How to Keep Students Safe Online?

The internet may bring the world to our fingertips, but that means both the good and the bad aspects of what you can find online. Along with easy access to research materials, online museums, connections via social media, and purpose built for education apps and web tools comes inappropriate content, peer bullying, and online predators. So how to make sure the content is appropriate and your students are safe when they’re using the web for appropriate and necessary work and leisure? The handy infographic below takes a look at what students are doing online and some of the problems they may run into, along with some recommendations for teachers. 

Keeping Students Safe Online

• 95% of teenagers 12-17 are online
• 62% are visiting social networks, while only 15% are doing research/work for school
• 74% access the web on mobile phones
• 52% say they have been a victim of cyberbullying
• Less than 1 in 5 cyberbullying incidents are reported
• 37% of students report being bullied at school
• 50% of 12th grade girls spend at least 10 hours per week texting on their cell phones
• 22% of teens say they have ‘sexted’
• 15% of teens say they have sent nude photos to someone they have never met

What Are Some Issues Resulting From Internet Threats?

• Violence/Harm to self
• Violence/Harm/Abuse/Rape to others
• Nudity/Sexual content (sexting, porn)
• Inappropriate content (skipping school, linking to inappropriate sites, cheating)
• Alcohol/smoking/drug abuse

What Can You Do?

• Help students understand that some information should be private
• Talk to students about cyberbullying
• Educate students about the threat of online predators
• Encourage students to report concerns to authorities
• Implement a safe learning solution that will filter and monitor communications

Dealing With Inappropriate Content

• Do not forward, copy, download, or share the content
• Determine if the person in possession of the content has shared it
• Minimize the number of devices and people involved
• Contact law enforcement if appropriate
• If a document or conversation needs to be saved, do not include images

Post Source : http://www.edudemic.com/quick-guide-keeping-students-safe-online/

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Social Media In Education

The first step towards applying social media into education starts with empowering teachers by giving them freedom to use social media to engage with students and giving them the freedom to come-up with innovative ways of teaching using technology.

On the contrary, let’s talk about few practical ways on how many educators apply social media to flip the conventional teaching model and make classroom & home work experience meaningful to for the students.

YouTube

The average teacher impacts about 3,000 students in his or her lifetime. Imagine what could happen when you inspire 3,000 individuals or perhaps 300,000 students. How? With Youtube!

Ask your students what they would prefer – Lectures of their teachers teaching them in the real classroom, or Videos of the same lectures on their computers, Macs, iPads or Smartphone devices. Like it or not – students would prefer their teachers more in a video than in person. Because they have better control on their lecture (and the teacher) when it’s a video. They can’t rewind a teacher 10 times in the classroom, they can’t pause the lecture in a real classroom to get a cup of coffee. It’s embarrassing for a student to interrupt a teacher in a real class and ask to repeat because he/she didn’t understand.

This brings us to the most fundamental problems with the conventional way of teaching – there is a ‘limit’ to the number of times a student can make a teacher repeat the lecture. Because of which – at the end of term, there is a half baked student with low grades advancing to the next level, in spite the intent to learn and master the topic.

While watching a teacher give lecture in a video on the other hand, student wouldn’t need to pretend that they have understood. They can go back and watch the lecture again in the comfort of their home.

If you as an institution are confident about the teaching skills of your teachers, you should record the lectures of your teachers and share it with the world with the help of Youtube.

…I give you a lecture [on cycling] ahead of time, and I give you a bicycle for two weeks, and then I come back after two weeks, and I say “Well, you’re having trouble taking left turns and you can’t quite stop. You’re an 80% bicyclist.” So I put a ‘C’ stamp on your forehead, and then I say, ‘Here’s a unicycle.’”

- Salman Khan, Khan Academy

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Can EdTech Help Fix Socioeconomic Problems?

By Hardik Parikh

Education, learning and knowledge that our children acquire is directly related to their future. Equally important are the opportunities that they get to enhance intellectual and grow as individuals.

However, does the American Education Platform offer equal opportunities to all?

Can America get rid of its socioeconomic issues by fixing the present day EdTech?

It is obvious that the failing of our students on global performance standards is a direct reflection of the ineffectiveness of our present educational structure. We for sure know that the teachers are the first mentors who touch base with the corresponding and allied issue of inequality and various other socioeconomic concerns. Since the basis of formation of an individual’s perspective and personality take shape at the schools, it would be safe to say that the inequality of perspectives and talent and education too must be treated in the schools itself.

