Tasks Before Apps: Designing Rigorous Learning in a Tech-Rich Classroom

by Monica Burns

Educator and technology consultant Dr. Monica Burns shares strategies, tools, and insights that all teachers can use to effectively incorporate technology in the classroom.

Genres: Education, Professional Development

149 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 9, 2017

About the author

Dr. Monica Burns is a Curriculum and EdTech Consultant, Apple Distinguished Educator and Founder of ClassTechTips.com.

Reviews

[Julie Suzanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Burns's main idea is that one should use technology to support learning objectives that are clearly identified first (find the tech to help you reach that goal AFTER this step). I believe that Burns had noted that some teachers find the tech tool they like first, and then try to figure out how to use it (or build lessons and activities around using that tool/app after discovering it).

I am not one of those people, so a lot of this was preaching to the choir. However, I did learn about a few tools I hadn't already known about, and I was amazed by some of the amazing learning goals, activities, and products that the example students were doing in these imaginary schools. Wow! Like, light-years away from what I see on a daily basis.

The leader of our book study did tell us that we can't use this, can't do that, etc. due to filters/privacy laws, school policy, etc. So all of the wonderful social media examples in this book were useless to me, as just one example, but it did let me fantasize for a while. My favorite part is some of the forms in the back to help you get your technology tools organized conceptually. This was useful. :)

For teachers who are just branching out into new tools, testing the waters of making more authentic assignments/assessments/activities, this is a great start.

[Stacy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this for a class but, chapter 4 is very useful for anyone trying to build a collaborative online classroom.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not one that simply talks about the theory behind why teachers should use tech purposefully. This book is packed with how-to, concrete example lessons that are well organized and provide the important purpose-driven takeaway behind each suggested tech chosen to enhance the content learning. Dr. Burns guides her readers to consider how to decide on a final product that will give students the best way to demonstrate their learning keeping student voice and choice in mind. Teachers that are unsure how to begin implementing tech in a meaningful way will walk away with a a helpful tool search checklist and new digital tool belt after reading this book. Dr. Burns leaves you with a goal setting challenge with essential guiding questions to consider. You will definitely find yourself referencing this book as a guide on your journey to help your students develop transferable skills.

[Heather Stringham · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book helped me realize that knowing what needs to be done In the classroom is as important as how it’s done. Burns gives great advice to help you decide what you want to do and how it should be done.

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Given me a lot to think about over the summer as I consider next year's planning...

[Liz Graz]

I read this for a continuing education course.

[Kris Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I reached out to the author on Twitter to alert her that a different Monica Burns is connected to Tasks Before Apps in Goodreads. She didn't respond. Oh well. I will continue to get a giggle on this one. Ms. Burns must not be not a Goodreads user.

[Tweller83 · Rating 4 out of 5]

52 books in 52 weeks 2018 challenge: book with a green spine

I liked this one and can see us doing a book study with it. I will try to schedule my PD this year with this in mind, rather than just a series of apps.