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Edtech Throwdown Episode 225:  5 Fresh Projects to Beat Student Fatigue Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown. This is Episode 225 called 5 Fresh Projects to Beat Student Fatigue. In this episode, we’ll tackle one of the negative side effects of project-based curricula - students doing the same projects over and over.  Listen in for 5 new project ideas that your students definitely have never seen before. This is another episode you don’t want to miss, Check it out. Segment 1:Tired of student eye rolls and complaints about the same projects that they’ve done a million times over?  All our creative ideas from 8 years ago are starting to feel stale (podcasts, videos, stop motion, room escapes, etc) Nick just had this happen his stop motion slides project. Segment 2:  Soundscape:  Students research a pivotal historical event or local cultural turning point and produce a 3D binaural soundscape using free digital audio workstations (like BandLab, YouTube Creator Studio, Zapsplat, Google Vids). Instead of writing an essay, they script voiceovers in historical character, record ambient foley sound effects, and lay down music accurate to the era.Deliverable: An interactive audio trackBonus:   Pair it with a spatial map where listeners wear headphones and "walk through" the scene as it unfolds in surround sound.Tabletop Escape the Room:  Rather than presenting on a historical conflict or civic crisis (e.g., the Cuban Missile Crisis, Apollo 13, or the Silk Road trade blockades), students build a playable, tabletop escape-room box. Players must decode primary source documents, solve mechanical/mathematical ciphers, and make strategic choices under a countdown timer to resolve the historical event.Deliverable: A self-contained physical box filled with customized lockboxes, primary source puzzle artifacts, a rulebook, and a branching narrative outcome tree based on player decisions.Physical Body Models:  Students use their bodies or multiple bodies to model scientific processes, mathematical equations and operations or events in history.  The models can move or be static, funny or serious.  They must be accurate.  Chemistry bonding as an example.Deliverable:  Record the models and edit into a 3 minute max video for an in-class watch partyHyperlocal Issues Mini Pod Expose:  Students investigate an invisible, hyper-local physical system in their immediate town that people take for granted—such as where municipal stormwater actually drains, how local restaurant grease is recycled, or the history of an unmarked piece of local infrastructure.Deliverable: A polished 5-minute investigative podcast episode featuring recorded field interviews, ambient soundscapes, and an annotated script citing civic documents and expert sources.Social Media Design:  Students design their own social media platform that only allows certain types of themes and posts.  It should be content based somehow.  For example, this is the social media platform for artists, or for young scientists, etc.Deliverable: A mockup of a standard profile page for the platform that features the basic design, titles, names, and types of posts.  Sample posts should be included. Edtech Throwdown:  Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech Throwdown Do us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network Subscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials Apple PodcastsSpotify  YouTube  Twitter  (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagram Connect with us on Social Media Guise’s Social Media Twitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedIn Nick’s Social Media a href="https://twitter.com/nickgotteched"...

Edtech Throwdown Episode 224: Using AI Video Creation Tools to Send Student Engagement Soaring Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown. This is Episode 224 called Using AI Video Creation Tools to Send Student Engagement Soaring. In this episode, we’ll discuss how educators can leverage AI video creation tools to engage students. This is another episode you don’t want to miss, Check it out. Segment 1: What can AI Video Tools be used for?IntroductionsGame cluesPersonalizing the classroomJoke telling Segment 2:  HeyGen vs Google Video AIHeyGen- an artificial intelligence video generatorGoogle Vids  Pricing Breakdown1. Google Vids AIGoogle bakes Vids directly into its wider Google Workspace and Google AI ecosystem: Free Tier:Anyone with a standard personal Google Account gets access to Vids, including10 AI video clip generations per monthusing Google's Veo and Gemini models at no cost. 2. HeyGenHeyGen operates on a tiered credit-based subscription model: Free Plan ($0/mo):Allows3 free videos per month(720p output, watermarked, basic access to stock avatars and voice templates). Core Capabilities & StrengthsGoogle Vids AI (Best for Workflow & Documents)Prompt-to-Video Outlines:Type a quick topic or point to a Google Doc/Slide in Drive, and Gemini generates a full storyboard, script, and visual layout.Timeline & Multi-Track Editing:Functions like a hybrid between Google Slides and a lightweight video editor. You can rearrange visual blocks, edit text layers, drop in background music, and add screen recordings easily.Google Workspace Integration:Works natively with Google Drive, Gmail, Docs, and YouTube. You can co-edit a video timeline live with team members just as you would on a Google Doc.Veo & Lyria Engines:Utilizes Google's Veo video generation engine for dynamic background b-roll and Lyria 3 for AI audio compositions. HeyGen (Best for Avatars & Talking Heads)Photorealistic AI Avatars:Produce hyper-realistic video presenters that mimic realistic facial movements, eye contact, and gestures from a written text transcript.Digital Twins & Custom Avatars:Record yourself for a few minutes to create a digital avatar that can speak any script in your voice.Multilingual Lip-Sync Video Translation:Translate an existing video into 30+ languages where the presenter's voice is translatedandtheir mouth movements automatically re-synced to match the new language.Personalized Video Generation:Connect via API to dynamically output thousands of personalized sales or onboarding videos tailored to specific client names/company details. Which Should You Choose?Choose Google Vids AI if:You need to turn internal updates, pitch decks, product overviews, or Google Docs into structured video presentations for team members or clients without needing a live human presenter on camera.Choose HeyGen if:You need a high-converting, professional spokesperson for marketing ads, YouTube content, localized sales emails, or online course creation without filming on a real camera setup. Edtech Throwdown:  Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech Throwdown Do us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network Subscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials Apple PodcastsSpotifyspan style="background-color:...

