I get a lot of questions from teachers about what it’s like to teach in an online setting, especially an asynchronous one. Here’s some background: For my entire career, I’ve gravitated to what I felt like have been the most challenging environments. I have always had more fun teaching students who need special consideration to…… Continue reading Why I Teach Online
Author: Jon Fila
Jon is a Teacher/Consultant/OER Strategist who focuses on equity issues (accessibility, racial, gender). He has worked in education for over twenty years. He has served as an Innovation Coach, Curriculum Coordinator, PD Specialist, Department Chair, and has worked on aspects of Strategic Planning and has facilitated those groups on topics of Equity.
He has been making his own stuff for a long time and shares whatever he can.
Awards/Honors:
*2022 Minnesota Teacher of the Year Finalist
*2020 Exemplar District for CITES project that promotes accessibility practices (Through Center for Applied Special Technology [CAST])
*2018 NROC Ambassador of the Year
*2017 Amazon Web Services (AWS) City On A Cloud Innovation Challenge
*2016 Excellence Award eLearning Summit for MN Partnership for Collaborative Curriculum (MPCC)
*2015 Local Government Innovation Award - The Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota
*2011 TIES Technology Leadership Team of the Year
*2011 TIES Exceptional Teacher
*1986 Mr. Hustle Award Recipient (Jim Dutcher B-ball Camp)
My guide for students using ChatGPT
I wrote a book for students guiding them through the process of using ChatGPT effectively.
Initial Thoughts on Chat GPT
I think that there is enormous potential in ChatGPT for English Language Learners, special ed students with writing accommodations, disabled students who use assistive tech for speech to text, etc. If they can use the tool to get a first draft done, then they could spend their time editing and updating the default text. This…… Continue reading Initial Thoughts on Chat GPT
Innovation in Education
Innovation isn’t just a buzzword, I mean, it is, but not to me and the work I do. It’s a concept that has been studied for decades. It can be planned purposefully. Innovation isn’t technology. It’s about new or enhanced ways of doing things that result in a measurable benefit. Innovations can be things like…… Continue reading Innovation in Education
Why Grades are Bullshit
I hate things that are pointless. I mean, what’s the purpose of these subjective numbers we use to assign value to a task? They do not mean anything. Letter grades do not even really mean anything. A student who is going to do well in my class gets an A, a student who just wants…… Continue reading Why Grades are Bullshit
Differences Between Distance Learning and Online Learning
Do not be afraid of online learning In response to those who are seeking information about the difference between what districts are doing with their Distance Learning plans vs. what is offered through a state certified online provider it is important to recognize what a district’s and family’s goals are for their learners. The following…… Continue reading Differences Between Distance Learning and Online Learning
What’s Next for Education?
EduClones So, the world of education and school boards around the country failed miserably in their responses to the COVID-19 shutdowns. They still are. Even after all we know about good instructional design, there were no massive calls for teacher trainings, or non-voter approved levies to bring in teachers over the summer of 2020 to…… Continue reading What’s Next for Education?