Friday, October 10, 2014

How to Use Common Sense Media's Tools To Make Your Life Easier...



If you don't know Common Sense Media, you need to go check them out right now.  Their site is full of tremendous resources for parents and teachers as well as for those who are just trying to make sense of the many choices in our increasingly technology-focused world.  The site is vast.  They have everything from family friendly reviews of movies and books, to tips on how to help children deal with cyber bullying.

The video below will give you an overview of one of their newest and most valuable resources:  Graphite





One of my favorite features on Graphite is the App Flow. This is designed to help teachers think about how different tools fit into the process of planning and delivering a lesson. What app would be terrific to help teachers 'hook' their learners? Which one would be perfect for reviewing or expanding on basic concepts? App Flow helps teachers do this. Check out the overview:






So, as hundreds of new apps and websites pop up daily, I think that this can help us weed through them and make some informed choices about technology.

What do you think?  How might this help you?  How can you as a writer use these resources to help you write? What do you love about Common Sense Media?  Feel free to list your ideas and or favorites in the comments!

8 comments:

  1. Wowza - learning somethin' new all the time from you Todd.

    Luv the punkin' face topper.

    Authorly weekends, to all!

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    1. Thanks Jan; this site makes it easy to keep up with the newest stuff!

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  2. Todd: What an amazing tool! I am looking forward to learning more about Common Sense Media. I note an excellent interactive framework for teachers to net work, save and share that will enhance quality lessons for all grade levels, subjects, including the use of common core. Thank you for yet another terrific technology tip, Todd.

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    1. Suzy, It's a phenomenal resource for parents, teachers, grandparents, etc. As an author, I like that they review apps, movies and even books too!

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  3. I have been using common Sense Media ever since I had a parent object to every book at kid picked out in the lmc. I showed he dhow to see what "themes" might be listed as objectionable. Great resource and thanks for the quick post today.

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    1. Kathy, this is a fantastic resource. I'm glad you've had such positive experiences with it too!

      TB

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  4. Something new to me -- thanks, Todd!

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    1. Awesome! It's fun when I'm able to introduce such a fantastic resource to new folks! I think you'll find something in it that you can use!

      TB

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