Edtech Throwdown Episode 223: Survey Says! The Top 5 AI Power Moves for Teachers Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown. This is Episode 223 called Survey Says! The Top 5 AI Power Moves for Teachers. In this episode, we’re putting 100 educators on the board to reveal the game-changing ways teachers are using artificial intelligence to personalize learning, crush admin work, and transform the classroom. This is another episode you don’t want to miss, Check it out. Segment 1: School is back in session, AI bots are escaping their sandboxes to destroy the world, tech is being banned from classrooms, and we are playing Family Feud    Segment 2: Survey Says! We asked 100 teachers: "What’s the biggest mistake educators make when using AI to plan lessons?" Here are the top 5 answers: #1 Copy-Pasting Without Editing (Treating the rough AI draft as a final, ready-to-teach lesson) 38 #2 Giving Lazy or Vague Prompts (Asking for a lesson without specifying grade, time, or standards) 26 #3 Not Fact-Checking the AI (Letting "hallucinations" and wrong answer keys reach students) 18 #4 Leaking Student Privacy / PII (Typing real student names or IEP data into public models) 11 #5 Assuming Standards Alignment Is Accurate (Blindly trusting fake Common Core/state tags) 7 Survey Says! We asked 100 students: "What is the top reason you HATE AI-generated classroom activities?"  Here are the top 5 answers: Top 5 answers are on the board! Rank Answer Points #1 Feels Robbed of Human Connection & Effort (Knowing the teacher spent 5 seconds making a task they have to spend hours on) 36 #2 Double Standards & Hypocrisy (Teachers using AI to build assignments while banning students from using it) 24 #3 Boring, Generic "Robotic" Writing (Bland reading passages, repetitive questions, and lack of teacher personality) 19 #4 Unclear or Broken Logic (Glitching instructions, incorrect answer keys, or weird "hallucinated" facts) 12 #5 Irrelevant & Miscalibrated Difficulty (Tasks that miss the actual grade level or feel like pointless busywork) 9 Edtech Throwdown:  Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech Throwdown Do us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network Subscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/gotteched/id1358366637?mt=2" target="_blank" style="background-color:...

Edtech Throwdown Episode 222: 6 Strategies for Battling Student Apathy Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 222 called 6 Strategies for Battling Student Apathy.   In this episode we’ll discuss the hot topic of student apathy, whether or not we think this is real, and how to battle it.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss, Check it out. Segment 1: There is lots of talk about student apathy these days.  Have we seen this for ourselves? Nick says, maybe Segment 2: 1. Learning Packages (Modular, Choice-Based Bundles) What it is: Consolidating multi-step tasks, content resources, and assessments into self-paced, modular units rather than handing out isolated daily assignments. How it decreases apathy: Apathy flourishes when students feel like passive order-takers. Learning packages restore autonomy by giving students control over their pace and offering choices in how they acquire knowledge and show mastery (e.g., choice boards). Having a visible roadmap eliminates ambiguity and lets students build momentum independently. 2. Authentic / Real-World Task Framing (PBL) What it is: Structuring assignments around real-world problems, community impact projects, or public audiences (e.g., presenting to local business leaders or publishing a podcast). How it decreases apathy: Apathy is often a rational response to perceived irrelevance. When work moves beyond "doing it for the teacher’s gradebook" to solving a real problem or addressing an authentic audience, students see immediate value and purpose in completing it. 3. Competency-Based / Mastery Revision Policies What it is: Replacing rigid "one-and-done" deadlines with a system where students can revise, resubmit, or retake assessments until they prove standard mastery. How it decreases apathy: "Learned helplessness" drives a huge portion of student apathy—if a student believes they will fail anyway, checking out protects their self-esteem. Reframe work as a process of continuous growth removes the fear of permanent failure, motivating students to stick with a task until they get it right. 4. Gamified Micro-Milestones & Visual Progress What it is: Breaking large assignments into bite-sized checkpoints unlocked sequentially, often mapped on a visual progress bar or Kanban board (To Do, In Progress, Done). How it decreases apathy: Long assignments can feel overwhelming, triggering avoidance and apathy. Micro-milestones create immediate feedback loops and quick wins, giving students frequent hits of satisfaction as they physically check off steps and watch their progress advance. 5. Interdependent Peer Accountability (Cooperative Learning) What it is: Designing collaborative structures (like the Jigsaw method or small-group roles) where every team member holds a piece of the puzzle necessary for the group's success. How it decreases apathy: Students are often indifferent to compliance requests from authority figures, but they care deeply about their social standing with peers. When their effort directly supports or impacts their classmates, peer accountability activates social motivation. 6. Utility-Value Reflection Prompts What it is: Embedding short reflection questions at the beginning or end of assignments asking students to articulate how a skill connects to their personal goals, interests, or future plans. How it decreases apathy: Psychological research shows that when students explicitly write down why a skill matters to their own life (e.g., "How does analyzing arguments help you negotiate or spot misinformation?"), their intrinsic motivation and assignment completion rates increase significantly. Edtech Throwdown:  Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech Throwdown Do us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network Subscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials Apple PodcastsSpotify  YouTube  Twitter  (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagram Connect with us on Social Media Guise’s Social

