Translate to multiple languages

Subscribe to my Email updates

https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=helgeScherlundelearning
Enjoy what you've read, make sure you subscribe to my Email Updates

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Education's next wave: 'Deeper' learning, online grading, (eventual) end of FCAT by ANNIE MARTIN and LINDA TRIMBLE, Education writers

Forget the pocket-sized Spanish-English dictionary high school students used to carry to translate unfamiliar words and phrases.

Photo: Daytona Beach News-Journal

Spruce High senior Ryan Intriago has an app for that on his iPhone. The 17-year-old is typical of a generation of teens who have grown up in a high-tech environment that's making more and more inroads into Volusia and Flagler classrooms as the new academic year begins.

Flagler students returned to classes Thursday and Volusia students will start their new year Monday. Schools are gearing up for a host of changes for this year and future years, as teachers integrate devices like laptops and cellphones into their instruction and transition to a new set of standards that stress depth over breadth.

Many educators are also embracing a flexible approach that encourages teachers to tailor lessons to meet students' needs and empowers families to chart the course for their child's schooling.

In Palm Coast, Robbie and Jacqueline Throne are preparing for their daughter Alana's very first day of school Monday. They've chosen Imagine School at Town Center, a charter school, over the traditional public schools because they liked the smaller environment and emphasis on developing character.

Jacqueline Throne, who also has a 13-month-old daughter, said she's heard from parents with older children about intense homework loads, standardized testing and opportunities to earn college credit in high school. She's thought of the years ahead and says she'd like her girls to graduate from college. But first the Thrones hope to watch their oldest daughter blossom in kindergarten.

"I look forward to her learning as much as she can and getting excited and enjoying learning," Jacqueline Throne said.
Read more...

Source: Daytona Beach News-Journal