Disqus - Latest Comments for KJanowski

Re: Tracking Student Behaviors Interactively -- THE Journal

KJanowski — Thu, 16 May 2019 15:08:30 -0000

Read Alfie Kohn's extensive work on the risks of rewards. https://www.alfiekohn.org/a...

Re: No, Teachers Shouldn't Put Students in the Driver's Seat

KJanowski — Thu, 06 Sep 2018 10:11:11 -0000

Yes, but the original author states, "A meta-analysis published in 2018 by Stockard, Wood, Coughlin, and Khoury, including more than 300 studies conducted during the period from 1966 through 2016, indicates that teacher-centered, explicit instruction produces positive results—and in some cases, better results than student-led inquiry or group-based project models."
That's not overwhelming evidence to me ("produces positive results" - what does that really mean?).
In addition, it leads one to believe there is some research which supports student-led inquiry or group-based project models over teacher-centered approaches, since he states, "in some cases...."
That wording jumped out at me.
Anyone else not impressed by how he incorporated the results of the meta-analysis to prove his point?

Re: The Big 3's War Over EDU: A Comparison of Apple, Google, and Microsoft - by David Lockhart

KJanowski — Fri, 11 May 2018 14:29:20 -0000

Thanks for this, David.
One comment - although it appears to be a comprehensive look at the three different platforms, you didn't explore accessibility features which is vitally important for education. Which tool works best for students on IEPs or 504s? There are different features with each platform and they all have their advantages and disadvantages for students with learning differences. Just something do consider. Those of us who work in the field of assistive and instructional technology have more options than ever. But the preferred device may be different for each student, depending on their needs. I see some districts locked into one platform, determined by IT, which is not what federal special education law allows. IT can not drive IEP decisions. What students need are IEP team decisions.
In any case, I found this very helpful and informative.

Re: Crick Software Blog > Clicker 7 for Older Learners

KJanowski — Wed, 24 May 2017 12:09:43 -0000

Ciara,
Thank you for sharing this real life story about the features of Clicker 7 which worked best for an adult user, who happened to be your sister. You were age respectful and easily changed the settings which promoted success and independence. This is excellent! It allows us to think about applications beyond the typical K-8 settings.

Re: The Miseducation of the Fonz

KJanowski — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 08:51:09 -0000

Some commenters have mentioned strategies that change the visual presentation of text. When you read text on paper, there's no way to change it. There are a variety of technology tools which accommodate for that. One of the best, if you have an iOS device, is the VoieDream Reader app. You can customize everything! Font,font size, white space, color background and text and more. I work as an Assistive Technolgy consultant and have found these adjustments can make all the difference for some dyslexic students. It's about empowering kids with the tools they need to bypass their reading struggles.

Re: Can Students ‘Go Deep’ With Digital Reading?

KJanowski — Sat, 13 Sep 2014 19:28:31 -0000

One of the most important points missing from the article and the discussion is acknowledging the unique needs of students with learning variabilities - dyslexia and reading disabilities, English Language Learners, students with vision impairments and students who cannot hold a book in a traditional manner due to physical disabilities. Considering various reading options isn't about what we prefer but about opening up the joy of reading for students who struggle with print books. Some have mentioned the ability to change the visual interface - more white space, change fonts and font sizes, increase the size of margins, change colors. The true value is the ability to add text to speech with e-text. There are many text to speech options but one of the best is the VoiceDream Reader app ($9.99), which includes the ability to completely alter the visual interface to optimize the reading experience. To learn more about free text to speech options, check out http://udltechtoolkit.wikis....

Re: Where’s the evidence?

KJanowski — Wed, 16 Jul 2014 06:49:10 -0000

Thank you for writing about this George. When I hear people ask "Where is the evidence?" I ask, "where is the evidence that supports lecture and worksheets?" the most traditional of instructional methods. No one seems to question that which is so frustrating as those methods don't work for most kids.
As you point out, one method does not work for all. Universal Design for Learning is founded on three principles - multiple methods of expression, presentation and engagement. When we incorporate UDL, we promote greater success and independence and reach more learners.

Re: Free Technology for Teachers: It's Okay to Ask For Help

KJanowski — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 06:59:51 -0000

Richard,
This moving post will reach many in a different way than is typical and is probably you're most powerful post ever. Thank you for your transparency. I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. Prayers to you and his young family.

Re: Passionate Readers Read Passionately

KJanowski — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:03:46 -0000

Angela,
Unfortunately, you are right talking about "fake reading," which I would also call "the chore that is reading." It's our role as educators to instill a passion for reading by modeling it when we discuss books we are reading. It's so challenging to talk with students who struggle with reading and have learned to hate it. We have a lot to undo to instill in them a new attitude about something that is painful and difficult for them.
As always, you share your passion by exposing what we need to improve.
I learn so much from you.

Re: Basics Before Big Ideas? NOT!

KJanowski — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 20:01:18 -0000

Angela,
I love what you are saying here. I'm concerned that the National Reading Panel's findings have caused us to lose the big picture ideas that you are talking about in this post. When we concentrate on the "pieces" of reading, we lose the big ideas and especially the joy. Those kindergarten students are getting it on the second day of school. Let's hope they don't lose it in our attempts to "teach" the skill of reading and it's five main components.

Re: Parent Involvement – “What’s Your View?”

KJanowski — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:23:46 -0000

Pat,
What you did as normal professional practice is something that does not typically happen. Why isn't this approach stressed in educational programs as an effective method of working with parents?
I wonder why the teachers you are currently working with in your grad classes don't seem to get it?

Re: Parent Involvement – “What’s Your View?”

KJanowski — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:21:38 -0000

Angela,

What an effective way to make a point! It is incredible to see how different are the views of the educators and the parents. Love this exercise and the way you respected your audiences.