What I’m reading…
So much to read…so little time. Whenever I scan what’s available on NEA’s online properties, I’m amazed by all the great content that’s just a click away. Here’s what I’m reading now. See what else you find when you explore!
This article, based on a first-ever survey of the topic, explores what people know about what we do and how students learn. Here’s one tidbit: Almost 40 percent of the survey respondents said “mastering basic content is overrated” and facts get in the way of students’ understanding. Argh. Clearly there’s a disconnect between what the public understands about education and what, based on our experience and expertise, we know to be true. Now that we know more about the disconnect, the good news is that we can address it.
There’s a lot we can do to make our schools and classrooms welcoming, inviting, and warm spaces for all students, regardless of where they live or where they’re from. Many educators are encouraging their school boards to pass resolutions that make schools and campuses safe for immigrant students and communities, in the face of Donald Trump’s mass deportation policies. You can also read an article about one student-led campaign to pass a safe zone resolution.
I’ve visited many community schools, and I know how well they work to provide students with the support, tools, and time to learn that they deserve. At this link, you can read all about what makes community schools such great places and the benefits they provide for our students and their families. There’s a very cool video, too.
This article from the latest issue of Thought & Action analyzes a new book, “Gender Shrapnel in the Academic Workplace,” which looks at the prevalence of sexism in academic environments. Gender shrapnel is “a series of small explosions in the workplace that affect women and men and reveal an uneven gender dynamic at all levels of the organization.” One example of this is marginalization of women in temporary, part-time academic assignments.
On this new NEA website, you can find a compilation of articles, resources, and other content that provides essential tools to help “you do you”! The content can be tailored to your job category, where you live, and your students’ grade level. Here’s some of what you’ll find: lesson plans galore, advice for new educators, information about upcoming webinars, and much more.What I'm reading... - Lily's Blackboard: