Archive for the ‘What can Dr. Doug do for you?’ Category

Being Digital by Nicholas Negroponte Twenty Three Years Later

Saturday, February 2nd, 2019
Being Digital

Being Digital by Nicholas Negroponte Twenty Three Years Later – It’s amazing how his vision at the time matches today’s reality. If you are looking for something cool to read, you won’t be disappointed with this classic that is still available online.

Introduction

  • In 1995 Nicholas Negroponte, the founding director of the MIT Media Lab, published Being Digital. While reorganizing my library recently I picked it up and started reading it again. As I read I was amazed at how prescient his thinking was at the time. I felt that he had a very clear vision of where advances in computer technology and the Internet would take us. Much of what he predicted has come to pass while some of what he predicted has yet to happen. If he got anything wrong, I couldn’t find it to any significant degree.

Death of the Videocassette

  • He saw the death of the videocassette and its associated rental businesses. He also saw services like Netflix coming due to the bandwidth of fiber and how it would be a game changer in terms of delivering content with copper serving as a stepping stone. He saw that advertising would be personalized as well. He also foresaw computers that would resemble thick pieces of paper like modern tablet computers.
  • He was sad that most of the research directed at the advance of television was aimed at refining the display and increasing sizes as opposed to improving the artistry of content. He saw no reason not to expect 10,000 lines of resolution. He also predicted that computers and televisions would merge into a single device, which they have for many people as they are no longer dependent on the time of day when they want to watch something. He understood that using a lot of different fonts was a bad idea. In this case, less is more.

As For Schools

  • He saw schools changing to become more like museums and playgrounds where children would assemble ideas and socialize with other children all over the world. While I’ve seen bits of this in some innovative schools, for the most part, we have a way to go to realize this vision.
  • The Internet would create a totally new, global social fabric. With the Internet, schools could spend less time shoving facts into kids’ minds and more time engaging them in designing and building like they do in the maker spaces found in innovative schools. He decried the force-feeding of students’ left brains in schools that diminish the arts and other extracurriculars. Unfortunately, this has only gotten worse thanks to test-based reforms forced on schools by the federal government.

From Bits to Atoms

  • He thought it was amusing that when ink is squeezed on to dead trees bits become atoms again. He saw the then-burgeoning field of multimedia as bridging the gap between science and art. He saw a day when most adults would also be computer literate. He predicted that virtual reality would allow you to put your arms around the Milky Way, swim in the human bloodstream, or visit Alice in Wonderland.
  • He foresaw digital appliances with no edge at all like high-end cellphones and tablets. He saw that size would be driven by the size of pockets and watches. He said the wristwatch would migrate from a timepiece to a mobile command-and-control center as it has on my wrist thanks to my Apple Watch.
Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus

Crafting Financial Wisdom: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Money-Savvy Kids

Tuesday, March 5th, 2024

finance
Image: Freepik

Crafting Financial Wisdom: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Money-Savvy Kids by Emily Graham

In an era where financial landscapes are ever-evolving, the importance of instilling robust money management skills in the younger generation cannot be overstated. For parents, this task presents both a unique challenge and a profound opportunity. A structured approach to teaching financial literacy can empower children to navigate their financial futures with confidence and acumen. This guide aims to offer parents actionable strategies for embedding essential financial principles in their children, ensuring they are well-equipped to make wise financial decisions throughout their lives.

Visit Dr. Doug Green and dive into professional development resources and insights for administrators, teachers, and parents.

Understanding Basics

The journey to financial wisdom begins with a solid grasp of the basics. Introduce children to the principles of budgeting and saving from an early age. Teaching them to differentiate between needs and wants, how to save a portion of any money they receive, and the basics of creating a simple budget, lays the groundwork for responsible financial behavior. These initial steps are crucial in building a framework that supports more complex financial decisions in the future.

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Encouraging an entrepreneurial spirit in children not only nurtures creativity and problem-solving but also exposes them to the essentials of business management, such as cost control, profit analysis, and the significance of customer satisfaction. Supporting them in establishing small ventures, like a lemonade stand or an online store, serves as a hands-on method for applying these concepts. Introducing them to marketing basics, especially the creation of a text logo using an online logo maker, allows them to experiment with various designs by selecting icons, adding text, and adjusting fonts and colors, effectively merging artistic expression with fundamental business principles.

The Value of Patience

In a world accustomed to instant gratification, teaching patience and deferred gratification is paramount. Encourage your children to save for larger purchases rather than seeking immediate satisfaction through impulse buys. This can be facilitated through goal-setting and saving strategies, demonstrating how patience can lead to more significant rewards. This lesson is instrumental in curbing impulsive spending and fostering a mindset that values careful consideration and planning.

