Teach with Tech

Google Labs is a space where educators and students can explore emerging AI technologies before they are fully integrated into everyday tools. It’s a place to test experimental AI-powered features, provide feedback, and consider how these innovations might impact teaching and learning.

Several current experiments in Google Labs have potential applications in education:

• AI Mode: This advanced search experiment enhances reasoning and problem-solving, helping educators and students tackle complex questions with deeper insights.
• Data Science Agent in Colab: An autonomous coding assistant for Google Colab that can handle data analysis tasks, making it a useful tool for educators teaching statistics, coding, or research methods.
• Career Dreamer: An AI-powered tool that helps users explore career paths based on their skills and interests—valuable for career guidance discussions.
• VideoFX: A video generation tool powered by Google DeepMind, offering creative possibilities for digital storytelling, multimedia projects, and lesson content.
• Learn About: A conversational AI designed to support self-paced learning on various topics, making it a resource for both educators and students looking to explore new subjects.
• ImageFX: A text-to-image generation tool that encourages creativity, visualization, and experimentation in art, storytelling, and design projects.

While these tools are still experimental, they provide a glimpse into how AI can support education. By engaging with Google Labs, educators can stay informed about AI advancements, explore new teaching possibilities, and help shape the development of tools that may soon become part of their classrooms.

Diffit has rolled out several exciting updates to better support differentiated instruction in K-12 classrooms!

Kindergarten and First Grade Now Supported

Previously, Diffit capped its reading level at second grade, but now it includes Kindergarten and first grade! These texts are designed as read-alouds, not independent reading materials, providing accessible content for early learners.

More Customization Options

Diffit has expanded its customization features beyond just adjusting text length. Now, you can:

• Add or remove specific content from the generated text.
• Select specific topics to include or exclude.
• Customize the prompt to refine the output.
• Choose the writing style and tense to match your instructional needs.

These updates provide more flexibility in tailoring materials to fit diverse student needs.

New Book Integration Feature

Diffit now connects with books, offering enhanced support for novel studies and independent reading. You can:

• Generate summaries of varying lengths and depth.
• Access vocabulary lists and comprehension questions for specific chapters.
• Explore dozens of pre-loaded books or request additional titles.

If you've created a presentation in Google Slides but want to give it a fresh, polished look, Canva makes it easy to import and edit your slides. With Canva’s vast design tools, you can elevate your presentation with professional templates, dynamic graphics, and engaging animations.

How to Import Google Slides into Canva

The simplest way to move your Google Slides into Canva is by first converting them into a PowerPoint file. Follow these steps:

1. Download from Google Slides:

   • Open your Google Slides presentation.
   • Click File > Download > Microsoft PowerPoint (.pptx).

2. Upload to Canva:

   • Open Canva and click Create a design > Import file.
   • Select your downloaded .pptx file.
   • Canva will convert your slides, making them fully editable.

Why Use Canva for Presentations?

While Google Slides is great for collaboration, Canva offers design advantages that can make your presentations more visually compelling:

✅ Beautiful Templates – Choose from a variety of professional layouts.
✅ Drag-and-Drop Design – Easily move elements, change fonts, and adjust colors.
✅ Premium Graphics & Icons – Access an extensive library of visuals to enhance engagement.
✅ Animations & Transitions – Add smooth effects to make slides more dynamic.
✅ Easy Sharing – Present directly from Canva or export in multiple formats.

For teachers looking to create visually rich and engaging presentations, Canva provides a seamless way to upgrade your slides while keeping the editing process simple.

This is a monthly newsletter from the Instructional Services Department of the IMESD. It includes current issues and concerns of tech (within the realms of education), tips and tricks, resources, and suggestions.

If you would like more information EdTech tools, resources, or training, please contact:

Ayla Olson

Instructional Coach

Email: ayla.olson@imesd.k12.or.us

Phone: 541-966-4657

Website: sites.google.com/imesdapps.org/instructional-coaching