower student voice, and facilitate the integration of cutting-edge technology. Learn how to design interactive, differentiated lessons that maximize student engagement and learning potential and gain new insights into using AI to streamline lesson planning and support multilingual learners. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Understand the core principles and benefits of using HyperDocs in instruction. 2. Identify effective design strategies by exploring sample HyperDocs and templates. 3. Learn techniques for integrating AI tools to assist in HyperDoc creation. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): Google (48), teaching strategies (52)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from March 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Learn the basics of using Microsoft Forms to support classroom instruction! Discover how to create forms, add questions, and share them with students and explore ways to use Forms for quizzes, exit tickets, data collection, and more. You'll leave this workshop with practical knowledge and basic skills for using Microsoft Forms to gather feedback and assess learning in your classroom. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Explore the features of Microsoft Forms. 2. Discover a variety of instructional uses for Microsoft Forms. 3. Learn to create a basic form. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): differentiation (85), Formative Assessment (73), Microsoft (79), professional development (392)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from February 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Want to make learning fun and enjoyable for your students? Try Genially! Start from scratch or use a template to gamify a lesson or unit of study and easily create interactive content that your learners will want to explore. This session will show you how to make interactive images, infographics, and presentations to engage learners of all ages. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Discuss the basic principles of multimedia learning. 2. Explore various ways to use Genially in the classroom. 3. Plan for the instructional use of Genially. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): multimedia (55), presentations (23), professional development (392), student-centered (8)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from February 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Encourage students to think critically through the powerful combination of Project Zero Thinking Routines and digital tools. This workshop will equip you with innovative strategies for using online forms, slide decks, and AI technologies to integrate these proven thinking frameworks. Discover how to transform traditional thinking routines into dynamic digital experiences that deepen student engagement and cultivate higher-order thinking skills. You'll leave with practical, ready-to-implement activities that foster critical thinking, creativity, and meaningful classroom discussions. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Understand core Project Zero Thinking Routines and their impact on student cognitive development. 2. Identify and apply specific thinking routines that align with your instructional goals and subject matter. 3. Create technology-enhanced thinking activities that use tech tools to increase student engagement. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): critical thinking (136), frameworks (4), professional development (392), teaching strategies (52)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from February 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Level up your teaching with engaging digital games and puzzles that ignite critical thinking! In this workshop, we'll explore viral sensations like NYT's Wordle and Connections and hidden gems like TED's The Purring Test. Experience these tools firsthand and discover how to strategically integrate them into your lessons for maximum impact. You'll leave with a curated toolkit of engaging resources that transform problem-solving challenges into powerful learning opportunities. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Explore powerful digital games and tools that boost critical thinking skills. 2. Evaluate digital tools and match them with specific learning goals. 3. Design lesson plans that integrate these tools effectively. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): critical thinking (136), game based learning (207), professional development (392)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from January 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

This hands-on workshop will introduce you to Google Vids, a powerful new tool for creating short, engaging videos that will transform your teaching--no video editing experience required. From basic editing techniques to creative storytelling strategies, you'll discover how to produce professional-quality content that captures student's attention and enhances learning. Walk away with the skills you need to create dynamic video resources that bring your lessons to life. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Master Google Vids's essential features to create professional instructional videos. 2. Design engaging video content that effectively introduces concepts, reinforces learning, and provides clear visual explanations. 3. Develop strategies that transform passive video viewing into active learning experiences that boost student engagement. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): artificial intelligence (187), creating media (17), professional development (392), video (267)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from January 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Join us for an engaging workshop workshop for educators who are excited to harness the power of AI in their teaching practices. This session will introduce you to various generative AI tools that can create dynamic interactive learning objects--small pieces of content that you can seamlessly integrate into your lessons to enhance student engagement and understanding. Whether you're a tech novice or a seasoned pro, this workshop will provide the practical insights and hands-on experience you need to elevate your teaching strategies. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Define learning objects and their strategic role in instruction. 2. Explore cutting-edge AI tools for generating interactive learning resources. 3. Design practical strategies for integrating AI-created learning objects to optimize student learning experiences. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): artificial intelligence (187), creating media (17), Teacher Utilities (203)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from November 2024. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Discover how Adobe Express can transform your classroom activities and boost student engagement. This workshop will provide a solid foundation that will enable you to use this free tech tool to create visually appealing and interactive resources. Learn to design captivating presentations and engaging social media posts with this user-friendly platform. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, this session will equip you with the skills to make the most of Adobe Express in your classroom. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Understand the basic functionalities of Adobe Express. 2. Learn how to create visually appealing presentations, social media posts, and other classroom resources. 3. Discover how to incorporate Adobe Express into student projects and assignments. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): creating media (17), creativity (87), Formative Assessment (73), professional development (392)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from November 2024. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Join us for a workshop exploring innovative, free edtech tools you can use to enhance your primary classroom instruction. Discover how ReadWorks, Wriddle, and Padlet can spark creativity, foster critical thinking, and make learning more engaging for young students. Learn practical tips and strategies for integrating these free tools into your daily teaching routine to support literacy, math, and social-emotional development. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Integrate these tools into their existing curriculum and teaching practices. 2. Evaluate the effectiveness of these tools in promoting student learning and engagement. 3. Collaborate with colleagues to share ideas and best practices for using edtech tools. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): creativity (87), literacy (123), professional development (392), reading comprehension (150), reading strategies (96)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from November 2024. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the full potential of FigJam in your classroom! FigJam is a free online whiteboard that allows you to create, share, and collaborate on ideas with students and colleagues. Join us for an interactive workshop where you'll discover innovative ways to engage students, foster collaboration, and elevate instruction across various content areas and grade levels. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Identify the potential uses and benefits of implementing FigJam in your classroom. 2. Learn how using features like shapes, sticky notes, images, and team editing can boost engagement. 3. Explore templates for brainstorms, concept maps, visual notes, and storyboards. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): brainstorming (18), Formative Assessment (73), professional development (392), Whiteboard (10)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from October 2024. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

