EdTech News

Introduction:

In today’s digital age, children are growing up with smartphones, computers, and a plethora of technology. They’ve become increasingly detached from certain traditional elements that previous generations considered to be fundamental knowledge. One such element is the ability to identify and use coins. This article will explore the reasons behind why kids today don’t know their coins as well as the implications of this shift.

Reason 1: The Dominance of Digital Payment Methods

The most prominent reason for children not knowing coins is the rise of digital payments. With options like credit cards, debit cards, mobile wallets, and online banking, the usage of cash and coins has significantly decreased. Parents no longer encourage their children to save coins in piggy banks or pay for items with physical money. Consequently, kids are not familiar with the types of coins and their respective values.

Reason 2: Limited Exposure to Coins in Education

Children used to learn about coins early in their education as a part of mathematics curriculum or hands-on financial literacy exercises. However, recent shifts in educational priorities have resulted in decreased emphasis on teaching about cash and coin-related activities. Instead, lessons focused more on problem-solving skills and digital literacy – further distancing children from understanding coins.

Reason 3: Lack of Necessity

Another factor contributing to kids not knowing coins is simply a lack of necessity or urgency to learn about them. In an era where transactions can be completed with just a few taps on a screen, there is little motivation for children to understand coin values and counting. Moreover, parents might not see it as essential knowledge, resulting in limited conversations around using cash and teaching kids about its importance.

Implications:

The decline in kids knowing their coins might seem insignificant at first glance; however, there could be potential consequences as they grow up with this knowledge gap:

1. Financial Literacy – Knowing the basics of handling cash and coins is a fundamental skill in financial literacy. A lack of familiarity with coins could lead to challenges in managing personal finances later in life, such as tracking cash expenses or making change.

2. Connection to History – Coins are not just a means of payment; they carry historical significance and symbolize the culture of a country. By failing to recognize and understand coins, children might lose an essential connection to their nation’s history and traditions.

3. Real-world Interactions – As much as digital payment methods are convenient, kids will still encounter instances where cash transactions are necessary (e.g., garage sales, farmers markets). Being unfamiliar with coins may leave them unprepared for these real-world situations.

Conclusion:

The reasons behind children not knowing their coins range from technological advancements to shifts in education priorities. While it may not seem a significant concern initially, it’s essential to consider the implications of this knowledge gap on their development. To ensure that future generations remain connected with traditional elements like coins, educators and parents must work together to highlight the importance of cash and coin-based transactions within learning environments and everyday lives.

As summer break commences, students and families often experience a lull in structured school activities. However, many schools have found innovative ways to continue supporting families throughout the summer months. These creative initiatives ensure both educational engagement and leisure time for students and their families. Here are six ways schools are providing support to families during the summer break:

1. Summer Camps and Programs

A variety of schools offer camp-style programs during summer break, catering to different interests such as sports, arts, or academics. Schools often collaborate with local organizations to create these programs, ensuring they provide a unique experience for students while giving parents peace of mind knowing that their children are in a safe and familiar environment.

2. Outdoor Movie Nights

Several schools organize outdoor movie nights on their campuses as a way to engage the community and strengthen bonds among families and staff. These events offer an opportunity for parents to socialize while their children enjoy age-appropriate movies with friends.

3. Parent Workshops

Some institutions provide workshops for parents during summer break that focus on relevant topics such as effective communication strategies, discipline techniques, and academic support for specific subjects. These workshops not only help parents improve parenting skills but also foster a strong connection with the school community.

4. Summer Reading Programs

Many schools host reading programs that encourage children to read books throughout the summer. Students are often given reading lists tailored to their grade level with accompanying activities related to the texts. Through these programs, students keep their literary skills sharp and connect with one another over shared reading experiences.

5. Community Service Initiatives

Schools may launch or partner with local nonprofits to provide community service opportunities for students and families during the summer months. From park cleanups to food drives, these initiatives enable families to contribute positively to their community while learning valuable life lessons about empathy and responsibility.

6. Coordinated Playdates

Some schools facilitate playdates for families during the summer break. This enables children to maintain social connections with classmates and alleviate parents’ concerns about finding appropriate play opportunities for their children. These playdates can include low-key picnics, nature walks, or recreational activities organized on campus.

In conclusion, schools have found myriad ways to maintain family engagement over summer break. By providing educational support, recreational activities, and community-building initiatives, these institutions are offering vital resources to students and families during the summer months. With options ranging from camps and workshops to movie nights and playdates, schools are ensuring a fun-filled and intellectually stimulating summer for all.

