While the hallways were quiet this past July and students were still sleeping until noon, our high school social studies faculty was hard at work. This summer, a dedicated group of educators gathered for a Professional Development (PD) session designed to bring new strategies into the classroom in order to elevate student learning.
The focus? Three powerhouse tools: MagicSchool AI, Canva, and The DBQ Project.
First, the faculty learned to blend AI with classroom practices to introduce students to what will be a permanent fixture in today’s society and educational landscape. MagicSchool AI allows students to “speak” with an historical figure in a chat room controlled by the teacher. The participants were shown how to set up the room on MagicSchool and then participated in a room set up by the administrator to see the student side. The key takeaways from the session were that AI can be useful and educational in a classroom setting and can lead to more engaged students.
Next, participants explored Canva, which is more than just simple posters. Most participants were not familiar with Canva or its AI features. A simple demonstration showed participants how they can incorporate Canva into their lesson plans allowing them to teach students skills that will go beyond the high school classroom and relate directly to future careers.
Last, the department dove into the DBQ Project, a method designed to help students master the art of evidence-based writing. The training focused on the “6-Step Method,” which guides students through analyzing complex primary and secondary sources to build a persuasive argument. Participants were shown different strategies when working with documents such as the QFT model and the silent conversation, as well as response roulette and a consensus board. Teachers learned how to make high-level historical inquiry accessible to all learners, from AP students to those needing extra support.
When the critical thinking of a DBQ, the efficiency of MagicSchool AI, and the creative communication of Canva are utilized with students, a classroom environment that is both academically rigorous and modern is created. Students are more engaged and are learning real-world skills.
Our teachers returned this fall not just with new tools, but with a refreshed vision for what a 21st-century education looks like. The participants have already used some of these strategies and the students’ feedback is positive!
Nichole Caskey
Harrison County High School
Harrison County Schools
11th-12th Grade
