Instantly cite images with new Google Research tool

Google recently introduced a new feature for Google Docs, called Google Research. The premise of this tool is that users can quickly do further research on a topic right from the document they are using. Although it has not received much attention, one of the best features within Google Research is the instant citations for images (and scholars). Below are the simple steps for using this great feature.

1. From a Google Document, open up the Research tool TOOLS>RESEARCH

2. At the bottom of the Research window, change settings to search only through images that are free to use, share or modify (this is not required, but recommended to avoid copyright infringement)

2. Type in your search term in the box that pops up on the right

3. Select 'Images' from the search box drop-down menu

4. Choose an image and drag it into your document

5. Double click on the footnote number to see the citation

6. Add the footnote to your bibliography as needed in your preferred format

Please comment below about this and other great features you find in the new Google Research tool. Read more about the Google Research Tool for educational purposes on Mrs. Chuhran's blog

One to One (1:1) Computing Trends & BYOD

The trend of one to one (1:1) computing has received a new boost of energy thanks to tablets, especially the iPad. Below is an analysis of the trend in Massachusetts K-12 schools.Today, 1:1 computing tends to involve one of two models: either all students bring their own mobile devices (BYOD/BYOT/BYOL), or the school provides the device such as a laptop or iPad. While there has been slow growth in 1:1 computing in K-12 throughout the past decade, rapid changes are occurring now. The iPad is definitely at the center of this trend. Are we reaching the tipping point of an exponential growth pattern, or is this an isolated trend? Will more districts jump on board in the next three years than have in the past twelve years combined?

Here is a list of schools that currently support either a 1:1 or BYOD model from across Massachusetts. A link to related media is provided where available. Some of the schools listed have not fully adopted the program and are only in pilot phases. If you have information on a school that engaged in a 1:1 or BYOD program and is not listed below, or if you have an update on a program listed, please let us know!

PRE 2008
Dorchester Lila G. Fredrick Middle School - 1:1 Laptop since 2006 (pdf)

Huntington - Gateway Regional High School - 1:1 laptops since 2007 (pdf)

2008-2009
Burlington - 1:1 since 2009

Newton Beaver Country Dayschool - BYOL Since 2009 (website)

2010-2011
Beverly HS - 1:1 Macbooks since 2011 (blog) (article)
Burlington - 1:1 iPad since 2011 (article)
Cambridge: Cambridge Friends School 6-8 - 1:1 iPad in-school only since 2011 (article)

Marblehead Tower School Elementary 3-8 - 1:1 iPad started 2011 (article)

Millis Grade 8 - 1:1 iPad Pilot Fall 2011 (blog)

Natick Grade 8 & HS - 1:1 MacBooks program started 2011 (article)

2012 and beyond
Bedford HS 9th grade pilot - 1:1 iPad pilot (website)
Grafton HS - 1:1 iPad starting in Fall 2012 (website)

Holliston HS - BYOD starting Spring 2012 / required by 2014 (website)

Ludlow district - BYOD pilot starting 2012 (article)
Millis HS - 1:1 iPad program starting 2012 (blog)

Reading MS & HS - BYOD optional - pilot program 2012 (article)
Upper Cape Tech HS 10th grade pilot - 1:1 iPad pilot (website)
Uxbridge HS - 1:1 iPad - Beginning 2012 (pdf)
Wayland HS - 1:1 MacBooks(?) to start in 2012-2013 (blog)

Westfield HS - 1:1 Laptops program in development (website)

Worcester Bancroft 6-12 - 1:1 iPad program starts Fall 2012 (website)

Here are some recent articles and blogs that discuss 1:1 effectiveness and other topics.
Is the move to a 1:1 model worth the time and expense? Research is showing that there are two key factors to the success of implementing a 1:1 model. The first is training and development. All teachers need to be involved and receive both technical and pedagogical training early and often. The second key factor is creating true 1:1 models. This means that the devices travel with students wherever students go--both in and out of school.

Research says that 1:1 is nothing if the teacher's aren't ready or capable - article
Mass 1 to 1 works with schools to implement affordable lease programs - website
iPads in School blog - blog
iPads improving literacy scores at the kindergarten level - article
CybraryMan's 1:1 Resource Page - webpage
CybraryMan's BYOD Resource Page - webpage