How to Engage All Students in STEM

Early in their school careers, students see STEM pathways as desirable but then change their minds: 60percent of high school students who start out interested in STEM careers lose interest by their senior year. And too many of those who are interested do not have the skills that are needed: A study by the Business-Higher Education Forum found that only 17 percent of high school students are both interested in STEM and proficient enough in math to succeed.

Spotlight

ClassDojo

ClassDojo’s mission is to bring communities together and give them the tools, ideas, and energy to improve education for all kids. Founded in 2011 and based in San Francisco, California, ClassDojo is a school communication platform that millions of teachers, students, and families use every day to build strong relationships and supportive communities. This is done in two ways. One, by sharing what’s being learned in the classroom back home through student portfolios, photos, videos, and messages. And, two, by helping students build social-emotional skills through in-classroom feedback and engaging activities for school and home.

OTHER ARTICLES
Education Technology

A rural college launches a free in-home connectivity program

Article | July 27, 2022

Even before the pandemic, Dr. Kyle Wagner, Northeastern Technical College (NETC) president, was a strong proponent of distance learning. Many of the residents in the rural South Carolina communities the school serves, where incomes fall below the national poverty level, don’t pursue a college education due to factors including lack of access to transportation and childcare. He firmly believed that enabling off-campus learning could overcome these barriers, and was working to expand the school’s remote learning program when the pandemic hit.

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Education Technology

Borderless Education With Unlimited VR Students: A Vision

Article | July 20, 2022

When designing education programs for adults, you cannot avoid the fact that you need to design experiences for them. What other education forms could be better than storytelling, gamification, task orientation, and instant rewards, which could be offered by VR gaming? Imagine if all existing flat-lecture videos were converted into a 3D interactive gaming environment. Let's say, for example, on Massive Open Online Courses platforms, such as Coursera and edX, they start offering VR classrooms. When you connect to the classroom, you would be able to see other students around you and chat with them in natural languages and hear them in the natural languages; as a plus, there could be a prompt translator to support cross-cultural communication.

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Education Technology

Data Analytics for eLearning

Article | July 15, 2022

The rapid shift to eLearning has raised questions regarding the remote usage of online tools by students and teachers and the impact digital instruction is having on student engagement. CatchOn’s detailed trend reports reveal how and when students and teachers across the nation are using their EdTech applications and school devices, both inside and outside the classroom. CatchOn has generated these reports based on actual usage data from districts using CatchOn.

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Back to school after lockdown – tips from an NHS Psychologist

Article | October 1, 2020

Since some schools across the UK have started to re-open in phases, it’s opened up a whole new set of questions for families. What will it be like for our kids? How will my child adjust to school after months at home? As well as adjusting academically to full-time education again, the emotional impact will be big too. We spoke to NHS Senior Clinical Psychologist, Dr Shreena Ghelani, about how parents can help their get kids ready to return to school, whenever that might be. Here’s what she had to say: Prepare in advance Before it’s time for them to go back, keep school in the minds of your kids – drive past the school if you can so that they can see that it’s still there. When they’ve been given a return date, treat it like the beginning of the school year. Do a test run of getting ready in the morning, make sure school uniform fits, practice packing bags and walking the route to school. For younger children, they may need a settling in period again – parents may have to come into the classroom and ensure their child is settled. For teenagers – use the time while they’re still at home to keep their friendships alive by video call etc. This will help make returning back to their peer group feel less unfamiliar. One step at a time Even when school re starts, you may find that children are more tired than usual by the extra demands and sensory stimulation placed on them. Ease them back in to their routine gently and wait to start other activities (clubs and activities) in a few weeks time. Manage expectations When the time comes, you’ll find you’ll feel less stressed if you know there will be bumps in the road. Allow enough space and time in a new schedule for any hiccups so that you’re not having to manage too many demands (i.e batch cook dinners before hand, don’t agree to extra activities or if possible, adopt flexible working hours). Try to notice if you’re feeling anxious about the return to school in any way and if so, spend some time thinking about it and unpicking it. If children pick up on your anxieties they may feel anxious too. Managing worry and anxiety If you know your child might struggle with going back to school, try developing a toolbox of things they can do when they are worried at school. This might include a song to sing to them selves, visualising a calm place, some affirmation cards, practicing a breathing techniques and identifying safe staff they can tell. You can make this box together and the child can take some bits with them to school. Speak to your children about the impact of Coronavirus Let children know that it is likely that other families have been impacted by the virus (whether that’s key worker parents working hard, or family bereavements). Encourage your child to be patient with and kind to other children. Talk to them about what they might still be expected to do – not hug friends, wash their hands often, not share food or toys etc. For any children with special educational needs, they might need adaptations made for them. This might include visiting the school while it’s empty to familiarise them with the space, a video call with their teacher or a more phased return than other pupils – whatever’s best for them.

