This course introduces educators to mindfulness as a lifestyle and more importantly, as an instructional style rather than an isolated period of instructional time. Establishing best practices in mindfulness instruction is a key component of this course. Developing personal practice and how mindfulness affects the brain coincide to define the role of the mindful teacher. How to introduce mindfulness to our communities is addressed, and well as the Cognitive Load Theory. When regularly used, mindfulness in the classroom can increase the ability to focus and concentrate, increase a sense of calm which therefore decreases stress and anxiety, improve impulse control, increase self-awareness, help our youth respond to difficult emotions, increase empathy and understanding of others, and develop natural conflict resolution skills.
2024: May 24, 25, 26, June 8, 9 / virtual June 17 - July 14 / Online June 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 / Virtual July 29, 30, 21, August 1, 2 / Virtual August 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 / Virtual October 4, 5, 6, 19, 20 / Virtual
Skills for Building the Collaborative Classroom
Collaboration, cooperation, innovation, creativity and critical thinking (all 21st Century Skills) are demonstrated using interactive hands-on structures and activities. The goal: to engage students living in a global community and ultimately working in a global marketplace. Participants can expect to learn how to successfully encourage students to work cooperatively and collaboratively to THINK, CREATE, SHARE and GROW interdependently. NOTE: A device that is able to search the Internet and download applications is required.
TBD
Universal Design for Learning
A practical exploration of digital-age solutions to reach and teach all learners, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework to help educators meet the challenge of diverse learners in the 21st Century: A blueprint for creating flexible, differentiated methods, materials, and assessments in the standards-based digital classroom. NOTE: A laptop with WiFi capability is required.
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Increasing Student Responsibility & Self-Discipline Within Learning Communities
Study a three-dimensional model for understanding why students may act irresponsibly in the classroom and what can be done about it. Develop an approach that focuses on students’ internal dialogues to help them resolve inner conflicts as well as examine strategies for improving responsibility in the learning community.
2024: September 27, 28, 29, October 12, 13 / Virtual November 1, 2, 3, 16, 17 / Virtual