Communicate .. Create .. EdTech

It's already mid-August! Time to get cracking. Developing lessons that have sound pedagogical foundations and integrates ed tech is essential in this day and age. Additionally, there are some basic prerequisites that need to be addressed to get the year off to a smooth start.  Here's a list with back to school ed tech to do's.

• Confirm the budget for ed tech needs.  Order anything you have the budget for so it's at school before the year starts!
• Review and update your Acceptable Use Policy.
• Make sure carts are set up right - do they charge devices, is the timer working? Enough power supplies?
• Device tune-up: Check batteries, replace missing keys, wipe them down, update/refresh/re-image, add apps...
• Tune up/double check your Google Apps for Ed policies and settings.
• Determine where you'll store 'the new gear' for the year (hopefully this already happened...)
• Understand or develop a procedure to check-out/check-in devices.

• Create a Tech Boot Camp agenda ("How do I...?") for students and roll it out by first week of school.
• Determine your go-to techie kids (after school starts, of course).
• Develop your first (one, or three, or five...) ed tech integrated lessons.
• Confirm all the wireless access points are plugged in and functional (summer cleanings and all).
• Update student lists - add to Google Apps for Ed, LMS, SIS, online edu sites, etc.
• Make sure document cameras, projectors, etc. are functional. Do you have a spare lamp?
• Confirm the location of digital cameras. Make sure they're charged up. Create a signout sheet.
• Develop a brief communication to parents about your ed tech plans (i.e., why is this important?).
• Freshen up your class webpage for the new year.

• Partner up with another teacher to grow your ed tech knowledge and skills.
• Find a blog that will help you learn more about new tools, tips and techniques.
• Add one new thing to your tech tool belt.

What other items can you add to this? Let us know!