Boosting Student Reflection and Growth with MirrorTalk
This week, we’re diving into the power of reflection with an amazing tool called MirrorTalk. I recently came across it after reading a great article from Ditch That Textbook, which shared 10 easy ways to use it in the classroom. What really caught my eye was how this tool simplifies the reflection process for students, giving them a personalized experience. Plus, they’re offering a free premium account for a year—definitely worth checking out! Whether you're using it for post-lesson reflections or mindset checks, MirrorTalk is a game-changer for helping students think critically about their learning.
AI Tool of the Week: MirrorTalk
I learned about this reflection tool for students after reading Ditch That Textbook’s article, 10 Easy Ways to Use MirrorTalk in Your Classroom. I highly recommend the article because it not only gives you some great ideas on how to use MirrorTalk but also provides a link to get a whole year of a premium account for free!
MirrorTalk is a tool that’s all about helping students reflect on their learning in a really simple but powerful way. It's designed to make self-reflection easier and more structured. Think of it like a digital journal that talks back! You set a learning goal, and MirrorTalk gives students custom reflection prompts—based on what you want them to focus on.
How You Can Use It with Students:
After a Lesson: Use MirrorTalk to get students thinking about what they just learned. It's like a quick, personal check-in that helps them process their understanding and catch any confusion.
Boosting Creativity: There’s even a “Creative Booster” prompt that’s perfect for getting students to brainstorm ideas and solutions for their projects. It’s a great way to get them thinking outside the box!
Mindset Checks: MirrorTalk also gives feedback on whether students are using a growth mindset or a fixed mindset, helping them become more self-aware and resilient when tackling challenges.
It’s easy to use and works on all kinds of devices, so whether they’re on Chromebooks or their phones, students can quickly hop in and reflect on their learning. It’s a game-changer for turning reflection into an everyday part of learning.
Here is a tutorial video I made on how to use MirrorTalk
Lesson Plan: Reflecting on Learning with MirrorTalk
Grade Level: 7-12
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Any subject (can be adapted for various topics)
Objective:
Students will use MirrorTalk to reflect on their learning, identify areas for improvement, and develop critical thinking by engaging in structured reflection after completing a lesson or activity.
Materials Needed:
Devices (Chromebooks, tablets, smartphones) with access to MirrorTalk
Pre-set reflection prompts within MirrorTalk (aligned with the lesson objectives)
Standards Alignment:
NJ State Standards: Critical thinking, self-assessment, and reflection *I am using NJ State Standards since that is where I live - but most states have a reflection standard.
21st Century Skills: Communication, critical thinking, and personal development
Lesson Steps:
Introduction (5 minutes):
Start the class by introducing the importance of reflection in learning. Explain that today, they’ll be using MirrorTalk to reflect on their learning in a deeper way.Direct Instruction (10 minutes):
Review the main points of the lesson they just completed, set a clear learning objective, and introduce how to use MirrorTalk.Reflection Time (15 minutes):
Students will reflect on their learning using MirrorTalk prompts.Group Discussion (5-10 minutes):
Bring the class together to discuss their reflections.Closing and Next Steps (5 minutes):
Encourage continued use of MirrorTalk as part of their learning routine.
AI Ethics Corner
For this week's AI Ethics Corner, check out the JMU Library's AI in Education Ethics Guide. This site explores the ethical issues surrounding AI use in educational settings, from student privacy and data security to algorithmic bias and the impact of AI on learning environments. The guide encourages educators to critically consider the implications of integrating AI tools in classrooms and provides resources on ethical frameworks and guidelines to follow. It’s a great starting point for anyone looking to ensure responsible AI use in education!
For more details, visit the guide here.
AI Reading List
"88% of US Parents See AI as Essential to Their Children's Education" from ZDNet. This piece highlights the growing acceptance of AI in education, with a recent survey revealing that a majority of parents view AI as critical for their children’s learning. It discusses the benefits and concerns about data privacy and ethical use of AI in schools. Read the full article here.
"Navigating the Perils of AI in Education" from Ditch That Textbook. This article explores the risks of AI in classrooms, including data privacy concerns and the impact on critical thinking skills. It also offers practical advice for educators to use AI responsibly. You can read the full article here.
"How AI Voice Technology is Transforming Language Learning" from Voices.com. This article explores how AI-powered voice tools are changing language education by enabling students to practice pronunciation and engage in real-time conversations. - Thank you Ryan Bird for posting about it in our Facebook Group! Read the full article here.
As always, I hope these resources help you navigate the exciting world of AI in education! Reflection is such a vital part of learning, and with tools like MirrorTalk, it’s easier than ever to make it part of your students' routine. Be sure to explore the ethical considerations and articles in this week’s AI Ethics Corner and AI Reading List for more insights into how AI is shaping education. Let me know if you have any questions or want help integrating these tools into your lessons!
Have a great week!
Thank you for this great intro support for MirrorTalk, Elissa!