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Did you know that the Inspiring Inquiry website is my passion project, dedicated to giving back to the educational community? It operates without generating any revenue. If you find value in Inspiring Inquiry, I invite you to support me by Buying Me a Coffee or Tea for just $5 CDN (just use your credit card from anywhere in the World). Your contribution will not only fuel my creative efforts but also help to keep the site thriving. So, why not indulge in a small act of generosity and treat me to a cup today?
Videos For AI Leaders
Videos: [AI in the Classroom] 24 Dec 2023
🌐 Explore innovative solutions leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline decision-making processes and enhance organizational efficiency.
💼 Gain insights into reducing the cognitive load on leaders through intelligent automation and uncover the potential for AI to optimize strategic planning and resource allocation.
🧠 Understand AI's role in fostering better work-life balance.
🎓 Stay ahead in leadership practices by embracing AI-driven advancements, acknowledging its boom origins, how it works, strengths, limitations, and the significance of addressing data bias and timeliness.
Climate Action, COP 28, and Plastic Recycling
Various: 19 Dec 2023
The following links connect to articles and videos worth viewing/reading to stay current about the world's efforts toward climate action from many perspectives.
COP 28: An in-depth analysis of all the key outcomes in Dubai 2023.
Climate Action: Two excellent videos worth watching that explore the impact of climate change and the world’s attempts to mitigate them and the real possibility of a better future for all if we act now.
Does Recycling Your Plastic Actually Work?: This short video could be used as a provocation to learning about plastic recycling.
Is Social Media the Leading Cause to Teen Depression?
Article [Tom Barrett]: 17 Dec 2023
The incidence of adolescent depression has markedly increased by twofold since 2011, accompanied by a rise in feelings of isolation and a decline in overall life satisfaction among teenagers. This concerning trend is closely linked to the substantial uptick in smartphone and social media usage over the past decade. This prompts the question: What is our role as educators in facilitating safe interactions with social media for the students under our guidance?
How Can Schools Better Support Neurodiverse Students?
Video: 13 Dec 2023
In this interesting and informative video, from Toddle, Dr. Temple Grandin stresses the significance of recognizing diverse thinking styles in education and the workplace. She advocates for inclusive teaching methods, urging schools to adapt and collaborate with students employing unique learning strategies. Dr. Grandin promotes early intervention and emphasizes the benefits of embracing diversity to enhance overall learning outcomes in a more inclusive educational setting.
Why We Teach
Video: 10 Dec 2023
This brief video is sure to bring joy to your face. In a world filled with negativity, it's important to be reminded of the positive impact we have on the students we educate. The video was created by the RMtR Backbone, Metropolitan Omaha Educational Consortium. Their mission was to personally convey to a student (or students) that they play a crucial role in why teachers come to school and love their profession. Witness the profound impact of these heartfelt messages on both the students and the teachers themselves.
UOI Resource Video
Video: 10 Dec 2023
This short video is both impactful and highly valuable for an in-depth exploration with grade 4-8 students. It serves as a compelling resource, especially when delving into topics such as migration, equity, global citizenship, human rights, ethics, and more. The narrative follows the journey of two polar bears forced into exile by global warming, as they seek to coexist with brown bears they encounter along the way. Beyond the significance of the content, the film-making technique employed provides an additional avenue for inquiry and discussion.
Collaborating With and Assisting Colleagues
Video: 10 Dec 2023
In this brief video, Kath Murdoch explores strategies for collaborating with and assisting colleagues as they navigate unfamiliar pedagogical concepts. Drawing parallels between the inquiry methods employed in her classroom, such as personal engagement and observation, she highlights how these practices can be applied in our interactions with fellow educators. Although concise, the video serves as a thought-provoking stimulus for contemplating ways to mutually support each other in the learning process.
Research Animations
Research Videos [Edutopia]: 9 Dec 2023
View Edutopia's popular collection of animations that examine 21+ studies about learning and surface findings that matter for teachers and students, all gathered in one place. Just for you.
