This is a post to pay my teacherly respects to the great Seymour Papert, whose ideas and inventions transformed how millions of children around the world create and learn. Seymour died on Sunday, July 31, 2016 at his home in Maine, USA, aged 88. As I'll explain, every classroom … [Read more...] about Farewell to the father of computing in colleges
Education
The Power of Play in Kindergarten
Over the years, throughout my studies of Early Childhood Education and experience in the field, I have come to realise the true power of play for young children. I have read many articles and been to some great workshops that highlight the educational opportunities in less structured and … [Read more...] about The Power of Play in Kindergarten
What exactly is STEM ?
The common adage is that one should never discuss religion, politics or money in public spaces. I have noticed though that no one ever comments on my blog posts, so it’s time to talk a little politics (and what is happening in Stage 4). I'm only a young lad at the tender age of 27 though I'm old … [Read more...] about What exactly is STEM ?
Why Do We Still Write Creatively?
What is the value of writing in an age dominated by digital communication and why do students still need to write in forms such as short stories, poetry and essays? These are important questions for 21st century learners and society. Writing has changed. Contexts and ways of writing have … [Read more...] about Why Do We Still Write Creatively?
Can We Teach Creativity?
One of the most slippery dimensions of learning and teaching is creativity. It's notoriously difficult to quantify. The current educational research suggests the essential ingredients are: curiosity, open-mindedness, imagination and problem solving. None of these things function in isolation, but … [Read more...] about Can We Teach Creativity?
The importance of teamwork
Often classes, especially senior classes, are highly competitive places where students feel the need to perform in a very individualised environment. There is however a clear advantage in promoting teamwork in the classroom. Working as part of a group will provide the stimulus needed to improve … [Read more...] about The importance of teamwork