Live Sessions
Live Sessions
Below are the live sessions for the 2021 SPARCC Technology Conference, grouped by time slot (in Eastern Standard Time) with details and links for each session.
🎞️ Joining live sessions:
On the day of the conference (August 6th) each session will have a Google Meet link listed.
Use the Google Meet link to join the sessions a few minutes before their start time.
The session host will let attendees into the session a few minutes before the session begins, but you can join the waiting room ahead of time by using the Google Meet links.
Each Google Meet has a limit of 250 attendees, so it is possible that a session may fill up.
During the live Google Meet please use the chat feature in Meet to ask questions of the presenter, and to share any comments you have.
Please keep your microphone muted and your camera turned off when in the live Google Meet unless otherwise instructed by the session presenter.
📅 Watching the recordings later:
The live sessions will be recorded for later viewing, in case you are not able to join the live Google Meet, or simply wish to view the session again later.
Links to the recorded videos of these live sessions will be added soon after the conference is over.
The recordings will be available for viewing until October 31, 2021 (although some recordings may be removed sooner at the request of the presenters.)
📝 Session resources:
Each session listed below also has a link to a resource document.
The presenters may use that document to provide additional links, resources, and materials related to their session.
✅ Certificates of attendance:
Starting on the day of the conference (August 6th) each session will have a link to a Google Form for attendance.
After you complete the form, a certificate of attendance PDF will be generated and emailed to you for that session.
The option to watch the videos and receive certificates of attendance will be available until October 31, 2021.
8:00 AM (EST) - Session Slot #1
Hipster Google
Everyone knows about Google Docs, Gmail, Search, and other common Google tools. But there are also loads of smaller, lesser-known, but powerful tools. Learn about hidden gems from Google for teaching and learning.
Presenter: Eric Curts
Organization: SPARCC
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
App Smashing to Amplify Student Voice
Today, we’ll use tech tools (Pear Deck, WeVideo, Padlet, Flipgrid) to make learning visible. We’ll create interactive experiences to amplify student voice, build community, & collaborate.
Presenter: Steph Sukow
Organization: CHSD 155
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
5 Great Ways to Structure Student Led Learning
Come learn about HyperDocs, Choice Boards/Playlists, Digital Breakouts, Interactive Classrooms, & Choose Your Own Adventure lessons. Bonus tips too!
Presenter: Patrick Hausammann
Organization: Clarke County Public Schools
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Dynamic Approaches to Digital Learning in the History/Social Studies Classroom
Participants will learn digital tools for students to develop skills in research and investigation, mapping, observation, and source/data analysis and evaluation, highlighting Google and other tools.
Presenter: Nathan Gildart
Organization: Nagoya International School
Grade Levels: Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Magic of My Maps
Plan and create interactive lessons for any subject using Google My Maps
Presenter: Dana Bingham-Cruz
Organization: Valley View SD 365U
Grade Levels: Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)
Tech Level: Advanced - requires previous experience / knowledge with topic by attendee
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Why Internet safety is not an add-on - Assisting students to being safe online
Thoughts and ideas for teachers to inform about internet safety, cyberbullying and sexting,The long term digital consequences to actions . Encouraging students to be responsible digital citizens.
Presenter: Karen Walstra
Organization:
Grade Levels: Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)
Tech Level: Advanced - requires previous experience / knowledge with topic by attendee
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
9:30 AM (EST) - Session Slot #2
Stop Motion Animation with Google Slides
Students can create stop-motion animation with Google Slides to express their understanding on any topic. Learn how to create Slides stop-motion with images, shapes, text, audio, and more!
Presenter: Eric Curts
Organization: SPARCC
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
The Goldness of YouTube
How can you convert your Google Drive videos to youtube to free space up? We will talk about the benefits of Youtube and what you need to know to get going.
Presenter: Stephanie Howell
Organization: Pickerington Ohio
Grade Levels: Middle School (6-8)
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Building Relationships, Culture and Making Connections Virtually
Learn the best ways to connect with students and communities when in-person, remote, or hybrid!
Presenter: David Lerch
Organization: Marissa Community Unit School District #40
Grade Levels: Primary (PreK-2), Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12), Higher Ed
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
50 Time Saving Tips for Teachers
Save time on daily computer tasks with these tech tips.
Presenter: Deborah Kerby
Organization: Pocono Mountain SD
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Advanced - requires previous experience / knowledge with topic by attendee
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Empowering Student Writers
Writing is a method of communication. But is that how we teach it in our classrooms? Learn about research-backed writing instruction that will engage your student and empower them as young writers.
Presenter: Katelynn Giordano
Organization: Barrington School District
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
When am I ever going to use this? An introduction to Google's Applied Digital Skills Curriculum.
This session will look at the Applied Digital Skills Curriculum developed by Google. With lessons for every subject, the curriculum has something for everyone.
Presenter: Stephen Keys
Organization: Franklin County Public Schools
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
11:00 AM (EST) - Session Slot #3
Mastering Personalized Learning
Personalized learning is transforming students learning experiences. Let’s talk about implementation and finally reach all of our students while also making the process manageable for teachers.
Presenter: Rae Hughart
Organization: Teach Better Team
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
How To Videos On YouTube
Learn more about How To Videos On YouTube, how to create them, and why they are trending in 2021 in search results. We will cover world-renowned videos for both learning and YouTube Ads for business.