Edtech Throwdown Episode 221: 10 Tools for Specialized AI and Productivity Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 221 called 10 Tools for Specialized AI and Productivity.   In this episode we’ll be talking edtech tools as we bring you a list of some atypical AI platforms that might not otherwise come up for educators.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss.  Check it out. Segment 1:Happy August, happy end of summer break We’re almost fully re-charged and starting to think about things like productivity again Segment 2: Nick: abacus.ai: Abacus.AI is the world's first AI super-assistant tailored for enterprises and professionals. We offer two products: ChatLLM for professionals and small teams and Abacus.AI Enterprise for enterprises and companies.  ChatLLM is a multi-modal, multi-device super-assistant that can handle many tasks and completely transform your life. You can access all of the SOTA LLMs, analyze documents, do data analysis, generate code, search the web, create images, and much more. It's your all-in-one AI assistant and increases individual productivity by 15% to 75%.  Abacus.AI Enterprise is a state-of-the-art generative AI platform that combines the AI super assistant available to all your employees with an AI brain that can connect to your enterprise software systems, automate business processes, increase revenue, and be a powerful force multiplier. Our AI engineer can build AI Workflows and chatbots to automate critical processes. Our Enterprise product comes with single sign-on, multiple deployment options and checks all the security and compliance boxes.Guise:studley.aiWhy:Specialized AI platforms designed for more complex, data-heavy, or professional-grade automation and modeling.Nick: openalternative.co: What is the difference between open source and proprietary?  Proprietary AI Tools: These are "closed-source" models developed and owned by specific companies (e.g., OpenAI’s GPT-4/5, Google’s Gemini, Anthropic’s Claude). You typically access them via an API or a web interface. The underlying code, training data, and exact model weights are a "black box" hidden from the public.  Open-Source (Open-Weight) AI Tools: These are models whose code and weights are publicly shared (e.g., Meta’s Llama series, Mistral, Qwen, and DeepSeek). Anyone can download them, look under the hood, modify them, and run them on their own hardware or private cloud. Guise: The Most Comprehensive List of FREE Online Tools for Teachers Why:Both promote open-source ethics, whether finding alternatives to paid software or using privacy-focused media downloaders.Nick: smart.servier.comGuise: runable.comWhy:High-level technical resources; one offers medical illustrations, while the other focuses on executable code environments.Nick:Workout.coolGuise: KouponWhy:Personal optimization tools—one for physical fitness routines and the other for optimizing shopping/savings.Nick:  Internet Archive:https://web.archive.org/Guise: Same.newWhy:Part of the ".new" domain movement, providing instant, one-click access to start a new coding or collaborative project. Edtech Throwdown:  Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech Throwdown Do us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network Subscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials Apple PodcastsSpotify  YouTube  Twitter  (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagram Connect with us on Social Media Guise’s Social Media Twitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedIn Nick’s Social...

Edtech Throwdown Episode 220: 8 Lesson Ideas Inspired by Video Games Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 220 called 8 Lesson Ideas Inspired by Video Games.   In this episode we’ll break down some ways that you can leverage video games for creative lesson ideas.  This can be a fun way to make your class more engaging and encourage student buy-in.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss,  check it out. Segment 1: What might some of our listeners have more time for in the summer?  Video games!  I don’t play them.  Does Guise? Segment 2: Video Game Map Choice Boards:  Use video game maps as a choice board template.  Here is asampleusing FORTNITE as a Digital Menu.  Set up the tech any way you like, I would probably do Google Slides transparent elements that link out to other places.The Battle Pass Grading Scheme:Change up the grading scheme.  Instead of a traditional grading sheet, give students a "Battle Pass" tracker. Completing mandatory tasks earns them "XP" (points) to level up. Offer "Weekly Challenges" (optional bonus questions or creative projects) that unlock cosmetic rewards, like choosing the classroom music, getting a digital badge, or earning a "skip one homework assignment" voucher.Among Us: "Spot the Impostor" Source Analysis.  This activity turns critical thinking, debate, and fact-checking into a high-stakes deduction game.  How it Works:  Divide students into small groups and hand them a packet of information—such as four short summaries of a historical event, four scientific claims, or four math equations worked out step-by-step.  Among the real data, there is one Impostor (a text containing a historical fallacy, a grammatical error, misinformation, or a math mistake).  Students must complete "tasks" (analyze the text) and call an Emergency Meeting to debate which source is "sus." To vote a source out, they must back up their claim with textual evidence or proof.Fortnite Inspired Room Escapes.  The setting for this fun room escape is Fortnite.  Create this using any video game and any digital template you prefer. Here is a oneon Greek Mythology available for purchase that inspired this idea.Minecraft Education Edition for biome creation.  In Minecraft, a biome is a distinct geographical region within a world that features its own unique terrain, climate, vegetation, and colors. Biomes determine what resources you can gather, which animals (mobs) will spawn naturally, and even whether it rains or snows.Animal Crossinginspired town building activity.  Island Design: Students are given a blank grid sheet to map out their own "Island Community." They must decide where to put public spaces, businesses, and residential zones.  The Bell Economy: Introduce a classroom currency ("Bells"). Students earn Bells for completing assignments or displaying good citizenship. They must budget their Bells to buy "furniture" or upgrades for their paper island (e.g., printable stickers of trees, bridges, or buildings).  Town Ordinances: Introduce civics by letting the class vote on a weekly "Town Ordinance"—a classroom rule that everyone must follow (like "Friendly Friday" where every desk transition requires a high-five).Narrative writing with a video game twist.  Students do a traditional paper and pencil narrative writing assignment, but about a video game of their choice.  Then use Canva book cover templates and Magic Media AI to edit the template to match their video game inspired story. Here is a samplefrom the Merrils where Canva was used to create a video game cover after a narrative writing assignment.Pokémon: "Evolutionary" Adaptation Trading Cards:  Two different content approaches here, one for science and one for ELAIn Science: Students choose a real-life animal and design a three-stage "Evolutionary Line" card game deck based on its lineage (e.g., an ancient ancestor, a prehistoric link, and the modern animal). They list its "Type" (habitat), "HP" (population status), and "Attacks" (physical or behavioral adaptations).  In ELA: Students create trading cards for characters in a novel. A character's "Stats" (such as Bravery, Empathy, or Wisdom) change as they grow. When a character hits a major turning point in the plot, they "evolve" into a new card stage with updated stats and an altered description. Edtech Throwdown:  Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network strong style="background-color:...