Earning Independence

Encouraging children to earn their money through chores, part-time jobs, or entrepreneurial ventures teaches them the value of hard work and money. This independence in earning and managing their own finances instills a sense of responsibility and pride in their achievements. It also provides practical experience with budgeting and prioritizing spending, essential skills for their future financial independence.

Navigating Debt

An understanding of debt and its potential pitfalls is a critical component of financial literacy. Educate your children about the concept of credit, the importance of living within one’s means, and the long-term impact of taking on debt. Discussions should cover how debt works, the significance of interest rates, and the difference between good debt (such as education loans) and bad debt (like credit card debt). This knowledge is vital in preventing financial missteps in adulthood.

Investing in the Future

Introducing the concept of investments and the power of compound interest can inspire a forward-thinking approach to money. Simple lessons on saving accounts, stocks, bonds, and the principle of risk versus reward can demystify the world of investing. Teaching children about the importance of saving for long-term goals, such as education or retirement, helps them understand the role of investments in achieving financial security.

Financial Ethics and Generosity

Beyond the mechanics of money management, it’s important to discuss the ethical aspects of finances with your children. This includes understanding the value of honesty in financial dealings, the importance of generosity, and how to be financially responsible in a way that aligns with one’s values. Encouraging children to donate to charity or volunteer their time teaches them the importance of giving back and helps them develop empathy and a sense of social responsibility.

Cultivating financial literacy in children is an investment in their future. By tackling these key areas, parents can lay a comprehensive foundation for their children’s financial education, preparing them for a lifetime of informed, ethical, and effective money management. The lessons instilled today will not only contribute to their personal success but also to their ability to contribute positively to society. Engaging children in ongoing conversations about finances, encouraging practical experiences, and leading by example are all strategies that can reinforce these vital life skills.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on the piece.

Best,
Emily Graham
Email: emilygraham@mightymoms.net
Website: mightymoms.net

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus

Creating Lasting Confidence by Emily Graham

Saturday, June 4th, 2022

Confidence
Creating Lasting Confidence by Emily Graham offers the kind of advice we all need to live a successful and happy life. This article is also loaded with links to lots more free advice and additional detail.

Introduction

  • Throughout the past two years, many people have found themselves becoming increasingly isolated and unsure of themselves due to changing conditions in the world amid the global pandemic. As the world begins to return to normal, you may feel insecure about returning to your social life due to the year-long hiatus from school, your workplace, and just about every other venue. Luckily, many lifestyle changes and habits can help build your confidence and ensure you’re ready to return to the world as your best self.
  • Taking care of your body and mind goes a long way toward promoting confidence in all aspects of life. Dr. Doug Green’s blog shares a few ways to help you stay healthy and confident.

Start a Fitness Routine

  • Countless studies illustrate the positive correlation between exercise and confidence. You don’t have to become a professional athlete to gain these benefits, however. Here are some examples of ways you can get started with fitness, no matter your current level.
  • Try Jazzercise. This is a fun way to get exercise, and it’s a great start if you’re a beginner or you want to exercise with others.
  • Join a gym. A wide variety of gyms offer different services and equipment. You can compare gyms in the area through ranked lists.
  • Take yoga classes. Yoga offers a range of physical as well as mental benefits, making it a great all-around confidence booster.

Practice Mindfulness

  • Incorporating a mindfulness meditation practice into your life can help you remove negative thoughts that contribute to low self-esteem. It also helps to practice in a space free of negative energy. Mindfulness meditation encourages you to see what’s right in front of you instead of worrying about past or future events that are out of your control. This practice can be done in many ways, each of which can help you to become more confident in yourself.

Practice Socializing at Work

  • Many people feel they’ve lost their confidence at work due to changing work conditions. The Pew Research Center has found that during the last half of 2020, an estimated 71% of Americans were working from home—a 50% increase from before the pandemic began.
  • One way you can take advantage of this situation to help you build confidence is to practice socializing and getting along with your coworkers and teammates. Taking a chance and talking to someone new or finding common ground with a coworker you’ve previously had conflicts with can go a long way toward improving your own self-confidence. Try using techniques such as cooperative communication or avoiding generalizing to get along with all your coworkers.

Start Your Own Business

  • One of the most confidence-inspiring things you can accomplish is planning and starting your own business. There are a host of steps to take to get a business off the ground, but one thing you should definitely consider is a cloud-based invoicing solution when the time comes. You’ll be able to provide your clients with digital, customizable invoices which will make everyone’s life easier.

Confidence That Lasts

  • With just a few small lifestyle changes and practices, you can discover your best qualities and gain lasting confidence. No matter where you are in your life, there’s always something new you can discover about yourself that you can take pride in.

