Category: EDUCATION

  • Creative Applications of AI in Design –

    Creative Applications of AI in Design –

    [ad_1]

    Ai Img FiAi Img Fi

    In the digital age, branding has evolved into an art and a science, requiring businesses to craft unique visual identities that resonate with their audiences. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this revolution, offering innovative tools to simplify and amplify the design process.

    From creating eye-catching logos to designing business cards and promotional materials, AI tools are transforming branding for businesses of all sizes.

    AI-powered branding: A game-changer for businesses

    AI tools like Dreamina provide businesses with accessible and cost-effective solutions for creating professional designs. Unlike traditional design methods that require extensive time, effort, and expertise, AI-powered tools leverage algorithms to deliver impressive results in minutes. These tools cater to startups, small businesses, and even large corporations seeking efficiency and creativity. By using the best free AI image generator, businesses can quickly generate high-quality visuals without breaking the bank.

    Why Is Dreamina the ultimate tool for effortless branding?

    Affordability: Dreamina offers cost-effective options, with many free & easy-to-use toolkits, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes.

    Speed: With AI-powered design tools, Dreamina delivers fast results, helping you meet tight deadlines without sacrificing quality.

    Scalability: Create a wide range of branded materials—logos, social media graphics, banners, and more—with ease, ensuring consistent branding across all platforms.

    User-friendly: No design expertise required! Dreamina’s intuitive interface empowers anyone to craft professional-grade visuals quickly and effortlessly.

    10 creative applications of utilizing AI in branding

    1. Logo creation with AI: A logo is the heart of a brand’s identity, and Dreamina simplifies the creation process. By analyzing your preferences and brand personality, this free AI logo generator generates visually stunning logo options that align perfectly with your vision. Whether you’re looking for a minimalist design or something bold and dynamic, Dreamina ensures your logo stands out and reflects your brand essence.

    2. Business card design: Business cards remain a powerful branding tool, and Dreamina makes designing them effortless. This business card generator offers tailored layouts that incorporate your logo, colors, and typography for a cohesive brand image. With its intuitive interface, you can create business cards that leave a lasting impression, whether for networking events or client meetings.

    3. Social media content creation: Social media is a vital platform for brand visibility, and Dreamina helps you create eye-catching visuals for posts, stories, and ads. By adapting to your brand guidelines, it produces content that engages your audience and maintains consistency across platforms. From promotional graphics to infographics, Dreamina ensures your social media stands out.

    4. Custom image generation: For campaigns requiring unique visuals, Dreamina’s AI-powered image generator delivers exceptional results. It allows businesses to create images tailored to their needs, from e-commerce product displays to creative marketing concepts. With Dreamina, you can produce high-quality visuals that enhance your brand’s storytelling.

    5. Marketing materials: Dreamina streamlines the creation of marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, and banners. Its AI ensures these designs are not only visually appealing but also aligned with your overall branding strategy. This enables businesses to produce professional-grade materials quickly and cost-effectively, perfect for both online and offline campaigns.

    6. Event branding: Dreamina’s tools extend to event branding by creating cohesive visuals like invitations, backdrops, and signage. Its AI ensures designs align with your event’s theme while staying true to your overall branding. This is especially helpful for businesses hosting product launches, conferences, or corporate events.

    7. Website visuals: A website is often the cornerstone of a brand’s digital presence. Dreamina assists in creating visuals like headers, banners, and icons that elevate the user experience. With its ability to adapt to different design styles, Dreamina ensures your website reflects professionalism and aesthetic appeal.

    8. Product packaging design: Product packaging plays a crucial role in consumer decision-making. Dreamina simplifies packaging design by offering customizable templates that align with your brand’s style. From sleek minimalism to bold and colorful designs, Dreamina ensures your packaging captures attention and communicates value.

    9. Email campaign graphics: Email marketing requires visually appealing templates to grab attention. Dreamina enables the creation of eye-catching email headers and graphics that enhance click-through rates. Its designs ensure your emails stand out in crowded inboxes while maintaining brand consistency.

    10. Merchandise design: Branded merchandise like T-shirts, mugs, and tote bags is an excellent way to promote a business. Dreamina streamlines the design process, allowing businesses to create customized graphics that resonate with their audience. This is especially useful for promotional events or product launches.

    How does an AI image generator enhance branding efficiency?

    AI tools not only simplify the creative process but also improve the efficiency and scalability of branding efforts. Dreamina eliminates the complexities of traditional design processes, enabling businesses to achieve professional-grade results quickly and affordably. Here’s how Dreamina – the best free AI image generator works:

    1. 1. Automation of repetitive tasks

    Dreamina handles boring and time-consuming tasks like resizing images or making different versions of a design. This saves time and lets teams focus on more creative ideas. It also adjusts designs for different platforms automatically, making the process faster and easier.

    1. 2. Consistency across platforms

    With Dreamina, your brand looks the same everywhere—on social media, websites, and printed materials. It ensures your logo, colors, and fonts match your brand guidelines, making your business easily recognizable and professional. It can even suggest fixes to keep things consistent.

    1. 3. Accessibility for non-designers

    Dreamina is so simple that anyone can use it—even without design skills. It has ready-made templates, drag-and-drop tools, and smart design tips that make creating professional visuals quick and stress-free. This means your team doesn’t need to depend on expert designers for every little thing.

    1. 4. Cost-effective and scalable

    Using Dreamina saves money since you don’t need to hire extra designers or buy expensive tools. It’s perfect for growing businesses that need lots of designs for social media, ads, or events. You can easily create more visuals without spending a lot.

    Conclusion

    Dreamina is revolutionizing branding by making creative design more efficient, accessible, and impactful. From logo creation and business card design to social media content and product packaging, Dreamina provides comprehensive solutions that empower businesses to create cohesive and professional branding materials. With AI tools, businesses of all sizes can deliver a consistent brand message across platforms, engage audiences effectively, and leave a lasting impression on a competitive market.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Polish Your Instagram Reels With CapCut Background Removal Tool –

    Polish Your Instagram Reels With CapCut Background Removal Tool –

    [ad_1]

    Everyone loves Instagram Reels. Content creators are facing high competition to gain the attention of their audience. Attractive and clean reels always gain popularity. 

    CapCut, free video editing software, provides a clear interface, which makes video editing for Instagram reels simple for everyone. Users can promptly discover tools and features without getting confused. The easy-to-understand setup helps with easy navigation. Anyone can start editing Instagram videos immediately with a few taps. CapCut desktop video editor design allows beginners to feel secure and sure of themselves.

    Instagram PolishedInstagram Polished

    Why Background Matters in Instagram Reels

    The background of your video is more than just scenery; it’s a storytelling element that sets the tone, mood, and focus. A cluttered or irrelevant background can detract from the message of your video and lead to viewer distraction. On the other hand, a thoughtfully chosen or edited background can:

    • Enhance the professionalism of your content.
    • Align with your brand identity.
    • Draw attention to the main subject.
    • Create a visually cohesive aesthetic.

    This underscores the importance of a reliable tool for background manipulation for content creators, marketers, and influencers.

    Why Background Removal Matters for Instagram Reels

    The background of your video plays a crucial role in its overall aesthetic and impact. A cluttered or distracting background can take the viewer’s attention away from the main subject, while a clean or customized background can help reinforce the theme or message of your content. Traditionally, removing or changing a background required green screens or advanced editing software. These options are not only costly but also demand a steep learning curve.

    CapCut’s tools, such as text-to-speech and auto captions, have made it easy to edit Instagram reels and eliminated these barriers. They allow creators to seamlessly remove or replace backgrounds without any special equipment. This means you can shoot videos in your bedroom, living room, or any location, making them look professional.

    Many content creators have already embraced CapCut’s Background Removal Tool to produce viral Instagram Reels. 

    For example, lifestyle influencers use it to create themed backgrounds that match their outfits or product promotions. Fitness coaches utilize the tool to film workouts in their living rooms and replace the background with gym settings. Even small businesses have leveraged it to produce professional-looking advertisements without hiring videographers.

    CapCut offers to remove background from video by BG remover tool features that make it an indispensable part of any content creator’s toolkit:

    AI-Powered Precision: AI tools use AI algorithms to isolate and detect the subject from a video background. This ensures accurate background removal even in videos with complex elements like hair or intricate movements.

    Real-Time Preview: Creators can see how their video looks with the background removed or replaced in real time, making the editing process faster and more intuitive.

    Customization Options: After removing the background, users can replace it with solid colors, gradients, images, or even videos.

    No Green Screen Required: Unlike traditional methods, CapCut’s tool does not require a green screen, making it accessible to anyone with a camera or smartphone.

    Using the Background Removal Tool in the CapCut desktop video editor is very easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

    1. Download and Install CapCut: Visit the official CapCut website to download the desktop version for your operating system. Once installed, launch the application.

