In this session participants will have the opportunity to explore the use of Inspiration in problem-based learning. Each aspect of PBL - Understand, Explore, Resolve - will be explored along with accompanying Inspiration templates that show the use of Inspiration beyond graphic organizers. In addition, templates will also apply the concept of Universal Design for Learning by embedding video, sound and text-to-speech/word prediction software.

Outline

Participants will explore how Inspiration:
•Goes beyond graphic organizers through the creation of digital organizers that meet the diverse needs of students
•Explore the advanced use of Inspiration through the steps of Problem-Based Learning
Understand the Problem - Concept maps, webs
Explore the Problem - timelines, charts matrixesMorning Session
Resolve the Problem - creative uses of Inspiration including speeches, presentations and written assignments.

Supporting Research

ARTICLES:
Edyburn, D.L. (2006). Failure is not an option: Collecting,
reviewing, and acting on evidence for using technology to enhance academic performance. Learning and Leading With Technology,
34(1), 20-23.
McKenzie, Jamie, Adult Technology Learning: Creating Learning Cultures with Just-in-Time Support © 1998, All Rights Reserved
Grant, Kendra - Then What? Getting Started with Inclusive Technology - SETP, October 2008
Grant, Kendra - Beyond Powerpoint (tm) - www.fno.org
BOOKS:
Rose, D., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching every student
in the digital age. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Moline, Steve, Show Me, Scholastic Publishing
Olser, J. (2004). Then what? Everyone’s guide to living,
learning and having fun in the digital age. Juneau,
AK: Brinton Books.
Jenson, Eric, Teaching With the Brain in Mind
Pink, Daniel, A Whole New Mind
WEBSITES:
www.learningforall.ca
www.cast.org
http://www.allkindsofminds.org/
www.inspiration.com
http://www.danpink.com/
http://www.jasonohler.com/
http://www.uwm.edu/~edyburn/

Presenter Background

Kendra Grant B.A., B.Ed. is a teacher and private educational consultant. She has worked as an educator for 24 years in a variety of positions including Classroom teacher (K-8), Special Education teacher, Special Education Resource Teacher (K-12), Teacher-Librarian and Vice Principal. Throughout her career, technology, and how it can improve student learning, has always been a focus.

Currently Kendra is involved in a variety of activities. She:

- Supports schools boards and districts with system-wide implementation plans as they ask the question "Then What?"
- Presents Learning Sessions (1 hour to 30 hours in length) at conferences and school boards across the United States, Canada, the United States and
- Helps schools and teachers go beyond "Graphic Organizers" to “Digital Organizers” in their use of Inspiration
- Creates free Digital Learning resources for www.learningforall.ca
- Creates videos to help teachers use technology to support, enhance and extend the work they do with students
- Designs Inspiration and Kidspiration template books that focus on reading strategies, writing frameworks and critical thinking/higher order thinking skills