TL;DR: Advice we give our students that we should take ourselves: keep your eyes on your own paper. In this time of uncertainty, our best is absolutely amazing. Today I went for a run. It’s one of the things that keeps me mentally and physically healthy during this time of social distancing. It was a beautiful, somewhat foggy morning – … Read More
Gamification: Show Me The Evidence!
TL;DR: The difference between playing games and gamification. Elements of gamification… that are also best practices of pedagogy. Research & evidence that supports using gamification for student success. As a teacher of a fully-gamified class, I often hear phrases such as, “That’s really cool, but how do you know the system is working?” Most of the time this involves a … Read More
The Catch 22 of being a Remote Teacher and Parent
TL;DR: Working from home seemed to good to be true… and it was. Balancing being a teacher and being a parent during Covid19. The “work from home” dream comes true – or does it? I have several friends who have worked from home for years, and I’m not going to lie – I was very envious. The thought of wearing … Read More
Supporting Teachers As They Navigate Remote Teaching & Learning
TL;DR: Teachers are facing unique, challenging circumstances right now… but so are administrators! Tips to connect with and support the educators in your district, building, or on your team. Our teachers are doing the work of supporting our students in unprecedented circumstances. They are adding skills to their toolboxes in real time and balancing the needs of their own family … Read More
Cultivating True Engagement
TL;DR: What do you do with students who just aren’t motivated? A look at some motivation theory and its relation to engagement. The key to engagement revealed! The Kids Just Sit There… Student engagement in their own learning process is an ever-elusive goal for a vast majority of educators with whom I interact. Too often, teachers and their classes are … Read More