    2. Import Your Video: Import your Instagram reel onto the CapCut timeline.

    Ig BrtIg Brt

    3. Apply Background Removal: Select the video clip on the timeline and navigate to the Background Removal Tool in the toolbar. Enable the feature, and the AI will automatically analyze and remove the background.

    Is Bgt 2Is Bgt 2

    4. Customize Your Background: Replace the removed background with your desired option. You can upload your images or videos or choose from CapCut’s library of assets. Adjust the brightness, opacity, or blur levels to ensure the new AI background perfectly matches the subject.

    5. Export Your Video: Once satisfied with your edits, export the video in your preferred resolution and format, ready to upload to Instagram Reels.

    A64632e9 9d5f 4614 9061 68108d2c856cA64632e9 9d5f 4614 9061 68108d2c856c

    Creative Applications of Background Removal in Reels

    The versatility of CapCut’s Background Removal Tool enables creators to experiment with diverse applications, such as:

    Product Showcases: Highlight products against clean, branded backgrounds for a professional look.

    Tutorials and Demos: Keep the focus on your actions by removing distractions from the background.

    Storytelling: Create dynamic narratives by changing settings without leaving your workspace.

    Collaborative Projects: Combine clips from multiple creators, ensuring a uniform background for consistency.

    Conclusion

    CapCut’s desktop video editor and its Background Removal Tool can change how creators approach Instagram Reels. 

    By combining accessibility, advanced technology, and ease of use, this tool empowers anyone to produce visually stunning content. Whether you’re a seasoned influencer or a newbie trying to make your mark, CapCut provides tools to polish your Reels and captivate your audience. With features like the Background Removal Tool, your next viral video could be just a few clicks away.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Protecting Your Digital Footprint –

    Protecting Your Digital Footprint –

    [ad_1]

    The massive T-Mobile data breach in 2023, which exposed 37 million customers’ data, was a stark reminder: cybersecurity isn’t just IT jargon—it’s a necessity in our digital world.

    Whether you check your bank balance on your phone, work remotely, or browse social media, your digital footprint is vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated attacks.

    Today’s Cyber Landscape

    Think of cybersecurity like home security—except the threats are invisible and constantly evolving. Hackers aren’t just mysterious figures in hoodies anymore; they’re often well-funded organizations using artificial intelligence and automated tools to probe for weaknesses. In January 2024 alone, cyber insurance provider Coalition reported a 40% increase in ransomware attacks compared to the previous year, with small businesses particularly vulnerable.

    Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become as essential as antivirus software. When Sarah Chen, a freelance designer in Seattle, had her client presentations intercepted over public WiFi, she learned this lesson the hard way. “I thought VPNs were just for accessing geo-blocked content,” she says. “Now I won’t connect to any public network without one.”

    But VPNs are just one piece of the puzzle. Modern security requires a layered approach:

    • Password Managers: Gone are the days when “Password123!” was acceptable. Tools like Bitwarden help generate and store complex, unique passwords for each account.
    • Two-Factor Authentication: According to Microsoft’s 2023 Security Report, adding this extra step has prevented 99.9% of automated attacks.
    • Regular Software Updates: Those annoying update prompts? They often patch critical security vulnerabilities. The WannaCry ransomware attack primarily affected computers that had delayed their updates.

    The Internet of (Vulnerable) Things

    Your smart doorbell, refrigerator, and thermostat might make your home more convenient and vulnerable. In a recent demonstration at DEF CON 2023, security researchers showed how a compromised smart coffee maker could be used to access an entire home network. Before adding any smart device to your network:

    1. Change default passwords immediately
    2. Keep firmware updated
    3. Use a separate WiFi network for IoT devices when possible
    4. Research the manufacturer’s security track record

    See also What Is The Internet Of Things?

    Social Engineering: The Human Factor

    While technology evolves, human psychology remains a constant target. Modern phishing attacks are sophisticated enough to fool even tech-savvy users. Last year, a junior employee at a Fortune 500 company received what appeared to be a routine Zoom meeting invitation from their CEO. One click led to ransomware affecting the entire organization.

    To protect yourself:

    • Verify unexpected requests through a different communication channel
    • Be wary of urgency in emails (“Act now!” or “Emergency!”)
    • Check email addresses carefully—modern scammers use nearly identical domains
    • Never provide credentials or sensitive information via email

    Looking Forward

    In the rapidly evolving digital realm, ensuring the security of your online presence is of utmost importance. The Virtual Private Network (VPN) emerges as a pivotal tool, offering a shield for secure browsing and preserving anonymity, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi networks. This technology is indispensable for safeguarding your digital identity.

    As we move deeper into 2024, cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s as fundamental as locking your front door. The good news? You don’t need to be a tech expert to protect yourself. Start with the basics: use a VPN on public WiFi, keep your software updated, and think twice before clicking links or downloading attachments.

    Remember: cybersecurity is about building good habits, not achieving perfection. Each small step you take makes you significantly safer online.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • The Difference Between Chronos And Kairos In The Classroom –

    The Difference Between Chronos And Kairos In The Classroom –

    [ad_1]


    Harnessing Kairos: Balancing Structured Time and Learning Velocity in K-12 Classrooms

    Time in education is about more than minutes on the clock or adhering to rigid schedules. It’s about how students experience time cognitively and emotionally in the learning process. A deeper dive into these ideas reveals actionable ways to create meaningful learning experiences for students.

    Educational philosopher Shari Tishman describes this beautifully in her work, Slow Observation: The Art and Practice of Learning. She reminds us that observation and understanding happen through repeated encounters with ideas and experiences—’re-searching’ in the truest sense. Similarly, educators must question how ‘time’ and ‘space’ function in classrooms and how they enhance or limit learning.

    This brings us to the ancient Greek concepts of time: Chronos and Kairos.

    Chronos refers to chronological, measurable time—class periods, units, pacing guides.

    Kairos refers to opportune moments, when time and readiness align to spark understanding and insight. In teaching, Kairos often happens when students connect ideas in their own unique ways and at their own pace.

    Kairos refers to the opportune moments for learning, emphasizing a student’s readiness and cognitive state to engage with knowledge in a meaningful way. Chronos, on the other hand, represents chronological, structured time in education, focusing on scheduled periods, lesson plans, and the pacing of material delivery.

    Shifting from Chronos to Kairos in the Classroom

    Too often, modern education focuses exclusively on Chronos—structured schedules, standardized tests, fixed lesson plans—while neglecting Kairos, the individualized cognitive ‘space’ that empowers students to explore, question, and develop critical thinking skills. This tendency puts students into one-size-fits-all molds and overlooks individual learning ‘velocities.’

    See also Critical Thinking Is A Mindset

    In practical terms, learning velocity is the pace at which a student processes, absorbs, and applies knowledge. Some students process quickly, demonstrating strong memorization and performing well on timed assessments. Others take more time to explore ideas, ask questions, or internalize new information, leading to deeper critical thinking and stronger problem-solving skills. Both approaches are valuable, and good teaching makes room for both.

    One Example Of Kairos And Chronos

    • A fast processor in math might quickly memorize formulas but struggle to apply them to real-world problems.
    • A slower processor might take longer to understand the formulas but develop deeper applications and connections over time.

    Neither is inherently better or worse; they are simply different manifestations of learning. The teacher’s role is to recognize and honor these differences, creating a balance between the structure of Chronos and the flexibility of Kairos.

    Kairos refers to the opportune moments for learning, emphasizing a student’s readiness and cognitive state to engage with knowledge in a meaningful way. Chronos, on the other hand, represents chronological, structured time in education, focusing on scheduled periods, lesson plans, and the pacing of material delivery.

    The difference lies in that Kairos centers on the qualitative aspects of learninghow and when a student is most receptive—while Chronos is concerned with the quantitative measurement of time allocated for instruction. Effective teaching should harmonize both concepts, using chronological planning to support the cultivation of Kairos moments that foster deeper understanding and critical thinking.

    6 Simple Strategies For Reclaiming Kairos In The Classroom

    Build in Open-Ended Exploration

    Allow students time to engage with material deeply, especially after introducing a new concept. For example, after a direct instruction session on the Civil Rights Movement, provide space for students to ask questions or research specific figures or events that interest them.

    Incorporate Reflection Time

    Reflection is helpful for slower cognitive processing and creates new connections for students. Use journaling, silent thinking time, or reflective discussions after a lesson to encourage students to process at their own pace.

    Offer Flexible Pacing Options

    If homework, projects, or assessments have hard deadlines, allow flexible pathways for completion. For instance, provide tiered assignments where students can choose a base-level task or optional extensions to push deeper thinking.

    Use Multiple Learning Modalities

    Balance structured activities (e.g., worksheets and quizzes) with more exploratory opportunities such as group work, projects, or debates to engage both faster and slower learners. A science inquiry project, for example, could include space for both quick experiments and in-depth research.

