Kate's Technology Specialist Blog

 Algorithms and Bias       image source:  tctmd.com                                  This week, I decided to learn more about algorithms, how they work, and how they affect what people view online. Before digging into some resources, I knew that algorithms could be biased but didn't realize to what extent. The phrase "it's just math" came up a lot in the resources I read and listened to, when in reality algorithms are not "just math." Algorithms are created by human beings, which means that technology, specifically algorithms, is not untouched by human bias.The resources I interacted with this week explained bias in algorithms, but also revealed some of the benefits of using algorithms.      Algorithms are an important topic to understand because as educators, we need to teach our students to access reliable, accurate information. We also need students to understand the concept of bias and how to fact-check and question the information they consume. This rel

 Professional Learning Networks image source: depositphotos.com     After watching Dr. Trust's videos about professional learning networks, I discovered that the cognitive benefits of PLNs are most relevant to me. What is most important in my collaboration with other professionals is sharing and learning new teaching strategies, tools, and resources. I work in a school with only four teachers, none of which have students in the same grade level. As many teachers report, this can be isolating and can hinder the development of new and creative ideas for classroom activities and practices. Therefore, it is helpful for me to connect with other middle school teachers to get ideas and tools for the concepts my students are learning.      The activity I participated in this week was creating an infographic using Canva on why educators should join a professional learning network. The infographic  includes the definition of a PLN, the benefits, and some resources for starting a PLN. I also

My Relationship With Social Media Facebook profile picture image source: personal photo     Welcome! My name is Kate. I teach middle school special education but have also taught high school special education and general education classes. I have been a teacher for 13 years and a lot has changed over the course of my career. When I started my first teaching job in 2011, people were somewhat resistant to students having their own devices to use in each class. At my first job, I taught a media and technology class to high school freshmen. It was a great introduction to how technology can be used as a tool in the classroom during a time when some teachers believed it to be a distraction. Today, especially after the pandemic, technology is talked about more than ever. The mindset regarding using apps, social media, and computers has changed to include these tools in our teaching.  I'm excited to learn more about social media and how to utilize it in the classroom. As a teacher, I have