2024VSTE Annual Conference

Schools were designed over a century ago to serve a generation of learners that existed before smartphones, before computers, before nuclear power ? even before women could vote. Although the dedicated educators of today work harder than ever before, they keep producing citizens that aren?t ready for a workforce that is a constant victim of change and disruption. Schools are the victims of the TTWWADI mindset (That?s The Way We?ve Always Done It). They must question and unthaw frozen mindsets and realign instructional practices to prepare their learners for the digital age. This hands-on, brains-on presentation explores the nature of TTWWADI and how disruptive innovation has led to the need for educational change. Participants will explore why today?s kids are different and how to access the new core learning attributes of the digital generations. We will also explore how learning must change to prepare learners who are fluent in the next-generation skills they require for success. Finally, we will investigate the new roles educators must embrace to reach their learners where they are at. After all, we want to prepare our learners for their futures and not our past.

Come and learn about creative laser cutter projects that range 2nd grade through 8th grade. The series of projects help students move from super beginner to quite adept. I will also talk about the design tools I use with the different age groups.

In this session, we'll demonstrate how schools can leverage generative AI to streamline social media management. Learn practical strategies for using large language models to establish your brand's tone and voice, ideate content ideas, and optimize posting - all without sacrificing authenticity or spending endless hours on social media. Walk away with a toolkit of AI-powered techniques to help you crush your social media presence while reclaiming your time.

Join us to discover how you can revolutionize your teaching practice utilizing AI! In this session, we will present various cutting-edge tools designed to save time, create differentiated content, and provide engaging learning experiences for your students. We will not only introduce you to powerful AI features within Quizizz.com, but we will also highlight innovative tools such as Questionwell, SchoolAI, and ChatGPT. While these tools may seem like yesterday?s news, we will focus on fresh strategies for leveraging AI to enhance instructional practices, meet the needs of diverse learners, and streamline your workflow!

We will look at how we scaffold Project Based Learning Experiences that focus on coding and robotics for students with physical and cognitive disabilities