    Redefine Success

    Move beyond metrics that attribute higher achievement only to speed or memorization. For instance, assess critical thinking through open-ended questions, projects, or portfolios that include evidence of deliberation and creativity, not just speed.

    Understanding the Impact of Mind-Space

    Teaching for Kairos not only supports individual learning velocities but also fosters independence and critical thinking. Importantly, it shifts the focus from “what to learn” to ‘how to learn.’ When students have the freedom to explore their unique pace and processing styles, they gain an understanding of themselves as learners.

    Consider a student who struggles with timed reading comprehension tests may excel in writing essays that allow time for thought and creativity. Without opportunities to explore this strength, that student might disengage from the learning process altogether. Creating ‘Kairotic space’ prevents this kind of disconnect, allowing students to define their own success.

    Closing Thoughts

    Reclaiming Kairos in classrooms requires intentionality. From rethinking lesson plans to building in opportunities for exploratory and reflective learning, every teacher has the ability to create mind-spaces that have the best chance of helping students learn.

    In the end, honoring learning velocity means acknowledging that students don’t just need time in the classroom—they need space within the classroom to grow, question, and develop understanding at their own pace. When this happens, students achieve not just as learners but as critical thinkers prepared for a lifetime of exploration/

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Language Learning Barriers Through Classroom Management

    Language Learning Barriers Through Classroom Management

    [ad_1]

    Use Classroom Management Platforms and Other Tools to Overcome Barriers in Learning a Language

    contributed by Al Kingsley, CEO of NetSupport

    Teaching a language, whether for ESL students or those learning something new like French or Spanish – requires largely the same teaching skills as any other subject.

    Yet, in some critical ways – especially for ESL students – the challenges are magnified by the comprehension barrier. Not unlike the barriers every student can face, students learning languages hit plateaus and lose focus, are unmotivated, get distracted, and probably most glaringly apparent, are hindered by lack of confidence.

    Edtech can help. There are scores of products that are explicitly for language instruction and even more that are more general use, but when explored through the lens of language learning, have surprising benefits. So let’s look at the most common challenges language learners face and the surprising ways edtech can overcome them. Included in these tips are new ways to use your classroom management platform in ways you might not have realized.

    Challenge No. 1: Focus

    A class of 30 students is a handful. If they are all relatively close in skill, teaching is easier, but add a few ESL students or those behind grade level or above grade level, and the challenges multiply. Being on my county’s Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Board, I’m keenly aware of this impact on a teacher’s day especially when every teacher I’ve ever met is so dedicated to meeting every student’s individual needs.

    Particularly for ESL students, they need learning tools suiting their skill level. Teachers usually know exactly the resource each student needs, but sometimes all 30 of them need a different resource or are on a different level. Keeping all of them on the track and engaged can pull away from instructional time. Your classroom management solution is probably the best resource you have for this particular problem. Use it to launch a learning app right on a student’s desktop without leaving your own. It’s also possible to send websites and documents to students, and monitor how long they’ve been on a site or a particular learning app without leaving your own desk.

    Challenge No. 2: Motivation

    Intrinsic motivation is what we’re aiming for, in other words guiding our students to feel agency and pride in their work. Teachers are terrific cheerleaders in this way and we don’t want tech to get in the way. Rather, see it as a tool to provide encouragement and nudge them along.

    For the ESL student, developing a presentation about their home country, food, or really anything unique to their culture is a chance for a student to show off what they know. Many edtech tools are terrific for featuring this kind of creativity. Consider using a comic book program like Pixton, or a digital whiteboard like Creatly to storyboard presentations. Book Creator is another tool to present information. Each of these tools encourages creative expression and agency. 

    Don’t forget to check your classroom management platform because it most likely has a digital whiteboard, too. Teachers can give input directly onto the student’s device or even use it for whole-class instruction, and of course, the student can use it as a scratchboard or storyboarding tool. 

    Challenge No. 3: Distractions

    Few people like to talk about distractions because it seems impossible to wrangle them under control. Distractions come from other students, phones, noises outside the window, and the very technology we place in front of our students. Teachers are excellent time managers, yet even veteran teachers agree that keeping students on task is difficult.

    For the language learner, not staying on task is often a symptom of a more significant problem like not fully understanding the instructions in the first place. These students need more direct contact with their teacher to stay on task so using a classroom management platform like NetSupport School makes those nudges and redirects far less disruptive. From the app on the teacher’s desktop, they can see the students’ screens and what they are working on, and even shut down windows and apps for students who aren’t doing the right work. 

    This same tactic also helps the student learning a foreign language like those in French, Spanish, or German classes. With that same classroom management app, teachers can monitor how long a student has been engaging with the assigned material. Too long might not actually be intentional. The student could simply be struggling to understand, which a teacher can quickly recognize and remedy. Give additional instructions to individual students or to groups using either chat, audio, or video recordings. Then the student can replay or slow down the direction for better comprehension.  

    Challenge No. 4: Confidence

    Poor self-esteem and lack of confidence are not the same thing, but they do tend to go together. I know plenty of students (and adults) with strong self-esteem who lack the confidence to do new things in unfamiliar situations. What’s startling is how many people don’t realize what is really behind them getting stuck or hitting a plateau. Teachers, on the other hand, have an uncanny ability to see why a student isn’t striving.

    The time-honored approach of simply giving a few encouraging words works, and in these cases, the right edtech is a real asset. Giving students a venue for remaining anonymous while they take chances is perhaps the main reason I love quiz tools like Kahoot! and Jotform. Educators are familiar with Kahoot!, but perhaps not Jotform, which is free for limited use. Regardless of the tool you choose, try using surveys and question boards, whether it’s the ones included in your classroom management platform or using external tools and just managing it from the classroom management platform.

    Working one-on-one with students is probably the most effective way to overcome confidence issues, though, and this is where the tools in NetSupport become particularly helpful. NetSupport School actually includes a Languages Lab feature that connects teachers more closely for audio monitoring. In addition to seeing what is happening at a student’s desk, indicators tell her when each student is either listening to audio or speaking into a microphone. Teachers can listen in on individual student’s progress there, and record anything so the student could refer to it later. 

    There’s a common theme to all of these suggestions: doing more using tech while also being more personal and private. Few teachers have enough time to address every individual’s needs and to do so without singling out any one individual for needing that support. That’s why tools that let teachers provide that help without every other student being aware of it are so valuable. This is the way to help those students who are struggling with a new language feel more respected and supported.

    Al Kingsley is the CEO of NetSupport. He is an author, chair of Multi Academy Trust cluster of schools in the UK, an Apprenticeship Ambassador, and chair of his regional Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Board. A 30 year veteran in the sector he has written books on edtech, school governance, and school growth.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • What It Means To Be A Reflective Teacher

    What It Means To Be A Reflective Teacher

    [ad_1]

    by Terry Heick

    Reflection is a fundamental tenet of learning; it is also, therefore, a fundamental part of teaching.

    Why it happens is a matter of humility. But how and when it happens–and with whom–is less clear. This is partly because there are multiple sides to reflection–length, width, and depth. A Z-axis.

    It is whole.

    As a kind of definition, to reflect means to look back at how something ‘went,’ and see it for all of its available parts and patterns: Causes and effects; comparisons and contrast; strengths and weakness; its characteristics; how close it came to what you were expecting; your emotions.

    I planned this, and it went like this, and now I think this.

    Reflection, then, is the bridge between what we do and what we can do better. It’s the pause that allows improvement, the silence that precedes understanding. And while it can seem like an abstract ideal, its effects are anything but.

    What Does Reflection Look Like?

    Reflection in teaching might look like this:

    A teacher pausing at the end of a lesson to jot down a quick note: What went well? What didn’t? How did the students respond?

    Collaborative conversations during professional learning communities (PLCs): Sharing successes, analyzing failures, and considering alternative strategies.

    Reviewing student work with curiosity rather than judgment: What does this tell me about how they think? What gaps do I see? What strengths can I build on?

    A mental replay at the end of the day: Thinking through moments that stood out—successes, struggles, surprises—and unpacking why they mattered.

    Reflection doesn’t always require structure, but structure can help. It’s a way to make reflection a habit instead of an afterthought. Reflection can happen alone or with others, formally or informally, in writing or in thought.

    Tools for Reflection

    To make reflection practical and actionable, consider tools like:

    Journaling: Keep a simple teaching journal. At the end of each day, write down three things: what worked, what didn’t, and what you’re curious about for tomorrow.

    Checklists or rubrics: These can be used to evaluate lessons or teaching strategies against specific criteria.

    Student feedback: Regularly seek input from students about what helps them learn. This can be through surveys, open-ended questions, or informal discussions.

    Video recording: Recording a lesson and reviewing it can offer an objective view of your teaching in action.

    Reflection as a Shared Practice

    Reflection doesn’t have to happen in isolation. Collaborating with peers adds new perspectives and uncovers blind spots. When teachers share their reflections, it normalizes the practice and creates a culture of growth within a school.

