Factors that influence a teacher's decision whether or not to use computer technology as an instructional tool are explored in this book. Based on her own research, Melissa Evans-Andris discusses the ways teachers use computers; identifies administrative behaviours that support or inhibit the use of computers in schools; and recommends specific strategies for implementing educational computer use.
Factors that influence a teacher's decision whether or not to use computer technology as an instructional tool are explored in this book. Based on her own research, Melissa Evans-Andris discusses the ways teachers use computers; identifies administrative behaviours that support or inhibit the use of computers in schools; and recommends specific strategies for implementing educational computer use.
"This book could save you precious time when implementing a curriculum mapping initiative! From theoretical information to practical advice for planning and sustaining systemic change, this book provides valuable tools for supporting your curriculum mapping work." -Mary Helen Hart, Curriculum and Grants Coordinator Franklin Northeast Supervisory Union, Richford, VT "Curriculum mapping is multifaceted and systemic, thus requiring time, buy-in, collaboration, and thoughtful planning by school leaders. Hale and Dunlap guide leaders by providing sound advice, steps to follow, and anecdotes for small and large districts that are beginning mapping or trying to reinvigorate their current mapping efforts." -Janet Boyle, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction Center Grove Community Schools, Greenwood, IN Lead a collaborative and sustainable curriculum mapping initiative! A powerful, data-driven tool for school improvement and systemic change, curriculum mapping depends on strong administrative and teacher leadership for successful implementation. This comprehensive book shows how school- and district-level leaders can guide an effective curriculum mapping initiative-one that results in positive, long-term improvements in student achievement. Written by nationally known experts in curriculum mapping, this practical guide shows how to create the culture and structure needed to effectively align curriculum, meet standards, and work collaboratively. Addressing the specific roles of district leaders, curriculum directors, principals, and teacher leaders, the authors focus on: An overview of the key concepts and processes of curriculum mapping Leadership strategies for each phase, including discussion of roles and responsibilities Insights on developing effective teacher leadership, with suggestions for allocating time and resources Information about how leaders can create professional development maps and professional roles maps Real-life examples of educational leaders' curriculum mapping experiences Discover valuable tools and insights that support knowledgeable, inspired leadership of curriculum mapping initiatives!
Presenting the psychology behind the best-managed classrooms Like having a hidden camera in other teachers' classrooms, An Interpersonal Approach to Classroom Management engages you from the start by contrasting how two teachers respond differently to common situations. The authors expertly bridge the gap between educational psychology and peer and student-teacher management from the perspectives of student engagement, classroom relationships, and teacher self regulation. Both current and prospective teachers will find helpful tools for engaging difficult students, managing challenging relationships, and handling conflict. Key topics include: Student behavioral, relational, and cognitive engagement in the learning process Classroom structures that contribute to student engagement The contribution of peer relationships to positive and negative behavior management Strategies that help children learn to manage their own behavior Connecting with students who are culturally and linguistically diverse This practitioner-friendly guide takes you on an enlightening journey that will help you manage by design rather than by default. The results-improved relationships and enhanced learning-will not just make a difference; they will make all the difference.
