Kathryn's Blog – My Teaching Adventure

Cross-Curricular Coding & Gaming in Education

Creating My First Coding Game with Flappy Birds

I learned how to code with Flappy Birds and even created my own coding game HERE. Learning step-by-step made it easy to follow, but I feel like I could spend hours exploring how everything works and figuring out ways to make an even better game.

Insights on Computational Thinking: Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills from Digital Literacy + Computational Thinking for Children

From the Best of Digital Literacy + Computational Thinking for Children YouTube video, I learned a straightforward definition of computational thinking and its role in enhancing students’ problem-solving skills. Computational thinking encourages a systematic approach to challenges. Through decomposition, students can break down complex tasks into manageable parts, while pattern recognition enables them to identify commonalities in problems, simplifying solutions. Abstraction helps students focus on relevant details while ignoring distractions, and algorithmic thinking guides them in creating clear, sequential steps to address issues. This approach equips students with a valuable framework for tackling problems effectively across subjects.

Youtube video on Best of Digital Literacy + Computational Thinking for Children

Importantly, computational thinking isn’t just for math or science—it’s applicable across various subjects. In language arts, for instance, students might use decomposition to analyze story structure, or pattern recognition to identify recurring themes. Such integration promotes critical and logical thinking, preparing students to tackle problems in diverse real-world contexts.

The BC Ministry of Education’s Computational Thinking Teacher Training Package offers a variety of resources to introduce computational thinking in the classroom through engaging and collaborative student activities.

Available PDF resources include:

Introduction-Computational-Thinking-in-the-Classroom-Download

Student-Sheets Download

What features of games that can make effective learning tools?

Here are some steps to make games effective learning tools from Rich’s lesson:

Include instruction & explanation about underlying concepts.
include adaptative scaffolding and mechanism and guidance
offer gameplay that enhance the player’s sense of autonomy
Offer gameplay that offers just doable challenges
Dynamic in-game scores that leaning progress feedback
Promote a learning attitude without time constraints or penalty score

Fitness Class Video

For our PE class at UVIC, we were tasked with creating a warm-up as part of an assignment. My partner and I chose to do a dance warm-up using the “Cha Cha Slide” and “I Like to Move It.” We combined dance moves with exercises to get the entire class involved, and we even dressed up in ’80s costumes to make it more engaging. It turned out to be a lot of fun because it wasn’t the typical warm-up; the music and lively atmosphere made it exciting for everyone.

Kathryn and Hanne Rocking ’80s Vibes for Our PE Warm-Up Session

Picture Captured By Brad our PE teacher at UVIC

I recorded the session on my laptop, but we faced a few challenges:

We didn’t capture the whole class or ourselves clearly.
The video and sound quality were poor.
There was a risk of someone accidentally knocking over the laptop (luckily, that didn’t happen!).

For next time, here’s how we plan to improve. We found some ideas from Columbia University’s Video Production Best Practices, which include

Use a tripod for stability: Ensures a stable, elevated view and prevents risk of the device being knocked over.
External microphone for sound quality: Improves clarity by reducing background noise.
Designated camera operator: Helps capture different angles and close-ups for a more dynamic recording.
Use multiple cameras/devices: Captures various perspectives, making the final video more engaging.
Consider lighting: Ensure good lighting for clear, high-quality footage. Use portable LED lights or ring lights if needed.
Use a gimbal for smooth shots: Helps prevent shaky footage if the camera operator is moving.
Get interactive feedback from participants: Include short interviews or feedback clips to make the video more engaging and showcase the experience.
Post-production editing: Use software like iMovie or Adobe Premiere Rush to enhance video, add transitions, and adjust sound levels.

Upgrading to a High-Quality Video Recorder for Better Footage

A videographer films a fitness session using professional equipment to capture dynamic angles and ensure high-quality footage for the active environment. — Photo from unsplash by Marcos Paulo Prado

3D Design Reflection

In the video MatterHackers Minute: Developing 3D Printing Curriculum in K-12 Education, Rebecca Buckhoff, a Technology Professional Development Specialist for Moreno Valley Unified School District, discusses designing 3D printing curricula for students and training teachers to facilitate these lessons. To learn more HERE.