Chart 1 From http://www9.georgetown.edu/grad/gppi/hpi/cew/pdfs/recovery2020.fr.web.pdf

We have already explored the PISA results and ways to be unbeatable on global turfs. The figures from the Center For Education And Workforce of Georgetown University state that while there was an 82 percent hike in the number of job openings for the students with a degree between 1989 to 2012, for the same period, the number of job openings for students with education qualification of high school or less declined to minus 14 percent.

As per Help Wanted Projections of Jobs and Education Requirements Through 2018 nearly

$772 billion is depleted each year on the post-secondary training and education. The fact worth noting is that nearly 65% of this amount goes to the grooming outside of the school to those who impart the skills training to post-secondary students.

We bring to you the latest top trend in education that break the old educational habits to prepare American youth for the future and at the same time also levels the socioeconomic turf.

Adaptive Learning Lets Us Optimize Education

If No More Woof can translate dog thoughts in to human language, data mining can alter and influence the practice of medicine, Google can understand human needs purely based on search algorithms, then why can the adaptive learning platforms not do the same?

The Adaptive Learning systems are based on individual algorithms developed from the test results recorded. The learning content for each student gets personalized as it is based on his own past performance records. An absolute data of each student’s weaknesses and strengths is generated, based on the student’s learning style and pace the system suggests and provides the learning content as well as the next level of test. This is a continuous process, the adaptive learning platform synchronously records learning duration, type of learning, learning based on phonetics and learning based on visuals, test scores, level of grasping, knowledge acquired, etc. of the each and every student.

As each student is different, it is practically impossible for a teacher to understand and comply with each student’s needs individually, in the classroom. Though with the assistance of the adaptive learning platform, teachers not just are able to help the students better, they can even understand individual educational needs of each student.

The study suggests that only one third of students present in a classroom are able to grasp what is taught at the normal pace. The other two third of the student either need faster pace or slower pace to understand the concept. As the adaptive learning process provides each student a personalized learning, it is a boon to the entire education industry. Adaptive learning software provides innovative and creative education resources to the teachers. They can be customized as per the school administrators or school district’s requirements. Usually, we see that such low-income schools are overcrowded with students and teachers and administrators have very limited time and resources. These customized education software makes a lot of difference in the such schools with scarce resources.

Adaptive learning is the best way to optimize education. As the adaptive learning takes a leap in to the schools, students will get the benefit of both individual learning as well as learning in small groups. Teachers will be able to manage the each and every student and focus more on the students who need more help. Ultimately, all students will learn dedicately, without the teachers being unnecessarily taxed.

The classrooms with blended learning models perform far better. Teachers are relaxed and happy as with adaptive learning platform as they have time, energy and resources to help students learn more of critical thinking and practical usability of the concepts.

Post Source : http://www.edudemic.com/can-edtech-help-fix-socioeconomic-problems/

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What To Know About Using Colors In The Classroom

By Katie Lepi

I have aversions to certain colors. I’m sure I’m not alone in this – most people find themselves drawn to either warm colors or cool colors, and there is a whole business of the psychology of colors. The handy infographic below takes a look at the psychology of colors and how they’re used in branding. Not applicable to the classroom, right?

Wrong. There are so many different ways you can incorporate color into what you’re doing in your classroom to help boost your efforts. From designing your presentations mindfully to how you mark student work, color can come into play a lot more often than you may realize.

So what colors should you use for what? Take a look at what the infographic below has to say about colors with branding, and we’ll give you an idea of how this crosses over into the classroom. We’d love to hear if you’ve used colors intentionally in your classroom setting, or if you have other ideas. Leave a message in the comments!

Using Colors in the Classroom

Red

Red evokes strength, passion, and excitement. It is often used with food brands to trigger appetite, convey confidence in the brand, and attracts a lot of attention. On the flip side, it can also convey anger or frustration. Note that in some cultures (Chinese, for example) the color red is strongly associated with happiness, so know your audience!

The infamous ‘red pen of correction’ is probably what red is most often associated with in the classroom. That certainly falls into the ‘attracting attention’ category, but students can often have a negative association to red markings on their paper. Try switching it up and using multiple colors when annotating your students’ work – easy to do especially if you have a paperless classroom and are making notes in Word or Google Docs. You can give them a legend or guide to what each color means at the beginning of the semester.

