Group items tagged

"When we 'research' things now, we generally aren't referring to spending time in a library - or even referring to spending time online accessing specific library or school research databases. The word 'research' largely refers to the act of typing words into your internet search bar and seeing what the Wise Old Web tells you. There is so much information out there, and while a web search isn't necessarily a bad thing (and we'd encourage you to head back to the 'ol library to see what resources they have to offer you), there are definitely some things you can to do get the best search results possible out of a simple web search."

"t didn't take long for Michael Godsey, an English teacher at Morro Bay High School in California, to realize that his decision to use a public radio podcast in the classroom was a wise one. It wasn't any old podcast he was introducing to his classes. It was "Serial," the murder-mystery phenomenon produced by reporter Sarah Koenig of "This American Life," which already was transfixing a wide swath of the adult population. "Even if they weren't into it, I told them it was the most popular podcast of all time, and that was interesting," Godsey says. He needn't have worried. The podcast seized his five classrooms of 10th- and 11th-graders. "I had kids cutting other classes so they could come listen to it again," he says. "Kids who were sick, who never did their homework, were listening at home." Godsey is one of a growing number of educators who are using podcasts like "Serial" to motivate their classrooms and address education requirements set by the Common Core state standards. Improving students' listening skills is one of the essential components of the new education mandates, and using audio in the classroom can be an effective way to promote listening."

"Social media in the classroom, while not perfect, has its benefits. Though many teachers are (perhaps wisely) forbidden to "friend" students on facebook, that doesn't mean that facebook, pinterest, social media at large are without merit in education."

"So here's the thing, we've all seen the presentations on the value of authentic learning and there is no doubt that creating meaningful learning experiences is paramount. And, incorporated wisely, with intention and forethought, giving students the opportunity to create digitally is a powerful tool. But creating on the devices is only half of the picture - less than half even. Last year, I visited a school and saw a group of Kindergarten students thrilled to show off their understanding using Doodle Buddy. I observed a student create a masterpiece. He looked at me eagerly, "Now what?" We held up the iPad and his peers applauded. Sharing it beyond the class however was not in the cards that day. I was struck by the lightening fast speed with which he lost interest in the whole activity as soon as he realized the sharing stopped at the classroom door."

"We ALL know who they are.  They're the teachers who are smiling almost every time you pass them in the hallways. They look energized and motivated.  Most of the time, they'll take a moment to ask how your day is going or about something in your personal life.  They're the teachers who are adored by their students and parents.  They rarely pass on negative information or chime in during a teacher gripe fest.  They truly and genuinely LOVE their jobs, and it shows. Truthfully, I've had years where I really felt like this teacher and other years that I envied those who did.  But you know what I've figured out over the years? That this magical positive glow and overall attitude of happiness about teaching is a daily CHOICE when you enter your school building. In the wise words of Abraham Lincoln,  "Folks are usually about as happy as they make up their minds to be.""

Being wise is about so much more than knowing the right answer. Indeed, it can be argued that knowing the right answer can be an obstacle to learning and understanding. As we move further into times where knowledge is ubiquitous and yet truth is increasingly hard to find, merely knowing the right answer can be an impediment. 

"Digital literacy: I'm sure you've been told this is important for students in the 21st Century. But did anyone mention it's also important for teachers too? Believe me, it is! Digital literacy is about digital skills, skills which help you use tech, create with tech and be safe using tech. So obviously as students increase in their use of technology we have to support them in how to use it wisely, correctly and safely. The same applies to teachers."

Think back to how you felt after the last day you spent at a conference or course. If things went well you probably came out feeling enthused by new ideas but also exhausted and fatigued in ways that you don't after a regular day at work. If the presenters have done their job well and you choose your workshops wisely, the day should have been full of learning that resulted from you having to think. Days like this should work our brains hard and it should be no surprise when we are fatigued by such an experience. - So how might our students be coping?

"Are today's students spending too much time in front of computer screens? The more important question is: are students engaged in powerful learning experiences and, whenever possible, given voice and choice in what, how, and when they learn? Digital technology can powerfully facilitate this process, if thoughtful adults deploy it wisely. Otherwise, it can be mind-numbing, or worse."

Buy Bing Ads Accounts Introduction Any company that wants to be successful online must have a strong advertising plan, and Bing Ads is a fantastic choice. Businesses can design ad campaigns using Bing Ads that specifically target visitors who are looking for particular terms on the search engine. Why should you use Bing Ads? There are various advertising platforms to pick from when you want to promote your business online. They are not all made equal, though. Bing Ads is a platform that has a lot of benefits over other platforms, making it a wise choice for companies of all sizes.

Buy Bing Ads Accounts Introduction Any company that wants to be successful online must have a strong advertising plan, and Bing Ads is a fantastic choice. Businesses can design ad campaigns using Bing Ads that specifically target visitors who are looking for particular terms on the search engine. Why should you use Bing Ads? There are various advertising platforms to pick from when you want to promote your business online. They are not all made equal, though. Bing Ads is a platform that has a lot of benefits over other platforms, making it a wise choice for companies of all sizes.