TL;DR: Blended learning promotes student ownership and helps to address the needs of different styles of learners. A successful example of blended learning at Sangamon Valley Middle School offers the best of both worlds. The shortcomings vs. benefits of blended learning are explored. Envisioning a New Normal: Imagine the Possibilities The pandemic has created a great deal of angst for … Read More
Silver Linings
TL;DR: Through these difficult times, the emerging opportunities are our silver linings. Some new tech tools to try are Google Keep, Time Timer App, Kahoot, Watchkin, Padlet, and more. Teaching in a Pandemic Throughout the last year, COVID-19 has created difficult circumstances for many people in our world. For example, sickness, lockdowns, and school closures have taken their toll on … Read More
Using the Lessons of the Pandemic to Improve PD
TL;DR: We can use lessons learned in the pandemic to make improvements on professional development (PD). Improve PD by focusing on lifelong learning, considering an EdCamp or Facebook PD, or attending a Twitter chat. So in the words of the #EduDuctTape podcast, I am about to get out my soapbox. How many times have you sat at a staff meeting … Read More
What’s Your Superpower? Mine Is Teaching!
TL;DR: In 2020, educators had on their “superhero” outfits to bring about an educational revolution. Superpower traits that were discovered last year involve striking a balance, creating empowering lessons with student input, discovering your network, digital learning platforms, technology, learning what you don’t know, connecting, being yourself, gathering feedback, and embracing change. As 2021 starts, a new year with new … Read More
Highlights of 2020: In Case You Missed It
TL;DR: This post shares highlights of Teach Better blog posts in 2020. Categories for posts include pandemic teaching, self-care, instructional strategies, conversations, growth mindset, communication, and leadership. Pandemic Teaching 3 Ways to Support Students Virtually by Chelsea Nicolino 5 Ways to Support Students and Teachers Virtually and Maintaining Rigor through Distance Learning by Chad Ostrowski Key Considerations for Educators During … Read More