Help students thrive with this systematic approach to culturally responsive instruction! Research shows that students of color learn best in classrooms that reflect their cultural values. This breakthrough book shows educators how to create culturally relevant RTI models that help diverse students thrive! Step-by-step, you'll learn to skillfully apply 4 core characteristics critical to culturally responsive instruction: communalism, movement expressiveness, orality, and verve. Richly detailed case studies and evidence-based, process-focused strategies will help you to: Understand how and why culture mediates learning Dispel cultural biases and appreciate the assets among all student groups Address all tiers of the RTI model across grade levels Eliminate disproportionality in special education eligibility decisions Work collaboratively with African American parents and communities Use this thought-provoking handbook to confidently design high quality, culturally responsive instruction that fits the cultural needs of most African-American students! "All educators working with diverse students should read this book! Using personal experiences, the author provides examples of culturally responsive classroom instruction that brings tears to my eyes realizing what I missed in my own education." -Julie Esparza Brown, Assistant Professor in Special Education Portland State University "Diversity in race and culture is one of the greatest issues facing students and teachers in education today. Without changing our mindset and understanding how others learn, we will never meet the expectations of educating all people. This book is outstanding in addressing these issues. It is truly a powerful read and something all educators should keep as a resource when making decisions for students who do not fall into that stereotypical 'box'." -Cindy Lawrence, Curriculum Coordinator Lumberton ISD "This book presents salient and provocative ideas with regards to teaching the way students learn. These ideas are not readily spoken about in teacher preparation programs or in schools. This book provides an avenue to discuss the ways African American students learn best." -Lydia Adegbola, Assistant Principal NYC Department of Education
What Every Education Leader Should Know About Legal Actions
Arm yourself with the facts educators need to respond effectively when litigation is imminent! While jury trials are popularly construed as criminal matters, it is civil litigation that increasingly involves the participation of school educators. In recent instances, education leaders have been parties to, or participants in, legal cases ranging from employee discrimination to alleged criminal negligence. In response to this trend, legal experts and frequent consultants to attorneys Robert Shoop, a network news program regular on legal topics, and Dennis Dunklee, a 2005 participant in the Oxford University Roundtable on Education Law, have authored this indispensable text to arm educators with the essential information they need to understand and prepare for potential litigation. Five sections cover the legal basics necessary to: Understand the court and jury system Support and work effectively with attorneys Appreciate the nuances of litigation Reduce the potential risk of litigation by understanding and practicing preventive law Assist in the legal process by serving as an expert witness With this essential resource, educational leaders can learn how to prepare effectively, respond appropriately, and help achieve positive outcomes when faced with litigation.
A Leader's Guide to Creating and Sustaining Equitable Schools
And Justice for ELs is a resource every school leader must read right away-for that matter, keep within arm's reach because you're certain to refer to it constantly. Ayanna Cooper, a former U.S. Department of State English Language Specialist, has "been there, done that" and is now prepared to share with you how best to translate today's federal mandates into actionable steps for ensuring the civil rights of our nation's multilingual learners. Because it is impossible to provide specific advice or guidance for every possible situation, Ayanna focuses on the "need-to knows" for making informed decisions within your own building: Eight questions you must ask-and how to obtain answers-before planning English language development services The most common EL program models, with special emphasis on scheduling, along with specific challenges and appropriate staffing The why and how of evaluating English language education, regardless of the evaluation tool, and ways to facilitate conversations with teachers before and after observation How to determine the type of professional learning that will have the greatest impact in your unique context Recommendations for establishing productive relationships with linguistically diverse families and communities Just about every tool you could possibly need, including a glossary of acronyms, useful advocacy organizations, and templates for supporting professional learning But what you'll love most is the way Ayanna "keeps it real." Every chapter is framed around a "What Would You Do?" scenario, for which she ultimately provides an answer(s) as well as guiding questions to help you think through the issues. Take a look for yourself. We know you'll agree that And Justice for ELs is without question a one-of-a-kind resource. "And Justice for ELs is an excellent guide for practitioners who seek to provide their English learners with high-quality instruction in all subject areas. Too often such students are relegated an education that marginalizes them academically and fails to develop their native language skills. We can and must do a better job for these students, and in this book Ayanna Cooper shows us how." ~Pedro A. Noguera
How do assessments for learning differ from assessments of learning? What is the purpose of grading? After nearly two decades of immersion in standards-based curriculua and instruction, our nation's educators are often still confounded by the (admittedly complex) landscape of standards, assessment, and reporting. Lead author Tom Guskey has a remarkable knack for bringing clarity to even the most complex of concepts. In this brief, practical guide, he and co-author Lee Ann Jung address the frequently-asked questions that almost inevitably surface in his work with school districts, state DOEs, and international agencies. The authors respond to these questions in short, simple, jargon-free, reader-friendly responses that will make sense to all levels of readers. As schools proceed with the implementation of the Common Core curriculum and the use of corresponding assessments, this invaluable guide will help clarify the meaning of these critical issues for key stakeholders and greatly facilitate communication among and between group members.
This indispensable guide to establishing a vibrant, thriving classroom is a lifeline of practical support for teachers, providing actionable answers to pressing questions at the moment you most need them.
