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Category: Learning

Happy Birthday Copernicus

Happy Birthday Copernicus

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Yesterday Google had a doodle for Copernicus on the occasion of his 540th birthday. There have been many pioneers in science that have challenged current thought and understanding. Copernicus challenged the Earth centered view of the universe and gave us the Sun centered view. He was not correct but based on the evidence he had he came up with a new idea.  He stuck to the evidence and conventional wisdom and gave us the modern science of astronomy. The same could be said for many scientific ideas.  With…

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Is There a Lack of Computer Science in High School?

Is There a Lack of Computer Science in High School?

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My son is a sophomore in high school and we are beginning to look at his post-high school   life.  He goes to a terrific high school.  My daughter also attended the same school and was well prepared for her college experience.  She often remarks on how much better prepared she was then her fellow freshman.  I am very please with the choice of high school for my children. My son’s passions are computers, math and gaming (computer, cards, board).  So…

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Know, Understand, Believe

Know, Understand, Believe

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I have this thing about words.  Words have meaning and though these meanings change over time, words are essential in conveying ideas. I also tend to approach information from the perspective of a scientist looking over data and evidence. In a recent workshop (for non- educators) Critical Thinking and the Development of a Theory, we explored how theories change over time with new technologies, information and experiences.  We looked over several theories from plate tectonics to climate change.  Those conversations have…

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Tech Integration and Classroom Instruction

Tech Integration and Classroom Instruction

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Pre- Reading My thoughts below are inspired by the following: Cast your NETS  by Andrew Vicars Really? Its my Job to Teach Technology?  by Jeff Utecht. My Thoughts I am a tech integration specialist, my title says my job is to integrate technology, presumably that means in the classroom. But I tend to think of myself more as an instructional or learning coach.  It has never been about the tools, but about the learning.  As educators I have always viewed …

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Note Taking a Personal Choice

Note Taking a Personal Choice

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My guess is we all had a teacher who required us to take notes a particular way.  I remember one teacher who made us take two column notes.  I did not like having to fold my pages and frankly I have trouble reading my own handwriting, this method was not for me.  I appreciated knowing there are different strategies for taking notes, organizing and maximizing workflow but ultimately the choice should be mine. I feel the same way about all…

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UDL & The iPad

UDL & The iPad

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Over the last two weeks I have had the opportunity to attend some workshops on the iPad in general and for use with those who have special needs.  I have come away more solidified in my vision of the use of iPads in schools The iPad is a game changer when it comes to supporting differentiated instruction and universal design in learning.  I know there are other devices out there but Apple made a commitment to accessibility a long time ago and continues to…

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College, High School and Homework

College, High School and Homework

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I guess I am currently sensitive to the ‘homework” issue.  I wanted to share with you a post by Scott McLeod, Homework Authoritarianism and Student Choice.  I was particularly struck by the section regarding college vs high school work expectations. Here in MA schools must provide a minimum of 990 hrs of structured instruction over a 180 day school year.  That works out to be about 27.5 hrs a week of structured instruction, this is exclusive of study, lunch, homeroom and passing time. So a typical HS student is in an…

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