In a unique and exciting new development, the CEO of Netflix has taken a step toward supporting the hardworking educators of our nation. Knowing the immense dedication and effort displayed by teachers, particularly during the difficult times of remote learning, this new venture aims to provide them with a well-deserved break. Located in the beautiful state of Colorado, Netflix’s CEO has plans to create a teacher retreat spa, offering an idyllic sanctuary where educators can relax, rejuvenate, and recharge.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape of Colorado, this teacher retreat spa is envisioned to be an all-inclusive haven, specifically tailored for those who have made it their life’s mission to empower future generations. With modern luxuries coupled with stunning scenic views, the retreat intends to provide an unmatched experience away from the daily grind that often consumes educators’ lives.

The idea behind creating such a haven is not just about resorts and relaxation; it is intrinsically connected to recognizing the unwavering commitment of teachers to their students. By offering this respite, Netflix’s CEO aims to convey sincere gratitude and appreciation towards educators who devote countless hours shaping young minds.

The facilities at this one-of-a-kind retreat are designed with utmost care and consideration. Teachers would have access to various spa treatments, wellness workshops, yoga sessions, meditation classes, and outdoor activities that specifically cater to their needs and preferences. The amenities will enable them not only to unwind but also rejuvenate both their body and mind.

Moreover, the retreat will provide opportunities for personal growth through various workshops focusing on areas such as self-care, mindfulness practices, stress management techniques, and strategies for maintaining work-life balance. With these comprehensive resources at hand, teachers will be empowered to thrive in their personal as well as professional lives.

The teacher retreat spa is slated to open its doors within the next two years, with plans already in motion to secure the picturesque location in Colorado. This initiative is not just a testament to Netflix’s CEO’s commitment to supporting those who dedicate their lives to educating young minds, but it also serves as a reminder to our nation about the vital role teachers play in shaping society.

In a world where stress and burnout are becoming increasingly common among educators, this innovative teacher retreat spa stands as a beacon of hope. As the time draws nearer for its grand unveiling, we can only look forward with anticipation to see how this sanctuary transforms the lives of thousands of deserving educators, giving them an oasis amidst the challenges of their noble profession.

Introduction:

As parents, educators, and students continue to navigate the challenges of remote learning, having access to quality educational resources is essential. That’s why we’re thrilled to share our love for these free teach@home daily lesson plans and activities. These invaluable tools help make learning from home a fun and engaging experience, while still meeting educational goals and standards.

Why We Love Teach@Home Daily Lesson Plans:

1. Comprehensive Curriculum Coverage

The teach@home daily lesson plans offer a wide range of subjects such as math, science, language arts, history, and more. This comprehensive curriculum coverage ensures students get a well-rounded educational experience from the comfort of their homes.

2. Adaptable for Multiple Grade Levels

Whether it’s for a kindergartner or a high school student, teach@home lesson plans are adaptable for various grade levels. This allows parents and educators to choose age-appropriate lessons that cater to the individual needs of each learner.

3. Easy-to-Follow Instructions

One of the main reasons we love these daily lesson plans is their simplicity. Each plan offers easy-to-follow instructions that make it possible for parents, even without any teaching background, to guide their children through the activities provided.

4. Engaging Activities

Every teach@home daily lesson plan includes engaging activities that not only address different areas of learning but also help children build important skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and communication.

5. Free & Accessible

In times where many families face financial hardships due to the global pandemic, having access to free resources is incredibly helpful. The teach@home daily lesson plans are easily accessible online – giving everyone an equal opportunity for quality education.

Incorporating Teach@Home Daily Lesson Plans Into Your Homeschool Routine:

To maximize the benefits of these free lesson plans and activities for your homeschooling journey, consider the following tips:

1. Set a daily learning schedule – A structured routine will provide a sense of normalcy and make it easier for children to adapt to remote learning.

2. Use the lesson plans as a starting point – You can either follow them strictly or use them as a foundation to build upon based on your child’s interests and needs.

3. Combine online and offline activities – While online lessons are convenient, including hands-on offline activities can help maintain a balance and avoid excessive screen time.

4. Encourage peer interaction – Arrange virtual playdates or study groups with other homeschooling families to help provide social interactions for your children.

5. Seek feedback from your child – Regularly ask your child about their learning experience, and adjust lesson plans accordingly to keep engagement high.