Emily Graham

  • Emily is the creator of MightyMoms.Net. She believes being a mom is one of the hardest jobs around and wanted to create a support system for moms from all walks of life. On her site, she offers a wide range of info tailored for busy moms — from how to reduce stress to creative ways to spend time together as a family. You can email her at emilygraham@mightymoms.net. She lives in Arizona.

Dr. Doug Green

  • Dr. Doug Green provides byte-sized professional development for administrators, teachers, and parents. For more information, please visit his website or contact him today at Doug@DrDougGreen.com.
Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus

First-Year Teachers Can Use These Strategies to Prepare by Emily Graham

Thursday, July 14th, 2022

TUtoring
First-Year Teachers Can Use These Strategies to Prepare

Starting your first year of teaching can be challenging, even with student teaching experience under your belt. You may be anxious about meeting fellow staff members or about how to exercise control over the classroom so that everyone has a fair chance at learning. You might also feel stress over the preparation that goes into a new school year, which is common even for educators who have been in the business a long time.

There are many ways you can ready yourself and your classroom without stress, but the key is to get organized as early as possible. You can also look for resources online that will help you stay focused. Dr. Doug Green has great tips for educators who need a little boost when it comes to professional development.

Here are a few strategies that will help you prepare for your first year as a teacher:

Get your files together

Whether it’s a lesson plan template or a seating chart, keeping your files neat and organized is an essential part of preventing stress or anxiety as a first-year teacher. Separating your documents can lead to important info getting lost, which will affect both you and your students. Keep everything together by using an online tool that will allow you to add pages to PDF so you never have to worry about keeping up with multiple documents. This is a great way to start off the school year since it will help you manage anything classroom-related–including parent consent forms and emergency information–all in one place.

Get to know your new coworkers

You might also learn some great organization tips from your new coworkers, who can help you set up your room or give you pointers on how to manage everything during your first week. Depending on how your school is set up, you may come to depend on the teachers whose classrooms are closest to yours when you need help, so it’s a good idea to get to know them before the school year starts. Ask administrators about upcoming faculty events, and reach out to individual teachers in order to introduce yourself. You can also offer your help to them in the weeks leading up to the first day of school.

Focus on the priorities

As the big day inches closer, it’s important to keep your priorities in check so you can ensure a smooth transition for yourself, your students, and their families. Once you’ve gotten to know some of the other teachers, focus on setting up your classroom, but realize that you don’t have to make it look like a picture-perfect wonderland all at once. Getting organized and creating simple, useful areas in the room is much more important than going all out with a decorative theme and besides, you can add to the classroom aesthetic as the year goes on, especially when different holidays roll around.

Set some guidelines

Once your room is set up, it’s time to think about a careful set of guidelines that will help your students and their families navigate the first weeks of school as smoothly as possible. This will also be helpful to you, of course, and will allow you to save time and energy. Consider the details; depending on the age of your students, you might set rules about how everyone will move to different stations around the room, take restroom breaks, or manage their behavior. Be sure to create a guide for family events, orientation, and conferences as well, so that parents will know what to expect.

Breaking into your first year of teaching can be a trying experience, but it can also be a joyous one. With the right preparations, you can ensure that your classroom is well-organized and that your students have the best possible environment for learning.

Emily Graham
Emily is the creator of MightyMoms.Net. She believes being a mom is one of the hardest jobs around and wanted to create a support system for moms from all walks of life. On her site, she offers a wide range of info tailored for busy moms — from how to reduce stress to creative ways to spend time together as a family. You can email her at emilygraham@mightymoms.net. She lives in Arizona.

Have an education question for Dr. Doug Green? Get in touch today via the contact form.

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus

From Classroom to Closing: Real Estate Insights for Students and Educators by Heather Lee

Thursday, March 14th, 2024

From Classroom to Closing: Real Estate Insights for Students and Educators by Heather Lee

Real Estate
Image source

The transition from classroom education to real-world experiences is a make-or-break journey. As both students and educators are beyond the theoretical constructs of textbooks, the demanding nature of the industry becomes glaringly apparent.

It’s a world that pushes for more than just a theoretical grasp; it necessitates a well-rounded education that seamlessly bridges the gap between academic knowledge and the intricacies of property transactions.

This article will dive into crucial real estate insights for students and educators. It will explore the practical applications of real estate knowledge, uncover the role of development and networking, and explore possible careers in the market.

By the end, you will unravel the roadmap that transforms theoretical understanding into actionable expertise, equipping you for the challenges and triumphs of venturing into real estate.

Building a Strong Educational Foundation

Establishing a robust educational foundation is the bedrock of a successful foray into the intricate world of real estate. Your journey begins with a solid understanding of the theoretical underpinnings that lay the groundwork for practical proficiency.

