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Educational Technology: Back To The Past When Technology Fails Us

Emerging from the pandemic, today’s teachers understand the need to adapt and integrate emerging technologies in their instructional program. But what happens to teaching and learning when schools experience a sudden tech blackout?. This post looks at the current realities of Educational Technology (EdTech) in teaching, highlighting the necessity of robust infrastructure, seamless SaaS integration, and effective training. Discover how educators are adapting to the challenges and opportunities of a digital-first approach in education, while also preparing for unforeseen tech outages.

Unlocking Potential: How Student-Driven Choices Ignite Deeper Engagement

Emphasizing student choice transforms education, empowering learners to pursue their passions within a supportive framework. Teachers' innovative strategies for engagement, supported by research linking choice to increased motivation and achievement, show that even small decisions can significantly impact students' enthusiasm and academic identity, respecting their individuality and fostering a meaningful, self-directed educational journey.

Wearable A.I. in the Classroom: Amazing Potential and Scary Pitfalls

This article examines the world of teaching and the pros and cons of wearable artificial intelligence (A.I.) in classrooms. We explore the dynamics of social interactions in education and how A.I. technology can offer valuable insights for teachers. Researchers at Michigan State University are examining wearable tech to monitor social and physical indicators in preschoolers with developmental disabilities, aiming for better educational outcomes. However, this technology brings up ethical concerns such as privacy invasion, potential A.I. bias, and the need for informed consent.

State Teacher Retirement Plans Should Remain a Strong Draw For Young Teachers – Despite New Realities

Despite the 2008-2009 recession causing lawmakers to reduce public sector pensions, teaching remains attractive for some young teachers who wisely plan and implement additional retirement savings options like defined contribution, guaranteed return, and hybrid plans early-on in their careers. This article highlights the importance of state and local agencies adapting their recruiting messages to attract new talent and build a secure future for our students.

Understanding the Impact of Post COVID-19 Student Behavior on Teachers

With the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, educators, including seasoned professionals, are grappling with greater challenges in managing disruptive and defiant behavior. An NCES report revealed a disturbing 87% decline in student socio-emotional development during the 2021-22 academic year, accompanied by escalating classroom disruptions, student absenteeism, and a spike in teacher absences. Aggravating the situation, schools face an unprecedented difficulty in securing substitute teachers. As the educational landscape shifts, there's a pressing need for innovative strategies and collaborative efforts among stakeholders to navigate these challenges and ensure effective learning environments.

The Increasing Importance of Teaching and The Modern Educator's Dilemma

This article explores the profound transformation of the teaching profession from the simpler days of the '70s to the complex demands of the modern classroom. This article takes a look at the escalating challenges teachers face from intensive academic standards, to the loss of legal tools for mitigating defiant behavior, to addressing student mental health, and why it is more critical now than ever that we promote this noble profession.

Student Voice Emerges As A Key To Inclusivity And Achievement

In the midst of increasing political influence in K-12 education discussions, students often find themselves caught in the crossfire. This influence touches on topics like gender, book bans, and diversity and inclusion in curricula. While seeking student perspectives might seem risky, it's precisely what school districts need to do. This article delves into the importance of listening to students and how it can benefit both their education and the school system.

Teachers Embracing Leadership Beyond the Classroom

America needs great school principals. Outstanding school leadership correlates with better student performance, improved attendance, reduced disciplinary issues, lower teacher turnover, and increased teacher satisfaction. Learn about the author’s journey from teacher to principal in this inspiring article. Consider that the skills you may possess as a teacher can transform into powerful leadership, driving positive change in your school community.

Empowering Students Through Social and Emotional Learning

In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, where remote learning has become a rule rather than an exception and where traditional school discipline policies and practices have actually contributed to the disruption of teaching and learning opportunities for school staff and students, the significance of social and emotional support cannot be overstated. As educators gear up to return to school after a rejuvenating summer break, it's crucial to understand what Social and Emotional (SEL) is and isn’t, and to tap into resources that foster appropriate and effective SEL instruction and intervention.

6 Reasons Why Right Now Is A Great Time To Be A Teacher

Most teachers enter the profession to positively impact the life directions of their students. These are the hidden rewards of the profession and it is the manifestation of those rewards that helps teachers get out of bed every day. Beyond those intrinsic rewards, this article explores the extrinsic benefits that often go unnoticed. You will read about the expanding opportunities in education, rising salaries and benefits, generous leave days, and the power of the social and professional networks that exist in the world of education. Discover why teaching is an attractive and impactful career choice, and explore the remarkable opportunities for those who aspire to shape the future, one child at a time.