Conclusion:

The free teach@home daily lesson plans and activities make remote learning engaging, accessible, and effective for students of all ages. By incorporating these resources into your homeschooling routine, you’ll be well on your way to providing an enriching educational experience for your children – even during these challenging tiFun (and Friendly) Ways to Prank Your Students

Pranks are a lighthearted way to bring joy and laughter into any setting, and the classroom is no exception. By injecting a little fun and laughter into an otherwise serious environment, teachers can establish an open, relaxed, and positive atmosphere. Done with the right intentions, these friendly pranks can create unforgettable memories for both students and educators.

The weeks leading up to Winter Break are a mix of festivity, excitement, and stress in every school. As teachers work tirelessly to keep their students focused amidst holiday fever, they also cope with their own emotions and exhaustion. This year, a group of TikTok teachers have taken the internet by storm as they absolutely nail what it’s like during the week before Winter Break.

These talented educators are leveraging the power of social media to connect with colleagues around the world and share their experiences through humor, relatable content, and raw honesty. They offer a lighthearted view of common challenges they face, such as grading mountains of papers, unpredictable student behavior or creating engaging lessons for an unapologetically festive crowd.

One such teacher is @teachertoktoker, who shares hilarious videos of herself as different student “personas” throughout the week before break. With her accurate depictions of overly excited kids asking about party plans and students begging for extra credit at the last minute, she flawlessly captures the spirit and struggles of those frenzied pre-holiday days.

Another TikTok account capturing hearts is @winterbreakwhispers, where she shares daily coffee chats with fellow teachers to discuss their triumphs and tribulations during this hectic time. Watching these candid conversations unfold live on TikTok helps educators feel less isolated, and that sense of community can be invaluable when things get particularly tough.

Perhaps one of the most popular education influencers on TikTok is @theonetrueteacher, who has amassed a considerable following with her spot-on comedic portrayals of common classroom scenarios. From her video about having six precious minutes left to grade 100 papers before break to her skit about hiding holiday gifts from curious students, she never fails to invite laughter from educators around the globe.

These TikTok teachers not only provide comic relief and camaraderie during trying times but also remind educators they are not alone in their struggles. As the countdown to Winter Break continues, these accounts continue to bring joy, connection, and support to weary teachers worldwide. So, if you’re looking for some pre-holiday fun or just need a break from the classroom chaos, the halls of TikTok are bustling with relatable content that will surely make you smile.

In today’s fast-paced educational landscape, traditional assessment methods are being challenged to meet the evolving needs of modern learners. Among the numerous alternative assessment strategies, the how-to video has emerged as a powerful and engaging tool. As an educator, I have found how-to videos to be my favorite alternative assessment – and here’s why.

1. Active Learning and Engagement

How-to videos stimulate active learning as students are required to research, learn, and demonstrate their skills while creating their unique content. This interactive form of assessment inspires creativity and allows students to take ownership of their learning processes.

2. Enhanced Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Crafting a how-to video demands precision, clarity, and organization in order to explain concepts effectively. This thought process boosts critical thinking skills as students must identify the most relevant information, develop logical structures for presenting ideas, and design creative ways to illustrate complex problem-solving techniques.

3. Addressing Diverse Learning Needs

Every student has a different learning style. How-to videos cater to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners by combining visuals with descriptive audio narrations. This method ensures that students who may struggle with written or oral assessments can still showcase their knowledge effectively through other channels.

4. Encouraging Collaboration

Creating a how-to video often involves teamwork where students collaborate on different aspects like researching, scripting, filming or editing the content. This fosters camaraderie among them as they learn to navigate complex tasks together while developing essential collaboration skills.

5. Applicability in Real-world Scenarios

How-to videos often revolve around practical situations or tasks that learners might encounter in their real lives or future careers. This direct applicability motivates them to understand concepts at a deeper level since they can see the direct correlation between theory and practice.

6. Digital Literacy Development

As technology continues to permeate every aspect of our lives, fostering digital literacy has become increasingly important. How-to videos expose students to modern technologies, teaching them various software and tools required for video creation. This experience prepares them for the digital world they will be entering in their future careers.

7. Ease of Implementation and Evaluation

The process of creating a how-to video does not necessitate excessive resources, making it easy to implement. Furthermore, educators can rapidly evaluate the student’s understanding of concepts simply by watching and analyzing their presentations.

