The 17 Challenges for Teachers in 2017 Infographic was created to help teachers and other educators try new things, experience new and advancing technology that could impact the classroom now or in the near future.
- Google Expeditions: With Google Expeditions out of Beta, and Google developing more and more expeditions for the classrooms, expect to see the use of this fantastic application to explode in 2017. Google Expeditions is a unique initiative from Google designed to bring educational virtual reality experiences into the K12 classrooms.
- Google Daydream Viewer Virtual Reality: Daydream VR is Google’s latest headset that debuted with the long-awaited Google Pixel phone. Along with the physical headset, Google is developing and working with third party developers to create interactive apps, games, tours and more that are compatible with Daydream.
- Listen to the Google Teacher Tribe Podcast! The Google Teacher Tribe Podcast is a weekly podcast designed to give teachers practical ideas for using G Suite and other Google tools that you can use in your class tomorrow. We will offer our favorite Google tips and tricks, important updates, and effective strategies for K-12 teachers.
- The NEW Google Sites: The new Google Sites is now available from just about any Google account, and it is a must-try. They have given the old workhorse a BIG overhaul and it is slick!
- Get Google Certified! Becoming a Google Certified Educator, Trainer, Administrator, or Innovator is a great goal for 2017!
- Artificial Intelligence: Artificial intelligence has arrived in our mainstream world. With the advancement of artificial intelligence, internet of things, and machine learning, all of our “stuff,” is now becoming smart and connected, and in some cases can follow commands.
- Program a Robot: So not only is AI becoming mainstream, but we have some pretty cool robots available for our classrooms. Robotics offer a lot of learning opportunities for students at every level, and it will help them understand the basics of coding all the way to advanced programming and robotics.
- The Google Transformation Center: The newly announced Google Transformation Center was designed to promote school change, including a framework for school leaders, resources, and more.
- Augmented Reality: Augmented reality is the integration of digital information with the user’s environment in real time. It’s a virtual layer on top of reality, usually making use of the camera on a mobile device. Yes, both virtual reality and augmented reality top this year’s list and with good reason. This will be the year that we really begin to see both gaining mainstream traction, and more classroom applications available.
- Inbox by Gmail: Inbox is not new, but it is newly available with G Suite for Education accounts! Inbox automatically bundles related email categories, gives you the option to “snooze,” an email to a later time or date, and includes reminders.
- Google Cast for Education (Chrome App): Cast for Education, a Chrome App, “allows you to turn your computer into a wireless projector for screen sharing from another device. Just install the app, give your device a name, and invite your students to cast.”
- Create an eBook with Google Slides: Google Slides is one of the most flexible learning tools in G Suite. Google Slides allows you to manipulate and edit images in ways that you cannot in Google Docs. Consider having students create a collaborate ebook this year! Or if you are so inclined, create your own ebook!
- #GoOpen with Amazon: There is a new Open Educational Resource platform from Amazon Education, where you can search for K-12 resources that are tagged by subject area, grade level, and standard.
- Google Keep: Google Keep is Google’s note-taking service. Since it’s debut, Google Keep has received some really awesome updates and features and is becoming a mainstay for Google users, including reminders that integrate with Google Now, sharing notes and lists, adding images and photos, voice memos and more. Grab the Google Keep Chrome extension , and the iOS or Android mobile app to make things even easier! Use Google Keep to organize your 2017 goals, notes, reminders, and more!
- Google Classroom Integrations: Explore the ever-expanding list of third-party apps that integrate with Google Classroom!
- Join the Shake Up Learning Facebook Group! Looking to connect and learn with like-minded educators? Join the Shake Up Learning Facebook group to connect with Kasey Bell, engage more deeply with Shake Up Learning content, ask questions, share your own lessons and ideas, and expand your personal learning network!
- Use the Shake Up Learning Official Hashtag: #SUL: In 2017, Shake Up Learning is official launching it’s very own hashtag to help you learn and connect with other Shake Up Learning followers. Share how you are shaking things up in your classroom by using the official hashtag #SUL.
