Posts by Amber Chandler
EdTech
Balancing Choice, Collaboration and Community
As the facilitator of my student’s learning, I do need to retain ownership of some aspects of their learning. But if I am to truly create writers who write things that the world will want to read, I’ve got to open the world up to them.
Future of Work
Will the NFL Ever Use Robots, Not Humans?
How could tech change the future of the NFL? Here's how one teacher is engaging students in a conversation about the role tech has in their lives and how their futures might be impacted.
EdTech
Smart Review | Bridging the Language Barrier with TalkingPoints
As a parent, I can’t even begin to describe how important I think home to school/school to home communication is for my sanity and my child’s success. Unfortunately, for parents with limited English knowledge, this can be a real challenge. This app can help.
EdTech
Smart Review | An Epic! Review From a Teacher and Parent
Whether for classroom or home use (or ideally a combination of both) the Epic! digital library is an excellent place for students, teachers and families to explore and grow a love of reading together.
EdTech
Smart Review | Check123
Though videos in general aren’t new or innovative, this platform is. If you’ve ever googled a topic and found a million videos, then wasted your planning period wading through them, this tool may be for you.
Project-Based Learning
Building Confidence and Curiosity with littleBits Code Kit
Teacher blogger Amber Chandler reviews the littleBits Code Kit after observing her nine-year-old son using it and speaking with the lead designer.
Leadership
Words of Wisdom To Inspire & Motivate Educators
The end of the school year is quickly approaching, and many of us could use a little motivation to make it across the finish line. Here are some of my favorite words of wisdom from teachers and leaders who help me stay moving.
Leadership
3 Lessons Learned Building Student Digital Portfolios
I decided this past fall that my students would build digital portfolios of all of their work this year. Here are three of the lessons I learned while implementing this endeavor.
Leadership
Smart Review | Heart! Fully Forming Your Professional Life as a Teacher and Leader
As a teacher who considers relationships the center of what I do, I was impressed by Timothy Kanold's interesting take on ensuring that your impact on others' lives is a positive one. Here, I share my other impressions of his latest book.
STEM & Maker
Smart Review | Curly Bracket: The Hidden Code
As an English teacher, I'm always looking for books that take a creative approach to getting students interested in learning. Based on my 8th graders' reactions, Curly Bracket: The Hidden Code hits the nail on the head.