    Ask colleagues: What’s one strategy you’ve used that worked well recently? What’s a challenge you’ve been reflecting on?

    Participate in reflective protocols: Structured discussions like the “Critical Friends” protocol provide a framework for sharing and analyzing teaching practices.

    The Benefits of Reflection

    The benefits of reflective teaching ripple outward. For teachers, it fosters professional growth, sharpens self-awareness, and reignites purpose. For students, it creates better learning experiences and models the lifelong learning process.

    Reflection isn’t about achieving perfection but about continuous improvement. It’s the practice of aligning your actions with your beliefs, ensuring that your teaching reflects your core values and best intentions.

    Reflection sounds like an abstract idea–something unspecific, and even a little mystical. Something we do in the shower on the drive home when no one’s around and we’re free to roam in our own minds. It’s definitely true that reflection comes most effortlessly, and in its purest and rawest forms, in those circumstances when we–that is, our minds–are not otherwise engaged.

    Reflection isn’t a single thing–a box to check in some elliptical cycle of learning. It’s as much a matter of self-awareness, humility, and affection as it is timing, sequence, and procedure.

    I can see the craft of teaching as both a sequence of steps and the fulfillment of design. It’s both parts and whole. Science and art. Professional and people.

    I know nothing is ever perfect, so I seek to improve. I also know what’s improvable within my means, and what pathways there are to get there.

    I believe in the endurance of knowledge and understanding, and will bring everything I know to bear on my craft.

    With this kind of examination laid out, their practice of reflection is more fruitful, a kind of tilling of the ground to harvest crops. This is where the non-abstractions come in–the tangible tools, processes, and partners of reflection that allow us to socialize ourselves and our teaching, and benefit from the concrete practice of reflection.

    The Role Of Reflection In Teacher Improvement

    When I use social media, I do so both as a matter of practice and thought. Mechanical actions lead to thought, and the other way around. I skim social channels, check mentions and messages, and respond if it makes sense. These are inputs. The output, if I get it just right, is reflection.

    If I read a tweet, interpret what I believe to be its meaning, find relevance in its message, and think–even briefly–about how I relate to it and it to me, I’m approaching reflection.

    Tweet: The Building Momentum Behind Social Emotional Learning

    My reaction: What’s the ‘big idea’ of social-emotional learning? What do I know–and not know? What tools am I aware of that could work here? Do I need a tool–is this worth clicking on? Should I save to Pocket without clicking? Click and read? RT without reading? Read, then RT? Favorite with or without reading? How am I spending my time right now on social media? Am I bumming around, or should I be more intentional–this tool or idea for this need I have tomorrow.

    If reflection happens on social media–and it does–then it is both a matter of practice and habit–a tendency towards the kind of thought that promotes change in your teaching. But this really has nothing to do with twitter; this is just an easy example that many of you can relate to. It’s about the dimensions of reflection: The How, the When, and the Who.

    How Does Reflection Happen?

    You could start with prompts for reflective teaching. These–or others–can be about looking at the ins and outs of teaching as long as they lead to your building both a capacity and a tendency to reflect on your own.

    There is, of course, vulnerability that comes with reflection. Being honest, transparent, and then standing on your own.

    The reflection actually starts much earlier, alone, in your own mind after something happens. Then, it often happens with someone–a friend, colleague, or loved one. Maybe even a student. Then, you’re likely to reflect again, alone, now pushed further in your thinking by the ‘together’ part. Writing about it again, and then sharing that with others makes the reflection more complex, and more personal.

    Sequence: Alone–>Together–>Alone

    Reflection, among other patterns, often happens Alone (which is slow and passive), Together (which is more immediate, and active) and then Alone Again (once more, slow and passive).

    Sequence: While Teaching–>After Teaching–>After School

    Reflection is also a matter of timing. Reflection can happen at any time, but no sooner than the event begins taking place: The lesson, the assessment, the meeting, the Socrative Discussion.

    While teaching, how is it going really? What adjustments seem necessary? What’s most important here? Then immediately after, how did it go (evaluation), and how do I know (data)? After school, now that I’ve had a chance to ‘get away’ from the event some, what do I think now? What’s lingering? What should I do differently next time? What would students say if they were right here next to me?

    Sequence: Students–>Colleagues–>PLN

    And then, with whom should I reflect? Students? Colleagues? Professional Learning Networks? My spouse? How is each episode different? What’s worth talking about and worth forgetting?

    How can I see reflection as a way of teaching so that it’s impossible to separate out and itemize, but is instead a moment-by-moment thing that is always with me like a heartbeat?

    What It Means To Be A Reflective Teacher

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • 20 Types Of Questions For Teaching Critical Thinking –

    20 Types Of Questions For Teaching Critical Thinking –

    [ad_1]

    Types Of Questions For Critical ThinkingTypes Of Questions For Critical Thinking

    by Terry Heick

    What are the different types of questions? Turns out, it’s pretty limitless.

    I’ve always been interested in them–the way they can cause (or stop) thinking; the nature of inquiry and reason; the way they can facilitate and deepen a conversation; the way they can reveal understanding (or lack thereof); the stunning power of the right question at the right time.

    There’s a kind of humility to questions. Someone who doesn’t know asks someone who might. Or even someone who does know (rhetorically) asks someone who doesn’t to produce an effect (rhetorically). There’s a relative intimacy between someone asking and answering questions, one that says, ‘We need one another.’

    It’s from that kind of perspective that TeachThought was founded, so it was surprising to me when I realized recently that, after years of writing about questions and questions stems and the power of questions and so on, I hadn’t ever written about the types of questions.

    After doing some research, I realized that identifying clearly what the ‘types of questions’ are isn’t easy because there isn’t a set number. Much like when I wrote about types of transfer of learning or types of blended learning, it was clear that although I kept seeing the same categories and question types, there really wasn’t a limit. When I asked myself, ‘What are the different kinds of questions?’ I was asking the wrong question.

    A slight adjustment: What are some of the most common types of questions? What are the categories of questions? What are the most common forms of questions? This led to many dozens of answers. There are dozens of types of questions and categories of questions and forms of questions and on and on and on. An entire book could be written about the topic (if not a series of books).

    But we have to start somewhere, so below I’ve started that kind of process with a collection of types of questions for teaching critical thinking–a collection that really needs better organizing and clearer formatting. Hopefully I can get to that soon.

    Let’s start out with some simple ones.

    Common Types Of Assessment Questions

    Multiple-choice/Single: A question with multiple available answers for the responder to choose from but only one correct solution

    Multiple-Choice/Multiple: A question with multiple available answers for the responder to choose from and more than one correct solution

    See The Problem With Multiple-Choice Questions

    True-or-false: A statement that the responder must decide is ‘true’ or ‘false’

    Fill in the blank: A statement with a key piece of information missing that the responder must add to make the statement complete and true

    Matching: Most commonly, Matching Questions have two columns and each column has items categorized by a clear rule that must be matched to items on the opposing column. For example, the column on the left can have words and the column on the right can have definitions. Other possibilities:

    Left Column/Right Column: Inventors/Inventions; Forms of Government/Strengths and Weaknesses, Geometric Shape/Formula to calculate area; etc.

    A variation of the Matching Question has one column holding more items than the other. This generally makes the question more complex–or at least more difficult–as the responder can’t be sure all items are used and must be more selective. Deductive reasoning (process of elimination, for example) is less accessible to the responder.

    Short-Answer: This is less close-ended than the above common assessment questions types. In a short answer, the responder must answer the prompt without the benefit of any additional information or possible answers.

    Analogies: These aren’t exactly a type of ‘question’ but analogies excellent assessment tools and can be used in many of the other forms of questions–multiple-choice for example.

    Pig : Mud :: Bird: _____ (simple)

    Pig: Mud :: Mitochondria: ___ (less simple)

    What Are The Different Categories Of Questions?

    This one isn’t simple or standardized either. There are simply too many different ways to think about inquiry.

    You could, for example, use every level of Bloom’s Taxonomy and say that there are ‘Evaluation-level questions’ and ‘Analyze-level’ questions and ‘Remember’ and so on. A lot of this comes down to function: as a teacher, what are you wanting the question to ‘do’? With that in mind, let’s look at just a few examples (this is by no means an exhaustive list).

    The Definition of Factual Questions: Questions with unambiguous, more or less universally accepted objective answers based on knowledge.

    The Definition of Interpretive Questions: Questions meant to interpret something else–a comment, work of art, speech, poem, etc. The emphasis here is on the thinking process and will often result in an improved understanding of that ‘other’ (rather than demonstrating knowledge as is the case in a Factual Question. Responses to Interpretive Questions should be evidence-based but are inherently subjective, open-ended, and ongoing.

    The Definition of Evaluative Questions: Questions that emphasize one’s personal opinion–of the value of a law or the strength of an author’s thematic development, for example.

