Today, we are chatting about one of my favorite topics: Digital Differentiation with G Suite! Differentiation is a big buzzword in teaching, but it is often easier said than done. Let’s discover ways to use our favorite Google tools to level the playing field and make differentiation a reality in your classroom. This student-centered teaching strategy helps us reach all learners. G Suite tools help teachers and students communicate and manage multiple assignments with ease. Listen closely for step-by-step instructions, implementation ideas, and some Google tips that will save you time and reap many benefits for you and your students. I hope this episode inspires you to dig deeper into differentiated instruction, and how to use the tools you have available to support all of the learners in your classroom. In This Episode: [00:28] - Kasey welcomes listeners to the show and reveals today’s topic: Digital Differentiation — with G Suite Tools. [01:17] - This week’s shoutout goes to Our Lady of the Lake Catholic School in Mandeville, LA. They made it through the Dynamic Learning Workshop just before school let out! Learn more about The Dynamic Learning Workshop here and the online course. [03:07] - Let’s discuss digital differentiation using G Suite and why this is such a hot topic. [04:01] - Kasey refers back to the master of differentiated instruction, Carol Ann Tomlinson, who has authored several books on the topic: Managing a Differentiate Classroom How to Differentiate Instruction The Differentiated Classroom [04:56] - Learn what differentiation is and is not. [06:31] - Dig into the 3 components of digital differentiation from Susan Oxvenad. Essential Questions Flexible Learning Paths Teacher as Facilitator [08:11] - Kasey mentions three key areas that can be differentiated: Content, Product, and Process. [08:47] - Why differentiate digitally? Provide Flexible Learning Paths Develop Future-Ready Skills Provide an Effective Way to Use Digital Tools FOR Learning (not just an end product) [09:31] - Kasey breaks down the different Google Tools that teachers can use to support differentiation, including Google Classroom, Google Forms, and Google Slides. Differentiating Assignments in Google Classroom [10:13] - Google Classroom allows teachers to send assignments to only selected students rather than the whole class. [11:14] - Kasey provides some tips for using Google Classroom in conjunction with differentiated assignments (full blog post). Tips for Naming Differentiated Assignments in Google Classroom Always number and use consistent naming conventions For differentiated assignments, consider a group or individual identifier in the assignment title. (Ex: Group 4, Special Assignment, Extra Credit, EC Sarah Jones, or come up with your own consistent naming convention.) Remember the name of the assignment names Drive files. Tips for Differentiated Assignment Directions in GC Get specific with your directions! The more information that is available in Google Classroom, the fewer excuses students have for not completing the assignment and the fewer interruptions you are likely to have. Attach a rubric if you have one! Resource: How to Package Your Digital Assignments Tips for Group Differentiated Assignments in GC Designate a group leader in the assignment. The group leader is responsible for creating any new files and “turning in.” Consider asking students to submit a reflection at the end of group work to help you get the whole picture of the learning process. Student Choice Assignment Tips Number the assignment and detail the choices in the directions and/or in an attached (view only) document. (Note: This is also great way to use digital learning menus and choice boards.) Attach links to digital tools that may be offered as a choice for completing the assignment. (Example: Using one of the digital tools below, create a digital story retelling, “The Tell-Tale Heart,” in your own words.) Long Term Projects, Modif