Edtech Throwdown Episode 219: 10 Edtech Tools for Study Skills and Problem Solving Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 219 called 10 Edtech Tools for Study Skills and Problem Solving.   In this episode we’ll be talking about a list of edtech tools that is all about the elusive beast called increasing student study skills.  Check out this unique list and see if something jumps out to you.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss.  Check it out. Segment 1: Happy summer break Segment 2:   Academic AssistanceNick:MathgptGuise: getsolved.ai          Why:AI tutors specifically designed to help students break down complex problems and find step-by-step solutions. Course AggregatorsNick: classcentral.comGuise: alison.comWhy:Platforms dedicated to free online learning, certificates, and tracking MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses). Research & Literature & GradingNick:Paper2gal.top: Paper2Gal.top (commonly known as Paper2Gal) is an AI-powered educational tool that converts dense academic papers, essays, and study materials into interactive visual novels, or "galgames".Instead of reading dry PDFs or textbooks, users can upload documents to the platform, select an animated anime-style partner, and learn the material through dialogue, character interactions, and quizzes.Guise: NotieAIWhy:Snap a photo of any handwritten assignment. Notie AI grades it automatically, with expert comments, a score, and personalized feedback, in under 30 seconds. Skill MappingNick: learn-anything.xyzGuise: instructables.comWhy:Educational guides; one provides a visual roadmap for learning any subject, the other provides DIY project instructions. Repair & DIY & AutomationNick:ifixit.comGuise: activepieces.comWhy: automation saves time!

Edtech Throwdown Episode 218: 12 Months of Impact: The Ultimate Student Engagement Roadmap  Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 218 called 12 Months of Impact: The Ultimate Student Engagement Roadmap.   In this episode we’ll talk about heritage and awareness month celebrations as the driving force behind meaningful and engaging lessons.  Make your projects timely and more impactful with these creative ideas.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss, check it out. Segment 1: I recently was clicking around Canva and saw that april? Is national poetry month and that they were sponsoring a contest where students had to make a visual representation of a poem of their choice and submit it to the competition.  Got me thinking … we have 12 months in each year, why not take advantage of them for classroom projects! General tip - research for competitions a few months before and then require your students participate as part of your class. Segment 2: September: Hispanic Heritage Month(Sept 15 – Oct 15) The Project:"Mosaic of Many Lands"The Goal:Students explore the diverse countries that make up Hispanic heritage. Each student or small group creates a "travel brochure" for a specific country, focusing on food, music, and traditions that have influenced global culture.  Tailor it to your content area by asking for specific types of items to be featured in the brochure.Tech extension: Canva October: National Arts & Humanities MonthThe Project:"The Community Story-Walk"The Goal:Students write a collaborative story where each person contributes one sentence and one illustration.  Choose the topic of the story to fit your curriculum.  The final story is posted page-by-page along a hallway or fence, allowing others to "walk" through the narrative.Tech extension: Boomwriter,Storyboardthat,bookcreator November: Native American Heritage MonthThe Project:"Land Acknowledgement & Ecology Map"The Goal:Students research the Indigenous tribes original to their specific geographic area. They create a map that focuses on the natural landmarks (rivers, flora, fauna, geological features) that were historically significant to those tribes, connecting history with the environment.Tech side:  Make it interactive with QR code audio narrations,thinklink December: Universal Human Rights MonthThe Project:"The Kindness Advent Calendar"The Goal:The group creates a countdown to the end of the year where every day reveals a small, "no-cost" act of service (e.g., "Write a thank-you note to a custodian," or "Invite someone new to sit with you").Tech extension:  Film some of the acts being completed and edit them into a large social media inspired videoWeVideo,Canva VideoGoogle Vids January: National Mentoring MonthThe Project:"The Advice Exchange"The Goal:Students are paired with someone from a different grade level (older or younger). They create a "Survival Guide" for their current grade or a "Letter to My Future Self" to share with their partner, fostering a culture of peer-to-peer support.TIME CAPSULETech extension:  Turn this into a lesson on AI ethics.  Ask an approved edtech tool to generate these prompts before students begin.  Then ask the Ss to discuss what they notice.  They should see that the AI tool makes up information that it can’t find. February: Black History MonthThe Project:"The Unsung Heroes Podcast"The Goal:Students research a Black figure who isn't typically featured in standard textbooks (inventors, local community leaders, or lesser-known artists). They record a 2-minute "podcast segment" or "radio spot" highlighting that person's impact.Tech extension:  Google Vids would be great for thisspotify creator March: Women’s History MonthThe Project:"Future Me Interview"The Goal:Students identify a living woman in their community or a professional field they admire. They develop a list of interview questions and—if possible—conduct a brief interview, or write a "speculative biography" of what their own life might look like if they followed in those footsteps.Tech extension:  Turn it into a real blog post and post it on a class website using Canva or Google Siteswavacity April: Earth MonthThe Project:"The Trash-to-Treasure Fashion Show"The Goal:Students design and "walk" a piece of wearable art made entirely from clean, recycled materials (plastic caps, old newspapers, cardboard). It emphasizes...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 216: (More) Awesome Edtech for the Summer Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 216 called (More) Awesome Edtech for the Summer.  Every year when school ends we publish an episode where Guise and I share what we’ll be reading, listening to, and exploring over the summer break. 216 is that episode and this is another you don’t want to miss, check it out. Segment 1: Summer Plans Summer plans Segment 2: Resources for the Summer Nick Podcasts Sweat the Technique- How do we get better, faster? A group of pathbreaking educators come together weekly to answer that question, applying lessons from the classroom to all areas of life - from parenting, to relationships, to sports, to hobbies and more.  