Best posts made by BRYANb8875625e5

Hi Saharudin,

Hope everything is going well. For my students with visual impairment I use Seeing AI app, it is an artificial intelligence application developed by Microsoft for iOS. With Seeing AI we use the device camera to identify people, objects, money, colors and then the app audibly describes those objects or characteristics for my students.

Also I use Reading Progress in Microsoft TEAMS, It is a free tool that helps my students practice their reading fluency and reading comprehension. Students read a passage out loud while recording video and audio, then send their recordings to me as their teacher. I love it!

We have a new technology called FarmBot, thanks to a Federal Grant. FarmBot is an open-source precision agriculture farming robot consisting of a cartesian coordinate farming machine, software and documentation including a farming data repository. The project aims my students to create an open and accessible technology aiding everyone to grow food and to grow food for everyone. It is amazing.

@Ekaterina-P Artificial Intelligence has indeed brought significant innovations to education, enhancing both teaching and learning experiences. However, as you pointed out, it also poses challenges regarding academic integrity. At our school, we have implemented several strategies to address the misuse of AI and uphold academic standards.

Firstly, we revised our academic integrity policy to explicitly include guidelines on the use of AI. Students are educated about what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate use of AI tools. We emphasize that while AI can be a valuable aid for research and learning, it should not be used to complete assignments or write papers on behalf of students.

To detect AI-generated content, we use advanced plagiarism detection software that includes AI content recognition features. Tools like Turnitin have been updated to flag AI-generated text, helping us identify work that may not be original. Additionally, we encourage teachers to incorporate unique and personalized assignments that are less susceptible to AI misuse and require critical thinking and personal reflection.

To persuade students to avoid misusing AI, we focus on education and ethics. We conduct workshops and seminars that highlight the importance of academic honesty and the long-term benefits of genuine learning. We also provide support for students struggling with their coursework, offering tutoring and resources to help them succeed without resorting to unethical practices.

By combining clear policies, advanced detection tools, and a strong emphasis on ethics and support, we strive to create an environment where students can harness the benefits of AI responsibly and maintain the integrity of their academic work.

@NAJMAc79e2494d9

I’m from a rural area in Puerto Rico island and I see myself and my students in every of those challenges. But, I didn’t stay there expecting and waiting for our government, I start to look for grants, partnerships, collaborations, international teachers and other ways to give my students what they deserve, quality education.

That’s why we are here, we are part of a teacher army that change our students reality. There is no better message than seeing them achieving everything, every day ️

Hello everyone,

I would like to talk about something that affect our students in Puerto Rico almost every school year.

Natural disasters are becoming increasingly frequent and severe due to climate change, affecting millions of our students worldwide. Schools are not only disrupted by these events, but they also play a crucial role in educating future generations about climate resilience and adaptation. This forum is dedicated to discussing the multifaceted impact of natural disasters on education and the importance of integrating climate change education into our curricula.

The impact on education in Puerto Rico due to Hurricane Maria in 2017, the earthquakes of 2020, and the COVID-19 pandemic has been profound. Hurricane Maria devastated school infrastructure, leaving many students without access to adequate schools and essential educational resources for months. The recovery was slow, and just as schools were beginning to recover, the 2020 earthquakes caused additional damage, forcing numerous educational institutions to close and leaving students in constant uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic added another layer of challenge with the sudden transition to online education, exposing and exacerbating the existing digital divide. Many students lacked access to technological devices and internet connectivity, making distance learning difficult. These consecutive events not only interrupted formal education but also affected the emotional and psychological well-being of students and teachers, highlighting the need for a more resilient and adaptive educational system in the face of natural disasters and global crises.

Every school year I create a climate change project attach to mental health activities to work both. Sensory Technologies are very important for my students to recognize and manage emotions. Apps like Emotions Manager and DailyBean are very helpful.

Here are a couple of questions to think about and I would like to know your answer:

1. What are the long-term psychological effects of experiencing a natural disaster on students?
2. How can schools support the mental health of students and staff in the aftermath of such events?

@Ana_moderator

Absolutely, I use Virtual Reality (VR) with my students, particularly those with autism, to enhance their community access skills. VR offers a controlled and immersive environment where students can practice navigating various real-world scenarios, such as crossing the street, shopping in a grocery store, or using public transportation.

This technology allows them to experience and practice these situations repeatedly without the unpredictability and sensory overload that can occur in real-life settings. By using VR, my students can build confidence and develop essential life skills at their own pace, which significantly helps them when they transition to real-world experiences.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Ana_moderator

Hi Ana,
Hope everything is going well.

Three years ago, I started an initiative in Puerto Rico called The Keep Growing Project and it looks like a Forest School concept. Students from different parts of Puerto Rico came to the San Patricio Forest to take a workshop with their parents in Earth Day. It is something beautiful to see, they are completely engaged and motivated. As you mentioned creativity and collaboration are part of this approach and came so natural as the environment they are immerse.

Try it, it will be an amazing memory for your students and for you. If you find a tree house better- Best of luck.

@Ana_moderator

Hi @Ana_moderator,

That sounds like a wonderful and impactful initiative. Your work with local organizations and the implementation of forum theater to prevent bullying and discriminatory behavior is truly commendable. It's inspiring to see how interactive methods like forum theater can make a significant difference in addressing social issues in schools. Seems like an excellent resource for teachers. It's great to read that the students were more engaged and gained a deeper understanding of these important topics through this method.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

Hello everyone, my name is Bryan Rivera Medina and I am from Puerto Rico.
I’m an Autism Spectrum Disorder Special Education Teacher for a Living skills Program at the Puerto Rico Department of Education. My favorite part of my job is to promote diversity and inclusion through education to change the social model of disability. In my spare time I love to dance and go to the beach with my family. I used to be a professional dancer and is something that makes me feel happy and free.

@Bousl2336873cb4

Transportation alternatives in Puerto Rico face significant challenges due to a combination of infrastructure issues, limited public transit options, and geographic constraints. The island's public transportation system is underdeveloped, with infrequent and unreliable bus services that do not adequately cover rural or suburban areas. Additionally, the Tren Urbano, a single-line metro system, only serves a small portion of the population in the San Juan metropolitan area.

The mountainous terrain and dispersed population make expanding public transit infrastructure costly and logistically complex. Furthermore, the high reliance on personal vehicles leads to severe traffic congestion, particularly in urban centers. The lack of comprehensive and efficient transportation alternatives not only hampers daily commutes but also limits economic opportunities and access to essential services for many residents.

I think we need to expand and enhance ferry services to connect coastal and island communities, reducing the reliance on road travel and providing efficient alternatives for intercity and inter-island transportation. This could be amazing.

@Antonia

First, I'm a Certified Assistive technology Instructional Specialist for people with visual impairment, and yes, I have encountered several challenges in implementing assistive technology in my classroom and addressing them has required a multi-faceted approach. One significant challenge is the initial resistance from both students and staff due to unfamiliarity or apprehension about the new technology. To overcome this, I have organized training sessions and workshops that demonstrate the benefits and ease of use of these tools. This hands-on approach helps to build confidence and competence among users.

Another challenge is ensuring that the assistive technology aligns well with the specific needs of each student. Since every student with learning difficulties has unique requirements, it can be challenging to find the perfect tool for each individual. To address this, I conduct thorough assessments and work closely with special education specialists to tailor the technology to each student's needs. This often involves trial and error, followed by adjustments based on feedback and performance.

Technical issues and maintenance can also pose problems, as malfunctioning devices or software glitches can disrupt the learning process. To mitigate this, I ensure that there is always technical support available, either through the school’s IT department or the technology providers. Regular maintenance checks and updates are also scheduled to keep the technology running smoothly.

Additionally, there is the challenge of integrating these tools seamlessly into the existing curriculum and teaching practices. To address this, I collaborate with other teachers to develop lesson plans that incorporate assistive technology in meaningful ways. This ensures that the technology enhances learning rather than being an add-on or a distraction.

Lastly, funding and resource limitations can restrict the availability of assistive technology. To overcome this, I actively seek grants, donations, and other funding opportunities to procure necessary tools. I also advocate for the importance of assistive technology within the school community to secure administrative support and resources.

By addressing these challenges through training, customization, technical support, curriculum integration, and resource acquisition, I have been able to effectively implement assistive technology in my classroom, creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@EKATE97ee9b6685

Hi,
Hope everything is going well.

I use Seeing AI app for my students with visual impairments and autism in the SPED program. With Seeing AI my students identify money to purchase items, colors to wear clothes, bar codes to know about the product in a supermarket, and so on. Also, I use reading progress in TEAMS app, which use AI to identify the words that my students with communication disparities can't pronounce well.

Not everything is AI to generate information, try to find apps or solutions that apply AI to other tasks.

Best of luck. Hugs from Puerto Rico.
Mr. Bryan

@Bousl2336873cb4

Since the pandemic I create a community project called bCalm Box to give kids Calm Boxes to overcome emotional disparities. We have in Puerto Rico 78 municipalities, and I finally reach 25 of them to give 100 of boxes on each spot. Mental health is very importante, our kids in the island first suffer a huracane that interrupt school during a school year, the catastrophic earthquakes and then the pandemic.

As teacher we have to know that our classroom doesn't have just walls, the world is our classroom.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

This new school year I will have a reading corner under a tree right besides my classroom. I’m very happy to know about this approach in this forum. Just love it! Let’s apply what we are learning in our classrooms, it will be fun.