Research highlights effective learning methods: distractions tax working memory, inclusive education benefits disabilities, prior knowledge aids literacy, handwriting activates reading circuitry, brain breaks enhance learning, drawing boosts comprehension, and spacing learning sessions improves retention. Teacher wellness, bias in kids' books, whole-body movements for alphabet learning, the importance of recess are emphasized and much more.
Why Knowledge Is A Necessary But Not Sufficient Educational Outcome
Article [Thought Stretchers Education]: 8 Dec 2023
It intrigues me that the release of the 2022 PISA results, revealing a decline in math, literacy, and science scores, has prompted a demand for a renewed focus on fundamental education, highlighting knowledge acquisition. Nevertheless, I contend that a successful education necessitates equilibrium. While knowledge is undeniably important, it represents just one aspect of the broader range of educational outcomes.
To truly enable students to excel, they require not only knowledge but also the capacity to apply and expand upon it, think critically, learn autonomously, and tackle problems through inquiry. A comprehensive education encompasses diverse traits, characteristics, and abilities that collectively empower students. Read more about why 'Knowledge Is A Necessary But Not Sufficient Educational Outcome'.
PISA 2022 Results
Documents: 5 Dec 2023
Embark on an insightful exploration of your country's educational landscape by delving into the PISA 2022 (COVID year) results. The results offer a nuanced perspective on proficiency in mathematics, reading, and science.
The findings illuminate an unprecedented downturn in performance across the OECD, with a notable 10-point dip in reading comprehension and an alarming nearly 15-point decline in mathematical aptitude compared to the 2018 assessment. This substantial regression amounts to an educational setback equivalent to approximately three-quarters of a year's worth of learning, underscoring the profound and far-reaching impact of the global pandemic on educational outcomes.
** Click on one of the images to view/download the documents
Science Video Sources for Teachers
Website [TCEA]: 3 Dec 2023
Are you looking for short videos to use as bell ringer activities in science class? Or maybe you’re wanting to integrate videos into your lessons? Discover a roundup of video sources you won’t want to miss.
Social and Emotional Skills: Latest Evidence on Teachability and Impact on Life Outcomes
Research [OECD]: 3 Dec 2023
Explore the newest research on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) with insights from the OECD. Across the globe, education systems increasingly acknowledge the critical importance of social and emotional skills (SES) for both students and societies. The OECD has actively advanced SES understanding through the OECD Survey on Social and Emotional Skills (SSES). This working paper tackles conceptual and empirical challenges within the broader initiative to reassess the evaluation of social and emotional skills, providing clarity on the SSES framework and delving into the teachability and comparative aspects of SES. Additionally, it compiles evidence linking SES to life outcomes and seeks to bridge conceptual gaps in the existing literature. Don't miss this opportunity to stay informed.
Room to Grow: Math Podcast
Podcast: 2 Dec 2023
Room to Grow is the math podcast that brings you informative discussions on trending topics in math education in short segments. They’re not there to talk at people. They’re there to think and learn with others — because when it comes to mathematics there’s always room to grow! Check these two podcasts out:
How to Use Universal Design for Learning to Create Assessments
Article: 2 Dec 2023
When employing UDL in assessments, the focus is on maintaining rigor while ensuring accessible, grade-level instruction. Integrating frequent feedback opportunities supports UDL principles, enabling personalized steps for students and teachers. In effective instruction, assessment, feedback, and reflection should be integral, fostering growth, shaping identities, and building a sense of community through consistent, actionable input on strategies and learning behaviours.
Also See: Universal Design for Learning
Active Observation for Early Years - A toolkit
Resource: 26 Nov 2023
As early years educators, we adeptly juggle roles like plate spinners, staying ahead with vigilant eyes. Imagine deliberately slowing down and embracing the power of observation—an invaluable tool that transforms us from teachers to responders, facilitators, inquirers, and researchers.
Utilize this toolkit from Toddle to: reflect on observation's significance, collaborate with your team to establish a shared vision, employ new strategies to enhance observational skills, and actively use observations to elevate learning and development in your educational space.
Activate
Resource: 26 Nov 2023
Looking for a professional learning resource to help teachers and leaders promote self-regulated learning. Then, you should have a look at 'Activate' (e-book) which is a card-based professional learning resource which supports teachers, leaders and support staff to promote self-regulated learning. Activate enables teachers and leaders to ‘activate’ pupils to become the drivers of their own learning - an especially crucial skill in the post-COVID era.