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Spotlight

ClassDojo

ClassDojo’s mission is to bring communities together and give them the tools, ideas, and energy to improve education for all kids. Founded in 2011 and based in San Francisco, California, ClassDojo is a school communication platform that millions of teachers, students, and families use every day to build strong relationships and supportive communities. This is done in two ways. One, by sharing what’s being learned in the classroom back home through student portfolios, photos, videos, and messages. And, two, by helping students build social-emotional skills through in-classroom feedback and engaging activities for school and home.

Related News

Continuing Education

Vernier Science Education Announces Strategic Corporate Transition for a Sustainable Future

PR Newswire | September 28, 2023

Today, Vernier Science Education, a leading provider of innovative science and STEM education solutions, announced a significant organizational shift that will chart the course for its mission and values for the foreseeable future. The company will evolve from partner-owned to being owned by a Perpetual Purpose Trust. This allows Vernier Science Education to ensure values-aligned ownership succession and uphold its core mission and values indefinitely, ensuring that its social and charitable objectives remain a priority in perpetuity, securing the futures of its valued employees, and reinvesting profits back into the business while sharing benefits with employees, customers, and communities alike. The Perpetual Purpose Trust is a bold and innovative approach that aligns perfectly with Vernier's vision of serving educators, students, the STEM community, and communities at large. The decision to reevaluate and reimagine Vernier's ownership model and long-term commitment to its mission comes as John Wheeler, the CEO of Vernier Science Education, prepares to step back from day-to-day activities, ushering in a new era of innovation and purpose-driven sustainability for the company. "Our decision to reevaluate our business and establish a Perpetual Purpose Trust stems from our unwavering commitment to STEM education and sustaining the values and principles that have defined Vernier for decades. This transformational shift will enable us to secure the future of our employees, reinvest in our business, and continue our mission of creating a STEM-literate society," said Wheeler. "I am honored to continue to guide our work during this transition, and I look forward to the remarkable achievements that lie ahead for Vernier Science Education." Wheeler will remain in his position as CEO until a nationwide search identifies a replacement. He will continue to be active in Vernier Science Education providing guidance and leadership to the organization and supporting the new CEO. The transition from partner-owned to Trust-owned will be funded by both gifting and purchase of shares from current Partners. Dave and Christine Vernier, the company's co-founders and key figures in its success, will remain actively engaged in the Vernier Science Education family, offering their invaluable insights and support as the company embarks on this exciting new chapter. "Vernier Science Education has always been driven by a deep commitment to advancing STEM education. As we transition to a Perpetual Purpose Trust, we're reaffirming our dedication to our mission and values, and commitment to staying a local independent Oregon-based company for generations to come," said Dave Vernier. "Christine and I are excited to continue contributing to the Vernier family and witnessing the positive impact this strategic move will have on educators, students, and the STEM community. This is how we pay back the years of success our organization has had and give back to our community." By establishing a Perpetual Purpose Trust, Vernier Science Education joins other socially-conscious organizations, foundations, and companies committed to long-term sustainability, fostering a sense of purpose that extends far into the future. About Vernier Science Education Vernier Science Education is a leading provider of innovative solutions for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. For over four decades, Vernier has been dedicated to supporting educators and inspiring students to explore and understand the world of science. With a commitment to quality, Vernier's comprehensive range of data collection and analysis tools, along with its educational resources, empowers educators to facilitate engaging and hands-on learning experiences. To learn more, visit vernier.com.

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Education Technology

New Canvas Alignment Tool streamlines flow of data between One45 and Canvas learning management system

