Technology
Recent Newsletter Articles
Using AI in Adult Ed
Imagine a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is writing the MN ABE Connect news articles.... Newsflash: we’re already here. Read on for an article about using AI in Adult Education... written by AI itself. Read More
Texting with Talking Points: Supporting Communication and Retention for Multilingual Learners
From reminders about assignments to checking in on a student who’s been out sick, finding the right text messaging tool has not only saved me precious time but has also strengthened my relationships with my students. I’ve tried a number of different tools, especially during the pandemic, but Talking Points is my favorite so far. Read More
IDEAL 103: Building an EdTech Strategy
While platforms such as Khan Academy or LinkedIn Learning host vast repositories of educational content, it can be a challenge incorporating them into the classroom. If you’ve struggled to digest and master a platform’s content, or how to meaningfully include such tools in the classroom, then the IDEAL 103 course is for you! Read More
What is Pear Deck and How Can I Use it in My Classroom?
Pear Deck is a digital tool that allows teachers to create interactive activities for students in online and in-person classes. It is accessible as an add-on when using Google Slides and works seamlessly with Google Suites, allowing teachers to use it as an asynchronous or synchronous teaching tool. Pear Deck offers a paid version and a free version; this article focuses on the free version and using Pear Deck as an online teaching tool, even though it is perfectly adaptable to in-person teaching as well. Read More
Using Nearpod in the ABE Classroom
Nearpod is a great tool that makes any lesson interactive, whether in the classroom, virtual, or a combination of the two. In this article, ABE Teacher Polina Huffman shares how and why to use Nearpod in the ABE classroom. Read More
HyFlex in Minnesota ABE: What Is It, Who Needs It, and How Does It Work? – Part 2
One of the many conundrums facing Minnesota ABE is how to meet both the needs of adult learners who prefer to learn at a distance and those who want to learn in-person – and all at a time when ABE resources are stretched thin, and public health recommendations change rapidly. HyFlex offers an educational model that can meet the needs and preferences of learners in a flexible, effective manner. Read More
HyFlex in Minnesota ABE: What Is It, Who Needs It, and How Does It Work? – Part 1
One of the many conundrums facing Minnesota ABE is how to meet both the needs of adult learners who prefer to learn at a distance and those who want to learn in-person – and all at a time when ABE resources are stretched thin, and public health recommendations change rapidly. HyFlex offers an educational model that can meet the needs and preferences of learners in a flexible, effective manner. Read More
EdTech Integration Strategy Toolkit: Routines to Level Up your Classroom
Over the last two years, we’ve seen more than our share of Top 10 lists and highlight reels with the newest tech to try. Finally, an EdTech Toolkit goes beyond an information-dump and provides repeatable classroom routines using low-barrier tech resources for you and your students. Read More
2022 Language & Literacy Institute: Registration Now Open!
Mark your calendars for the 2022 Language & Literacy Institute on January 27-28. If you teach any aspect of language & literacy—at any level—this event is for you! Read More
Using a Learning Management System (LMS): Coffee Break Takeaways
The "Using an LMS" Coffee Break session allowed for a discussion among ABE professionals about the benefits of a Learning Management System (LMS), various LMS platforms used in ABE programs in Minnesota, and other topics. Teachers noted that using an LMS takes some effort up front to establish; however, the outcome is immeasurable for student learning, engagement, and success. Read More