This engaging interactive workshop will teach you how to leverage practical strategies and powerful free tools from Microsoft like Reading Coach, Edge/Word Online, and Forms to support your students' literacy development. Whether you're looking to boost reading comprehension, improve writing proficiency, or integrate technology seamlessly into your lessons, this workshop has something for everyone. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Explore strategies for using technology to enhance reading comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary. 2. Discuss approaches for collaborative writing, feedback, and improving writing skills. 3. Develop strategies for creating assessments aligned with literacy standards to gain insights into student learning. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): professional development (392), reading comprehension (150), reading strategies (96), writing (325)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from October 2024. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Learn how to use the free Book Creator app in your classroom! This engaging hands-on workshop will guide you through the basics of the app and help you make the most of your free account. Together, we'll explore various strategies to differentiate and scaffold student work, ensuring that all learners can succeed. We'll also discover innovative ways to integrate Book Creator into digital storytelling projects, enhancing creativity and engagement in your classroom. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Master Book Creator's features and functionalities. 2. Differentiate instruction and scaffold student work with Book Creator. 3. Apply learning by creating hands-on Book Creator projects. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): digital storytelling (155), Formative Assessment (73), professional development (392)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from October 2024. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

In this hands-on workshop, educators will learn how to leverage Google Forms to create dynamic, "no-fail" quizzes that provide immediate feedback and built-in remediation. Explore powerful features of Google Forms like branching logic and automated feedback that you can use to design assessments that support all learners. Leave this session equipped with the skills you need to transform your assessment practices, making them more engaging and effective. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Gain foundational skills for creating and customizing Google Forms for educational assessments. 2. Learn to construct quizzes that provide immediate feedback and remediation, helping students learn from mistakes in real time. 3. Explore how to use data from Google Forms to inform instructional decisions and enhance teaching strategies. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): feedback (13), Formative Assessment (73), Google (48), professional development (392)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from October 2024. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Learn how to integrate learning simulations like Quandry and MissionUS into your classroom! During this engaging session, participants will learn to distinguish between simulations and learning games, explore the unique benefits of each, and discover strategies to inspire and engage students through interactive learning experiences. Whether you're new to educational simulations or looking to deepen your understanding, this free workshop offers valuable insights and practical techniques that will enhance student learning. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Differentiate simulations and learning games, noting their benefits. 2. Integrate simulations to meet learning objectives. 3. Reflect on ways simulations can enhance learning. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): professional development (392), simulations (21)

This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from October 2024. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.

Join this workshop to discover innovative tech tools and strategies that will streamline your assessment process and provide valuable insights into student learning. Learn how to create quick formative assessments that gather real-time data to inform your instruction. You'll leave this workshop equipped with practical techniques and tools that will help you save time, enhance student engagement, and make data-driven decisions in your classroom. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Identify effective tech tools for creating quick formative assessments. 2. Integrate formative assessment data into instructional planning. 3. Increase student engagement and understanding through effective assessment practices. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.

tag(s): assessment (146), Formative Assessment (73), professional development (392)