As an aspiring real estate professional, you must consider courses that cover the fundamentals of the profession. It’s also highly recommended to take programs that delve into specialized areas such as property valuation, market analysis, and legal intricacies. These educational avenues will guide you through the intricacies of real estate.

Alongside coursework is attaining certifications that can boost your credibility within the industry. These credentials validate your competence and expertise, proving that you understand the complexities inherent in real estate transactions.

While textbooks provide the groundwork, real-world scenarios demand a more nuanced approach. Balancing theoretical insights with practical experiences arms you with the adaptability and problem-solving skills crucial for working in the constantly changing real estate market.

Practical Applications of Real Estate Knowledge

The true litmus test of real estate expertise lies in the seamless translation of theoretical knowledge into practical applications. Understanding the significance of applying your acquired knowledge in the field is crucial for a successful venture from classroom theories to actual negotiations.

Property valuation, often a theoretical concept in classrooms, takes on a concrete form in the field. The challenge here is understanding the methodologies and discerning the influential factors that affect property values in real time.

Another cornerstone of real estate education is market analysis, which must also extend beyond theoretical exercises. In the crucible of the industry, the ability to analyze market trends, predict fluctuations, and strategically position properties becomes vital — requiring agility and a keen understanding of the pulse of the industry.

Legal considerations also find practical application in every real estate transaction. Navigating legal intricacies demands a keen eye for detail and a proactive approach. That’s why understanding how to apply legal principles in real-time situations, from drafting contracts to addressing potential disputes, transforms theoretical legal knowledge into a potent tool for successful closings.

Development and Networking Opportunities

Professional development and networking are indispensable pillars in the ever-changing real estate industry. For students, gaining practical experience through internships offers a bridge between classroom learning and real-world application. This hands-on exposure refines skills and provides an invaluable opportunity for mentoring and guiding individuals through the intricacies of the industry.

Meanwhile, participating in industry events serves as a nexus for networking among educators. These conventions are platforms to forge connections that extend beyond the classroom. Real estate thrives on relationships, and industry events provide fertile ground for building a network that surpasses mere acquaintance — potentially evolving into collaborative ventures or mentorship opportunities.

What’s more, workshops and seminars are avenues for continuous learning in real estate both for students and educators. These forums deliver new information while fostering a community eager to share insights and experiences.

Engaging in such educational gatherings is an investment in staying abreast of industry trends, navigating challenges, and seeking professional consultation to refine your skills and knowledge.

Exploring Career Pathways

Understanding the diverse career pathways within real estate marks a pivotal phase from theoretical comprehension to practical application. Real estate offers a spectrum of professions, each with its unique demands and opportunities.

Having insights into these diverse paths equips you with an apprehension of the varied trajectories available in the field. For instance, roles such as real estate agents, property managers, and appraisers constitute the fundamental pillars of the industry as each plays a distinct role in the complex ecosystem.

Real estate investing stands out as one of the most lucrative pathways worth exploring. It serves as an excellent wealth-building strategy due to its ability to yield a steady stream of income with minimal effort. As early as now, it’s essential to dive into the key concepts of investing, from the importance of real estate investment analysis to diversification strategies. By doing so, budding real estate professionals can position themselves for sustained success.

Meanwhile, specialized real estate roles open up avenues for those seeking a niche. Property development, commercial real estate management, and sustainable design are just a few examples. These specialized roles cater to individuals with specific interests and skill sets, contributing to the richness and diversity of the real estate profession.

For students venturing into the dynamic world of real estate, guidance is important. Exploring internships helps you gain practical experience while leveraging networking opportunities will connect you with industry professionals who can mentor you.

Conclusion

From building a robust educational foundation to the practical applications of knowledge, and the significance of professional development and networking, each insight discussed in this article propels individuals towards success.

Remember, the real estate landscape is ever-evolving — making continuous learning and adaptability paramount. Apply the knowledge gained, seek mentorship, and actively engage in the industry.

As students and educators, embrace these insights, apply them fervently, and watch as your endeavors flourish. Your capacity to overcome the complexities of real estate, coupled with a commitment to continuous growth, ensures a trajectory toward a prosperous and fulfilling career in this challenging industry.

Heather
Author Bio:
Meet Heather, a political science graduate who is an intuitive, flexible, and laid-back perfectionist. She has a passion for understanding complex systems and their impact on society. Heather’s attention to detail ensures high-quality work, while her adaptable nature makes her a valuable team player. Her expertise in political science has made her a sought-after speaker.

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus

Gaining Confidence After a Setback by Emily Graham

Tuesday, May 16th, 2023

Confidence
Image via Pexels

Gaining Confidence After a Setback

offers great advice for everyone who has experienced a setback of any kind. Even if you don’t feel like you have been setback by things like the pandemic, this also for you. Thanks, Emily.