The Ultimate Guide to UDL
Website: 22 Nov 2023
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is not just a framework for curriculum design. It is a belief that all students are capable of learning and that instructional methods, when implemented intentionally, can help all students succeed. So, what does this look like? Check out the website created by Novak Education that includes many articles and resources.
Also listen to the Podcast by Katie Novak where she discusses UDL and explore other UDL resources.
A Culture of Agency: Fostering Engagement, Empowerment, Identity, and Belonging in the Early Years
Book: 21 Nov 2023
Foster a profound connection with young learners by instilling a sense of autonomy and inclusion. Kath Murdoch wholeheartedly endorses 'A Culture of Agency' for its accessibility, practicality, and thorough exploration. The book equips teachers, especially those in early education, with a wealth of ideas to reconceptualize even the most basic elements of teaching, nurturing learner agency.
From Agency to Zest
Book: 21 Nov 2023
From Agency to Zest presents a captivating exploration of concepts integral to inquiry-based learning, skillfully penned by the esteemed educator and inquiry authority, Kath Murdoch.
What Do We Do All Day: Books, Books and More Books
Books: 24 Nov 2023
The 'What We Do All Day' website provides a plethora of engaging screen-free activities for children, along with book recommendations and straightforward learning ideas readily accessible to you. Explore a wide array of topics! I recommend that you utilize the search feature to discover specific books or topics, including read-aloud books, chapter books, science, math, art, and more.
How long will I live?
PDF: 19 Nov 2023
Watch this TED Talk about why Wolfgang Fengler created a website that helps people understand their position among 8 billion people, anticipate milestones, and consider factors like shared birthdays and life expectancy. Check out the website for free to find out your life expectancy and more. Very Cool!!!
Anthology of Approaches to Progress Reports
PDF: 19 Nov 2023
This guide, from Toddle ,delves into the enigmatic nature of the Report Card or Progress Report, addressing key questions: What is the optimal reporting approach? Is there a singular right method? How can our teaching and learning approach be effectively communicated? And, crucially, how can we convey student growth in a parent-friendly manner?
Also see: Words, Phrases and Sentence Starters for Reporting
The Future of AI in Schools
Podcast [Toddle]: 18 Nov 2023
In this video, "The Future of AI in Schools," hosted by Cindy Blackburn [Toddle], speakers John Hattie, Dylan Wiliam, and Arran Hamilton explore the potential impact of artificial intelligence on education. The evolving role of AI in reshaping learning is emphasized, requiring students to make informed choices and learn independently.
Become a Problem-Solving School
New Initiative [Nrich]: 15 Nov 2023
Nrich is introducing an exciting new initiative named 'Problem-solving Schools' designed to assist schools in elevating the significance of mathematical problem-solving and fostering the development of proficient problem-solvers. Central to the initiative is the 'Charter,' a comprehensive framework aimed at facilitating reflection on your current teaching practices and establishing agreed-upon areas for improvement. Participation in this initiative is free, and you can register to become a part of it. For additional information, please visit Nrich's website.
Also see more math programs from Nrich.
Theories of Learning in Education
Article [National University]: 15 Nov 2023
Teaching is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The better you comprehend and adjust to the diverse learning styles of students, the more empowered you will be to establish an environment that is both inclusive and conducive to learning.
This guide offers insights into essential teaching principles. Read the article to learn more about learning theories, their significance, and ways to effectively apply them in your teaching for the benefit of your students.
Adapting Chalk Talk Protocol
Article [Edutopia]: 12 Nov 2023
This piece from Edutopia promotes the idea of diversifying chalk talks to maintain a balance between predictability and keeping learners engaged. Over time, sticking strictly to a routine can lead to disinterest. To counter this, educators can preserve some aspects of the classic chalk talk while integrating new, creative techniques. This method allows them to leverage students' current knowledge while ensuring that the learning environment stays lively and captivating.
Student Profile Document
PDF: 10 Nov 2023
Check out the Student Profile document provided by Toddle . It will help you document a comprehensive record of a child's overall growth, considering their experiences within different ecological systems.