    Analytical Questioning and Didactic Questioning are common forms of questioning and inquiry whose role is simple and whose patterns are clear and plain enough to see and follow.

    The Definition Of Analytical Questions: Questions meant to understand–to identify the ‘parts’ and understand how those parts work together and depend on and affect one another. Analytical Questions depend on other higher-level thinking skills like classifying, attributing, and organizing by rules or other phenomena.

    An example of an Analytical Question might be to ask a student about character motivation in a novel or how science drives technology–“What is the protagonist’s motivation in the story and how do we know?” or ‘Why was this event important?’.

    The Definition Of Didactic Questions: Structured, formal questions commonly about facts and knowledge at the recall and comprehension level, including remembering, describing, explaining, naming, identifying, etc.

    Examples Of Didactic Questions: ‘Who, what, where and when’ can be examples of Didactic Questions while ‘Why’ tends more toward an Analytic Questions (see below).

    Sidenote: Questioning And The Socrative Method

    The Socrative Method is among the most well-known version of the Didactic approach, where students are (or can be, depending on how the seminar is structured) guided by ‘more knowledge others’ (MKO) personalized and extended reflection through inquiry. This, of course, can result in the thinker shedding their own dogma and reaching enlightenment.

    It’s not very scalable in a classroom with one teacher and 34 students, which is where the Socrative Seminar comes in–a ‘built-for-the-classroom structure to bring learning-through-questioning’ into traditional educational spaces. This Socrative Seminar (or ‘Method’) is a formal approach to inquiry-based conversation where open-ended questions are used to facilitate discussion by students who respond to prompting from the teacher or comments and questions from other students. It’s not exactly a ‘type of question’ but is a format to use questions to promote understanding in a classroom.

    This method is dialectical and dialogic, depending on the ability of students and teachers to be able to verbalize often complex and abstract thinking. A ‘good’ question in a Socrative Seminar would be much different than a ‘good’ question on a criterion-referenced assessment. What is a ‘good question’?

    The quality of a question, then, is highly contextual–and to answer it with any clarity, you have to be able to answer: For that student in that situation at that time, what did that question do? What was the effect of that question?

    See also ‘The Relationship Between Quality And Effect.’

    Types Of Questions For Teaching

    Clarifying Question: A question meant to clarify something–either a question asked by the teacher to clarify the answer a student gives or what the student thinks or a question asked by the student to the teacher to clarify something (a statement, a task, a question, etc.)

    Probing Questions: A probing question does what it sounds like it might: Serves as an inquiry tool to explore a topic or a student’s thinking and existing understanding of a topic. Probing questions also have different forms, including Emphasizing, Clarifying, Redirecting, Evaluative, Prompting, and Critical Analysis.

    Thinking Over Time Questions: Questions that reflect on an idea, topic, or even question over time. This can emphasize change over time and lead to cause/effect discussions about the changes. This can also focus on metacognition–one’s thinking over time and how it has changed, etc.

    Extending Questions: Questions meant to continue to lead a discussion, assessment, or ‘learning event,’ often after a ‘successful’ event immediately prior. For example, if a student is asked a question about adding fractions and they answer successfully, the teacher can ask an ‘Extending Question’ about adding mixed numbers or decimals.

    Deepening Questions: Similar to Extending Questions, a Deepening Question increases in complexity rather simply extending what’s been learned. In the scenario above, after answering the question about adding fractions, a teacher could ask how exponents or the order of operations might affect adding fractions.

    Transfer Questions: Questions meant to ‘laterally’ extend an idea without necessarily becoming more complex. If discussing the orbit of Saturn, you could ask an ‘Extending Question’ meant to take knowledge gleaned from that discussion and apply it

    Contextualizing Questions: Questions meant to clarify the context of a topic/question/answer rather than to elicit an ‘answer.’

    Perspective-Based Questions: Questions focused on the effect perspectives have on answers and/or ‘truth.’ Perspective Questions can also be asked from specific points-of-view–a student could answer a question about government from the perspective of a modern citizen, citizen of an ancient culture, famous historical figure, specific political party, etc.

    Concrete Questions: Usually a ‘close-ended’ question, Concrete Questions ask students to provide ‘concrete’ answers–names, quantities, formulas, facts, characteristics, etc. See the following item for an example.

    Metaphorical & Abstract Questions: The opposite of Concrete Questions, Abstract Questions intended to draw attention to or more closely understand abstract ideas or the abstraction in non-abstract ideas.

    These can also be thought of as Thematic or Conceptual Questions. For example, asking a student to identify the three branches of the US government would be a ‘Concrete Question’ while asking them to describe, from their perspective, the virtues of democracy or how ‘freedom’ affects citizenship are examples of Perspective-Based Abstract Questions.

    Compare & Contrast Questions: Questions that–you guessed it–ask students to identify the way two or more ‘things’ (concrete or abstract, for example) are the same and different.

    Claim/Critique & Defend Questions: Questions (or prompts) that ask students to make a claim or issue a ‘criticism’ (e.g., of an argument), then defend that claim or criticism with concrete evidence.

    Cause & Effect Questions: Another more or less self-explanatory category, Cause & Effect Questions require students to separate cause from effect or focus on mostly causes or mostly effects. These can be Concrete or Abstract, or Perspective-Based as well.

    Open-Ended Questions: Often subjective questions meant to promote conversation, inquiry, etc. Open/Open-ended questions are central to Socrative Dialogue (though closed/yes or no questions can be just as effective at times because questioning is an art).

    Closed Questions: Questions with yes or no answers generally used to check for understanding, emphasize an idea, or uncover information

    Leading Questions: Questions meant to ‘lead’ the thinking of the responder in a specific direction for an intellectual or psychological effect

    Loaded Questions: Questions embedded with an underlying assumption–one that might contain faulty reasoning, bias, etc. This question is characterized by those faulty or otherwise distracting assumptions rather than the assessment or answer.

    Dichotomous Question: A type of Closed Question with only two answers (generally Yes/No)

    Display Questions (Known Information Question): A way to check for understanding; a type of question that requires the answerer to ‘perform’ or demonstrate their understanding by answering a question the questioner already knows the answer to.

    Then there are Referential Questions: An inherently subjective question, Referential Questions produce new information and can be either open or closed-ended questions.

    An Example of a Referential Question: Which character in Macbeth would be most likely to be a successful YouTuber (or ‘streamer’) today?

    Rhetorical Questions: A question asked to create some form of effect rather than produce an answer. These are useful in discussions but can also be used in writing as well. After all, who is going to answer a question posed by an author in an essay?

    Epistemic Questions: Questions about the nature of knowledge and understanding. This is more of a content-based category rather than a universal ‘type of question,’ though asking students about the nature of knowledge in math or science–how we form it, how we know if it’s accurate, the value of that knowledge, etc.–can be used in most content areas.

    Divergent Questions: According to Wikipedia, a divergent question is a “question with no specific answer, but rather exercises one’s ability to think broadly about a certain topic.”

    Inductive Questions: Questions meant to cause or induce the responder to form general principles theories based on observation, evidence, or data. In inductive reasoning, the conclusion or argument becomes more general than the premises that prompted it.

    Deductive Questions: Questions meant to support the responder in forming a the given theory based on continued testing. In deductive reasoning, the conclusions drawn are less general (i.e., more specific) than the premises given and in a valid deductive line of reasoning, the conclusion must be true if the premises are true.

    5 Ws Questions: Wonderfully simple and devastatingly effective questions: Who, What, Where, Why, and When? And you can add ‘How’ to the list, too. These include Who, What, and Where questions? These can be useful in guided discussion, reflection prompts, the formation of essential questions, and more.

    Examples Of Using ‘5 Ws Questions’ For Critical Thinking

    What’s the point?

    What’s the big idea?

    What’s the purpose?

    What is the process?

    What’s more important here? Less important?

    What crucial information are we missing?

    What did they think or believe and how did that belief change over time? What contributed to that change?

    Why should I learn this?

    What should I do with what I’ve learned?

    What is the author, speaker, write, or artist ‘saying’ here? What are they underlying assumptions of that message?

    What is the author’s point of view? What do I believe and how does that affect what I think others believe–or how does it affect what I think about what they do believe?

    What should I ask about this?

    How can I improve the questions I or others have already asked?

    Is the answer wrong or is the question ‘wrong’?

    Education Expert

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • The Piece of Wild Things Video by Wendell Berry

    The Piece of Wild Things Video by Wendell Berry

    [ad_1]

    by TeachThought Staff

    In a world filled with noise, division, and endless demands on our attention, Wendell Berry’s poem The Peace of Wild Things offers a rare invitation: to step back and find solace in nature.

    ‘The Peace Of Wild Things,’ read slowly enough, can remind us of the deep, quiet refuge that exists in the natural world, beyond the reach of our everyday stress and anxieties. When human life feels overwhelming, he suggests that peace can be found not in more thinking or doing, but in a return to the simplicity and calm of the natural world around us.

