Powerful Learning Practice Blog
Passion Based Learning (PBL) in the Primary Grades: Who Asks the Questions?
Because we are doing inquiry or PBL (passion-based learning) this year, my students have asked more questions than they ever have before in my classroom. Both the students and I are still learning about this process, but I like this shift. The person who asks the questions is in charge of the learning, and I want my grade one kids to be in charge of their own learning.
Project Based Learning (PBL): Am I Doing it Right?
PBL is a construct made up by human beings — there are lots of variations! And you are entitled to construct your own version within some parameters. Study many of the great resources that are available to you and then create your own working definition and effective PBL practice. And consider our Continua Frame. We like to think with it, rather than dichotomies, simply because things are rarely on or off, black or white, ones or zeroes!
Ever Wonder What I Do for a Living?
Wonderful call with Deloitte Consulting yesterday. In addition to a few other topics, I was asked to talk about my company, Powerful Learning Practice, and what we do specifically. The interviewer said, "I've looked at your website but in my experience you always...
Confessions of the Cognitive Heart
I have a confession to make. I have been struggling lately, well actually for a few years. Struggling with making the time for original thought. You know, true creative genius. The type of thinking that comes from being well read (so as to be able to contrast and...
The first step toward your district’s digital transformation
Traveling around the world speaking and consulting has afforded me the opportunity to see many great examples of digital transformation in action. Digital transformation requires strong leadership to drive change. But it also requires a vision for what aspects you...
5 Ways to Use Google Forms in the Classroom
Say goodbye to the days of collecting data with complex programs. Use Google Forms to easily collect a variety of data and get organized! 1. Create a Rubric Use the Scale or Grid questions to create a rubric for grading a project or assignment. Simply fill out one...
The Uncaucus – Community, politics, and civics in action
“Whatever an education is, it should make you a unique individual, not a conformist; it should furnish you with an original spirit with which to tackle the big challenges; it should allow you to find values which will be your roadmap through life; it should make you...
Unselfish Self Promotion
Beware: what follows is a hardcore defense of self promotion. You may be wondering who in their right mind would defend self-promotion, twice (I wrote on this topic in 2012)? But this morning, I decided to throw caution to the wind. Why? Because once again a well...
8 steps for growing as a connected learner
Last year, while on tour with the #futureready leaders work I was helping to lead, I was scheduled to co-present at a conference with two young teacher leaders in Maryland. However, I got stuck in Iowa and we decided the best way to have me share my portion of the...
What they’re saying about our self-paced courses
In our brand new self-paced courses, learn at your own pace with video, audio, and written content from top quality instructors. Here's what they're saying about the self-paced courses: Digital Citizenship "The self-paced nature lent itself to being flexible with a...