By incorporating how-to videos as an alternative assessment method, we are providing students with meaningful opportunities to explore their learning styles while promoting critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. In essence, how-to videos foster an inclusive learning environment that motivates all involved – the ultimate testament to its value in contemporary education.

Introduction:

If you’re an educator searching for a creative way to motivate your students, look no further! The Mystery Reward technique is a captivating method that uses suspense and excitement to keep students engaged and working hard in the classroom. In this article, we will discuss the concept of the Mystery Reward, its benefits, and how to implement it in your classroom.

What is a Mystery Reward?

A Mystery Reward is an unknown incentive that students can earn by achieving certain goals or displaying exceptional behavior. This unknown factor adds a sense of intrigue that has proven beneficial in keeping students engaged and motivated to work harder.

The Benefits of Using Mystery Rewards:

1. Increases engagement: The suspense of not knowing what reward awaits can pique students’ interest, making them more focused on the tasks at hand.

2. Enhances motivation: When students cannot predict the nature of the reward, they are more inclined to put in additional effort to attain it.

3. Encourages teamwork: Some Mystery Rewards may be group-based, which promotes collaboration among classmates.

4. Customizable: Teachers can personalize Mystery Rewards based on their class’s interests, making them adaptable to different age groups and educational settings.

How to Implement Mystery Rewards:

1. Determine goals or behaviors: Establish clear expectations that students need to meet to earn a Mystery Reward. These could include academic performance, class participation, respect for peers, or completion of tasks on time.

2. Design different types of rewards: To maintain intrigue, make sure you have various rewards at hand – from small trinkets or treats to special privileges such as extended recess or fun classroom activities.

3. Present the concept: Introduce the idea of Mystery Rewards to your students and explain how they can earn these hidden prizes by working hard and being responsible members of the classroom.

4. Display progress: Create a visible chart or board in the classroom to track students’ progress towards earning the Mystery Reward. This can help build excitement and make the process more transparent.

5. Reveal and deliver rewards: When a student or group has met the criteria, unveil the Mystery Reward and present it to them. Celebrate their hard work and remind the class about the importance of continued effort and engagement.

Conclusion:

Mystery Rewards are a fun, innovative way to inspire your students to excel academically and behave responsibly in the classroom. By incorporating surprise incentives, you can foster an environment of curiosity, collaboration, and motivation among your students. Why not give it a try? You might be amazed by the extraordinary outcomes that unfold as a result of implementing this engaging technique in your class!

Introduction:

Did you know that educators and students across the globe can access Microsoft Office 365 for absolutely no cost? Yes, you read that right – free! Microsoft offers Office 365 Education as a complimentary resource for qualified learners and teachers. This article will describe what Office 365 Education is, who is eligible for it, and how it can be obtained.

What is Office 365 Education?

Office 365 Education is a suite of various Microsoft tools, services, and applications tailored specifically for educational purposes. It aims to enhance collaboration, communication, and academic productivity among students, teachers, and school administrators. Office 365 Education comprises widely used Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Teams, and more.

Who is Eligible for Office 365 Education?

To be eligible for this free version of Office 365, you must meet the following criteria:

1. You must be a student or educator actively involved in full-time or part-time institutional activities.

2. Your school must have a valid accreditation status and not-for-profit status.

3. Your institution should have an existing or new contract with Microsoft.

4. You must possess a valid school-provided email address.

How to Get Office 365 Education?

Follow these simple steps to get started with your free subscription:

1. Visit the [Office 365 Education official website](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/products/office)

2. Click on ‘Get started for free.’

3. Enter your school-provided email address.

4. Complete the registration process by following the step-by-step instructions provided on the website.

Once you successfully complete the process, you will receive an email confirmation from Microsoft with further details on how to access your free Office 365 Education subscription.

Benefits of Using Office 365 Education

By getting this powerful suite of apps and services, students, and teachers can:

1. Collaborate on documents, presentations, and projects with peers seamlessly through real-time co-authoring and sharing capabilities.

2. Attend virtual classes and engage with fellow students using Microsoft Teams, which offers features like video conferencing, screen sharing, assignments, chats, and more.

3. Organize lesson plans and class materials using OneNote Class Notebook – a comprehensive digital notebook for educators.

