TL;DR: Schools can keep students engaged without the use of technology by using hands-on approaches. Giving students choice and voice in their learning are two simple ways to increase engagement. Makerspaces allow students to innovate and be creative! Engagement without Technology: Foster Creativity and Student Choice During an era of YouTube, Netflix, and Google, can we capture the attention of … Read More
Behavior Principles + Practices: It’s Time to Decide What is Best for YOUR Classroom
TL;DR: Turning behavior principles into behavior practices using clearly defined expectations, visual supports, and connecting with students. Understanding the principles can help us create an authentic classroom community. As a board-certified behavior analyst, I spend a lot of my time teaching and training about behavioral principles. We unpack what they are and what they are not. Together with teams, I … Read More
Using Retro Games in the Classroom
TL;DR: Some retro games you could use in your classroom include Four Square, Guess Who, and Pictionary. Games can be recommended to parents or friends who are wanting to add some fun to summer learning. Games that teachers loved as kids will spark excitement in the teacher that can transfer to student engagement. Retro Games: Four Square Do you remember … Read More
Using Google Sheets to Promote Reading Engagement
TL;DR: Using Google Sheets to log reading can promote reading engagement. Shifting our former practices can help us inspire lifelong readers. This post includes a link to an online interactive reading log. The use of technology is growing substantially in our society, thus in our classrooms. I definitely see the value of doing some things the “old-fashioned” way, without the … 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