GlobeNewswire | September 14, 2023

Acuity Insights announces that its One45 product now offers a Canvas Alignment Tool, which streamlines the flow of data with Canvas – one of the most widely-used learning management systems (LMS) in higher education. This new tool allows programs to ensure that their curriculum mapping and facilitator reporting are consistent and accurate between the two systems. As a result, it reduces administrative burden, duplication of effort and reporting inconsistencies, ensuring program reporting meets accreditation standards with ease. This new tool will improve functionality and productivity for health professions programs that use both One45 and Canvas. "The Canvas Alignment Tool is an exciting addition to our groundbreaking One45 product. This tool combines complex data from diverse systems, delivering an efficient and effective solution for program administrators," says Rich Emrich, CEO of Acuity Insights. "This is yet another step in our strategy to enable program administrators to harness the power of data easily and effortlessly. We offer seamless integrations with leading education technology platforms in higher education. By doing so, administrators can gain valuable insights, ensuring both program and student success, without the hassle of making sense of data from various disconnected systems." What is One45? One45 by Acuity Insights is a comprehensive program management solution that allows health professions programs to simplify complex workflows, streamline accreditation, and enhance program assessment. Streamlined solutions for health professions programs One45 empowers programs with a dynamic, all-in-one platform that powers scheduling, curriculum management, assessment and evaluation, and MSPE processes with unparalleled flexibility. Simplified reporting tasks One45 solves tedious reporting challenges. It fully supports accreditation requirements in assessment, curriculum, clinical experiences, and Student Affairs, while effortlessly meeting day-to-day reporting needs. Seamless collaboration The One45 program management solution facilitates easy information sharing, collaboration, and communication among departments and learners alike. To find out more about the Canvas Alignment Tool, please read our blog post about integrating Canvas with One45. About Acuity Insights Acuity Insights is the leading provider of admissions assessment, program management, and analytics solutions for higher education. The company’s solutions help higher education institutions deliver on their mission holistically, considering the whole student, widening pathways into higher education, and ensuring both student and program success. Recognized as one of Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500 companies for 2021 and 2022, Acuity’s solutions are used by over 600 higher education programs worldwide. Its Casper situational judgment test (SJT), taken by more than 150,000 applicants every year, is the most widely used open-response SJT in higher education and is backed by almost 20 years of efficacy research. For more information, visit acuityinsights.com.

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Corporate Learning Systems

Code.org, ETS, ISTE, and Khan Academy Launch Free AI Professional Learning for Teachers

PRnewswire | August 22, 2023

Today Code.org, ETS, the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), and Khan Academy formally announce the launch of "AI 101 for Teachers," a free professional learning course designed to level the playing field of artificial intelligence (AI) understanding among K-12 teachers as they head back to the classroom this fall. According to a recent survey, artificial Intelligence is poised to play a growing role in education, but the vast majority of teachers are not prepared and lack training on how to leverage this new technology in their classrooms. 75% of surveyed teachers believe AI should be taught to students, however, only 13% have had any training on how to teach AI to their students. AI 101 for Teachers will address this critical global need. The five-part video series will kick off on August 15, 2023, with a fireside chat between Hadi Partovi, Founder and CEO of Code.org, and Sal Khan, Founder and CEO of Khan Academy. Their discussion covers a wide range of AI-related issues facing K-12 teachers today. The series continues with three additional professional development videos covering the fundamentals of AI, how AI can be combined with pedagogy to enhance student learning, and the ethical considerations and best practices of AI. The fifth and final session covers how to access and leverage free and customizable AI curriculum, content, and lesson plans which are available for use this fall within the classroom. In addition, today, this partnership is launching resources to ensure that students and adults around the world can understand and leverage the power of AI in an effective and responsible way. Our two new "How AI Works" videos along with accompanying lessons and curricula mean that classrooms can not only use AI but also understand how it works. "AI 101 for Teachers addresses the pressing need to expand awareness and understanding of generative AI," said Hadi Partovi, Founder and CEO of Code.org. "The release of ChatGPT has forever changed the educational landscape and will bring computer science into every classroom. Launching this free training underscores the importance of preparing teachers and students for the realities of a technology-driven society. As part of our mission to make computer science available to all K-12 students, we believe it's paramount to support and train teachers with the latest technology advancements." "AI creates opportunities for personalized learning and dynamic assessments, and enables teachers to deliver targeted instruction," said Amit Sevak, CEO of ETS. "AI 101 will support teachers by providing free lessons so they can confidently harness the power of AI in their classrooms." "This effort expands our commitment to empowering educators with the right information, enabling them to nurture students with the essential skills and strategic thinking necessary to navigate and thrive in an AI-infused world," said Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE and ASCD. "As part of our mission to provide a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere, we believe it's important to provide professional learning opportunities for K-12 teachers," said Sal Khan, Founder and CEO of Khan Academy. "AI is the biggest disrupter facing education today. The AI 101 for Teachers series provides an easily digestible introduction to AI and sets the stage for continued professional development." "Artificial Intelligence has the ability to transform public education into an equitable and efficient power for good and accelerate every student toward success," Los Angeles Unified Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. "These engaging and informative educational resources will enable students to fully realize their potential. We believe AI will streamline and complement the educational environment but could never substitute the human touch and talent our teachers bring to the classroom every day." About Code.org Code.org is a non-profit dedicated to expanding participation in computer science.Our vision is that every student in every school has the opportunity to learn how to code. We believe computer science and computer programming should be part of the core curriculum in education, alongside other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses, such as biology, physics, chemistry and algebra.