Presenter: Benjamin Kepner
Organization: Global Social Media Marketing
Grade Levels: Primary (PreK-2), Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12), Higher Ed
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Level Up Google Forms
Google Forms are awesome! You can save time when collecting data, creating lesson plans, filling out IEPs and evals, and even create a searchable database. The possibilities are nearly endless!
Presenter: Emily Thomas
Organization: Northeast Metro Intermediate School District
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Advanced - requires previous experience / knowledge with topic by attendee
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
World-Class Classrooms with Google Arts and Culture
Google Arts and Culture: a great environment learning and experiencing other cultures worldwide, with applications for history, social studies, art, and music, providing lesson plans and activities.
Presenter: Jim Ekrut
Organization: www.ncce.org
Grade Levels: Primary (PreK-2), Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Augmented Learning: A New Reality
In this presentation we will explore the use of Augmented Reality in the classroom and the importance of giving this technology a space within curriculum.
Presenter: Alfonso Mendoza Jr.
Organization: Sharyland ISD
Grade Levels: Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Sheets Sans Numbers, Using Spreadsheets Across the Curriculum
If you only think numbers when you think spreadsheets you're missing out on a great tool for teaching across the curriculum. My “W.o.W.” sheet helps students better understand & learn information.
Presenter: Anthony Luscre
Organization: ZT Learn
Grade Levels: Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12), Higher Ed, Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: TBD
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
12:30 PM (EST) - Session Slot #4
The Chromebook Classroom
The Chromebook Classroom may be a new & scary place for you. This presentation will share tips, tricks, & tools to make your Chromebook Classroom more efficient, engaging, & not as overwhelming.
Presenter: Melinda Cales
Organization: Cleveland Heights High School
Grade Levels: Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Using Mote for Voice Feedback and Comments
Come take a tour of Mote and Google Workspace. We'll be hands-on with Forms, Gmail, Docs, Classroom and more using the Mote extension for voice feedback and comments.
Presenter: Lisa Thumann
Organization: Millburn Township Public Schools
Grade Levels: Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)
Tech Level: Advanced - requires previous experience / knowledge with topic by attendee
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Virtual Field Trips
Students can explore the world from your classroom! We'll explore Google Earth Projects, Nearpod VR lessons and others that allow students to embark on a Virtual Field Trip!
Presenter: Dan Niessen
Organization: NEOnet
Grade Levels: Primary (PreK-2), Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)
Tech Level: Advanced - requires previous experience / knowledge with topic by attendee
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Start Google Classroom on the Right Foot
Google Classroom is perfect for the digital classroom. I'll share 8 "Big Ideas" so you set up Google Classroom, in a way that is right for you, from the beginning. Let's take the first step together!
Presenter: Sarah Kiefer
Organization: Ross Local School District
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Make it Gorgeous
Attendees will learn simple strategies to change the way they think about their online lessons and will learn strategies to engage students through beautifully curated lessons.
Presenter: Matthew Mays
Organization: Stark County Educational Service Center
Grade Levels: Primary (PreK-2), Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12), Higher Ed, Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Tik Tok: Time to Get in on This Tool
Tik Tok is a free, easy-to-use tool that you can use to make quick videos for your classroom (without using the social media aspect). Download the app, create an account, & become a Tik Tok Teacher.
Presenter: Amy Roediger
Organization: Mentor Public Schools
Grade Levels: Primary (PreK-2), Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12), Higher Ed, Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
2:00 PM (EST) - Session Slot #5
Dynamic Tools for the Math Classroom
This session will focus on incorporating Desmos and other tools in a student-centered math classroom. Teachers will take on the role of a student leveraging dynamic math tools for problem solving.
Presenter: Chris McCaffrey
Organization: Wilson SD & Kiker Learning
Grade Levels: Primary (PreK-2), Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12), Higher Ed
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Working Smarter (Not Harder) in the Virtual Learning Environment
Participants will learn how to use technology & tricks in order to work smarter (not harder) in the virtual learning environment. Engaging, free virtual activities for students will be demonstrated.
Presenter: Dr. Krista Welz
Organization: North Bergen School District
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Google Slides for Interactive Teaching and Learning
Are you looking for ways to make your teaching and learning interactive? In Google Slides you are able to make interactive lessons, hidden pictures, discussion boards and more.
Presenter: Kari Moulton
Organization: Bourbonnais Elementary School District #53
Grade Levels: Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8)
Tech Level: Advanced - requires previous experience / knowledge with topic by attendee
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
Google Tools for Struggling Students
Learn about Google tools, apps, extensions, and features to assist struggling learners including resources for text-to-speech, speech-to-text, readability, reading comprehension, audio support, organization, focus, and more.
Presenter: Eric Curts
Organization: SPARCC
Grade Levels: Not aligned with specific grade levels
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link
From Passive to Active Learning with Nearpod
Join this session to engage with Nearpod to experience how to make learning more active, support emerging voices, and provide choices for diverse learners.
Presenter: Leticia Citizen
Organization: Hawthorne School
Grade Levels: Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12), Higher Ed
Tech Level: Novice - introduction / basics
🎞️ Recorded Session: Video link
📝 Session Resources: Google Document link
✅ Certificate of Completion: Google Form link