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Website Mission

It is the mission of this website to assist in the development of learning environments that promote Career and Technical Education as well as academic excellence. To provide examples of effective 21st century teaching and learning strategies in order to assist in the development of more engaged and motivated classrooms. To provide multimedia Podcasts and articles to facilitate an understanding of how to implement technology and multimedia in classrooms regardless of content area. To encourage independent and personalized learning by teaching students to enjoy the process of learning. To assist teachers in becoming facilitators of learning.

In the Classroom

This section highlights some of the multimedia projects and resources that are used to engage students during lessons. It also introduces readers to technology, how it can be effectively implemented, and the potential benefits that utilizing available technology resources can have on students. In addition, it describes the various educational strategies that can be implemented in the classroom in order to increase student achievement and success.

Digital Learning

Digital learning has the potential to transform the field of education by opening doors for students that maximize their potential for success. It provides them with the opportunity to learn at their own pace, and can be adapted to fit the learning styles of almost every type of learner. In addition, teachers can access the tools necessary to create successful learning environments and address the individualized learning needs of even the most diverse population.

Digital Learning Now! is a national campaign designed to address policies in order to provide quality digital learning environments that will prepare students for the future. This campaign has developed 10 Elements of High Quality Digital Education, intended to serve as a catalyst for lawmakers to integrate digital learning into education. These elements are grouped into three areas, which focus on students, providers, and the government.

Click here to watch the video.

For more information, view the full Digital Learning Now! report.

Characteristics of 21st Century Teachers: What Do the Students Want From Me?

As I think back to the days when I was in school, I don’t think I ever remember any of my teachers asking me what I wanted from them. However, as the paradigm in education is consistently shifting, so should the way we approach our classrooms.

Will Technology Eventually Replace Teachers?

A current issue facing education today involves the popularity of online learning, and the common presumption that eventually this method of educating oneself will lead to the demise of the teaching profession. But can we really assume that one will receive a thorough, well-rounded education without ever setting foot inside a classroom? Or never having the opportunity to engage in face-to-face interactions with a teacher and share ideas with peers?

Characteristics of 21st Century Teachers: How Can I Be an Effective Teacher?

When I first started teaching, I thought I would have every weekend and summer off. That was a far cry from the truth. However, the efforts that I have put in since my first year as a teacher have paid off each and every year. I often explain to my students, “you get out of it, what you put in to it,” and it is my opinion that in order to be successful, you have to do what needs to be done regardless of your circumstances. I guess I learned this during my first year in the Philadelphia School District when I was expected to teach three classes of video production with twenty-eight to thirty-five students per class, and only one camera.

Students Encouraged to Use Social Media

Finally…a principal in NJ who believes that using technology and social media can actually improve the learning experience for students.

Greg Toppo of USA Today has found a high school principal who actively encourages both his teachers and students to use social networking in the classroom. Eric Sheninger, the principal of New Milford High School, uses Facebook to communicate with students and parents, and allows the use of cell phones in the classroom to respond to polls and quizzes. According to Sheninger, “sites such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube actually push kids to do better work and pay attention to important issues such as audience, quality research and copyright laws.”

Although still challenged by many who believe that students will take advantage of this freedom to explore using technology in the classroom, this concept of utilizing social media is a growing trend. I believe the positive effects of creativity and collaboration far outweigh the potential problems that may be associated with unrestricted access. After all, students today are digital natives. Isn’t it about time we used that to engage our students to become responsible 21st century learners?

Read the full article: Social media find place in classroom

Six Keys to Effective Teacher Collaboration

Teacher collaboration can be an extremely effective way to both share and receive innovative teaching tips, strategies and information. According to the Teacher Leaders Network, the following have been identified as six of the key attributes of effective collaboration:

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