Read More

Continuing Education

Vernier Science Education Announces Strategic Corporate Transition for a Sustainable Future

PR Newswire | September 28, 2023

Today, Vernier Science Education, a leading provider of innovative science and STEM education solutions, announced a significant organizational shift that will chart the course for its mission and values for the foreseeable future. The company will evolve from partner-owned to being owned by a Perpetual Purpose Trust. This allows Vernier Science Education to ensure values-aligned ownership succession and uphold its core mission and values indefinitely, ensuring that its social and charitable objectives remain a priority in perpetuity, securing the futures of its valued employees, and reinvesting profits back into the business while sharing benefits with employees, customers, and communities alike. The Perpetual Purpose Trust is a bold and innovative approach that aligns perfectly with Vernier's vision of serving educators, students, the STEM community, and communities at large. The decision to reevaluate and reimagine Vernier's ownership model and long-term commitment to its mission comes as John Wheeler, the CEO of Vernier Science Education, prepares to step back from day-to-day activities, ushering in a new era of innovation and purpose-driven sustainability for the company. "Our decision to reevaluate our business and establish a Perpetual Purpose Trust stems from our unwavering commitment to STEM education and sustaining the values and principles that have defined Vernier for decades. This transformational shift will enable us to secure the future of our employees, reinvest in our business, and continue our mission of creating a STEM-literate society," said Wheeler. "I am honored to continue to guide our work during this transition, and I look forward to the remarkable achievements that lie ahead for Vernier Science Education." Wheeler will remain in his position as CEO until a nationwide search identifies a replacement. He will continue to be active in Vernier Science Education providing guidance and leadership to the organization and supporting the new CEO. The transition from partner-owned to Trust-owned will be funded by both gifting and purchase of shares from current Partners. Dave and Christine Vernier, the company's co-founders and key figures in its success, will remain actively engaged in the Vernier Science Education family, offering their invaluable insights and support as the company embarks on this exciting new chapter. "Vernier Science Education has always been driven by a deep commitment to advancing STEM education. As we transition to a Perpetual Purpose Trust, we're reaffirming our dedication to our mission and values, and commitment to staying a local independent Oregon-based company for generations to come," said Dave Vernier. "Christine and I are excited to continue contributing to the Vernier family and witnessing the positive impact this strategic move will have on educators, students, and the STEM community. This is how we pay back the years of success our organization has had and give back to our community." By establishing a Perpetual Purpose Trust, Vernier Science Education joins other socially-conscious organizations, foundations, and companies committed to long-term sustainability, fostering a sense of purpose that extends far into the future. About Vernier Science Education Vernier Science Education is a leading provider of innovative solutions for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. For over four decades, Vernier has been dedicated to supporting educators and inspiring students to explore and understand the world of science. With a commitment to quality, Vernier's comprehensive range of data collection and analysis tools, along with its educational resources, empowers educators to facilitate engaging and hands-on learning experiences. To learn more, visit vernier.com.

Read More

Education Technology

New Canvas Alignment Tool streamlines flow of data between One45 and Canvas learning management system

