NCTIES2020

This session’s focus is on digital annotation, and its objectives are to (1) introduce free online digital annotation tools, (2) model a technique for evaluating edtech using these tools, and (3) demonstrate strategies for blending them into classroom instruction. To actively engage the audience, the presenter will use an “I Do, We Do, You Do” method for each objective.

To begin, the presenter will give a brief overview of common functionalities expectant of digital annotation tools. Next, he will individually introduce each tool by annotating an example text with it and then providing attendees with access to use the annotation tool. The presenter will repeat this process for all three tools.

The presenter will then transition to modeling a technique for evaluating edtech by engaging attendees in a conversation about what they did and did not like while using each tool. He will segue the conversation by explaining his process for analyzing edtech using a consistent set of defined criteria. To engage the audience, the presenter will ask each attendee to partner with a neighbor and evaluate the annotation tools using his criteria. The presenter will conclude by sharing his evaluation of the tools and taking questions and comments.

Lastly, the presenter will use the tools to highlight three collaborative strategies for text annotation appropriate for secondary students and have attendees complete them with their partner from the previous activity. To conclude, the presenter will ask attendees to share their thoughts about the activities and final thoughts about the session.

This session is designed to meet the objectives by providing attendees with an experience using the annotation tools. The tools were selected, so they could be accessed online for free. The strategies will be modeled, so they can be used in text-based activities in middle and high schools. The evaluative technique is designed to start establishing a critical mindfulness for deciding which, why, and how pieces of edtech are and are not used in the classroom. It is advised that attendees have an internet-connected device to fully partake in this session.