stephen reck - technology&education

Technology Boosts Academic Success

Our friends up north are to credit for this piece in the Calgary Herald that provides a link between classroom technology and student success. The Fraser Report measures elementary schools across Alberta based upon standardized test scores. This year's theme: schools that embrace technology see the largest gains. Students report increased engagement, interest, and a subsequent greater understanding of class content. Teachers report much of the same: a marked improvement in on-task behavior and student focus. Perhaps 7-year-old Katalina makes the best argument for increased technology use: "This doesn't make a mess like chalk make's messes on your hands."

Technology in Higher Ed

Bill Gates is everywhere in education these days. I've written about him on this blog before. He's making ripples throughout K-12 education, and now is setting his sights on higher education. The Gates Foundation is now working to open education to more learners by providing online courses, particularly for community college and low income populations. The timing seems right as even President Obama is pushing for increased use of community colleges. Many leaders see the value of education, particularly higher education, for tomorrow's workforce, and community colleges are excellent resources that are too often overlooked when considering post-secondary learning options. 

 

source: NYTimes

Time Magazine: Education Reform

 I was excited when I looked in my mailbox last week and found the newest issue of Time was focused on education reform. The magazine touts 16 pages of coverage on our education system. My excitement was short-lived. Once I read that one of their feature articles was on the upcoming documentary, Waiting for Superman, I was worried that this issue would simply be additional anti-teacher, pro-charter school propaganda. As an avid reader of Time, and a longtime subscriber, I wish this assessment was wrong.

Best Colleges for Jobs

 

 

Although I normally focus on secondary education, this study found my interest. The Wall Street Journal compiled a report of the 25 favorite universities of recruiters. The top of the list might surprise you, it certainly surprised me. You won't find traditional post-secondary academic powerhouses. Instead you will find mostly state schools. Proudly, my alma mater gets favorable results.