Video Make a Snowflake 2019v with Tinkercad + 3D printing | 3D modeling how to make

Rebecca introduces concepts such as geometry, including perimeter, area, and XYZ graphing, to 2nd and 5th graders in the context of snowflakes. She explores the science behind snowflakes at the molecular level, the math of six-sided geometry, and the concept of rotational symmetry, where an object looks the same when rotated. Students use Tinkercad, a 3D design program, to create their own snowflakes based on the concepts they’ve learned, which are then 3D printed.

I believe using 3D printing as a cross-curricular tool is effective for teaching students skills while also providing behavioural and social-emotional support throughout the process. Students collaborate and seek help when needed, developing skills that can prepare them for future careers in fields like technology, medicine, product development, or art.

When considering the use of 3D design and printing in a Grade 3 classroom, there are several potential pros and cons to weigh. On the positive side, 3D design fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while also helping students develop a range of practical skills. It encourages creativity and allows students to learn by choice, exploring topics at their own pace. Additionally, it offers cross-curricular learning opportunities, enabling students to engage with multiple subjects simultaneously, such as math, science, and art.

Kids using 3D Printing I Photo from pixels by Vanessa Loring

However, there are also challenges to consider. 3D printers can be costly, and there may be a limited number of teachers trained to use the machines effectively. Technical issues, such as printing errors and mechanical problems, can disrupt lessons. Furthermore, some students may experience anxiety when facing difficulties with the design process or the technology itself.

Nike Run Club: A Guided Run and What I Learned

I used the Nike Run Club app to track my progress during a 20-minute guided run. I enjoyed the app; a male voice in my AirPods guided me through the entire 20 minutes, which helped motivate me to finish. The voice would speak at certain milestones, such as halfway and near the finish line. A drawback of this app is that the map tracking feature is not useful on a treadmill. This feature would be beneficial for outdoor runs to track your route. I realized this was a user error afterward—I was supposed to turn off the map icon to switch to indoor mode. Additionally, I had to hold the phone in my hand to get accurate measurements, which increased the potential for error.

Nike Run Club App of my Run on a Treadmill

Step by Step video to use the Nike Run Club on a Treadmill…

Zombie Run

Zombie Run is a great suggestion for kids or anyone looking for an exciting engaging run with a story.

Here is how it works…

Walk, jog or run anywhere in the world
Hear your workout and music through your headphones
If you’re chased by enemies, you’ll have to speed up!
You’ll automatically collect supplies to trade for trophies or building

AI in the Classroom: Tools, Tips, and Cautions

Artificial intelligence systems work by using algorithms and data. Some major limitations of GENAI are unreliable sources. In a recent case, a Vancouver lawyer has been ordered to personally compensate her law team for wasted time, as the cases she submitted in an application were found to be ChatGPT that created fake cases. The article can be found here, Lawyer ordered to pay up for attempting to use ChatGPT ‘hallucinations’ in application. It’s important for anyone using GenAi to fact check their information before using. GenAI tools are only as good as the information they are trained on. AI tools can generate false, biased, outdated, or completely made-up information. It is up to us, the user, to fact check that information.

Photo from unsplash by Hotono Creative Studio

Here are some great ways you can use AI as an education professional

Create lesson plans and Activities
Educational games for kid
Rubric
Assignment ideas
Image generations for slide shows
Seating chart

If AI is used correctly, AI can save time and increase productivity. Some other ways teachers can use AI can be found HERE.

Week 1 – Reflection

We need to reimagine education, as the current educational system has been outdated for over 100 years. Education is constantly evolving, and the existing methods are approaching redundancy. Exams that constitute high percentage of students’ grades do not accurately reflect what they have learned. Many students spend hours memorizing and cramming information before exams to achieve an A+, only to forget everything once the exam is over. Like Jeff Hopkins suggests in the video,” Education as if People Mattered”, we offer courses in subjects like Science, Math, and English, but do we have courses focused on competencies such as critical thinking and creative thinking. Competency-based courses could better prepare future generations for the real world.