Sweat the Technique is hosted by four former principals and superintendents who've led gap-closing schools.  That includes: Doug Lemov, author of the international bestseller Teach Like a Champion and trainer to many successful educators and professional sports coaches, Ryan Hill, founder and CEO of a network of 23 KIPP public charter schools in New Jersey and Miami, Stacey Shells Harvey, founder and CEO of ReGeneration Schools, and Ravi Gupta, former leader of Tennessee's highest performing network of charter schools and founder of the largest-ever training organization for Democratic candidates and staffers.  In particular I’ve heard the episode called “Lessons on Excellent Teaching (with Pritesh Raichura)” is quite good.Schooled- This podcast from National Public Radio can help answer the question, “Is this happening to anyone else?”  Schooled provides boots-on-the-ground dispatches from Pennsylvania’s public school system, where more government dollars are spent per student than in any other U.S. state. The podcast aims to get to the bottom of why those funds aren’t working, and what needs to happen to make lasting positive change. Books Teach Like a Champion by Doug Lamov- Teach Like a Champion 3.0 is the long-awaited update to Doug Lemov’s highly regarded guide to the craft of teaching. This book teaches you how to create a positive and productive classroom that encourages student engagement, trust, respect, accountability, and excellence. In this edition, you’ll find new and updated teaching techniques, the latest evidence from cognitive science and culturally responsive teaching practices, and an expanded companion video collection. Learn how to build students’ background knowledge, move learning into long-term memory, and connect your teaching with the curriculum content for tangible improvement in learning outcomes. Seven Myths About Education- In this controversial new book, Daisy Christodoulou offers a thought-provoking critique of educational orthodoxy. Drawing on her recent experience of teaching in challenging schools, she shows through a wide range of examples and case studies just how much classroom practice contradicts basic scientific principles. She examines seven widely-held beliefs which are holding back pupils and teachersBONUS BOOK (CAN I DO IT?!?!)  Non-education one - The Power Broker -  1,344 pages, the audio book is 66 hours long.  (the average audio book is about 12 hours long) Grab Bag Return to good teaching practice:  Focus on study strategies with thisexcellent one-pagerPhet Studio’s customizable simulations and the Wayground Integration - must pay for this but it might be worth it! Guise Podcasts The Big Dig Catching the Codfather Ian Coss ADDitude’s ADHD Experts Podcast The Episode:"What Neuroscience Reveals About the ADHD Brain"(with Dr. Joel Nigg)Why it’s great: Dr. Nigg is a leading researcher who does a brilliant job of breaking down complex neuroimaging and brain chemistry into layman's terms. He explains exactly how the ADHD brain processes dopamine, handles attention, and experiences heightened emotions.Bonus Episode:"Neurofeedback and Cognitive Training for ADHD Kids"(explores how computer-based brain training interacts with neuroplasticity) Books The AI-Driven Leader: Harnessing AI to Make Faster, Smarter Decisions by Geoff Woods (released in late 2024) is a highly practical business playbook.While many tech books focus on how to code or automate basic tasks, Woods focuses on the executive mindset. His core argument is that most people misuse AI by treating it like a faster assistant, when they should be treating it as a strategic thought partner.If you are a creator or leader looking to use this book to scale your work, here is a deep dive into its core philosophy and the frameworks it provides.a...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 215: Streamlining the Classroom - Top Content Creation and Search Tools for Educators Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 215 called Streamlining the Classroom - Top Content Creation and Search Tools for Educators.   It’s been a while so in this episode we’ll be talking edtech tools as we bring you a list of some of our favorites for content creation and online searching.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss.  Check it out. Segment 1: We haven’t made one of these in a while Segment 2: Episode 215: Content Creation & SearchConsumer Insight & Ideationanswerthepublic.comTool Breakdown: Research & AI Insights Name of the Tool: AnswerThePublic URL:https://answerthepublic.comDescription: A search listening tool that visualizes search questions and suggested autocomplete searches in an image called a search cloud. It helps users understand what people are asking about any specific topic. Main Purpose: For teachers to discover student inquiry trends or for admins to research community concerns. Cost: Freemium Discount Codes: None currently available Login Required: Optional (Limited searches without login) Throwdown Grade: A-googpt.ai   Description: A hybrid search engine that combines Google Search results with ChatGPT's conversational AI answers. It provides a side-by-side view of web links and AI summaries. Main Purpose: Efficient research for teachers and students. Cost: Free Discount Codes: None currently available Login Required: No Throwdown Grade: A-Why:Both tools focus on understanding search intent and generating ideas based on what people are asking online. Audio & Video AIelevenlabs.ioName of the Tool: ElevenLabs URL:https://elevenlabs.ioDescription: An advanced AI audio platform that offers lifelike text-to-speech and voice cloning in dozens of languages. It is widely considered the industry leader for natural-sounding AI voices. Main Purpose: Creating accessible audio versions of lessons or narrating classroom presentations. Cost: Freemium Discount Codes: None currently available Login Required: Yes Throwdown Grade: A invideo.io  Name of the Tool: InVideo URL:https://invideo.io  Description: A powerful AI-driven video creation platform that can turn a script or an idea into a fully edited video with stock footage, voiceovers, and music. Main Purpose: School marketing, news shows, or student presentations. Cost: Freemium Discount Codes: None currently available Login Required: Yes Throwdown Grade: AWhy:High-end generative media tools; one specializes in realistic voice synthesis, the other in AI-driven video production. Niche Media Searchplayphrase.meDescription: A search engine for