The COVID-19 pandemic hit hard all around the world. You may have lost your job or been furloughed. Your kids’ schools likely closed, leaving you to juggle work and child care. Maybe you’ve even been sick with the virus yourself. All this can affect your mental health and leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and down. You can rebuild your confidence by taking small steps each day. Here are some tips from Dr. Doug Green to get you started!

Get Moving

Daily exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood. Taking a brisk walk around the block or working out at home can help you feel better physically and mentally. When you look and feel good, your confidence will return.

Set Small Goals

After a setback, it’s essential to set small, achievable goals. Don’t do too much at once, or you’ll get overwhelmed. Start with something simple, such as trying a new recipe for dinner or reading one chapter of a book each day. As you accomplish your goals, you’ll feel better about yourself and your ability to handle anything that comes your way.

Take Control of Your Finances

The pandemic wreaked havoc on many people’s finances. If you’re still struggling to make ends meet now that things are slowly returning to normal, you can take steps to get back on track. Cutting back on spending and creating a budget can help you get your finances under control. Refinancing your home can save you money monthly on your mortgage payment or free up cash for necessary expenses.

Change Careers and Open a Business

If you’re not happy with your current career, now may be the time to make a change. Making a career change can be scary, but it can also be gratifying. If you’ve always wanted to start your own business, plenty of resources are available to help you get started.

Start with a business plan to know what steps you need to take to get your business off the ground. The plan should include your business goals, a description of your products or services, funding, and target market. You’ll also need to research the competition and find out what makes your business unique. This guide on how to start a company can help you get the ball rolling.

It’s also worth taking a moment to think about conflict resolution in the office, since many people could still be on edge after the emotional turmoil brought about by the pandemic. The last thing you want to do after spending all this time changing careers or starting your own business is see that hard work thwarted by petty grievances.

Going Back to School

Returning to school after a personal or professional setback can be a daunting prospect, but it can also be an empowering and transformative experience. Pursuing a bachelor’s degree, for example, can not only lead to increased job opportunities and earning potential but also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment. With the availability of online education, going back to school has never been more accessible or convenient. Online learning provides flexibility for those juggling work, family, or personal commitments, allowing you to study at your own pace and from anywhere in the world. Plus, with a wide range of online courses and programs available, you can tailor your education to your specific needs and interests. Take the first step towards a brighter future and consider going back to school online for your bachelor’s degree.

Share on Social Media

Sharing your positive experiences and accomplishments on social media can help you regain confidence if you’re feeling down. You can also use social media to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Seeing that others are interested in your actions can make you feel good about yourself.

Rebuild Your Life After the Pandemic

The pandemic was tough on everyone. If you’ve lost your confidence, you can get it back with the right plan. Begin a fitness routine, start your own business, brush up on your conflict resolution skills, and share your successes on social media to inspire others!

Emily Graham
Emily is the creator of MightyMoms.net. She believes being a mom is one of the hardest jobs around and wanted to create a support system for moms from all walks of life. On her site, she offers a wide range of info tailored for busy moms — from how to reduce stress to creative ways to spend time together as a family. You can email her at emilygraham@mightymoms.net. She lives in Arizona.

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus

Hacking Student Learning Habits: 9 Ways to Foster Resilient Learners and Assess the Process, Not the Outcome by Elizabeth Jorgensen

Monday, September 5th, 2022

Hacking Habits
Hacking Student Learning Habits: 9 Ways to Foster Resilient Learners and Assess the Process, Not the Outcome by Elizabeth Johnson offers a host of great advice that beginning and veteran teachers can use to help their students form efficient learning habits. If you want to shift student focus from grades to learning with a bigger purpose, start here. Every leader should be sure to add this fine book to their professional development library.

Introduction: Implement Process-based Assessment

  • As the subtitle implies, the goal is to focus on the process, not the finished product. The teacher provides feedback (no grades) to all students and tells them it is to help improve their work and not to judge anyone. Students are expected to make mistakes and learn from them. All work requires revision. Students are given ample time to write and revise in class, so late work isn’t an issue. By engaging in expected behaviors and habits, they earn points. Points are never taken away and can be used to generate grades if necessary.
  • Do not use grades or rubrics. Rubrics are not used as they stifle creativity, prevent risk-taking, and provide a blueprint for blandness. All it does is expedite grading. It is also necessary to write a lot and to get feedback from the teacher and your peers. In the beginning, students and parents get letters from the teacher and a former student outlining expectations. (See the appendix for these letters.)

