TL;DR: One teacher’s experience using the grid method. A focused look at the role of the teacher in the grid method. “So you don’t really teach anymore.” “The students teach themselves.” “When will I get to see you teach?” In implementing the grid method, I’ve heard them all and I’ve heard them a lot. So what is teaching and what … Read More
Powerful Podcasting at the Hands of Students
TL;DR: How podcasting can benefit student engagement AND meet content standards. Basic tips for starting a podcast with your students. Why Podcast with Students According to George Washington University, “Students who said they aren’t that motivated at the beginning of class score higher on tests when they listen to podcasts featuring content.” Besides being a fun and engaging way for … Read More
Shame’s Role in Education
TL;DR: The role of shame in education, as told through a specific student case study. A journey through finding what works for kids. Steps to challenge the role of shame in education. “Shame is the intensely painful feeling that we are unworthy of love and belonging.” -Brene Brown This was a tough week for me. One of my students, we’ll … Read More
The Power of Place Based Education
TL;DR: Helping children to truly learn about their community and to engage in their own learning. Leveraging partnerships within the community to create these learning experiences can transform learning and can yield higher levels of learning for students. How do you create authentic learning experiences in schools? There are several ways to help students experience learning beyond the classroom. At … Read More
Retakes Promote Mastery
TL;DR: Debunking a common argument against retaking assessments. Reasons why retakes promote mastery of content. Seriously, You should Allow Retakes. I know as you read this title you may have rolled your eyes a bit. Maybe you had some thought of “In the real world they don’t allow retakes…“. I’d love to take that thought to it’s natural conclusion actually. … Read More