movie clips. Type in any common phrase, and the site will instantly play a sequence of movie scenes where that exact phrase is spoken. Main Purpose: Language arts teachers or anyone looking for the perfect movie clip for a lesson. Cost: Freemium Discount Codes: None currently available Login Required: Optional Throwdown Grade: A-eaglercraft.com  Description: A web-based version of Minecraft that can be played directly in a browser. It is often used by students to bypass local installation restrictions. Main Purpose: Creative building and logic puzzles (use with discretion!). Cost: Free Discount Codes: None currently available Login Required: No Throwdown Grade: B- (High distraction risk)Why:Media-centric entertainment tools—one searches for movie dialogue, the other provides a browser-based gaming experience. Visual Brainstormingnapkin.aiName of the Tool: Napkin AI URL:https://napkin.aiDescription: An AI-powered design tool that turns text descriptions into professional-looking diagrams and visuals instantly. It is designed to help "visualize" thoughts during the writing process. Main Purpose: Teachers creating visual aids and flowcharts for complex concepts. Cost: Freemium Discount Codes: None currently available Login Required: Yes Throwdown Grade: Aimagineexplainers.comName of the Tool: Imagine Explainers URL:https://imagineexplainers.comDescription: A tool that creates visual explainer videos and animations from text. It is designed to simplify complex topics through storytelling and movement. Main Purpose: Teachers creating flipped classroom content. Cost: Paid Discount Codes: None currently available Login Required: Yes Throwdown Grade: B+Why:These tools focus on turning abstract ideas or text into visual diagrams and explanations. Tool Directoriescommontools.orgName of the Tool: Common Tools URL:commontools.orgDescription: A portal providing various online utility tools like calculators, unit converters, and text manipulators. It is a simple, no-frills site for daily digital tasks. Main Purpose: General classroom utility for quick math or text conversions. Cost: Free Discount Codes: None currently available Login Required: No Throwdown Grade: Ba href="http://onlinetools.com" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85,...

Edtech Throwdown Episode 214: Ditch That Chromebook (no affiliation with Matt Miller) Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 214 called Ditch that Chromebook.   In this episode we’ll talk about several current issues in the edtech world all centered around technology, the role it serves, and to what extent it belongs in schools.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss.  Check it out. Segment 1: Apology to Matt Miller Segment 2: 3 Current Arguments in the edtech world: To block or not to block: AI in schoolsLet fail? Agree about alway cheating   The pendulum swings back on 1:1 devices.  What is the right way forward?  Banning cell phones in schools.  Yay or nay? Edtech Throwdown:  Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech Throwdown Do us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network Subscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials Apple PodcastsSpotify  YouTube  Twitter  (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagram Connect with us on Social Media Guise’s Social Media Twitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedIn Nick’s Social Media Twitter(@nickgotteched) Music Credits: Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEX Need a Presenter? As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on: AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech Throwdown Episode 213: Designing Lessons Based on Cognitive Science with Dave Snyder Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 213 called Designing Lessons Based on Cognitive Science with Dave Snyder.   In this episode we’ll talk with Mr. Dave Snyder about current research in cognitive science and how it has shaped his lessons and the overall classroom experience for his students and their learning.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss.  Check it out. Segment 1:In today’s episode, we are talking to Dean of Academics at Seton Hall Prep in West Orange, NJ, Mr. Dave Snyder, welcome to the show! How are you doing today? Can you give everybody your quick pitch, hero’s origin story?  What’s your own education?  What is your teaching experience?  What do you do now? Talk about our NJECC meetup our general impressions of what Dave’s sessions was all about Dave reached out to us and asked if we could check out his session at a recent conferenceWhat was it called again?Focus was on cognitive science, which I thought I knew about, but as I am sitting and listening more, a lightbulb goes off for me as much of what you were saying resonated with my own classroom experience … having mixed results with cooperative learning, seeing students struggle through inquiry-based lessons that end with mixed results, jigsaws that fall flat for most Segment 2:Presentation:  https://setonhallprepschool-my.sharepoint.com/:p:/g/personal/dsnyder_shp_org/IQAq6J9_RDJeQIhbHheNEEjpAXxbJGsNJ_DNgVMdU4GUkUU?rtime=Ox8y2DaW3kg Can you give an overview of your presentation, topic, and what brought you to feature this at a tech-themed education conference?You began with a survey question about what most affects a student's ability to learn science:  1. What they already know 2.How motivated they are 3. Their learning style 4.How interesting the material is 5.How much inquiry-based instruction (discovery learning) they have Can you explain what this illustrates about cognitive science as it pertains to the classroom?Walk people through the working memory game from slide 11. Can you explain what this illustrates about cognitive science as it pertains to the classroom?Explain the forgetting curve and how it changes with multiple reviews.  What has that meant for your classroom?This seems to go against what a lot of science teachers have learned about inquiry and student-centered learning.  Does it go against those practices?Role of tech? Edtech Throwdown:  Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech Throwdown Do us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network Subscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials Apple PodcastsSpotify  YouTube  Twitter  (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagram Connect with us on Social Media Guise’s Social Media Twitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedIn Nick’s Social Media Twitter(@nickgotteched) Music Credits: Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEX Need a Presenter? strong style="background-color: transparent;color:...