GlobeNewswire | September 14, 2023

Acuity Insights announces that its One45 product now offers a Canvas Alignment Tool, which streamlines the flow of data with Canvas – one of the most widely-used learning management systems (LMS) in higher education. This new tool allows programs to ensure that their curriculum mapping and facilitator reporting are consistent and accurate between the two systems. As a result, it reduces administrative burden, duplication of effort and reporting inconsistencies, ensuring program reporting meets accreditation standards with ease. This new tool will improve functionality and productivity for health professions programs that use both One45 and Canvas. "The Canvas Alignment Tool is an exciting addition to our groundbreaking One45 product. This tool combines complex data from diverse systems, delivering an efficient and effective solution for program administrators," says Rich Emrich, CEO of Acuity Insights. "This is yet another step in our strategy to enable program administrators to harness the power of data easily and effortlessly. We offer seamless integrations with leading education technology platforms in higher education. By doing so, administrators can gain valuable insights, ensuring both program and student success, without the hassle of making sense of data from various disconnected systems." What is One45? One45 by Acuity Insights is a comprehensive program management solution that allows health professions programs to simplify complex workflows, streamline accreditation, and enhance program assessment. Streamlined solutions for health professions programs One45 empowers programs with a dynamic, all-in-one platform that powers scheduling, curriculum management, assessment and evaluation, and MSPE processes with unparalleled flexibility. Simplified reporting tasks One45 solves tedious reporting challenges. It fully supports accreditation requirements in assessment, curriculum, clinical experiences, and Student Affairs, while effortlessly meeting day-to-day reporting needs. Seamless collaboration The One45 program management solution facilitates easy information sharing, collaboration, and communication among departments and learners alike. To find out more about the Canvas Alignment Tool, please read our blog post about integrating Canvas with One45. About Acuity Insights Acuity Insights is the leading provider of admissions assessment, program management, and analytics solutions for higher education. The company’s solutions help higher education institutions deliver on their mission holistically, considering the whole student, widening pathways into higher education, and ensuring both student and program success. Recognized as one of Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500 companies for 2021 and 2022, Acuity’s solutions are used by over 600 higher education programs worldwide. Its Casper situational judgment test (SJT), taken by more than 150,000 applicants every year, is the most widely used open-response SJT in higher education and is backed by almost 20 years of efficacy research. For more information, visit acuityinsights.com.

Read More

Corporate Learning Systems

Code.org, ETS, ISTE, and Khan Academy Launch Free AI Professional Learning for Teachers

PRnewswire | August 22, 2023

Today Code.org, ETS, the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), and Khan Academy formally announce the launch of "AI 101 for Teachers," a free professional learning course designed to level the playing field of artificial intelligence (AI) understanding among K-12 teachers as they head back to the classroom this fall. According to a recent survey, artificial Intelligence is poised to play a growing role in education, but the vast majority of teachers are not prepared and lack training on how to leverage this new technology in their classrooms. 75% of surveyed teachers believe AI should be taught to students, however, only 13% have had any training on how to teach AI to their students. AI 101 for Teachers will address this critical global need. The five-part video series will kick off on August 15, 2023, with a fireside chat between Hadi Partovi, Founder and CEO of Code.org, and Sal Khan, Founder and CEO of Khan Academy. Their discussion covers a wide range of AI-related issues facing K-12 teachers today. The series continues with three additional professional development videos covering the fundamentals of AI, how AI can be combined with pedagogy to enhance student learning, and the ethical considerations and best practices of AI. The fifth and final session covers how to access and leverage free and customizable AI curriculum, content, and lesson plans which are available for use this fall within the classroom. In addition, today, this partnership is launching resources to ensure that students and adults around the world can understand and leverage the power of AI in an effective and responsible way. Our two new "How AI Works" videos along with accompanying lessons and curricula mean that classrooms can not only use AI but also understand how it works. "AI 101 for Teachers addresses the pressing need to expand awareness and understanding of generative AI," said Hadi Partovi, Founder and CEO of Code.org. "The release of ChatGPT has forever changed the educational landscape and will bring computer science into every classroom. Launching this free training underscores the importance of preparing teachers and students for the realities of a technology-driven society. As part of our mission to make computer science available to all K-12 students, we believe it's paramount to support and train teachers with the latest technology advancements." "AI creates opportunities for personalized learning and dynamic assessments, and enables teachers to deliver targeted instruction," said Amit Sevak, CEO of ETS. "AI 101 will support teachers by providing free lessons so they can confidently harness the power of AI in their classrooms." "This effort expands our commitment to empowering educators with the right information, enabling them to nurture students with the essential skills and strategic thinking necessary to navigate and thrive in an AI-infused world," said Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE and ASCD. "As part of our mission to provide a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere, we believe it's important to provide professional learning opportunities for K-12 teachers," said Sal Khan, Founder and CEO of Khan Academy. "AI is the biggest disrupter facing education today. The AI 101 for Teachers series provides an easily digestible introduction to AI and sets the stage for continued professional development." "Artificial Intelligence has the ability to transform public education into an equitable and efficient power for good and accelerate every student toward success," Los Angeles Unified Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. "These engaging and informative educational resources will enable students to fully realize their potential. We believe AI will streamline and complement the educational environment but could never substitute the human touch and talent our teachers bring to the classroom every day." About Code.org Code.org is a non-profit dedicated to expanding participation in computer science.Our vision is that every student in every school has the opportunity to learn how to code. We believe computer science and computer programming should be part of the core curriculum in education, alongside other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses, such as biology, physics, chemistry and algebra.

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