1. Create Process-Based Learning Habits: Support Skill-Building

  • The goal is for students to form habits that allow them to be their best, develop higher-order thinking, and solve problems. Habits like reading each day, and getting proper sleep, exercise, and nutrition should be on the list. Students need to gather ideas, attempt challenges, collaborate, celebrate small victories, and play. The focus should be on effort rather than results. They should know that they have the power to improve and control their own progress through the habits they form. When possible, students should set goals.
  • As a teacher, focus your energy on the things you can control and teach your students to do the same. Look for allies at conferences, on social media, and in your own school. Experiment with better ways to engage students. Share student work online and in school displays. Students should feel like it’s not about getting something done; rather, it’s about the process. Their big goal is to become self-directed learners.

2. Encourage Practice, Not Perfection: Performance with Daily Habits

  • The important thing is to convince students of the benefits of accumulated daily practice. Remind them that their favorite sports stars practice every day. You can’t do yesterday’s practice tomorrow. Daily production increases confidence. Assess them on their ability to work through the process of practice. Inspire students to set process-driven goals. They need to identify with your help the behaviors they need to repeat each day. Seeing others be productive can exert powerful pressure.
  • They should share their practice and receive feedback from each other, their teachers, and ideally, their parents and other family members. They should view feedback as a collaboration rather than judgment. They should value improvement over outcomes. Be sure not to average grades if you do give them. Efforts should simply add to previous efforts. Have face-to-face meetings with parents whose students struggle and have the students run the meeting that deals with the class problems and forms a plan.
Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus

Harnessing the Fidget by Amanda Winstead

Sunday, May 22nd, 2022

Widget
Harnessing the Fidget by Amanda Winstead explains how to deal with kids who can’t sit still. If you want a fidgety child or adult to be more productive this article will help.

Introduction

  • Fidgeting is often associated with a lack of attention or disinterest for both kids and adults. However, it’s not without its benefits. Whether your children are clicking pens or playing with actual fidget toys, fidgeting can actually contribute to enhanced focus and increased information retention — and not just during their youth. Learning how to make the most of fidgeting can help students achieve long-term success, even after they graduate from school and enter the workforce.
  • Harnessing the fidget can require different methods from student to student. However, when you identify one individual’s needs, you can help them turn their fidgets into a tool, rather than a distraction. Let’s explore how fidgeting can present itself in toddlers and kids, why it helps with focus, and how you can productively nurture fidgets.

How Fidgeting is Identified in Young Kids

  • Fidgeting doesn’t always look the same from student to student. In fact, several fidgeting styles are commonly seen in young children. For example, while some students prefer to keep their hands or mouths preoccupied, others fidget by moving their entire bodies.
  • No fidgeting style is inherently bad, but students often won’t know how to use their fidgets positively without the guidance of adults. But with the help of educators and parents, children can successfully get the stimulation they need without distracting their peers or losing focus themselves. For example, while kids with busybodies may constantly shift their weight in a chair without guidance, teachers who offer wobble chairs or resistance bands can help them achieve movement in a non-disruptive way.
  • Identifying each child’s fidgeting style can help you transfer their movement to a better outlet, so every student can achieve equal focus in class.

Why Fidgeting Helps Students Stay Focused

  • So what is it about fidgeting that makes it helpful for focus? Physical activity naturally boosts your body’s levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which are two neurotransmitters that boost your focus and attention span. Since mindless fidgets — such as drumming fingers, squeezing stress balls, or walking while studying — don’t require any thought, they can offer these attention-boosting benefits while allowing students to zoom in on their primary task.
  • Fidgeting is especially helpful for kids with ADHD, who often need an outlet to release their high levels of energy. It can also help students with autism receive much-needed stimulation and cope with sensory overload. Students with anxiety may also be able to ease their nerves.
  • Suppressing movement, on the other hand, can make it difficult for some kids to turn on their brains and process the information they’re receiving from their teachers, books, or videos. Without fidgets, students may be overwhelmed by an entire room full of distractions.

Fidgeting Continues in the Workplace

  • Fidgeting isn’t just something that happens at school. When students graduate and start their careers, their fidgeting doesn’t go away. For many adults, fidgets promote engagement at work and enhance creativity. When workers give their natural movements an outlet, they can improve their performance at work and contribute more to their teams.
  • However, no company wants a nuisance in their office or on their video calls. Helping people nurture their fidgets in a way that’s not noisy or noticeable — perhaps by wiggling their toes instead of shaking their legs — can give them transferable skills for a professional workplace.