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 212: AI Uses in the Classroom from NJECC 2026Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is Episode 212 called AI Uses in the Classroom from NJECC 2026.   In this episode we’ll share 4 ways that AI can be used to support student learning.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss.  Check it out. Segment 1:Vanguard NJ Districts AI Meetings  Segment 2:Our presentation from 2026 feature the following tools: https://www.canva.com/design/DAHBrcMoMnM/qPXmqUkk_mpFJELEH-cv9A/edit?utm_content=DAHBrcMoMnM&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton NotebookLM flashcards to Canva bulk create how-to video https://youtu.be/RUCMVAgx8jQ?si=VQns3kuThjIAjpEL Edtech Throwdown:  Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech ThrowdownDo us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher  YouTube  Twitter   FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network Subscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials Apple PodcastsSpotify  YouTube  Twitter  (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagram Connect with us on Social Media Guise’s Social Media Twitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedIn Nick’s Social Media Twitter(@nickgotteched) Music Credits: Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEX Need a Presenter? As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on: AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 211: NJECC Showdown 2026 Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown. This is Episode 211 called NJECC Showdown 2026. Guise and I have each selected 6 of our favorite tools for the classroom. Listen in to learn about what they are, why we like them, and how they might advance your practice! This is another episode you don’t want to miss. Check it out. Segment 1: This year’s NJECC was great! -did 2 sessions -saw a cool session and met a possible future guest Segment 2: Our presentation from 2026 feature the following tools: https://www.canva.com/design/DAHBrY8mBhs/nJ3GQcW00epnK3bp7Uaoyw/edit?utm_content=DAHBrY8mBhs&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton Edtech Throwdown: Vote on twitter @edtechthrowdown and under the pinned post on the profile. Segment 3: Where to Find EdTech Throwdown Do us a few favors: Subscribe to the Edtech Throwdown PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon PodcastsStitcher YouTube Twitter FacebookWrite us an Apple Podcast Review!Tell your friends aboutwww.edtechthrowdown.comTell your friends about the Teach Better Podcast Network Subscribe to our Podcast Channels and Socials Apple PodcastsSpotify YouTube Twitter (@edtechthrowdown)FacebookInstagram Connect with us on Social Media Guise’s Social Media Twitter(@guisegotteched)LinkedIn Nick’s Social Media Twitter(@nickgotteched) Music Credits: Intro and Outro Music-American Idle - RKVCSegment Identifiers-Duck in the Alley - TrackTribeEdtech Throwdown-Born a Rockstar (Instrumental) - NEFEX Need a Presenter? As experienced presenters and content creators, you can contact Nick and Guise to speak at your school, event, or conference. They can customize a workshop that meets your organization’s unique time and content needs. While no topic is out of bounds, we are best known for sessions on: AI For Teachers, Admin, and Parents1:1 Chromebook IntegrationEdTech ThrowdownTargetED LearningGamification (Badge Systems)Game-Based Learning (Escape Rooms, Amazing Race, and more)Google apps and extensionsPersonalized learning and Choice BoardsTeacher productivity (Lesson Planning, Online Grading. and Feedback)Digital content creationStudent PodcastingScreencastingFlipped ClassroomStudent-Centered Learning

Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 210: AI Prompt Writing for Educators Welcome to the EdTech Throwdown.  This is episode 210 called “AI Prompt Writing for Educators.”  In this episode, we’ll explore the power of prompts and how they can be the difference maker for those who use AI effectively and those who fall behind.  This is another episode you don’t want to miss.  Check it out. Segment 1:  Narrative:  People still have an extremely wide range of engagement with AI.  Nick has two conversations about AI - 1 with his in-laws about AI telling people to commit crimes and 1 with another teacher who thinks it just writes papers for students. Anatomy of a good prompt 1. Don't just ask a question; tell the AI who it is and who it is talking to. This sets the tone and the "knowledge ceiling" of the response.What to include:Give it a job title (e.g., "veteran IB Biology teacher") and define the target audience (e.g., "students with no prior coding experience"). 2. Be incredibly specific about the verb. Avoid "Help me with..." and use "Analyze," "Draft," "Critique," or "Categorize."What to include:Provide the "raw material." If you want a rubric, paste the assignment. If you want a response to a parent email, paste the email. 3. Tell the AI exactly how you want the information delivered. Don't settle for a wall of text.What to include:Specify the format (e.g., "a 3-column table," "a bulleted list of 5 items," or "a formal email script"). Add constraints like "Keep the total word count under 200" or "Use a witty, encouraging tone." Be purposeful with your AI use.  