Author Archive

AI-Resistant or Compatible? / AI Strategies / Teaching w/AI

Thursday, April 25th, 2024

Free Resources for Busy Parents and Educators Who Don’t Have as Much Time to Read and Surf as I Do with Fresh Content Every Weekday and post around 8:00 am Eastern US time.

The Twitter names next to each link belong to the authors, publications, and the people who bring them to my attention. Be sure to try the bottom right translate button for your favorite language or one you are trying to learn. If you don’t see it, check your adblocking software

AI Resistant/Compatible?
A.I.-Resistant or A.I.-Compatible? Where are you and teachers you know one this spectrum. @ajjuliani

AI
Five Strategies for Supporting AI Adoption – School leaders can help educators see the benefits of using AI tools by offering informative resources and hands-on training. @VictoriaTheTech @edutopia

AI
Teaching with AI: How quickly are we transforming K12? Mad dash does not describe how most teachers are approaching artificial intelligence as a learning tool. Matt Zalaznick via @DA_magazine

Phone Hack

Social Media/Artificial Intelligence

If you forget your phone charger, here’s the easiest hack for any hotel room. This is easy and it should work. @rickypollina @nypost

Pink

Learning

Pinkcast 4.06. This is how to deal with frustration. – Pink Casts are less than two minutes and alwasy well worth the time. @DanielPink Here is the link to The Stoic Challenge that he refers to. @WIrvineauthor

Screen Time

Leadership/Parenting

Parents Make Mistakes When Setting Screen Time Rules For Their Kids. That’s OK. Autonomy is developed in kids when they’re given the space and guidance to face their own challenges and stretch their abilities. Marlena Jackson-Retondo via @MindShiftKQED

Inspirational/Funny Tweets

Prevent It@8Amber8

Humor, Music, Cool Stuff

These vegetables taste better than pizza! Very tasty and quick! If you are looking to make your diet more healthy, try this with your kids. #Fresh_Recipe #Recipe #vegetables
  

Jooble

Recent Book Summaries & My Podcasts

Quit
Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away by Annie Duke
Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics Grades K-12: 14 Teaching Practices for Enhancing Learning by Peter Liljedahl
Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini@RobertCialdini
Valedictorians at the Gate: Standing Out, Getting In, and Staying Sane While Applying to College by Becky Munsterer Sabky
Plays Well With Others: The Surprising Science Behind Why Everything You Know About Relationships Is (Mostly) Wrongby Eric Barker
How to Raise Kids Who Aren’t Assholes: Science-Based Strategies for Better Parenting from Tots to Teens by Melinda Wenner Moyer
My Post-Pandemic Teaching and Learning Observations by Dr. Doug Green Times 10 Publications
The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward by Daniel Pink
Limitless Mind: Learn, Lead, and Live Without Barriers by Jo Boaler 
The Future of Smart: How Our Education System Needs to Change to Help All Young People Thrive by Ulcca Joshi Hansen
Cup of Joe
Listen to Dr. Doug on the “Cup of Joe” podcast. I recorded it last week. On it, I talk about the many good things I have seen in schools doing hybrid teaching. @PodcastCupOfJoe @DrDougGreen @BrainAwakes
This is my podcast on the Jabbedu Network. Please consider listening and buying my book Teaching Isn’t Rocket Science, It’s Way More Complex. Here’s a free executive summary. @jabbedu @DrDougGreen
Boys and Sex: Young Men on Hookups, Love, Porn, Consent, and Navigating the New Masculinity by Peggy Orenstein

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Verified – Book Summary

Friday, March 22nd, 2024

Verified
Verified: How to Think Straight, Get Duped Less, and Make Better Decisions About What to Believe Online by Mike Caulfield and Sam Wineburg should be the textbook for any course in high school and college that deals with verifying information on the Internet. Its lessons are easy to absorb and remember, which means that it lives up to its lofty title. Get your copy today.

Introduction

  • Prior to the arrival of the Internet, the information we received was already processed by society’s gatekeepers and niche information was seldom available. The Internet was supposed to change all that. While we know that much of what we find on the Internet is false, the skills we inherited from the pre-Internet age are not much use in separating truth from fiction. This well researched book may not protect you from all errors of judgement, but it should make such errors fewer and farther between.

1. Get Quick Context: It Can Take as Little as Thirty Seconds, Seriously!

  • Most hoaxes can be quickly disposed of with a simple Internet news search. As you face claims of fact there are three contexts that you should consider. They are the source, the claim itself, and your own level of expertise on the matter. As you reason about a specific piece of content there are certain things to do that involve the acronym SIFT. The first is STOP and ask what you know about the claim. Next INVESTIGATE the source to see if it’s trustworthy. Proceed to FIND other coverage. Finally, if possible, TRACE the claim to its original source. The authors give several examples and warn that just because a claim seems far fetched doesn’t mean that it is.

