Early this morning, I opened my Google Reader and linked from this to this, a history teacher’s blog I hadn’t read before.
As I read through some of Glen Wiebe‘s posts (and many are posts to which I’ll return), this one about a new book caught my eye. I had been to Borders earlier in the day and almost purchased it.
(I was after presentation ideas in this book instead, and it deserves a separate post later.)
The 12 rules in Brain Rules provide "nice research and examples to
explain how we interact with our environment and each other, especially
how we as teachers can impact student learning," Wiebe says.
They are all fascinating statements, but this one in particular jumped out at me:
EXPLORATION | Rule #12: We are powerful and natural explorers.
Next, I wanted to look something up in my Reader, and a link from Dana Huff took me to another great read, teacher Lisa Huff, who posted about a new tool, Moonfruit, which may be what I am looking for–a way to post student portfolios online.
When I finally decided to write a post about this serendipity, I went to grab a picture from Flickrcc and discovered you can now edit your pictures in Picnik from the front page!
All in all, it’s been a productive morning. And it’s only 7:30 am!
Image: ‘Morning Mist on the Dumoine II‘
www.flickr.com/photos/17875539@N00/542306837
Since working my way through Brain Rules, the link between brain research and teaching strategies has become more clear. I’ve gone through the whole Pat Wolfe thing, have had a chance to talk with Steven Johnson and enjoyed Zull’s The Art of Changing the Brain.
But Medina writes in a very conversational way that has helped me see the importance of brain research in a new way! I think you’ll like it too.
(Noticed your link to the Civ III and World History video. You might find some these gaming resources useful – http://www.socialstudiescentral.com/?q=node/58)
Have a great week!
Glenn WIebe
http://www.socialstudiescentral.com
glennw@essdack.org
twitter – glennw98
Thanks, Glen. I am enjoying your blog and your thoughtful postings. I’ve already sent your links to our history teachers:) Glad to get to know you!