Facebook for Learning?

Just read an interesting article about a new Facebook app that transforms the social-networking site into a study group. Students answer “What are you working on” and the Facebook tool finds others working on the same thing. You can read more about it here. I think we can be sure that social networks are not [...]

Teacher Attitudes and Student Learning

We all know how magic (or tragic) having the ‘right’ (or wrong) teacher can be for student learning. Professionalism, a sense of purpose and service, and a love for learning and teaching are all ‘must haves’ to ignite student learning. I recently read an interesting blog post that referenced a 1982 survey that contrasts the [...]

The Importance of High Expectations

In my years as an educator, I have repeatedly experienced examples proving what intuition has always told me: People – children included – will “rise to the occasion” when high expectations set for them, assuming those expectations are reasonable, and support is provided. Even very young students know when someone accepts less than best efforts, [...]

Resource for Educators (including Home Educators!)

Better Lesson is a social networking site for teachers and other educators – including home educators –  to share curriculum material. In fact, an educator can upload and share a full 180 days worth of lessons. Check it out, and avoid re-inventing the wheel! This site looks great and seems to have great potential. DISCLAIMER: [...]

Neuroscience and Learning

There have been recent developments in the application of neuroscience to education. However, they have been less than comprehensive as far as reaching the front lines of teaching and learning. The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development has many wonderful resources for educators (and parents who see education as one of their primary roles) on [...]