TL;DR: Gamification can increase student engagement in learning by incorporating game mechanics into educational activities. By aligning key content with the core drives of gamification, educators can create meaningful lessons that connect to difficult topics such as conservation. A practical example is using a game to teach students about the impact of habitat loss on orangutans and biodiversity, where students … Read More
Ways to Keep Learning Over the Summer
TL;DR: Summer is a great time for professional development. There are so many different ways to continue learning. Find what works best for you. Every summer gives you the opportunity to rest, relax, and recharge. However, you may be like me and use several weeks of your summer for professional learning opportunities. This blog post will give you some ideas … Read More
Learner Agency: Teaching The Art of Agility
TL;DR: Learner agency empowers students through student voice, choice, innovation, and authentic tasks, allowing them to take ownership of their learning. Teachers can create opportunities for learner agency by implementing strategies such as project-based learning, arts education, communication, problem-solving, and reflection. Learner agency enables students to set goals, reflect on their progress, and transfer their understanding in new situations, developing … Read More
Enhancing Learning with Ed Tech
TL:DR: Common sense is an important aspect of human intelligence that allows us to navigate everyday situations using reasoning and logic. Teaching and cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving skills, rather than relying solely on memorization, promotes understanding and the application of knowledge to real-world situations. Integrating educational technology (ed tech) in the classroom should be done with common sense, considering … Read More
Balancing Book Bans
TL;DR: Book bans pose challenges for teachers, requiring them to navigate policies and laws while balancing their responsibilities to students. Teachers should familiarize themselves with school policies and relevant laws to understand their options and responsibilities when facing a book ban. Staying informed about current events and book ban developments, preparing alternative materials, advocating for students, and using book bans … Read More