Ted Talk I Education as if people mattered I Jeff Hopkins

“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”
Jeff Hopkins

Educators face many challenges when attempting to change pedagogical approaches. Veteran teachers often resist change, adhering to the mentality of “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” Many teachers have spent years developing lesson plans for their students and lack the resources or time to implement new methods. In my experience working in grade 1, teachers only get 120 minutes of prep time per week for planning and preparation. Time constraints are a widespread issue, making it difficult to implement changes.

The competency-based education approach is a great method that allows students to master skills or competencies at their own pace, accommodating various learning abilities. Students have a choice in how they learn and are not pressured to pass a single exam; if they fail, they can continue learning without falling behind and learn from their mistakes. However, a challenge of competency-based education is determining which competencies are most essential.

If you improve education by teaching for competence, eliminating schooling, and connecting with students, the test scores will improve.

William Glasser : American Psychologist

Navigating the Future: Benefits and Challenges of Integrating AI Technologies in K-12 Education Presentation Created by Kathryn, Arwyn, Paris and Shanyce.

Our technology inquiry question is: “What are the benefits and challenges of integrating AI technologies into K-12 education?” presented by Kathryn, Arwyn, Paris, and Shanyce. Our presentation explores how AI can revolutionize teaching and learning. AI has the potential to enhance personalized learning experiences, streamline administrative tasks for teachers, and provide adaptive feedback to meet diverse student needs. However, challenges such as data privacy concerns, equitable access, and the need for robust teacher training cannot be overlooked. Our project highlights strategies and best practices for AI integration into the classroom.

Check Out our Full Presentation on YouTube Below On Navigating the Future of AI in Education!

The Educational Technology Presentation on YouTube by Kathryn, Arwyn, Paris, and Shanyce. Edited close captions included.

Classroom Management

In our technology and innovation class, guest speaker Brittany Johnson shared valuable classroom management strategies designed to support student engagement and emotional well-being. Below is an overview of some key strategies she discussed:

SEL Check-ins

Brittany emphasized the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) check-ins to understand students’ feelings each day. One example involved using characters and emotions from the movie Inside Out paired with a check-in sheet that reads: “I feel [blank] because [blank], and people around me can help by [blank].” There is also a tick box for students to indicate if they want to speak to their teacher about their feelings. This creative approach provides a fun and meaningful way for students to express their emotions, fostering better understanding and support from teachers. Reflecting on this, I feel that such a tool could have made a big difference during my childhood, offering a way for my emotions to be recognized and supported.

Soft Starts and Transitions

Soft starts and thoughtful transitions help ease students into new activities. For example, during my Grade 1 practicum, my teacher uses calm music, fidget toys, building blocks, reading time, and drawing in the mornings to gently transition students into their day. This practice reduces anxiety and helps students settle in, creating a positive learning environment.

Photo taken by me (Kathryn Gullackson) at my Link2Practice in a Grade 1 classroom. Hands on build your own design on black sheet.

Routines and Expectations

Brittany highlighted that children often thrive on routine and structure. Clear expectations can reduce anxiety and help students feel more secure. In my practicum, my teacher uses a visual schedule with laminated circles, each representing an activity. As the day progresses, a clothespin moves to the next circle, visually showing students what to expect. This simple yet effective approach gives students a clear picture of their day.

Photo taken by me (Kathryn Gullackson) at my Link2Practice in a Grade 1 classroom. Visual classroom agenda.

Inquiry and Strength Based Approach

Brittany sets classroom goals focused on students’ interests, strengths, and areas for growth. Recognizing that every class is different, this approach ensures students remain engaged, challenged, and motivated by what truly interests and inspires them.

Co-Creating and Collaboration

Involving students in co-creating classroom rules, decorations, learning materials, and rubrics helps them feel a sense of ownership and engagement. When students have a voice in their environment, they are more invested and engaged, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and collaboration.

