TECH TIDBITS:
A technology blog supporting the SAU16 staff.
a blog by Sandy Blanc
(SAU16 Software Implementation and Training Specialist)
Image created with Gemini (Nano Banana)
(How did I make this image? I uploaded an image of myself into Gemini (Tools- Create Image), and prompted to create a cartoon-like image of the person in the attached photo, with a computer that shows "NotebookLM" and add a Thanksgiving theme. This was the first try!)
NotebookLM
Hello! I know it is been a while since my last Tech Tidbit! I am ready to pick up where I left off! I have been finding my way in my new role this year, which includes supporting staff with software training (including, but not limited to, AI). Please reach out to me if you would like support!
We sent out a survey to staff after the October 10, 2025 In-Service- Future Ready: AI and Cyber Ed Day. One of the most eye opening statistics was that out of 337 staff that filled out our survey, only 5 have tried NotebookLM! This data reinforced the need for me to get out the information to staff on this tool.
How do I get to NotebookLM? notebooklm.google.com
What is NotebookLM?
NotebookLM is a Google tool that is an AI-powered research and learning assistant. NotebookLM works with the documents you provide, helping you (and students) organize, summarize, and ask questions about your own materials.
- NotebookLM is source grounded- only referring to the data you upload, therefore greatly reducing risk for hallucinations.
What is NotebookLM used for?
This is a video explainer created by NotebookLM from a Notebook I made about How to use NotebookLM. (The video is 6:31).
What are ways that staff and students can utilize NotebookLM?
- Staff
- Create study guides
- Generate lesson plan supports (summaries, essential questions, audio/video)
- Build professional learning notebooks
- Differentiate material for students
- Build FAQ's for students or staff
- Summarize policy changes, new laws, or large files.
Pro tip: I uploaded the SAU 16 Professional Development Master Plan and created a SAU 16 Professional Development Notebook to help me digest the requirements and pieces of the recertification process.
- Students
- Study companion
- Generate practice questions
- Organize research projects
- Extract key vocabulary from text
- Study for assessments
- Convert class notes into other formats (audio, mind map, video)
- Learn new concepts
How do I use NotebookLM?
(Click HERE to view Video Tutorial 10:32)
For more navigating tips, please look over the NotebookLM Slides (click to view).