How to Nurture Fidgets at Home in a Productive Way

  • While parents are often accustomed to asking fidgeting kids to stay still, children can benefit more when their parents allow them to express their fidgets in positive, productive ways at home — not just in the classroom. Dedicated at-home learning spaces that are conducive to fidgets are critical in our modern world, in which digitized education reduces physical stimulation, especially for kids with ADHD.
  • On top of offering different ways to fidget from their workspace, parents can offer sensory play activities that stimulate the senses to continue their brain development after school. For example, Play-Doh and busy boards with knobs and dials can be incredibly stimulating, while encouraging kids to explore the world in a way that’s conducive to their learning and fidgeting style.

Embracing Fidgets Can Lead to Brighter Futures

  • While fidgets are often viewed in a negative light, they can actually aid students and adults in their educational journeys. Parents and teachers must increasingly support fidgets with the right outlets, rather than preventing them altogether. By giving students the right outlets, you can enhance their focus, memory, and even their creativity in the long run.
  • Personalize your support by identifying how your child fidgets, then provide non-distracting mediums for them to express themselves through movement. When students understand how to harness their fidgets, they can succeed in any learning or working environment without distracting their peers. This can be a huge win for any teacher or parent.

Amanda Winstead

  • Amanda is a freelance writer out of Portland focusing on many topics including educational technology. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.
Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus

How Teachers Should Educate Students About Vaccinations by Amanda Winstead

Saturday, October 30th, 2021

Teach About Vaccines
How Teachers Should Educate Students About Vaccinations by Amanda Winstead is a resource that all teachers can use as they work to build vaccine awareness and knowledge. Since this is such a hot topic, students will likely have a level of interest that you can leverage to help them learn and grow in many ways. Thanks, Amanda.

Introduction

  • The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted various areas of education. The most prevalent is how to safeguard students’ and teachers’ health while maintaining in-school teaching. Thankfully, the rollout of vaccines is starting to provide a tool to support this. These are available at the moment to adults and as such are primarily keeping teachers and students over 12 from experiencing the worst effects of the virus. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently reviewing vaccines for children. These are likely to become a reality for all students soon.
  • All this means vaccines are a timely topic for discussion in schools. There is a toxic culture of misinformation surrounding the efficacy and safety of these important health tools. While current levels of cynicism have reached new heights, this is nothing new. The anti-vax movement has long cast unnecessary and inaccurate doubt on vaccines of all kinds. It’s vital, therefore, that teachers become reliable sources of factual and scientific information on vaccines in general.
  • Let’s look into a few of the approaches you can use to have a positive impact on students during this time.

Vaccine

Use the Curriculum

  • Students are being surrounded by all kinds of information outside of school. What they don’t need from educators is another opinion on the subject. They need facts to help inform their knowledge about the efficacy and usage of the vaccine. A good way to approach this is by framing it within the context of their usual curriculum.
  • Biology classes are an important forum to present the scientific case for vaccination. Talk about the basics of how vaccines work as a way to prepare the body for the presence of a virus. Introduce them to the range of vaccines provided as standard for most children. Explore the role vaccines have in addressing illnesses like measles, tetanus, and polio. For slightly older students, it can be interesting to introduce the process of vaccine development. Go through testing and approval. This not only gives them a scientific understanding of vaccines but also helps to dispel fears about any risks involved.
  • However, science-based classes are not the only area of curriculum you can provide vaccine information. History classes exploring the development of the first vaccines by Edward Jenner can provide both background knowledge and perspectives of the way vaccines have improved our society. This doesn’t require you to rely on opinions about efficacy. There are objective facts you can provide about mortality and illness rates before and after the introduction of vaccines. Consider not just how to provide better vaccine information to your students but also how to incorporate it as part of their wider learning.

Make It a Discussion

  • Let’s face it, students rarely like to be dictated to. It doesn’t matter whether this comes from teachers, parents, or other authority figures. In all cases, it can elicit a frustrating sense of belittlement. It’s no different when it comes to the subject of vaccines. Instead of approaching vaccine education as something simply to be lectured on, get them involved in a more collaborative discussion.
  • As with any debate, it’s important to set boundaries. Provide clarity on respecting viewpoints and giving one another chances to speak. Make it clear that you will be facilitating their thoughts and ideas while not offering opinions of your own. It can be a wise option to clarify that the discussion is about vaccines in general. This can ease the tension of contemporary issues and open the floor to a wider discussion. Alternatively, you can provide a platform for questions to be submitted anonymously. Use a physical question box or online collaborative classroom software. Use these as the grounds to start structured debates to provide purely fact-based responses.
  • One of the most important uses of this type of discussion is it can highlight where the problematic areas of their vaccine knowledge are. The types of questions, arguments, and opinions offered can pinpoint what the most important areas of educational focus are. It tells you where additional factual resources might be required to give students the data they need to make informed decisions. It also gives you insights into their fears and what types of reassurance they might need.

