Weekly Reflection Blog Post #5

I watched the following workshops listed below for last Friday’s class:

• Digital Classroom Overview K-12
• Getting Started with Artificial Intelligence K-12

In the Digital Classroom Overview K-12 session, the presenter introduced a variety of online learning resources designed to support teaching across grade levels. I learned how digital textbooks, interactive tools, and multimedia content can be used to engage students and provide flexible learning options. It was also encouraging to see UDL strategies reflected in the resources through features like text-to-speech and adjustable reading levels, supporting accessibility and diverse learning needs in line with the BC Curriculum.

While watching the recorded AI literacy and cybersecurity session, The presenter explained that AI is a tool based on data and probability rather than a search engine, meaning it generates responses instead of pulling fixed answers. She emphasized that results can vary and should be evaluated critically since AI is not always accurate. We also discussed risks like deepfakes and misinformation, and the importance of using AI responsibly and following school guidelines. Overall, the session highlighted both the benefits and limitations of AI in education and the need for digital literacy.

The biggest feature that stood out to me between the two classes was the topic finder in Gale Power Search, especially the wheel visualization. It felt like such a unique way to search for something, allowing me to visually explore related ideas and narrow topics in an intuitive way. This approach seems helpful for brainstorming and discovering resources in a more interactive way compared to traditional search methods. I can see how tools like this would make research more engaging and efficient for students and I wished I had used it during my time in high school.