Yellow

Yellow evokes intellect, joy, and energy. Indicates fun, energy, happiness, and attracts attention.

Do you have something that you want your students to notice and get involved in? A project, field trip, fundraiser, or volunteer extra curricular project? Incorporate yellow into the ‘branding’ of your project.

Blue

Blue tends to evoke feelings of loyalty, trust, and intelligence. Blue is the most popular brand color, and is associated with intelligence and trust.

It is not surprising then, that hospitals use so much blue (and green, see below). Introducing a difficult new concept in class, or asking your students to head way out of their comfort zone? Incorporate some blue into your presentations and materials!

Green

Green is considered the easiest color for human vision, and is often associated with freshness, growth, and safety. Often used to indicate environmental friendliness, green can be used in any scenario that you want to evoke a relaxed, safe feeling.

Your classroom environmental initiatives can obviously be ‘branded’ green, but don’t forget that green is the color associated with “GO”, so take advantage of that! (Side note: Starbuck’s, green logo, caffeine, GO. Coincidence? I doubt it!).

Don’t underestimate using colors to talk about emotions and language directly in your classroom. Reading materials and visuals can come together as students discuss book or movie characters, their experiences and emotions, and the language that goes along with that. Talk about synonyms, antonyms, and alternate descriptions!

Post Source: http://www.edudemic.com/colors-in-the-classroom/

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The Major Pros And Cons To Online Learning

By Jen Roberts

Ever since the entry of online learning, many have questioned its advantages and disadvantages over the more traditional model of classroom based learning. While each format presents its own pros and cons, determining which is more advantageous will depend on the circumstances faced by a student. Online learning may be the better choice for some, while sticking with an in-person format may better suit others. Choosing between the two options is a multi-faceted, personal decision for each individual.

Thumbs Up

A key factor that has buoyed the popularity of online courses is the convenience it provides students. The need to travel to and from classes at a campus is eliminated. A student can simply log on to class at home or in a library to view the lessons. Transportation expenses for gas and parking are diminished. And since students are not running about going from one class to another, assigned tasks are completed at leisure rather than at a hurried pace.

In addition, students of online courses Australia are able to hone their computer skills. While working online, a student can take full advantage of the Internet as a resource for their studies to research for additional information. The course materials are provided in digital format hence the use of computer applications becomes second nature to students.

Learning online also teaches students the value of time management. The ability to manage one’s time is major challenge for students of traditional and virtual classrooms. In most cases, people who have taken up distance education courses indicate an increase in self-discipline as the key to eliminating the tendency to procrastinate. The independence to set one’s own schedule eases the pressure of studying thus making it easier for students of online classes to stick to their schedule.

Thumbs Down

Unfortunately a key argument against education online courses is the quality of its content. With the growing number of providers over the Internet, it can be confusing for a novice looking for an online class. It helps to do one’s research and to seek out reputable providers that offer programs with full accreditation from recognized organizations.

For some, the lack of personal interaction with distance education courses is another difficulty that many find hard to overcome. This is particularly true of students who are motivated by the social interface provided by traditional learning. In response to this dilemma, an increasing number of providers have introduced various ways for their learners to socialize with the class. Some providers offer students the opportunity to interact with their tutors via email. In this manner, students can ask questions and expect a reply within a twenty-four period.

Regardless of which learning format a student may go for, the following tips for learning success remain true. First, time management is key so be sure to set aside time for study. Refrain from the temptation to deviate from the schedule. Second, ask reasonable and responsible questions. By asking the right questions, a teacher or tutor can help expand the lesson further for the benefit of all the students. Third, set a goal for completing the course in order to stay motivated.

About The Author:  Jen Roberts is a 25 year old journalism graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Creative writing. She is current working as an online tutor at Careerline Courses. She loves to write, read books and travel.

Post Source: http://www.edudemic.com/pros-cons-online-learning/

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Trying New Technology

Trying New Technology

By Katie Lepi

10 Drivers of Blended Learning

• Teachers need and want to:
• Personalize learning
• Improve the progress potential for each individual student
• Improve student engagement and motivation
• Shift to online state testing as of 2015
• Extend time and stretch resources effectively
• Extend the reach of effective teachers
• Improve teacher’s working conditions
• Decrease device costs
• Have students and parents adopt learning apps
• Narrow the digital divide

10 Questions To Ask Yourself When Implementing New Technology

• The answer doesn’t have to be yes for every question, but the more boxes you can tick, the better!
• Does it improve the teacher’s ability to personalize learning? (yes!)
• Does it offer potential for individual progress? (yes!)
• Does it improve student engagement and motivation? (yes!)
• Does it help teachers to to online testing methods? (yes!)
• Does it extend time and stretch resources effectively? (yes!)
• Does it extend the reach of effective teachers? (yes!)
• Does it improve teacher’s working conditions? (yes!)
• Does it decrease device costs? (yes!)
• Does it help students and parents adopt learning apps? (yes!)
• Does it help narrow the digital divide? (yes!)

