Mote-ivating Minds, Connections, and Belonging was a standout session at MoteCon 2023, presented by educator and librarian Katie McNamara. This session offered invaluable insights into leveraging Mote, a voice recording tool for Google Workspace, to foster deeper connections and a sense of belonging in educational settings.
• Using Mote helps create a deeper connection with students through voice, enhancing communication and understanding.
• Voice recordings provide a richer context to emotions and messages compared to text alone.
• Facilitating regular check-ins with students using Mote can support emotional well-being and build a supportive classroom community.
• Understanding students' personal stories and contexts can prevent misunderstandings and foster empathy among peers and educators.
In her presentation, Katie McNamara emphasized the unique ability of voice to convey emotions and intentions that can often be lost in written communication. By using Mote, educators can personalize interactions with students, making messages more relatable and understandable.
McNamara explained the common challenges of misinterpretation in written communication. She cited examples where messages intended to be supportive could be perceived as critical. By incorporating voice recordings, educators can eliminate ambiguity and ensure their tone and intent are clearly understood.
McNamara shared how her Library Science students use Mote to introduce themselves and share their thoughts. Hearing a peer's voice helps other students connect on a deeper level, fostering a sense of community and belonging in the classroom.
Regular check-ins were a key strategy McNamara advocated for during her session. She encouraged using Mote for students to express their feelings and the reasons behind them. This practice not only shows that educators care but also provides insights into students' emotional states.
McNamara shared a compelling story about the importance of understanding personal contexts. She described a scenario where a teacher might leave early due to personal obligations, which could be misunderstood by colleagues. Knowing the full story behind someone's actions can foster empathy and support within the school community.
McNamara provided several practical tips for educators looking to integrate Mote into their teaching practice:
1. Start each week with a voice check-in using Mote to understand students' emotional states.
2. Encourage students to use Mote for peer feedback to enhance collaborative learning.
3. Use voice recordings to provide personalized feedback on assignments, ensuring clarity and encouragement.
Katie McNamara is a seasoned educator and librarian passionate about integrating technology into education to enhance student engagement and connection. Her expertise in using Mote to build community in the classroom is widely recognized.
Discover actionable takeaways for sparking dialogue, building connections, and fostering a sense of belonging.
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