Blended learning seamlessly weaves together online and in-person learning experiences to boost student engagement and meet the unique needs of a diverse class by providing flexible pathways through learning experiences. Blended learning aims to lean on technology to do what it does well–information transfer–and free teachers to do what they do well–support individual and small […]
The playlist, or individual rotation model, is a highly effective blended learning model that empowers students to take ownership of their learning by giving them control over the pace and path of their learning. This model presents a sequence of carefully curated learning activities tailored to each student’s unique needs and abilities, allowing them to […]
I have a soft spot for the station rotation model. It was one of the first models, along with the flipped classroom, that I could employ in my low-tech classroom. In the early days of my transition to blended learning, I had one Chromebook, which I received after writing a Donor’s Choose project. I thought, […]
Student agency, or a students’ ability to make key decisions about their learning experience, is an essential aspect of blended learning. Student agency requires that we design our lessons to offer students meaningful choices. These choices can help us universally design learning experiences that strive to remove barriers and invite students to decide how to […]
The variety of humans in a classroom is remarkable. Their needs, skills, interests, pacing, preferences, and language proficiencies are incredibly diverse. As educators, we have the challenge and honor to teach a dynamic and unique group of students each time a class period begins. Universally designing blended learning presents educators with the opportunity to transition […]
It’s only two months into the school year, and teachers are exhausted. This year has made everyone, regardless of their years of experience, feel like a brand new teacher. Teachers are designing learning experiences for a range of learning landscapes. Some are navigating a hybrid schedule that blends synchronous in-class time with asynchronous online time. […]
Dr. Maria Hersey is a global educator with extensive experience in educational leadership, international education, social-emotional learning (SEL), curriculum design, and global- mindedness. Currently, Dr. Hersey is the Principal Advisor for Global Education Advisors. Her previous experience includes serving as the Director of Education and Training for The Hawn Foundation where she managed the evidence-based, […]
Teachers have a unique opportunity to engage students in exploring the complex issue of racial injustice. Students need a space to explore their feelings and reflect on what is happening, why it is happening, and what they can do to create positive change. Educators may be looking for resources they can lean on as they […]
When teachers introduce tasks or assignments in the classroom, they often provide both text and verbal directions. They have the luxury of holding up papers or projecting online assignments to show students exactly what to do. Teachers working with younger learners who may not be strong readers or teachers who are introducing a complicated or […]
The Balance is now available on Spotify! As educators grapple with the challenges of teaching remotely, I wanted to share some tips for navigating the shift from offline to online teaching. Unlike my regular episodes where I chat with a guest, this mini-episode is just me (and my cat). I share three quick tips that […]
On Saturday, I wrote a blog sharing an offline choice board teachers can use to blend offline activities into their online classes. On Twitter, Barbara McInnes suggested teachers add a wellness activity to their offline choice boards. I loved her suggestion and immediately started working on a choice board dedicated to health and wellness activities. […]
This book was inspired by the following… I want students to develop confidence in themselves and their abilities.  I want students to understand that their grades are a reflection of their skills, and they are capable of improving those skills at any time. I want students to complete assignments because they are meaningful, interesting, and […]