Give Them the Tools

  • At its most effective, education is about empowering students to be arbiters of their learning. Sometimes the best gift you can give your students is the resources to follow their curiosity. The same approach applies to vaccine education.
  • One of the most important resources you can provide here is access to experts. Invite local public health professionals into the classroom to participate in discussions. Epidemiologists, in particular, have expertise in the analysis of the state of public health events, communicate protocols and factual data clearly, and often choose to specialize in infectious diseases. They will have access to the latest data on various illnesses and current vaccine safety information. As they are committed to improving public health, they are likely keen to engage with your students in meaningful and scientifically supported ways.
  • Alongside introducing them to sources of information, you should teach them to treat the information they gather appropriately. Show them responsible research techniques. Introduce them to activities to help them recognize credible sources of news and information. Highlight the questions they should be asking before trusting an article, research paper, or a statement by a public figure. Make sure they don’t just apply these in the outside world but in the classroom. Encourage them to question you if they feel the scientific or factual information in lessons isn’t solid. In essence, help them to become more discerning citizens.

Conclusion

  • Vaccines are among our most important health tools, even aside from the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s important to make sure students receive practical and accurate education on the topic. Work to make it a relevant part of the current curriculum and wherever possible encourage discussions on the matter. It is important to help your students to become more empowered researchers so they can make informed decisions going forward. As a teacher, you are uniquely positioned to make a positive difference in your students’ lives.

Amanda Winstead

  • Amanda is a freelance writer out of Portland focusing on many topics including educational technology. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.
Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus

How to Be Connected With Your Students by Christine Allen

Saturday, August 20th, 2016

How to Be Connected With Your Students by Christine Allen will help all teachers strengthen the relationships with students that are vital to their success.
Relationships

Introduction

  • Some of us were lucky to meet teachers who managed to build a strong connection with them. Those who did meet them, know that teaching doesn’t have to be all about giving tests and lecturing. Teachers who manage to build a connection with their students, are able to inspire, to motivate, and to help them. And that’s an amazing thing.
    It is important for a good teacher to become connected with their students. This is probably the easiest and pleasant way to shape young peoples’ minds and to help them change their lives. For some students, school is a place that allows them to escape their unpleasant lives at home and to believe that things can get better. A good teacher can support them in that effort.
  • Moreover, if you know more about your students, you can understand why some of them fall behind in the class, why some of them don’t have time to do their homework, among other things. It is very important for the teacher to see the whole situation before starting to judge their students. However, despite the fact that many teachers understand the importance of building a connection with their students, only some of them actually know how to create and support this connection. This is easier than it seems. All you need is to follow a few simple tips.

1. Take time to talk with your students

  • Even if you spend five minutes of your class talking with students, this can still work wonders. Ask them about their interests, hobbies, discuss new music hits or TV shows, and talk with them about their day and their plans for the future. The only important thing here is to be really interested in what they are saying. This way they’ll slowly learn to trust you. If you think that some of your students have problems, try talking with them in private. However, it’s important not to rush this conversation. Start only when you are sure that your students trust you enough to share private things.

2. Start class discussions

  • Most of the information in class comes from teacher. It can, however, be changed from time to time. A class discussion will allow students to communicate both with a teacher and with each other, to speak in front of an audience to express their points of view and to support them with arguments, to be the center of attention, and to learn more about their fellow classmates. You can discuss possible topics of such discussions with students. This way they’ll talk about things that interest them and you will learn more about them.

3. Go to see the events your students participate in.

  • Not every teacher has enough time and desire to pay attention to what their students are doing after classes. However, it’s one of the best ways to build a connection with them. If they like you, they will be happy to see you and to receive your support. Moreover, this way you will show them that you are really interested in them and in things they do. This way you may also be able to meet (or at least see) their families, to talk to them and to learn more about them. Parents too will see that you care about their children. This usually encourages them to communicate and to cooperate with teachers more. Even if you are very busy, you can add some events to your schedule from time to time. Just be sure to plan them as early as possible so you won’t miss them.

4. Show students that you are available.

  • This doesn’t mean that you have to stay after school talking with your students. These measures are required only in emergency situations. You can still show them that you are available during your working hours. Encourage them to come to you if they need something or just want to spend their break somewhere where it’s quiet. Tell them that you can help them both with their homework and their problems if they want to. And be sure to keep this promise. After all, if you want your students to rely on you, you have to become really reliable. I hope these tips will help you to gain students’ trust and to build a strong connection with them.

Christine Allen

    C Allen
  • Christine Allen from Chicago, USA, is young writer and blogger at essaystorm.com. She believes that you can get everything that you want. You just need to be sure in what you really want and be patient. You can follow her on Facebook and Google+.
Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Google Plus