This method of tracing a child's educational progress through their student profile guarantees that support, learning, and growth are tailored to meet each child's distinct requirements, resulting in more profound and influential learning experiences.
7 Learning Zones to Create in Your Classroom
Article: 8 Nov 2023
By creating distinct zones within a classroom, educators can address the unique needs of students throughout different parts of their day. This article provides some examples of zones that can be incorporated in your classroom, and the impact they can have on students’ learning.
ChatGPT Prompt Formula for Teachers
Video/article: 8 Nov 2023
The full potential of chatbots is typically realized when they are engaged with using carefully constructed prompts. This article and accompanying video guide you through a six-element prompt strategy designed to achieve the desired outcomes. To begin, watch the video that introduces the "Mega-prompt" formula, which is aimed at optimizing chatbot interactions.
Following that, dive into the article, which offers an in-depth exploration of this innovative formula and provides tailored insights for educators and teachers eager to harness ChatGPT's capabilities for enhancing their teaching methods and engaging students more effectively.
Ron Berger on 20 years of 'An Ethic of Excellence'
Webinar: 5 Nov 2023
In this must watch, informative and inspiring video hosted by James Mannion, Ron Berger author of "An Ethic of Excellence," and founder of Expeditionary Learning (EL) Education, underscores the significance of quality work and critical thinking in education, transcending the traditional vs. progressive teaching debate. His teaching journey champions apprenticeships for educators and evolving teacher training methods. The video would make for a provocative provocation for staff about what makes a great school.
60-Second Strategies
Short Videos: 5 Nov 2023
Edutopia has compiled a series of 60-second videos that promote effective classroom strategies applicable to all grade levels. While some of these practices may already be familiar to you, there might be a handful that are new and worth exploring. For instance, consider the "Ask 3 Before Me" strategy, which encourages a student to seek assistance from three peers before approaching the teacher for help. I propose extending this strategy as a gauge of the class's overall comprehension. If a student approaches me for assistance after consulting three classmates, it raises questions about why the peers couldn't address the issue. Consequently, my inclination would be to involve those three students in a discussion to pinpoint the source of the challenge. Such an exploration might necessitate a brief interruption of the lesson to provide a targeted reiteration of a concept or procedure.
Google’s Read Along Website
Website: 4 Nov 2023
Last year (2022) Google launched a useful website called Read Along, which helps children learn to read using speech recognition and text-to-speech technology. The app's virtual assistant, Diya, helps children pronounce words and can be used to speak unknown words. Teachers can use the website to support struggling readers; to differentiate instruction; to support English language learners by providing pronunciation assistance; and to support independent reading and practice by providing a fun and engaging platform for students to read and learn on their own.
Leadership Videos
Various Videos and Podcasts: Fall 2023
Curated leadership videos that offer valuable insights, strategies, and inspiration to assist you in implementing your leadership skills effectively. One video that I highly recommend is titled “Permission to Inquire: Taking Ownership of Your Curriculum” featuring Kathy Murdoch and expertly hosted by Cindy Blackburn from Toddle.
To help you better define your vision of the “purpose of school” listen to/watch the Reimagining Education podcasts and videos
Explore the Inspiring Inquiry Leadership page which contains a variety of useful leadership ideas, articles and resources.
World Economic Forum’s Education 4.0 Taxonomy & IB ATL
Document: 1 Nov 2023
The World Economic Forum (WEF) recently published a 21st century Education 4.0: A Taxonomy for the Future of Learning document. The document presents a comprehensive set of skills, attitudes, and values to prepare young learners for well-being in the economies of the future. Also, you can view a one-page document by Christine Orkisz Lang that demonstrates how the World Economic Forum 4.0 Taxonomy and ATL skills align – almost perfectly.
New AI Apps That Are Worth Checking Out
AI Applications: 28 Oct 2023
MagicSchool: This app enables teachers to create dynamic lessons and presentations. This amazing free app can design customized content that suits curriculum and teaching style, integrating multimedia elements like videos, images, and interactive quizzes to make learning more engaging. The app also supports real-time collaboration, allowing teachers to interact with their students and provide instant feedback and much more.
