159: Multimedia in Schools Generations of students have created presentations using a series of programs that combine text, images, audio, and video (thus the “multi” in multimedia). Many trace the beginnings of this type of educational software to HyperCard and HyperStudio, programs that available were for Apple computers marketed in schools in the early 1990’s. Interest in multimedia grew when video cards, color displays, audio Read More
Category: Tech for Educators
Supporting Education in Rural Schools With Open Source Technology
157: Supporting Education in Rural Schools With Open Source Technology I’m messing around with rehashing my old writing with AI… here is an example from a chapter I wrote several years ago. In the chapter, I described several projects in which we supported education in rural areas using open source technology. Rural educators and school Read More
Assistive and Accessible Technology
In today’s digital schools, providing students with technology is about more than just giving them laptops or internet access. It’s about ensuring every single student has the tools they need to participate, learn, and succeed. This is where two critical concepts come into play: assistive technology and accessibility. While related, they address the goal of Read More
Cloud Computing
A post for my students preparing for the AWS Cloud Practitioner exam 129: Cloud Computing Learning about cloud computing can feel like learning a new language. You’re bombarded with acronyms (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, VPC, EC2… what?!), abstract concepts, and a whole new way of thinking about technology. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the Read More
An Introduction to IT Networks
160: An Introduction to IT Networks While you might often think of large corporations or government agencies when considering network security, the truth is, some of the most critical and challenging networks to secure are right under our noses: school IT networks. These networks are essential infrastructure, connecting students and teachers to data, information, and Read More
Prompt Engineering
Prompts can be composed of text, images, or both, depending on the model. Fundamentally, prompts get converted into tokens, and the quality of this initial input strongly influences the relevance and accuracy of the model’s response. While there’s no single formula, effective prompts often contain elements like keywords, guidelines, formatting instructions, and examples. Several techniques Read More
Large Language Models
91: Large Language Models Large language models, or LLMs, represent a notable advancement in the field of artificial intelligence. These models are a central topic of any discussion of generative AI which aims to provide an introduction to their workings and significance. Understanding LLMs involves grasping their fundamental principles and the components that enable their Read More
Five Layers of Educational Technology
118: Layers of Educational Technology Educational technology in schools is often perceived as a single entity, a collection of devices, software, and online platforms. However, beneath this surface simplicity lies a complex, multi-layered system. Effective integration of technology into teaching and learning requires IT leaders to recognize the characteristics of each. Decision-makers, including educators, IT Read More
Interaction in Online Classrooms
There are many models of having students interact in online classrooms. Each has its own unique characteristics and purposes These models include: Discussion Boards: These are the most common tools for online interaction, primarily using text. Students create “posts” and respond to others’ posts, creating a “thread” of discussion. While discussion boards can be a Read More
Unlocking the Secrets: A Deep Dive into Cryptography
In an increasingly interconnected world, the need to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access has never been more critical. This is where cryptography comes into play. Far from being a niche concept, cryptography is a fundamental building block of modern security, underpinning everything from online banking to secure communication. This post will explore what cryptography Read More