2025 ASSET CONFERENCE

"In this presentation , the authors will describe how 232 K-8 teachers (and still counting) applied the action research method to develop their own unique stories of the integration of technology in the STEAM areas as part of the Nassau BOCES Smart Start grant.

To launch their personal voyages of discovery, each teacher used an adaptation of the action research method to identify and address an area of instruction, based upon his/her own assessment of student needs. Elements of the action research model include: (a) identifying a problem of practice or a statement of inquiry, (b) data to support the inquiry, (c) description of intervention using to support learning, (d) criteria for success and outcomes data, and (e) reflections and proposed changes to plans. A sample framework and action research implementation template will be shared with workshop participants.

Teachers were supported by an innovative professional development model emphasizing just-in-time, multi-tiered, blended professional development that facilitates collaboration and diffusion of information. The project develops teacher agency and builds self-efficacy by allowing teachers to select instructional goals, identify professional learning needs, and assess/reflect upon their own professional growth. This model also includes opportunities for turn-key training and input at the school/district levels to build capacity .

Session participants will be introduced to a catalog of lesson plans and student artifacts available for use within their own classrooms. Administrators and instructional technology coaches will learn how to apply the action research method to support effective professional development in the application of the NYS Computer Science and Digital Fluency Learning Standards in their own schools and districts.

Session attendees will leave with a model that can be used to create stories of their own technology journeys as well as strategies to bring similar initiatives to scale in their schools and school districts.
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Learn about how artificial intelligence is impacting the education community – how it could save you time and support student learning as well as what problems and pitfalls we need to look out for as educators.

Our session focuses on cultivating responsible digital citizens using the Common Sense Digital Citizenship Curriculum. Educators access resources to teach digital literacy, online safety, and ethical behavior. We emphasize parental engagement through interactive workshops, equipping parents to navigate the digital landscape alongside their children. This collaborative approach between educators and parents fosters a unified strategy in shaping conscientious digital citizens. Join us for an interactive session blending effective teaching tools and parental guidance, ensuring our students thrive as responsible and savvy participants in the dynamic digital sphere.

Ignite a passion for STEAM in early learners with a comprehensive approach to STEAM education in kindergarten through second grade. Explore hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences, integrate arts and technology, and promote STEAM literacy and problem-solving skills. Cultivate a supportive learning environment and discover resources for implementing a successful STEAM K-2 program.

In this presentation we will demonstrate how innovative Math Apps help students K-12 “Tell the Story" of their thinking when solving mathematical problems in Deer Park Schools using Chromebooks and iPads. These programs reimagine EdTech learning! They place emphasis on cogitation and tell the story behind your students’ mathematical thinking, which was previously not possible. They allow us to “see” the students' thought process in real time while identifying the students strengths and weaknesses. Data collected from the assignments encourages meaningful formative assessment. Along with students being able to design and narrate their own mathematical story, they have the opportunity to watch videos of their peers’ work. This feature not only allows for students to be exposed to different methods of solving problems through the lens of their peers, but also allows for meaningful mathematical discourse to occur throughout the learning process with actionable real time feedback. We will also show how these programs align with the new NYCS Standards as well as NYS Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards and how it can effectively prepare students for NYS assessments at all levels.

Explore the exciting world of digital book trailers and their impact on promoting reading and storytelling. In this session, we will delve into the process of encouraging students to create their own digital book trailers using online tools.  We will discuss how digital book trailers encourage literacy, student engagement, and the promotion of diverse literature.  Get ready to gain insights into the educational benefits of integrating technology and storytelling while fostering a culture of creativity!

In an era of information abundance, the ability to read effectively is crucial for navigating the digital world. Google's commitment to literacy through tools like Reading Mode and Read Along empowers individuals of all ages and abilities to expand their knowledge, ignite their imaginations, and thrive in their ever-evolving environment.

By joining this session, you will gain the skills and knowledge to help your students utilize Google's powerful tools to transform their reading experience, making it more enjoyable, productive, and rewarding. Join us on this exciting journey and discover the joy of reading like never before.

In our world of powerful social media and endless content consumption and creation, it can be hard to engage and interact with students in meaningful ways in the classroom. By using digital tools and appealing to some of the characteristics of the social media platforms that they gravitate towards, students can demonstrate their learning and feel empowered, heard, and understood. Take back your classroom with strategies designed to harness students' proclivity for and skills with using social media.

Students come to school with a sense of identity, and with that comes personal expectations, hopes, and dreams. These are founded on their own wants, needs, and interests. We believe that this sense of identity is what drives a student’s lived narrative for what schooling will mean to them. This session will explore how to celebrate students’ stories through goal setting utilizing choice boards. On the topic of agency and becoming strategic Peter Johnston wrote: “"If nothing else, children should leave school with a sense that if they act, and act strategically, they can accomplish their goals" (Johnston, 2004, p. 29), We will demonstrate how to use responsive teaching strategies, and technology to set up systems that support meaningful academic and personal goals, and ongoing data collection.

"Participants will learn about, discuss and explore the following topics during this session:
➢ Inquiry-based approach to instructional discovery learning
➢ ***NEW NYS recommendations for Project-Based Learning and Assessments***
➢ Developing Driving Questions to solve real-world problems using technology and available resources
➢ Learning dynamically through projects
➢ Types of PBL and Exemplars
➢ The Planning Process
➢ Implementation, Assessing and Reflecting
➢ Ways to showcase and celebrate learning

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"Come hear our story in which we narrate our journey to give students’ voice with technology choice! In the ever-evolving landscape of storytelling, technology plays a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing the narrative experience. We will showcase how to access and implement digital tools (i.e Video with Green Screen, WeVideo, Soundtrap for podcasting, Scratch, Book Creator, Google Sites for Digital Writing Portfolios) and how it can be harnessed to create immersive and impactful opportunities. We will discuss how we introduce students to various platforms for sharing their stories and allowing them the freedom to choose how they want to express themselves.
The students' voices, art, and music serve as channels for creativity. Students become authors, screenwriters, podcasters, directors, actors, videographers, and critics. The inclusion of student input extends to the development of rubrics and self-assessment tools. Through these methods, students are afforded opportunities to share feedback with their peers. We also work on involving students in various chances for participation through collaborative efforts, spanning from elementary to high school levels. Students gain the proficiency of teamwork, learning to effectively cooperate and work harmoniously with their peers, while leveraging each other's talents.They also hone in on their public speaking skills by presenting their digital projects. Work has been shared through Digital Bulletin Boards and QR codes for the school community to explore.
Join us to discuss how to increase collaboration across disciplines, differentiate, and provide students choice in helping to drive their own learning. Hear our students share their stories and discuss their reflections on this educational journey. Participants will grasp the significance of teaming up with fellow professionals, extending across various grade levels and buildings, as they engage in crafting interdisciplinary student-driven projects that encompass the arts. Technology choice gives students’ voice.
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 In our rapidly evolving digital age, the power of storytelling coupled with technology presents a golden opportunity to foster a vibrant school culture. This presentation will explore innovative ways in which low and high-tech solutions can be seamlessly integrated into your school district to share stories and passions and, ultimately, build a cohesive and inspiring culture. The primary goal of this presentation is to empower educators and administrators with practical tips on utilizing technology for effective storytelling. By the end, we hope to inspire a collective effort to build a school culture that resonates with your shared values and passions.