Claude 2: The AI chatbot scene has exploded with apps like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Chat Sonic. But a new contender has entered the arena that stands out from the crowd - Claude 2. Now, educators like you have an AI that's helpful, not harmful and perfect for enhancing teaching and enriching the classroom experience. Also, Claude 2 can summarize PDFs. How cool is that!
YouAI: YouAI is a cool AI tool worth trying. With YOUAI, educators can tap into a variety of AI tutors, such as Science Lab Template Activity, The Learning Machine, Rubric Generator, and Flash Card Generator, to enhance teaching across subjects and grade levels. These AI tutors offer personalized teaching methods and learning activities, adapting to individual student needs and progress.
*** Also you might be interested in viewing the video by Dr. Lynne McKnight Herr entitled: AI Essentials for Teachers. The video provides an overview of how to use AI and various AI tools in the classroom.
How Students Can Use Artificial Intelligence As A Learning Partner
Article + Video [A J Juliani]: 28 Oct 2023
In this thought provoking article A J Juliani writes about how artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly impacting various aspects of our lives as educators. He also includes a video that discusses seven ways to leverage AI for learning. The article is a good starting off point including AI in your teaching.
Strategies for Promoting Digital Citizenship and Device Ownership
Article [TCEA]: 28 Oct 2023
Explore six strategies for promoting digital citizenship and device ownership among students in the classroom. Digital citizenship refers to the responsible and ethical use of technology and the internet. It encompasses the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that individuals need to navigate the digital world safely, responsibly, and respectfully. The purpose of promoting digital citizenship is to empower students to become responsible digital citizens who can make informed decisions, engage in positive online behaviour, understand how to protect their privacy and security, and contribute positively to the digital community.
AI Guidelines and Toolkits for Creating Responsible Use Policies
AI Toolkits and Guidelins: 28 Oct 2023
These guidelines and toolkits will help education system leaders, school administrators, and teachers develop a vision statement, set of principles and beliefs, or a responsible use policy for AI in schools. This is extremely important because teaching students and teachers about the ethical use of AI is critical if AI is to be used in schools.
New!! Learn All About How to Write AI Prompts
Webpage: 20 Oct 2023
If you are using AI apps such as ChatGPT, Claude 2, Magic School, etc. you should check out Inspiring Inquiry's new "AI Prompts" webpage. There you can view a variety of resources that will help you in writing AI Prompts for developing learning experiences, unit planning, brainstorming, summarizing, analyzing, and much more.
Ways Classroom Design Impacts Executive Functioning
Article [Edutopia]: 20 Oct 2023
Effective classroom design can help elementary students develop skills like organization and task initiation. Designing a space is not decorating. Instead, it should impact learning and have a purpose. In planning for next school year, this would be a good article to read from Edutopia.
Moving From Maths Anxiety
Video & Website: 28 Oct 2023
Watch this 5 minute classroom video from YouCubed showing a 4th grade teacher using a big ideas approach to see what a low anxiety maths classroom looks like. This would be a great video to share with math colleagues and/or at during PD focussed on developing an anxiety free math classroom. Also, you can connect to YouCubed OECD Guidance Archive and the OECD Learning Compass.
Zearn Math
Website: 18 Oct 2023
Zearn is the top-rated math learning platform that helps students explore concepts, discover meaning, and make sense of math. It is free for classroom teachers and there is a pay option for schools. Zearn is striving for a large cultural change in student attitude, hoping to move toward a new normal where math isn’t perceived as uniquely scary. Zearn can be used for differentiating instruction, discovering prior knowledge, review, personal inquiry and learning math content. To use you will need to create a free account. It is quite good and worth a try.
Please Consider Supporting Inspiring Inquiry
Did you know that the Inspiring Inquiry website is my passion project, dedicated to giving back to the educational community? It operates without generating any revenue. If you find value in Inspiring Inquiry, I invite you to support me by Buying Me a Coffee or Tea for just $5 CDN (just use your credit card from anywhere in the World). Your contribution will not only fuel my creative efforts but also help to keep the site thriving. So, why not indulge in a small act of generosity and treat me to a cup today?