Post Source: http://www.edudemic.com/new-technology-questions/

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The Busy Teacher’s Quick Guide To Blended Learning

By Katie Lepi

Blended learning is a combination of some face-to-face teaching and some online teaching. It is a great way for teachers to bring online components into the forefront, rather than just using digital materials as supplemental (often at home) course materials. Blended learning has a huge advantage – it doesn’t prescribe that particular activities must be online or in person. There isn’t a particular percentage of teaching and learning that has to happen in the classroom or not. You can tailor it to your needs, and do some experimentation. It is so flexible, and can be something different for each teacher, each class, or each student. One class may lean heavily on the online component and another may not, depending on the availability and appropriateness of materials available.

The handy infographic below takes a look at the details on blended learning. What is it? Why do teachers like it? How does it work? Keep reading to learn more!

Learning About Blended Learning

• Blended learning refers to any time that a student is learning in a mixed environment of brick-and-mortar, supervised learning, and learning via online delivery methods.
• It is estimated that by 2019, 50% of all high school classes will be delivered online.
• Tight budgets, teacher shortages, and a greater demand for results are some of the biggest factors accelerating the growth of blended learning.
• By the end of 2014, 50% of all post-secondary students will be taking at least one class online.
• Because blended learning is so customizable, it really pushes personalized learning and moves education away from the one size fits all model.

Blended learning models can be mostly online, mostly in person, half and half, or some combination thereof. There are six distinct models:

• Face-to-Face Driver
• Rotation
• Flex
• Online Lab
• Self-Blend
• Online Driver

More technology solutions are needed to support blended learning models. These include:

• Integrated systems
• High quality, dynamic content
• Analytics
• Automation
• Applications that enhance student motivation

Post Source: http://www.edudemic.com/blended-learning-infographic-2/

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4 Powerful Ways To Inspire Student Creativity

By jperrier on February 10, 2014

Are you looking for a way to bring creativity into your classroom?

When you help your students be creative they will feel good about themselves as well as do better in the classroom. Studies have shown that students that show off their creativity do better on standardized tests along with coming into a classroom motivated and have a more positive attitude towards learning. Even as a teacher you will also be rewarded. Your performance as a teacher will increase and you will come to work every day feeling positive and eager to teach.

Working Within Restrictive Curricula

Even if the school you’re teaching at has a strict curriculum that you have to follow, you can still find ways to be creative. Use your imagination there are no limitations when it comes to being creative. You can use any materials and there are absolutely no limitations. You can use anything that is handy and there is a plethora of different websites and books out there that can help you find new and exciting ways to help promote creativity in the classroom.

Promoting Creativity

Make your classroom more appealing. Spruce up your classroom with posters and finished crafts that your students have made. Don’t hesitate to get your students involved. Take a few minutes every day to hear from your students. It can be about anything pertaining to the class. Let them make suggestions on what their learning and the things that they would like to do.

Get to Know Your Students

Don’t use the same lessons that you used last year. Just because it worked last year doesn’t mean that it will have the same results the following year. Each child learns differently. So, at the beginning of the year take the time to get to know each and every one of your students. After, you have gotten to know them you can then make your lessons based on what you have learned about your students. By making up custom lessons that are tailored for your classroom you will be able to let your students grow and learn to the best of their ability.

Learn With Your Students

When it comes time to work on projects or the class is doing anything that involves creativity, learn with the class. Sit with them and do brainstorming with them. Sit with them and participate with the session. Call out answers just as they do. Participate is if you’re a student not an instructor. You will encourage the students to get more creative and it will also allow you to open up to let your creativity flow as well.

We all know how hard it can be to be creative every day; some days are going to be harder than others.

About the author:

Jay Perrier is a skillful and dedicated writer. Widely known among students who searched for “write my essay for me”  for his dedication and professional approach to every tasks.

Post Source: http://www.edudemic.com/student-creativity/

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