The incredible opportunity to win will allow us to immerse ourselves in a country renowned for its cutting-edge innovations and technological prowess. As us prepare for this exciting journey, consider how you can integrate the knowledge and insights you gain into your teaching practices. Let's think about the potential collaborations with educators and technologists, and how we can bring back practical strategies and tools to enhance your classroom experience. Let's imagine for a while, our next step is to prepare for this transformative experience by researching key areas of interest, setting learning objectives, and planning how to effectively disseminate the knowledge we acquire.

My question is...

What specific goals and objectives do you have for integrating the technological insights and strategies you will learn in the study trip in China into your teaching practices and how do you plan to share this knowledge with your colleagues and students upon your return?

@Engr-Zeeshan

Hi @Engr-Zeeshan
Hope everything is going well.

As a SPED teacher for students with autism, technology has significantly transformed my teaching methods, enabling me to create more personalized and engaging learning experiences. Interactive tools like tablets and educational apps cater to the unique needs of my students, offering visual and auditory supports that enhance their understanding and communication.

One of the most effective tech tools I've used is the Proloquo2Go app, which aids non-verbal students in expressing themselves. However, integrating technology comes with challenges, such as ensuring all students have access to devices and training staff to use them effectively. I addressed these challenges by advocating for funding to acquire necessary technology and participating in professional development to stay updated on best practices. Balancing technology with traditional methods involves integrating hands-on activities and sensory breaks to ensure a well-rounded learning experience that meets the diverse needs of my students.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Bousl2336873cb4

Hi Bousl,

Hope everything is going well. I agree with you with the effort to make a balance. In today's classrooms, striking a balance in the use of technology is crucial for fostering an effective learning environment. While technology offers interactive learning experiences, and personalized education, it is essential to integrate it thoughtfully for good.

As teachers we have a responsibility to blend traditional teaching methods with technological tools or assistive technology to enhance rather than overshadow the learning process. For instance, digital resources can complement hands on activities and face to face discussions, promoting critical thinking and collaboration among students. I think we need to discuss with our students' clear guidelines for technology use, that will make a difference.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@MehranKhan

Hey there!

Great idea to share study hacks @MehranKhan I totally agree with you on the Pomodoro Technique, it's such a game-changer for staying focused. One thing that’s really helped me is creating a dedicated study space. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but having a spot that’s just for studying helps me get into the right mindset. I also like to use a whiteboard to jot down key concepts or problems I need to solve. There’s something about writing things out that makes the information stick better for me.

Also, using an app like Forest has been a huge motivation booster. It helps me stay off my phone because if I don’t, my virtual tree dies, and who wants that?

Here are some techniques and tools for time management that I found very nice to know.

@EMINA043e019d70

Hi @EMINA043e019d70
Hope everything is going well,

I understand your frustration with the lack of support and vision from your school authorities and colleagues. It's challenging to remain enthusiastic and innovative when faced with resistance and obstruction. However, focusing on small wins within your classroom, seeking like-minded allies, and engaging with the community can help sustain your passion. I saw myself in your testimony. Try to document your successes and continuing your professional development can also provide the resilience needed to navigate this environment. Your dedication to fostering a progressive educational atmosphere is commendable, and even small changes can make a significant impact over time.

My advice as a SPED Teacher, stay strong and keep inspiring your students with your passion and dedication. We are here to collaborate.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Yousuf-Memon

Hi @Yousuf-Memon
Hope everything is going well,

The 21st-century classroom significantly differs from the traditional classroom in several ways. Technology integration has replaced blackboards and chalk with digital tools, making learning more interactive and engaging for my students with autism. Students with disabilities are now active participants rather than passive recipients, utilizing AI tools alongside traditional textbooks and notebooks making the lessons accesible. Our role has shifted from a controlling authority to a guide and facilitator, helping students take charge of their own learning. Something that I love.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

Hello everyone,

Have you ever offered technology classes to seniors? If so, what were some of the key challenges and successes you encountered?

For me teaching technology classes to seniors has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Initially, many of these students were apprehensive about using computers and smartphones, often expressing concerns about their ability to keep up with the rapid pace of technological change.

To address this, I focused on creating a supportive and patient learning environment, breaking down each lesson into simple, manageable steps. Almost like I do with my students with autism (I use task analysis method). The sense of community that developed among the senior class members, who often helped and encouraged each other, was truly heartwarming. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of lifelong learning and the transformative power of technology when it is made accessible to all.

Here you have an article that I found very useful probably for your parents or grandparents: https://www.seniorliving.org/cell-phone/apps/

Audible is my favorite-

Hope to know about some of your experiences.