Digital Literacy Framework

Finally, Brittany emphasized how technology can be a powerful tool to help students engage and take ownership of their learning. Using the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, technology can enhance engagement, representation, and action/expression, impacting different parts of the brain. By leveraging technology, we can support a diverse range of learning styles and needs.

Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines

Today, children are not getting enough movement at home or at school. The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Youth (5-17 years): An Integration of Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, and Sleep offer evidence-based recommendations for a balanced day of movement,

A Balanced Day for Optimal Health: SWEAT, STEP, SLEEP, and LIMIT SEDENTARY TIME ages 5-17 years

What are the Benefits?

In my PHE 31O–PHYSICAL EDUCATION FOR GENERAL CLASSROOM TEACHERS class we learned the benfits are:

Academic Performance
Student Confidence
Student Behavior
Physical Health
Mental Health
Social Health

How can Teachers Meet These Guidelines?

As educators, we play a crucial role in integrating movement into the school day. Here are some ways in my link2practice at Willows Elementary where these guidlines have been applied:

Morning runs or physical activity sessions before school.
Frequent movement breaks, where students can stand up, stretch, or do jumping jacks.
Taking learning outdoors, such as a walk for science class.
Setting up an exercise bike station outside the classroom.

Despite these efforts, many schools still fall short of meeting these guidelines. How can we shift this?

The solution begins with future teachers, like us, recognizing the importance of movement and actively working to incorporate these guidelines into our classrooms. By educating ourselves and adopting these strategies, we can help foster healthier, more active environments for our students.

Protein Myths vs. Science: Experts Talk about Protein Intake

Protein Are you Getting Enough? Podcast By Science Vs.

The podcast explores the rise of protein influencers, who claim that many people aren’t consuming enough protein and offer various hacks to increase intake. These influencers suggest that extra protein can help build muscle, promote fullness, and aid in weight loss. To investigate these claims, the hosts speak with kinesiology professor Stuart Phillips and nutrition professor Faidon Magkos, delving into the science behind protein consumption and its actual benefits.

The evidence behind protein’s role in weight loss and muscle building comes from several scientific studies:

Fullness and Weight Loss: Protein has been shown to be the most satiating macronutrient, helping people feel fuller for longer. This effect can support weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
Muscle Growth: Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, especially after exercise. However, studies suggest that consuming protein beyond a certain limit (around 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight) doesn’t significantly increase muscle mass.
Timing: Post-workout protein consumption may enhance muscle repair, but the “anabolic window” extends up to 48 hours, making immediate intake less crucial than often advertised.

According to the Harvard Medical School, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.36 grams per pound. This is the amount needed to meet basic nutritional requirements. However, if you are physically active or exercise regularly, you may need to increase your protein intake to support muscle repair and growth.

Determine your daily protein intake HERE.

Here are my results :

From my result I found out I am low on protein and need to increase my protein intake, I plan in the coming weeks to track my protein and increase.

Intentionality In Technology Enabled Learning Design Reflection

Sketchnoting the Beach (Plage) in Class

Sketch
This sketchnote features a beach theme labeled "PLAGE," which is French for "beach." The drawing includes the following elements, each accompanied by a label in French:

A sun labeled "SOLEIL" inside a speech bubble.
A cloud labeled "NUAGE."
A beach umbrella labeled "PARAPLUIE."
A starfish labeled "ÉTOILES DE MER."
A seashell labeled "COQUILLE."
The ocean is labeled "OCEAN."
A crab labeled "CRABE."
The word "PLAGE" is creatively drawn, with designs like waves and a beach ball incorporated into the letters.
This sketchnote captures various seaside elements in a simple, illustrative style.

Below is a summary of what I’ve learned

SAMR Model
The SAMR model, developed by Dr. Ruben Puentedura, is a framework that helps educators evaluate how technology can transform teaching and learning. SAMR stands for Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition, representing the different levels of integrating technology into the classroom. You can watch this video on SAMR for further explanation.