    Berry is writing about not simply disconnecting but rather reminding himself of the peace of wild places—the wild nature of creation itself—as a response to a modern world that is exceedingly uninterested in or at least forgetful not just of nature but also of its healing significance.

    In this way, Berry explores leaving behind the worry and immersing himself in ‘the peace of wild things,’ where birds rest on the water and stars wait in the sky. It’s a reminder that nature, in its steadfastness, offers a healing calm free from human striving, division, or pressure.

    If you’re looking to reconnect with something gentle and grounding, The Peace of Wild Things invites you to step out of your mind and back into the world’s heart, where peace waits patiently for all of us.

    You can read the full text of The Peace Of Wild Things.

    The ‘Peace Of Wild Things’ video is below.

    YouTube videoYouTube video

    The ‘Peace Of Wild Things’ video

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • 50 Of The Best Science Podcasts In 2020 TeachThought

    [ad_1]

    The Best Science Podcasts

    by TeachThought Staff

    Today, there is a wealth of content out there that’s both educational and entertaining, including some pretty amazing shows on scientific topics that are equally interesting to the layman and the professional.
    Whether you’re just getting into listening to science podcasts or are looking for a few new shows to add to your weekly collection, we’ve highlighted what we think are some of the best science podcasts out there right now.

    They’re informative, compelling, and even, at times, pretty darn funny, so make sure to check out one, two, or even all of these great science programs the next time you’re looking for a little edutainment.

    Best Science Podcasts

    30 Of The Best/Most Popular Science Podcasts

    Radiolab: A podcast that explores scientific and philosophical questions in an engaging narrative format.

    Science vs: Debunks myths and tackles scientific questions by comparing science to popular opinions.

    Stuff You Should Know: Though not strictly a science podcast, it covers many scientific topics in a fun and approachable way.

    The Infinite Monkey Cage: Hosted by physicist Brian Cox and comedian Robin Ince, this podcast blends humor with deep dives into scientific ideas.

    StartUp Podcast by Science Friday: This podcast focuses on scientific discoveries and developments and how they relate to the modern world.

    Nature Podcast: Produced by the prestigious journal Nature, this podcast discusses the latest scientific research.

    StarTalk Radio: Hosted by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, covering space, physics, and other science-related topics with humor and pop culture references.

    TED Radio Hour: Combines TED Talks on various scientific topics with interviews and expanded discussions.

    Brain Science Podcast: This podcast focuses on neuroscience and cognitive science, discussing the latest discoveries and their implications.

    The Science of Happiness: This book explores scientific insights into happiness and well-being, backed by research in positive psychology.

    Orbital Path: Hosted by Dr. Michelle Thaller, it explores the cosmos, space exploration, and humanity’s place in the universe.

    Ologies: Hosted by Alie Ward, this podcast interviews different scientists (“ologists”) from various fields, making complex topics accessible and fun.

    The Naked Scientists: This series covers a range of topics, from biology to physics, presented by scientists from the University of Cambridge.

    60-Second Science: Quick, digestible science news and discoveries from Scientific American.

    Big Picture Science: tackles broad science topics such as evolution, climate change, and space in a fun 

    and thought-provoking style.

    Short Wave: A daily science podcast from NPR that delves into timely science topics in an easily accessible format.

    Science Rules! with Bill Nye: Hosted by the famous Bill Nye, this podcast covers popular science questions and current issues.

    Sean Carroll’s Mindscape: A deep dive into physics, philosophy, and the nature of reality by physicist Sean Carroll.

    The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe: Focuses on critical thinking, scientific skepticism, and debunking pseudoscience.

    The Story Collider: Features personal stories about how science intersects with people’s lives, often in unexpected ways.

    Invisibilia

    Brains On! Science Podcast For Kids

    American Innovations

    Science vs

    This Podcast Will Kill You

    Making Sense With Sam Harris

    Short Wave

    What If, Discussed

    Astronomy Cast

    Intelligence Squared

    Chemistry In Its Element

    Third Pod From The Sun

    Sean Carroll’s Mindscape

    All Creatures Podcast

    ——-

    Old Post

    Radiolab

    What sets it apart from other shows is the often experimental audio, which uses overlapping audio and other effects to create a unique and engaging show.

    Star Talk

    Fans of astrophysicist and Nova Science Now host Neil deGrasse Tyson can get access to the popular academic a couple of times a month. Discussions center on astrophysics, but guests are most often actors and comedians.

    Probably Science

    Probably Science is another good option if you’re looking for a comedic take on science. Matt Kirshen, Brooks Wheelan, and Andy Wood take on the week’s top science stories, with hilarious and interesting results.

    Science Friday

    Science Friday is part of NPR’s Talk of the Nation programming block, but you can listen to it separately if you’d prefer to forego the rest of the news to focus on science (plus, at almost two hours long, it is show enough in itself). Host Ira Flatow uses the platform to discuss a handful of science news items from the past week. It’s more serious than some of the previous podcasts we’ve mentioned, but more informative as well.

    The Infinite Monkey Cage

    BBC-based podcast The Infinite Monkey Cage features Brian Vox and Robin Ince who combine typical British comedy with geeky discussions of science topics.

    60-Second Science

    60-Second Science is perfect for those who don’t have the time or the attention span for a longer podcast. The show, produced by Scientific American, touches on a news story from that day, and true to its name, it’s only a minute long.

    Big Picture Science

    The SETI Institute’s Seth Shostak and Molly Bently pun, talk, and debate their way through this popular podcast, which covers topics like technological innovation, robotics, and extraterrestrial life.

    The Naked Scientists

    British podcast The Naked Scientists is part of a series that also features a range of other “naked” topics. There are no actual naked scientists (not that you’d be able to see them over a podcast anyway), but the show’s name draws from the idea of stripping down science to its core ideas, which makes the discussions easy to understand, fun, and highly accessible.

    On Science

    NPR offers science geeks another listening option through this weekly podcast, a great place to hear in-depth reports on a wide range of science issues.

    The Science Show

    This weekly, one-hour show is hosted by Robyn Williams who explores current events in science through discussions with experts and scientists. Topics have ranged from elephants to earthquakes to cosmic diamonds, meaning there will be something to interest just about every science geek out there.

    Quirks & Quarks

    This weekly podcast, hosted by Canadian science journalist Bob McDonald, allows listeners to hear from the scientists behind the latest discoveries in the physical and natural sciences.

    Nature Podcast

    Those who can’t get enough of news and stories from the natural world really shouldn’t miss out on this excellent weekly podcast from Nature. Listeners will get to hear stories on everything from the latest revelations about DNA to rhino conservation efforts.

    The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe

    There’s a lot of pseudoscience out there, and this podcast takes it on headfirst. Skeptical science nerds will appreciate hearing the real science behind common misconceptions, as well as news on some oddball topics.

    Science in Action

    Those who like their science to have a British accent will appreciate this BBC-produced show. Weekly episodes focus on particularly interesting news stories related to science, which in recent months have included topics like cancer genes, volcano predictions, and the birthday of the neutron.

    All in the Mind

    Lynn Malcolm hosts this excellent (and award-winning) show that is entirely centered on stories about the human brain, touching on fields like psychology, neurology, and more.

    MicrobeWorld Meet the Scientist

    This podcast introduces listeners to the work of the leading professionals in microbiology. While stories are field-specific, they almost always have a broad appeal, touching on issues that affect us all.

    Material World

    Science journalist Quentin Cooper hosts this weekly BBC Radio program that covers an incredibly wide range of scientific topics.

    In Our Time

    This podcast teaches you a bit more about the history of scientific thought, as well as history, religion, and culture.

    AMNH Podcast

    The American Museum of Natural History hosts a monthly podcast series. Past guests have included Neil deGrasse Tyson, conservation expert Chris Filardi, and theoretical physicist Dr. S. James Gates Jr.

    Scientific American Science Talk

    If you’d like more than just 60 seconds of science discussion, then Scientific American also has that covered. Hosted by Steve Mirsky, the show touches on the top breakthroughs and controversial issues in science and technology each week.

    Slacker Astronomy

    Slacker Astronomy is the perfect place to find interesting stories, interviews, and discussions on a wide range of astronomical topics.

    Science@NASA

    Need a weekly fix of NASA-related news and research? Then start listening to NASA’s own podcast, focused on sharing the latest space exploration and astronomy research.

    Groks Science

    Produced in Baton Rouge, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Tokyo, this weekly show is hosted by a rotating group of scientists who take an in-depth look at some of the most interesting recent events in the world of science. While there are serious interviews, there is also humor and a chance to ask a question each week.

    Exploration

    Exploration features interviews with scientists on the cutting edge of research and development, whether in space travel, biotech, neuroscience, or a whole host of other topics.

