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.

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.

@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 ️

@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

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.

@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

@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

@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

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.

@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

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?

@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.

@Ana_moderator

Creating a sensory garden on a school green roof was a wonderful strategy to involve my students with disabilities in climate change education. By incorporating sensory elements such as diverse textures, colors, scents, and sounds, the garden can provide a stimulating and inclusive learning environment.

This hands-on approach allows students to engage directly with nature, fostering an understanding of plant life cycles, biodiversity, and the role of green spaces in combating climate change. Integrating the garden into the curriculum through activities like planting, watering, and observing growth not only teaches responsibility but also makes the topic of climate change tangible and relevant. Ensuring accessibility with features like raised beds and clear pathways and involving the broader school community through events and workshops, can further enhance the educational impact and promote a collective commitment to sustainability.

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.

@hab*mugisha1

Hello Jeremie,

It's great to meet you! Your dedication to teaching Mathematics and training students in Robotics seems to be inspiring. Encouraging students to create and innovate with technology is essential in today’s world, and your efforts looks like undoubtedly helping them to achieve their full potential. By fostering creativity and problem-solving skills, you are empowering your students to tackle global issues and become future leaders in technology and innovation. I feel that your work in Rwanda is making a significant impact, and it's wonderful to see educators like you making such a positive difference in students' lives.

Hugs from Puerto Rico-

@Bilim

You raise an important point about the decline in reported creativity among 15-year-olds compared to 10-year-olds, as highlighted by PISA results. Indeed, fostering creativity should be a central component of education throughout a student's life.

In my experience as a SPED teacher, developing and evaluating the abilities of teens in problem-solving, creative writing, and data interpretation involves a few key strategies. Firstly, encouraging open-ended projects and assignments allows students to explore their ideas and think critically. This not only enhances problem-solving skills but also stimulates creativity and innovation.

For creative writing, I incorporate diverse prompts and encourage students to draw from their personal experiences and interests. Providing constructive feedback and opportunities for peer review also helps them refine their writing skills and develop a unique voice.

When it comes to interpreting data, practical, real-world applications are crucial. I use data sets related to topics that interest students, and we work on projects that require them to analyze and draw conclusions from the data. This not only makes the learning process engaging but also helps them understand the relevance of these skills in everyday life.

Highly effective approaches in my practice include differentiated instruction to cater to diverse learning needs, collaborative group work to foster peer learning and idea exchange, and the use of technology to provide interactive and hands-on learning experiences. Continuous formative assessment helps me tailor my teaching to address students' strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring that each student can develop their problem-solving and creative abilities to the fullest.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@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.