Archive
component:how.professional-learning
10 Steps to Build Support for Blended Learning
To build support for a blended learning initiative, start by inventorying hardware and widely used apps, testing broadband, and identifying blended learning programs and strategies. Consider the following ten strategies over the course of six months to begin to lay the groundwork for development and adoption of blended learning models.
Blended Learning Decision: Enterprise or Portfolio
For many districts, the most important strategy decision will be whether to build a common district plan or encouraging schools to develop their own plans.
Part 2: Independent Learners Require First Independent Teaching
Yesterday I tackled the debate of student performance as a measure of teacher effectiveness. Here’s why performance-based pay for teachers as an approach to teacher effectiveness runs counter to every meaningful definition of personalized education.
Part 1: To Personalize Learning, First Personalize Teaching
The irony is hardly lost on anyone when at education-related professional conferences educators sit in the audience as experts lecture them about how to teach as a guide-on-the-side rather than a sage-on-the stage. A “do-as-I-say-not-as-I-do” moment that often has even the lecturer chuckling.
Blended Learning Philanthropy
What’s been on my mind: new learning models, role of philanthropy, practice and policy (including new accountability)… all student-centered.
How Digital Learning Contributes to Deeper Learning
Here at Getting Smart, we spend a lot of time thinking about how to improve learning. We advocate for tools and schools that work better for students and teachers. We love to see and share stories about engaged learners producing quality products.
Don’t be Lame, Personalize Learning
At a Baltimore gathering of learning professionals we discussed six important advances underway: personalized learning, learner profiles and customized playlists, iPads and mobile learning, powerful platforms, and progress by demonstrated competency.
Why Haven’t Districts Adopted Blended Learning Faster?
Consultants asked, "Why haven't districts adopted blended learning faster?" I answered, "Because it's complicated."
Avoid Hit-or-Miss Professional Development
As a former principal and curriculum director, I can easily tell the difference between good and bad professional development. I’m embarrassed to admit that I have had my hand in delivering some poor quality events in my career. Some of my colleagues refer to past trainings as a “spray and pray” approach to learning something.
Q&A: It’s About Time For Proficiency-Based Learning
Diane Smith for the Business Education Compact (BEC) released "It's About Time: A Framework For Proficiency-Based Teaching & Learning" this year in response to a need expressed by the Oregon Department of Education (ODE), which identifies the ways that eliminating seat time and moving toward proficiency-based teaching and learning can improve student achievement.