    Diffusion Science Radio

    Diffusion Science Radio blends science news, humor, history, and more to give listeners a well-rounded and entertaining look into recent scientific discoveries.

    A Moment of Science

    With this podcast, you can either listen to or watch a weekly show that explores some of science’s most perplexing mysteries, like how bugs survive harsh winters or why inland lakes aren’t salty.

    Astronomy Cast

    As its name might lead you to guess, this podcast focuses on all things astronomy. Listeners will get a weekly dose of the show, with topics that change from episode to episode.

    Science Weekly

    Science and environment correspondent for The Guardian Alok Jha also hosts this weekly podcast series. Discussions with guests, often leading researchers in their fields, help illuminate topics like creativity, the relationship between science and government, and even sleep.

    Stuff You Should Know

    How Stuff Works explains, well, exactly that in this weekly podcast that takes on everything from moss to storm chasers.

    The Engines of Our Ingenuity

    Learn more about the history of technological progress in this great podcast that highlights some of history’s biggest successes and biggest failures alike.

    This Week in Virology

    Who wouldn’t want to know more about viruses, those pesky little things that can make you feel sick or even take your life? Through this podcast, you’ll hear a number of professors from Columbia University’s Medical center take on a range of microbiological, public health, genetics, and virology topics.

    Focus Podcast

    Focus magazine provides listeners with interviews and stories on the latest science and technology issues through this podcast.

    Ockham’s Razor

    Australian journalist Robyn Williams also hosts this science-focused show. Much of the content focuses on the ways in which science has an effect on our daily lives, from weather to trauma to environmentalism.

    NOVA Podcast

    Even if you can’t get in front of your TV, you can still get access to the great stories offered up by NOVA. Simply check out their podcast, which is chock full of interesting, but brief, stories on science.

    Distillations

    This award-winning podcast from the Chemical Heritage Foundation is one of the best places to learn about the past, present, and future of chemistry. It isn’t all just lab work, however, as host Meir Rinde touches on issues of chemistry related to everything from baby formula to asbestos.

    This Is Only A Test

    Fans of Mythbusters Jaime and Adam can get an extra dose of the duo (and a couple of other science geeks, Will and Norm) through their weekly podcast.

    The Sounds of Science

    The National Academies (including science, engineering, and medicine) put out this research-focused podcast, though fairly irregularly. It covers a wealth of science topics and is largely a more accessible way of getting information found in the Academy’s reports.

    Bytesize Science

    These podcasts are super short, but they touch on some really amazing cutting-edge projects in science. Produced by the American Chemical Society, the majority are, naturally, related to chemistry.

    Brain Science

    Dr. Sebastian Seung hosts this show, which as you can guess, is all about the brain. Episodes feature interviews and reviews of new research and cover the full scope of brain sciences.

    Radiolab

    What sets it apart from other shows is the often experimental audio, which uses overlapping audio and other effects to create a unique and engaging show.

    Star Talk

    Fans of astrophysicist and Nova Science Now host Neil deGrasse Tyson can get access to the popular academic a couple of times a month. Discussions center on astrophysics, but guests are most often actors and comedians.

    Probably Science

    Probably Science is another good option if you’re looking for a comedic take on science. Matt Kirshen, Brooks Wheelan, and Andy Wood take on the week’s top science stories, with hilarious and interesting results.

    Science Friday

    Science Friday is part of NPR’s Talk of the Nation programming block, but you can listen to it separately if you’d prefer to forego the rest of the news to focus on science (plus, at almost two hours long, it is show enough in itself). Host Ira Flatow uses the platform to discuss a handful of science news items from the past week. It’s more serious than some of the previous podcasts we’ve mentioned, but more informative as well.

    The Infinite Monkey Cage

    BBC-based podcast The Infinite Monkey Cage features Brian Vox and Robin Ince who combine typical British comedy with geeky discussions of science topics.

    60-Second Science

    60-Second Science is perfect for those who don’t have the time or the attention span for a longer podcast. The show, produced by Scientific American, touches on a news story from that day, and true to its name, it’s only a minute long.

    Big Picture Science

    The SETI Institute’s Seth Shostak and Molly Bently pun, talk, and debate their way through this popular podcast, which covers topics like technological innovation, robotics, and extraterrestrial life.

    The Naked Scientists

    British podcast The Naked Scientists is part of a series that also features a range of other “naked” topics. There are no actual naked scientists (not that you’d be able to see them over a podcast anyway), but the show’s name draws from the idea of stripping down science to its core ideas, which makes the discussions easy to understand, fun, and highly accessible.

    On Science

    NPR offers science geeks another listening option through this weekly podcast, a great place to hear in-depth reports on a wide range of science issues.

    The Science Show

    This weekly, one-hour show is hosted by Robyn Williams who explores current events in science through discussions with experts and scientists. Topics have ranged from elephants to earthquakes to cosmic diamonds, meaning there will be something to interest just about every science geek out there.

    Quirks & Quarks

    This weekly podcast, hosted by Canadian science journalist Bob McDonald, allows listeners to hear from the scientists behind the latest discoveries in the physical and natural sciences.

    Nature Podcast

    Those who can’t get enough of news and stories from the natural world really shouldn’t miss out on this excellent weekly podcast from Nature. Listeners will get to hear stories on everything from the latest revelations about DNA to rhino conservation efforts.

    The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe

    There’s a lot of pseudoscience out there, and this podcast takes it on headfirst. Skeptical science nerds will appreciate hearing the real science behind common misconceptions, as well as news on some oddball topics.

    Science in Action

    Those who like their science to have a British accent will appreciate this BBC-produced show. Weekly episodes focus on particularly interesting news stories related to science, which in recent months have included topics like cancer genes, volcano predictions, and the birthday of the neutron.

    All in the Mind

    Lynn Malcolm hosts this excellent (and award-winning) show that is entirely centered on stories about the human brain, touching on fields like psychology, neurology, and more.

    MicrobeWorld Meet the Scientist

    This podcast introduces listeners to the work of the leading professionals in microbiology. While stories are field-specific, they almost always have a broad appeal, touching on issues that affect us all.

    Material World

    Science journalist Quentin Cooper hosts this weekly BBC Radio program that covers an incredibly wide range of scientific topics.

    In Our Time

    This podcast teaches you a bit more about the history of scientific thought, as well as history, religion, and culture.

    AMNH Podcast

    The American Museum of Natural History hosts a monthly podcast series. Past guests have included Neil deGrasse Tyson, conservation expert Chris Filardi, and theoretical physicist Dr. S. James Gates Jr.

    Scientific American Science Talk

    If you’d like more than just 60 seconds of science discussion, then Scientific American also has that covered. Hosted by Steve Mirsky, the show touches on the top breakthroughs and controversial issues in science and technology each week.

    Slacker Astronomy

    Slacker Astronomy is the perfect place to find interesting stories, interviews, and discussions on a wide range of astronomical topics.

    Science@NASA

    Need a weekly fix of NASA-related news and research? Then start listening to NASA’s own podcast, focused on sharing the latest space exploration and astronomy research.

    Groks Science

    Produced in Baton Rouge, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Tokyo, this weekly show is hosted by a rotating group of scientists who take an in-depth look at some of the most interesting recent events in the world of science. While there are serious interviews, there is also humor and a chance to ask a question each week.

    Exploration

    Exploration features interviews with scientists on the cutting edge of research and development, whether in space travel, biotech, neuroscience, or a whole host of other topics.

    Diffusion Science Radio

    Diffusion Science Radio blends science news, humor, history, and more to give listeners a well-rounded and entertaining look into recent scientific discoveries.

    A Moment of Science

    With this podcast, you can either listen to or watch a weekly show that explores some of science’s most perplexing mysteries, like how bugs survive harsh winters or why inland lakes aren’t salty.

    Astronomy Cast

    As its name might lead you to guess, this podcast focuses on all things astronomy. Listeners will get a weekly dose of the show, with topics that change from episode to episode.

    Science Weekly

    Science and environment correspondent for The Guardian Alok Jha also hosts this weekly podcast series. Discussions with guests, often leading researchers in their fields, help illuminate topics like creativity, the relationship between science and government, and even sleep.

    Stuff You Should Know

    How Stuff Works explains, well, exactly that in this weekly podcast that takes on everything from moss to storm chasers.

    The Engines of Our Ingenuity

    Learn more about the history of technological progress in this great podcast that highlights some of history’s biggest successes and biggest failures alike.

    This Week in Virology

    Who wouldn’t want to know more about viruses, those pesky little things that can make you feel sick or even take your life? Through this podcast, you’ll hear a number of professors from Columbia University’s Medical center take on a range of microbiological, public health, genetics, and virology topics.

    Focus Podcast

    Focus magazine provides listeners with interviews and stories on the latest science and technology issues through this podcast.

    Ockham’s Razor

    Australian journalist Robyn Williams also hosts this science-focused show. Much of the content focuses on the ways in which science has an effect on our daily lives, from weather to trauma to environmentalism.

