2024 Indiana Connected Educators Conference

Unleash student creativity in your classroom! This session explores Adobe Express for Education, a free design platform for educators and students. Craft graphics, videos, and more with zero design experience. Discover cutting-edge AI tools and explore ways to integrate Adobe Express into your teaching, boosting engagement and learning. Leave with fresh ideas and the confidence to ignite your students' creative spark!

Applied Digital Skills is Google’s free, video-based curriculum designed to help students learn the practical technology skills needed for the jobs of today and tomorrow. With flexible, ready-to-use lessons, educators can easily teach these valuable skills using digital tools like spreadsheets, documents, and presentations in an engaging way. In this session, we will explore the curriculum, benefits, and how it can help learners develop the skills they need to succeed in the digital world. We'll also take a deep dive into our most popular lesson -- Discover AI in Daily Life -- where students learn what artificial intelligence is, how people use it every day, and its benefits and challenges.

For 4th-8th grade educators, specifically computer science/ STEM teachers, this is an introduction to Google's ready-to-teach computer science curriculum. We will review the basics of how to navigate the platform, find lesson plans, curriculum crosswalks, and implementation.

Overall, attending this session equips inidividuals with practical tools to create a positive STEM culture, enhance student engagement, and foster a love for learning among future scientists and educators. 1. Leadership Development: Participants will learn how to lead and support the implementation of this program within their schools. They’ll understand the importance of fostering student leadership and mentorship. 2. Strategies for Collaboration: Participants will explore effective ways to collaborate with high school teachers, elementary teachers, and community stakeholders. They’ll discover how to align the program with existing curriculum and school goals. 3. Understanding Student Motivation: Participants will recognize the impact of student-led initiatives on younger learners. They’ll appreciate the role of enthusiasm and relatability in inspiring elementary students. 4. Promoting Career Exploration: Participants will see how this program introduces high school students to teaching as a profession. They’ll explore ways to encourage students’ interest in education-related careers.