2. Cheap Signals: Or, How Not to Get Duped

  • A cheap signal is one that costs little or nothing and is easy for any con artist to produce. Just because a website has a snazzy look and is well written means nothing. Some legitimate sites may not look totally professional. CRAAP is an acronym for the things you should consider as you evaluate a site. Currency deals with when the content was posted. Relevance deals with how the topic fits with what you are looking for. Authority deals with the credentials of the author. Accuracy means you can verify the information with another source. Purpose deals with the aim of the organization publishing the site.
  • Even if a site passes all five CRAAP tests, it still may be a front for an industry promoting its products. It may be a wolf in sheep’s clothing. You should always read the URL of any new site you visit. It can help you spot imposters. The suffixes are important. Dot-com sites are supposed to be commercial and usually try to sell you something, but that is not always the case. (Doug: My site is a dot-com but I’m just providing free resources like this summary.) Dot-orgs are supposed to be non-profit organizations, but beware. Pretty much anyone can get a dot-org site. Also, beware of data bases where anyone can add a record.

3. Google: The Bestie You Thought You Knew

  • In 2014 Google started putting descriptive search results at the top of the results page. They called it a featured snippet. Google says that they create the snippets from trusted sites based on the keywords in your search. They are very helpful when things are clear, but may not be when things are vague or complex. The keywords you select are important and you usually need several good ones in a search to get good results. Featured snippets may not provide the best answer.
  • Google is not neutral. It tries to give you what you want. Try to avoid searches that broadcast your preferences. Choose neutral search terms that don’t contain words like good or bad. Try searching “are soda taxes a good idea” and “are soda taxes a bad idea” as a example of how this works.
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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
Meet Heather, a political science graduate from St. Louis University, in Baguio City Philippines. She’s 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.

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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

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Student-Led Assessment

Tuesday, February 20th, 2024

Student-Led Assessment

Student-Led Assessment: Promoting Agency and Achievement Through Portfolios and Conferences by Starr Sackstein

explains in detail how you can shift your teaching practice to one where students take control over their learning and assessment. It features periodic conferences where students give evidence of what they have learned and set goals for their next efforts. Her model also allows for self-paced learning and peer feedback. Leaders should try to get this book into the hands of as many teachers as possible.

    Introduction

    • Student voice is vital to understanding what students know and can do. It’s our job to create authentic opportunities for students to express their challenges and successes. Such conversations can be the basis for determining students’ grades. In this book you will learn how to leverage student conferences and have students lead parent-teacher conferences. You will also learn how to use portfolios as part of this process. (Each chapter contains reflections on the subject from other teachers or professors.)

    Part 1: Building Structures to Promote Learner Agency

    • Here we explore the building blocks of teaching students to talk about their learning in cohesive and detailed ways and to advocate for themselves. It’s your job then to adapt what you learn to your specific students and situation.

    1. Building a Learner Agency Enhanced Environment

    • At the heart of student success lies the relationships you have with them and that they have with each other. You need to plan how to make this happen. You also need to reveal your interests, strengths, and challenges so they see you as another learner. Trust is earned, which is highly evident in the learning process. Above all be sure to let students know when you have made a mistake. Apologize if it is appropriate. This will help them to take risks that will inevitably lead to mistakes that promote learning.
    • In order to get to know students in a less than superficial manner, you need to take on the role of a detective or an archaeologist. Approach each student with a real interest and warmth. Meet them by name at the door. Assume positive intent when they take a misstep. Put important concepts on the wall, but don’t make it too cluttered. Ask them how they feel about the space. Remember that all kids can!

    2. Promoting Clarity to Deepen Student Understanding

    • Large sets of standards such as the Common Core can be overwhelming. You need to prioritize by looking for knowledge and skills that can 1. have value beyond a single assignment 2. have value in multiple disciplines, and 3. allow for success in the next grade or level. You then need to work with your students to come up with an agreed upon idea of what proficiency looks like. Here we have a format for unpacking a standard
    • Now it’s time to create student-friendly learning targets. This requires looking at standards in smaller bites. Develop success criteria so that students know what success looks like. Students can also be partners in developing rubrics. Don’t expect your first tries to be great. Supply exemplars that are not easy to copy. They can be from former students or be teacher generated. Supply feedback to groups and individuals as much as possible.

    3. Using Formative Assessment to Promote Learner Voice and Self-Advocacy

    • Formative assessment is ongoing and informs future instruction. Students should know what it is and be involved. It demonstrates achievement while reflection focusses more on the process. Both are important. Formative assessment provides feedback that students can use to revise their work. By it’s nature, formative assessment is differentiated.
    • At some point, peers should be involved in formative assessment. Students should write their reflections for teachers to read. In some cases teachers should just focus on the important things as opposed to everything. The process should involve students writing new goals to share with the teacher and at least one peer. Goals should be as specific as possible. A major goal is for students to become more self-sufficient learners.

    4. Developing a Portfolio System That Supports Purposeful Goals

    • Portfolios allow students, teachers, parents, and peers to see the fruits of a student’s labor. (This can be facilitated if the portfolio is available online.) They also put students in charge of tracking their own growth. They can foster independence while fueling reflection, creativity, and authentic life-long learning. They can feature a capstone activity or multiple pieces that demonstrate a learner’s best efforts. They can even contain a series of works that show growth over time.
    • Each teacher should do their own portfolio first to share their students’ experiences. Once finished, students should write a standards-based reflection about what their work demonstrates. The students should also present their portfolio in order to defend their efforts. Here we have the story of how one district implemented portfolios for all of their students. Expect this process to take two to three years.
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