Interactive social studies sites

Had a teacher ask recently for some good online sites that encourage thinking and “are interactive.” If she had asked that question two or three years ago, it would have been fairly easy to suggest several for her to try.
But with more sites using Flash and more research supporting video games and simulations, the number [...]

Read Full Post »

Students teaching teachers

Over the last few years, Dave McDivitt’s done a great job of finding ways to incorporate video games into his instruction. And I’ve had the chance to “listen in” on what’s he’s doing through his site. (Especially enjoyed some of his conversations about the use of The Sims as a tool in his Sociology classes!)
One [...]

Read Full Post »

Tip of the Week – Exit Cards

I spend time over at Mary Frazier’s helpful A Chat with Mary site and was recently reminded of a great strategy that encourages deep thinking and helps teachers assess learning. The strategy is called Exit Cards. I had the chance to learn more about the idea several years ago while working with teachers on differentiated [...]

Read Full Post »

Historical Thinking Matters!

In an earlier post, I mentioned the sweet, new Digital Vaults site from the National Archive people. The site really blew me away with its cool interface, teaching materials and use of primary sources. I’m thinking, this is what digital archives should look like! Can’t get any better than this.
Or can it?
Thumbing through the latest [...]

Read Full Post »

A creativity engine

The current eSchool News just posted an interesting article about online gaming and their impact on student learning. The article discusses some of the ways that Second Life and other types of multiple-player online games can prepare players to succeed in life after high school.
When you think about the skills that students need when they [...]

Read Full Post »