Always ask - is there a reason for me to use AI here?  Would it benefit my brain to do this myself?  Sometimes doing even simple tasks yourself have benefits to maintaining your mind's own plasticity and critical thinking.  You’ll notice that many of our favorite prompts are for monotonous, time consuming, repetition-based tasks that would not be possible without the use of AI. Segment 2:  Our favorite prompt libraries: Teacher Serverhttps://www.aiforeducation.io/promptshttps://promptbase.com/https://gail.wharton.upenn.edu/prompt-library/https://www.thepromptindex.com/ Our favorite prompts: Multiple versions of the same question:  Here is an AP Exam question about topic X: ____copy paste in the question ____.  Can you write 8 more versions of this that all follow the same format but have different numbers and variations of each question.Meta search:  Find for me all the ___ exam questions that deal with ___topic___.Text leveller:  "Take the following text about [Topic] and rewrite it into three versions: Version A (The Hook):Written as a high-interest TikTok script for a 14-year-old.Version B (The Standard):On-grade level with 5 bolded 'power vocabulary' words.Version C (The Scaffold):For a student with a 3rd-grade reading level, using short sentences (max 10 words) and a 'one-concept-per-paragraph' rule. Include a 'Bridge Table' that helps Version C students eventually understand the key terms in Version B." I struggle with coming up withreal-world examplesof things.  "I’m teaching [Mathematical/Scientific Concept]. Give me 5 'weird' real-world applications of this concept in careers students wouldn't expect (e.g., fashion design, professional gaming, or forest management). For one of these, draft a 2-minute 'Lesson Hook' story that starts with a high-stakes problem only this concept can solve."Jeopardy Clue WriterYou are a Jeopardy Clue Writer.  Anytime an AP Biology term is entered, you will create a jeopardy clue using the AP Biology standards set by the AP College Board.  For example, if someone entered Charles Darwin into the prompt, you would respond with: He developed the theory of evolution by means of natural selection after a five-year voyage on the HMS Beagle.  Let the output be Times new roman font size 12.Add study guides or notes toGarbage Pail TeachersRole and GoalYou are the Garbage Pail Teachers Creator. Your purpose is to take an uploaded photo of a person and a provided name (first or last) and transform them into a high-quality, 1980s-style trading card parody. You specialize in gross-out humor, puns, and classroom-themed chaos.Image Generation GuidelinesWhen a user uploads a photo and provides a name, use the image_generation tool with these specific aesthetic requirements:Art Style: Classic 1980s trading card aesthetic. Hand-painted look with airbrushed textures, vibrant but slightly grimy colors, and thick outlines.Characters: The character must be a caricature of the person in the photo, reimagined as a "teacher" in a messy, surreal, or gross-out school setting.The Sticker Frame: The image must be encased in a classic die-cut sticker border (a white peel-off line) with a colorful header at the top.The Banner: The header must say "GARBAGE PAIL TEACHERS" in the iconic bubbly font.Naming Logic: Create a rhyming or alliterative nickname based on the provided name.Example: For "Guise," use "Greasy Guisey." For "Smith," use "Sickly Smitty."Place this name in the iconic nameplate bar at the bottom or side of the image.Creative ProcessAnalyze the Photo: Identify key features (glasses, hair style, expression) to maintain a "parody likeness."Teacher Theme: Place the character in a classroom context (e.g., covered in chalk dust, tangled in computer wires, eating a "rotten apple," or melting into a desk).The "Gross" Factor: Add a humorous, mildly gross-out element consistent with the original 80s cards (slimy textures, exaggerated expressions, or comical disasters).Interaction StyleStay in character as a mischievous 1980s trading card editor.When a user provides a name, confirm the "punny" nickname you’ve chosen before or during the image generation.Safety Note: Keep the humor "PG-13" gross-out (like the original cards). Avoid mean-spirited content, gore, or truly offensive imagery. Focus on "slapstick mess."Keep the correct spelling of the name.  Have the adjective start with the same letter as the name.  For example, if the inputted name was "Guise"  make it "Greasy-Guise or if the name was "Johnson" make it "Junky-Food Johnson"AP Biology Lesson Plan GeneratorYou are an AP Biology teacher making formalized lesson plans using the College board AP Biology Standards.  You must include the following parts of the lesson plan for each lesson: lesson objectives, standards, warm up, instructional strategies, closing activities, differentiation of instruction and/or assessment, and assessment techniques. I will provide the activities and topic for the lesson and you fill in the blanks.  Format on canvas mode and make sure each part of the lesson plan is bolded.  Please format suitable for a google doc.  Make sure The title of the lesson is The Unit # and Lesson # with the title of the lesson and that everything under each section is bulleted. Please don't use emojis in the lesson planAdd