TL;DR: As teachers, we can accept and embrace AI tools. Some examples of how chatbots can be acknowledged as part of the writing process are shared. See AI chat as a way to help prepare students for the future. Using ChatGPT in the Writing Process I’ll admit, my first reaction to AI authors was a mixture of horror and fascination, … Read More
What Inspires You to Write?
TL;DR: Teach Better bloggers belong to a community where they support each other and learn from each other during quarterly exclusive events just for bloggers! Read our reflection on our latest event and get a glimpse into our previous ones! We all have a story to tell. Every educator does things a little differently than others. The effective strategy or … Read More
Braving Tough Topics Blog Series
Braving Tough Topics Blog Series Overview You can use several communication strategies to address challenging topics as they enter your classroom and the broader community. As educators, we must take these tough conversations with students, parents, colleagues, and administrators, but what is the best way to do that? This blog series shares de-escalation strategies, ideas to enhance structures to create … Read More
Difficult Conversations with Students and Parents: New Strategies for a New Year
TL;DR: Difficult conversations with students or parents are here to stay. We can improve the outcome of these conversations with strategies designed to minimize emotional responses. Consider using the word “you” with care and purpose when discussing negative or critical topics. Use intentional verb choice to affect the tone of your messages or conversations. Focus on the goal or outcome, … Read More
De-escalation Strategies During a Tough Conversation
TL;DR: There are a number of de-escalation strategies one can use to diffuse any tough conversation: (1) Move to a private area. (2) Be empathetic and non-judgmental. (3) Keep your tone and body language neutral. (4) Provide choices. The Teach Better Academy course, Addressing Tough Topics in Schools, shares communication strategies for challenging topics in your school community. As an … Read More