The shortage of professionals with advanced skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is a real challenge for companies and the US economy. It presents a tremendous opportunity for today’s students who have a passion for STEM—the most in-demand, rewarding college degrees and jobs are in the STEM fields.
Interest in the potential of games for learning is growing, from researchers, practitioners and policy-makers, predominantly for their ability to engage students. However, Dr. Nicola Whitton, Senior Research Fellow at Manchester Metropolitan University argues that the benefits of games are greater than simply motivation.
Teachers and students have an overabundance of information at their fingertips to make teaching and learning more “real time” than ever before. Teachers are no longer the lone “giver of knowledge” that they once were. How do teachers not only find engaging content for their students, but how can they also be creators of engaging content? What are ways we can curate and organize this content?
When technology integration is at its best, a student or a teacher does not stop to think that he or she is using a technology tool – it’s second nature. Students are more actively engaged in projects when technology tools are a seamless part of the learning process. “Cool Cat Teacher” Vicki Davis presented ways you can differentiate instruction in your K–12 classroom with technology.
In this annual review of new developments in eContent delivery, participants learned about platforms, services, licensing options, new product “packaging,” spending models, and content availability. Michelle Luhtala also reviewed recent research on student usage of eContent, and participants discussed anticipated changes in evolving patron needs.
Science is a subject that should be experienced, but you don’t need a fancy white coat, expensive equipment, or a lab with bubbling beakers for this to happen. Two influential educators from the Florida Virtual School discussed how they are tackling early elementary science, while making it engaging, fun and meaningful!
History is everywhere! It is part of our past, present and future. Attendees learned about a wide variety of web tools and apps that spark excitement in the classroom, and help kids better understand the world around us. Say “goodbye” to mindless worksheets and “hello” to engaged students who cannot wait to get to class.
All of a sudden. . .POOF. . .it seems like everyone has a tablet. Using iPads (smart phones and other devices) have become a “big deal” for individuals on the autism spectrum – but there must be more than Angry Birds or Candy Crush. This webinar focused on 5 key skill areas that apps can help preschoolers, school age and adults participate in life activities working toward achieving more independence.
Digital devices and technologies are slowly taking over our classrooms. More and more each day, teachers and students are utilizing these resources to enhance teaching and learning. For school leaders, it is important to understand not only how technology is being used in the classroom but how effective its use is.
Over the past few years, Skype has grown from a quirky platform with limited functionality to an excellent tool for students and educators alike! Middle School Assistant Principal Shannon Holden showed teachers how to communicate and collaborate with educators around the world with Skype.