    NOVA Podcast

    Even if you can’t get in front of your TV, you can still get access to the great stories offered up by NOVA. Simply check out their podcast, which is chock full of interesting, but brief, stories on science.

    Distillations

    This award-winning podcast from the Chemical Heritage Foundation is one of the best places to learn about the past, present, and future of chemistry. It isn’t all just lab work, however, as host Meir Rinde touches on issues of chemistry related to everything from baby formula to asbestos.

    This Is Only A Test

    Fans of Mythbusters Jaime and Adam can get an extra dose of the duo (and a couple of other science geeks, Will and Norm) through their weekly podcast.

    The Sounds of Science

    The National Academies (including science, engineering, and medicine) put out this research-focused podcast, though fairly irregularly. It covers a wealth of science topics and is largely a more accessible way of getting information found in the Academy’s reports.

    Bytesize Science

    These podcasts are super short, but they touch on some really amazing cutting-edge projects in science. Produced by the American Chemical Society, the majority are, naturally, related to chemistry.

    Brain Science

    Dr. Sebastian Seung hosts this show, which as you can guess, is all about the brain. Episodes feature interviews and reviews of new research and cover the full scope of brain sciences.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • 5 Common Misconceptions About Bloom’s Taxonomy

    5 Common Misconceptions About Bloom’s Taxonomy

    [ad_1]

    5 Common Misconceptions About Bloom's Taxonomy5 Common Misconceptions About Bloom's Taxonomy

    by Grant Wiggins & The TeachThought Staff

    Admit it–you only read the list of the six levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy, not the whole book that explains each level and the rationale behind the Taxonomy. Not to worry, you are not alone: this is true for most educators.

    But that efficiency comes with a price. Many educators have a mistaken view of the Taxonomy and the levels in it, as the following errors suggest. And arguably the greatest weakness of the Common Core Standards is to avoid being extra-careful in their use of cognitive-focused verbs, along the lines of the rationale for the Taxonomy.

    1. The first two or three levels of the Taxonomy involve ‘lower-order’ and the last three or four levels involve ‘higher-order’ thinking.

    This is false. The only lower-order goal is ‘Knowledge’ since it uniquely requires mere recall in testing. Furthermore, it makes no sense to think that ‘Comprehension’ – the 2nd level – requires only lower-order thought:

    The essential behavior in interpretation is that when given a communication the student can identify and comprehend the major ideas which are included in it as well as understand their interrelationships. This requires a nice sense of judgment and caution in reading into the document one’s own ideas and interpretations. It also requires some ability to go beyond mere rephrasing of parts of the document to determine the larger and more general ideas in it. The interpreter must also recognize the limits within which interpretations can be drawn.

    Not only is this higher-order thinking – summary, main idea, conditional and cautious reasoning, etc.–it is a level not reached by half of our students in reading. And by the way: the phrases ‘lower-order’ and ‘higher-order’ appear nowhere in the Taxonomy.

    2. “Application” requires hands-on learning.

    This is not true, a misreading of the word “apply”, as the text makes clear. We apply ideas to situations, e.g. you may comprehend Newton’s 3 Laws or the Writing Process but can you solve novel problems related to it – without prompting? That’s application:

    The whole cognitive domain of the taxonomy is arranged in a hierarchy, that is, each classification within it demands the skills and abilities which are lower in the classification order. The Application category follows this rule in that to apply something requires “comprehension” of the method, theory, principle or abstraction applied. Teachers frequently say, “If a student really comprehends something then he can apply it.”

    A problem in the comprehension category requires the student to know an abstraction well enough that he can correctly demonstrate its use when specifically asked to do so. “Application,” however, requires a step beyond this. Given a problem new to the student, he will apply the appropriate abstraction without having to be prompted as to which abstraction is correct or without having to be shown how to do it in this situation.

    Note the key phrases: Given a problem new to the student, he will apply the appropriate abstraction without having to be prompted. Thus, “application” is really a synonym for “transfer”.

    In fact, the authors strongly assert the primacy of application/transfer of learning:

    The fact that most of what we learn is intended for application to problem situations in real life is indicative of the importance of application objectives in the general curriculum. The effectiveness of a large part of the school program is therefore dependent upon how well the students carry over into situations applications which the students never faced in the learning process. Those of you familiar with educational psychology will recognize this as the age-old problem of transfer of training. Research studies have shown that comprehending an abstraction does not certify that the individual will be able to apply it correctly. Students apparently also need practice in restructuring and classifying situations so that the correct abstraction applies.

    Why UbD is what it is. In Application problems must be new; students must judge which prior learning applies, without prompting or hints from scaffolded worksheets; and students must get training and have practice in how to handle non-routine problems. We designed UbD, in part, backward from Bloom’s definition of Application.

    As for instruction in support of the aim of transfer (and different types of transfer), the authors soberingly note this:

    “We have also attempted to organize some of the literature on growth, retention, and transfer of the different types of educational outcomes or behaviors. Here we find very little relevant research. … Many claims have been made for different educational procedures…but seldom have these been buttressed by research findings.”

    revised Bloom's taxonomy for 21st centuryrevised Bloom's taxonomy for 21st century

    3. All the verbs listed under each level of the Taxonomy are more or less equal; they are synonyms for the level.

    No, there are distinct sub-levels of the Taxonomy, in which the cognitive difficulty of each sub-level increases.

    For example, under Knowledge, the lowest-level form is Knowledge of Terminology, where a more demanding form of recall is Knowledge of the Major Ideas, Schemes and Patterns in a field of study, and where the highest level of Knowledge is Knowledge of Theories and Structures (for example, knowing the structure and organization of Congress.)

    Under Comprehension, the three sub-levels in order of difficulty are Translation, Interpretation, and Extrapolation. Main Idea in literacy, for example, falls under Interpretation since it demands more than “translating” the text into one’s own words, as noted above.

    4. The Taxonomy recommends against the goal of “understanding” in education.

    Only in the sense of the term “understand” being too broad. Rather, the Taxonomy helps us to more clearly delineate the different levels of understanding we seek:

    To return to the illustration of the term “understanding” a teacher might use the Taxonomy to decide which of several meanings he intended. If it meant that the student was…aware of a situation…to describe it in terms slightly different from those originally used in describing it, this would correspond to the taxonomy category of “translation” [which is a sub-level under Comprehension]. Deeper understanding would be reflected in the next-higher level of the Taxonomy, “interpretation,” where the student would be expected to summarize and explain… And there are other levels of the Taxonomy which the teacher could use to indicate still deeper “understanding.”

    5. The writers of the Taxonomy were confident that the Taxonomy was a valid and complete Taxonomy

    No they weren’t. They note that:

    “Our attempt to arrange educational behaviors from simple to complex was based on the idea that a particular simple behavior may become integrated with other equally simple behaviors to form a more complex behavior… Our evidence on this is not entirely satisfactory, but there is an unmistakable trend pointing toward a hierarchy of behaviors.

    They were concerned especially that no single theory of learning and achievement–

    “accounted for the varieties of behaviors represented in the educational objectives we attempted to classify. We were reluctantly forced to agree with Hilgard that each theory of learning accounts for some phenomena very well but is less adequate in accounting for others. What is needed is a larger synthetic theory of learning than at present seems available.

    Later schemas – such as Webb’s Depth of Knowledge and the revised Taxonomy – do nothing to solve this basic problem, with implications for all modern Standards documents.

    Why This All Matters

    The greatest failure of the Common Core Standards is arguably to have overlooked these issues by being arbitrary/careless in the use of verbs in the Standards.

    There appears to have been no attempt to be precise and consistent in the use of the verbs in the Standards, thus making it almost impossible for users to understand the level of rigor prescribed by the standard, hence levels of rigor required in local assessments. (Nothing is said in any documents about how deliberate those verb choices were, but I know from prior experience in New Jersey and Delaware that verbs are used haphazardly – in fact, writing teams start to vary the verbs just to avoid repetition!)

    The problem is already on view: in many schools, the assessments are less rigorous than the Standards and practice tests clearly demand. No wonder the scores are low. I’ll have more to say on this problem in a later post, but my prior posts on Standards provide further background on the problem we face.

    Update: Already people are arguing with me on Twitter as if I agree with everything said here. I nowhere say here that Bloom was right about the Taxonomy. (His doubts about his own work suggest my real views, don’t they?) I am merely reporting what he said and what is commonly misunderstood. In fact, I am re-reading Bloom as part of a critique of the Taxonomy in support of the revised 3rd edition of UbD in which we call for a more sophisticated view of the idea of depth and rigor in learning and assessment than currently exists.

    This article first appeared on Grant’s personal blog; Grant can be found on twitter here; 5 Common Misconceptions About Bloom’s Taxonomy; image attribution flickr user langwitches



    [ad_2]

    Source link