4. Utilize advanced Excel tools to manage data, analyze trends, create charts or graphs for scientific reports.

5. Access a plethora of tutorials, support resources, training material from [Microsoft Education Center](https://education.microsoft.com)

Closing Thoughts

If you are a student or educator looking to simplify your academic pursuits without breaking the bank, do not miss out on the opportunity to utilize Office 365 Education for free. These powerful applications and services can provide you with unparalleled teaching- and learning-focused opportunities that are sure to elevate your educational experience to new heights.

Introduction:

Are you concerned about germs and keeping your environment clean and hygienic? If so, you’re not alone! Quality hygiene practices have become more important than ever, and an exciting, free hidden picture activity has been designed to help you and your family discover the germ hotspots in your home. All you need to do is sign up, and this engaging challenge will be yours to conquer!

Why Germs Are a Problem:

Germs are everywhere, but certain spots in your house can harbor more germs than others. These hidden germ hotspots can lead to health issues if left unaddressed. Finding these germ hotspots can help you keep yourself and your family safe and healthy.

How the Find the Germ Hotspots Activity Works:

This hidden picture activity is specially designed to help you in identifying common germ hotspots around your home. By participating in the activity, you’ll be guided through a series of illustrations that prompt you to locate areas where germs may thrive. This creative approach combines fun with education, as it helps participants learn proper hygiene practices in a captivating manner.

Who Can Benefit from This Activity:

Everyone can benefit from learning about germ hotspots! Families with young children might find this activity especially beneficial as it engages kids in maintaining cleanliness while making it enjoyable at the same time. Besides, adults too will appreciate learning about potential germ sources that they may not have been aware of before.

How to Sign Up for This Free Hidden Picture Activity:

Signing up for the Find the Germ Hotspots hidden picture activity is incredibly simple. Just follow these straightforward steps:

1. Visit our website at [Website URL]

2. Enter your name and email address in the provided form

3. Click submit

Soon after signing up, you’ll receive an email with instructions on how to access this wonderful resource.

Guarantee Your Safety with Find the Germ Hotspots:

Don’t miss out on improving your family’s hygiene and health practices! Sign up for this free hidden picture activity today and become a germ-busting hero. By playing this enthralling game, you’ll learn how to combat germs effectively, ensuring a cleaner and safer environment for everyone.

Introduction:

This year, we are experiencing the mother of all DEVOLSONs, a term coined by educator Jennifer Gonzalez referring to the period between October and December when teachers and students start to feel the weight of their academic workload. The darkening days, the mounting stress, and the overwhelming workload combine to form a challenging time in the school year. But fear not! In this article, we will explore some strategies that can help teachers and students cope with this trying time.

1. Addressing Mental Health:

A significant aspect of coping with DEVOLSON is addressing mental health. Encourage open conversations about stress and anxiety among your peers or students. Provide resources for those who may need additional support, such as access to a counselor or mental health services.

2. Time Management Techniques:

Teach your students (or yourself) time management skills that can be used not only during DEVOLSON but throughout the entire school year as well. These may include techniques such as prioritizing tasks, breaking down assignment components into smaller tasks, and utilizing calendar tools like Google Calendar or Trello.

3. Establish Healthy Routines:

Coping with DEVOLSON can be made more manageable by establishing healthy routines both in and out of school. Make sure you and your students are taking regular breaks throughout the day to relax and recharge. Encourage physical activity, such as short walks during breaks or after-school exercise sessions.

4. Set Realistic Goals:

Part of dealing with the stress brought on by DEVOLSON is recognizing that you cannot accomplish everything at once. Set achievable goals for yourself and your students so that progress is realistically attainable without being overwhelming.

5. Cultivate a Supportive Environment:

Creating a positive atmosphere within the classroom or workplace during this difficult period is essential. Encourage collaboration among colleagues and provide regular, constructive feedback to one another. Most importantly, let your students or coworkers know that they’re not alone in navigating DEVOLSON and that support is available to help them through it.

6. Prioritize Self-Care:

Remind yourself and your students that self-care is vital during DEVOLSON. Taking time for personal hobbies, ensuring a healthy diet and sleep schedule, and even practicing mindfulness exercises can help maintain mental health and reduce stress levels.

Conclusion:

The mother of all DEVOLSONs has undoubtedly presented an incredible challenge for teachers and students alike this year. By using these strategies to address mental health, improve time management, establish healthy routines, set realistic goals, cultivate a supportive environment, and prioritize self-care, dealing with the strain of the season can become more manageable. Remember that you are not alone in this journey, and together we can cope with the pressures of DEVOLSON.