What is the purpose and role of Education in Society? When we talk about education do we all hold a similar definition? Do we all have the same goals for education? Often in taking with parents, teachers, administrators and local politicians I often get the feeling we are not talking about the same thing. What do you expect from education? What do you wish for your children? Do you see education divided into two areas formal schooling and self-directed learning?…
I am looking forward to MassCUE this week. The annual conference is undergoing a bit of a revival. It is co-sponsored with MASS (Massachusetts Associations of School Superintendents). It has a new location, Gillette Stadium, and it has sold out. A good sign. Wednesday’s Keynote, The Global Achievement Gap, is by Tony Wagner. Thursday’s Keynote, The Changing Face of Literacy and Learning In 1-1 Laptop Classrooms: The New Literacies of Online Reading Comprehension, is given by Donald Lue, j. Gregory…
I took the kids to get Halloween costumes yesterday and while waiting online at the mall food court, I could not help but over hear a conversation. The topic debated is not important but one of the statements has caused me to get on my soap box. “Anyone who thinks that way is an a——!” Why do we attack people with whom we do not agree? What happened to discussing ideas and trying to see the other point or points…
September has almost run its course and I have had little time to read blogs let alone write a post. It has been one hectic start to a school year. We have undergone a major restructuring, lost about 70 staff, closed 3 buildings and moved whole grade levels to new buildings. There is a lot to adjust too, for many all the changes have been tough. I my little world we are down one team member. I am supporting 2…
I have been getting ready for the start of school. We had many physical moves of teachers in our district and this requires a virtual move as well. So I have been moving teacher accounts around. I am also planning professional development opportunities for the fall. My mind is focused on the details and I currently do not have the luxury to explore some lines of thought. So I am jotting a few down here so I do not forget….
Continuing from part 3. Okay time to sum up my notes on Franklin’s thoughts on education, and move on in my research. The following are a few excerpts from Franklin’s proposal for the education of youth that discuss some of the lessons that can be taught from the study of history. Please take the time to read the entire document. History will show the wonderful Effects of ORATORY, in governing, turning and leading great Bodies of Mankind, Armies, Cities, Nations….
The opening keynote at BLC09 was given by Benjamin Zander and my main take away was to live a life that radiates possibilities. I was thinking how teachers look forward to the new school year as a time to be excited, a time of possibility. They have spent the summer thinking of ways to improve upon their craft, looking at new lessons and strategies, and searching for new resources. Just before the first day with students they receive their class…