The SAMR Model: Technology Integration from Enhancement to Transformation

SAMR model, illustrated by Sylvia Duckworth

Challenges of SAMR
While SAMR provides a roadmap for technology integration, it can be time-consuming for teachers to implement effectively. One of the key challenges is assessing the individual needs of students within limited time constraints. How do educators ensure technology meets each student’s needs in a timely manner?

TPACK Model

TPACK model, first introduced by Punya Mishra and Matthew J. Koehler in 2006 by research found HERE. The TPACK model helps educators select the most appropriate technology or tools to meet specific learning objectives. This model emphasizes the combination of technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge, helping teachers choose tools that enhance their teaching in meaningful ways. It’s important to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each tool since not all educational technologies are suitable for every classroom or age group.

Could Sketchnoting Benefit Grade 3 Learners?

A 2018 study from the University of Waterloo, found that drawing is superior to writing for memory retention. This study showed that older adults could enhance their memory by incorporating drawing into their learning process. I believe this approach could greatly benefit my future Grade 3 classroom, as most children enjoy drawing and being creative. The study can be found HERE.

For example, when teaching a topic like fractions, students could use sketchnoting to visually organize their ideas, linking concepts across the page to aid in retention. By engaging in this creative process, students may find it easier to remember new concepts while enjoying the learning process.

Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge: A Framework for Teacher Knowledge Download

Assistive Technology & Equity Reflection

Photo of Seashore During Golden Hour on the North Shore of Oahu,Hawaii Using Accessible Close Captions and Hyperlink

How to Buy on Amazon.ca, video explaining the steps

Video made by Kathryn Gullackson

Digital accessibility practices are often overlooked, such as using proper heading structures, adding clear alt-text to images, and ensuring video captions and audio transcripts are accurate and complete. Many miss the importance of adequate color contrast, descriptive hyperlinks, and making sure content is fully navigable by keyboard. Tools like automated captions can help, but they often require editing for accuracy. Keyboard navigation and focus indicators are also frequently neglected, despite being crucial for users who rely on assistive technologies. Personally, I sometimes forget to ensure descriptive link text and check for color contrast across all content.

I was surprised to learn about accessibility checkers, as I had never heard of them before. It’s a helpful step for anyone aiming to make their digital materials accessible, especially for those who might miss certain details manually. I learned from our Professor Rich, we can use WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tools a set of evaluation tools designed to help authors make their web content more accessible for individuals with disabilities.

I believe many digital accessibility practices are not more widely known because 73 percent of Canadians do not have disabilities and, as a result, may not be actively thinking about the 27 percent who do. This lack of awareness leads to a limited understanding of the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, there is insufficient education and outreach to raise awareness about the importance of accessibility in digital spaces. Without more comprehensive training and resources, many people remain unaware of how their content might impact users with disabilities, which prevents the widespread adoption of inclusive practices.

This image is a map of Canada showing the disability rates for each province and territory in 2022, along with the percentage point changes from 2017 to 2022. — This image is a map of Canada showing the disability rates for each province and territory in 2022, along with the percentage point changes from 2017 to 2022 from Stats Canada.

Yoga

Yoga is a long-established practice that emphasizes mindful breathing, flexibility, and strength, aimed at enhancing overall mental and physical wellness. It encompasses various physical, mental, and spiritual techniques. Key aspects of yoga include breath control and specific postures—sequences of movements intended to build strength and increase flexibility. Originating in India several thousand years ago, yoga has since evolved and been embraced globally in diverse forms. Find out more HERE.

Well, this week I wasn’t on top of my fitness routine, struggling to balance work, school, and home life. When I find myself feeling overwhelmed, I like to look for resources I can use at home to help me manage my week.

This week, I did a 10-Minute Bedtime Yoga session with Adrienne. It’s one of my favorite ways to wind down, whether I need a solid night’s rest or to relieve stress from the day. It’s just a 10-minute commitment, and no matter how busy I am, I feel like I can always fit it in. I love that I can do it from the comfort of my own home, allowing me to stretch, tune in with my breath, and feel so much better after a long day.

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