#edchat Archive
#Edchat is a hashtag, a movement—it is a weekly organized Twitter discussion of educators and people interested in education that meet virtually from all over the world. #Edchat serves as a conversation thread on Twitter and is also used for organized weekly discussions.
Tuesday January 5, 2016
for me it depends-Sometimes I want to capture the voice and highlight others voices who will connect with my blog.
Welcome to . Tonight's topic: How do we get teachers to stop using textbooks as a guide for curriculum?
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NOW Topic: How do we get teachers to stop using textbooks as a guide for curriculum?
... WELCOME to Topic: How do we get teachers to stop using textbooks as a guide for curriculum?
WELCOME to Topic: How do we get teachers to stop using textbooks as a guide for curriculum?
The kids would be happier, healthier and smarter if we brought the "play" back to recess AND class. https://t.co/XvLFYpWhTh
It’s not just tchrs who need to stop. District coordinators sometimes structure pacing guides from textbook content.
The problem with moving away from textbooks is they are a one stop shop for almost all the required curriculum we teach.
There have been calls for more use of better quality textbooks in UK
I thoughtwe weresupposed to use content as a guide. Is that not what we do anymore? https://t.co/kVeZJ2NTTq
Welcome to . Tonight's topic: How do we get teachers to stop using textbooks as a guide for curriculum?
Also there is that little thing of not having much time to create or find our own content.
know the feeling… brrrrrrrr
, remind them to focus on kids and goals.
Project based projects, essential questions, and exploratory activities are worth the extra effort 4engaged learning!
Hi everyone! Nikki from Orlando. PD Coordinator, HS Eng!
And, as a supt what did I do that will make my staff want to return to the students? https://t.co/qHQ9nlM6ya
What did you do today that will make your students want to return tomorrow?
I think that lack of time explains why we so often continue to “shop” at such poor one stop shops
yup, plus textbooks aren't all bad. Next we will be complaining about using encyclopedias for reports. ;)
Only using textbooks to guide curriculum is like only using Wikipedia for information.
CURIOUS — what role does textbook play in your instruction? Is that more or less than your teacher colleagues?
Makes sense... so where's the fallout?
Hi Leonie Hastings NZ.We have ipads in Jnr class,use many apps & online tools eg google skype.Ss cant read textbks at 5 yrs old lol
I suspect most teachers supplement textbook content anyway.
Interesting... how's that playing out?
Can’t lose sight of the fact that textbooks aren't “evil;” can be a great resource. Problems arise when they are the ONLY resource.
I wonder if the first step might be making it OK to use something else. Maybe some think it’s what they’re supposed to be doing?
Textbooks are a tool. We don't need to get away from them. We should use them smarter. Anything overused is a crutch
Good evening / morning Leonie...
This is fundamentally a curicullumquestion.
Agree most supplement. However if text is determining pacing then we’re not being responsive to stus in front of us
With all the availability of resources on the web, it's easy to find material to support any subject/topic.
.As a Tcher use curric textbk as guide but use range of tools, ipads comp,real life experts /ppl/family other TsSchs etc+ experiences
Excellent point!! I think too many systems rely on a textbook though. We need more “messy” learning! https://t.co/7IdZ10wzpg
Can’t lose sight of the fact that textbooks aren't “evil;” can be a great resource. Problems arise when they are the ONLY resource.
Are textbooks great resources? They can be. Are they inspiring? Typically no. Inspire curiosity, not compliance & status quo.
The school i’m at is VERY ok with doing something else. Still lots of textbook reliance in places.
I think more often the 'test' determines pacing in most classes
Instead of ditching textbook have students make own ebooks. My Create Your Own Digital Textbook page https://t.co/mgJHF8pXre
... certainly don't help.
Never used a textbook with a class; tossed mine the 1st week of teaching 15 yrs ago. When a new T asks for one, I'm always shocked.
Well, we need both textbooks and other options. No one can spend 100% energy on EVERY lesson.
I’ve seen that too. Think it’s because they think it’s best…or because it’s easiest…or maybe both?
nah, they are just books with watered down information. We are at fault if we use them inapropriately.
I def understand the need for guidelines, but could a great T mentoring program do a better job. Sharing materials is always best
Bc many esp new Ts are so overwhelmed it becomes a crutch They have to learn that textbooks are tools not a Bible
As an art T, I am blessed w/standards but not textbooks fortunately. It is also best practices rather than lecture.
I have some lessons when the Ss work in the textbooks and some that I planned REALLY carefully. Both are useful.
IF YOU TEACH is a text book one of many resources at your disposal, or the primary resource?
At school now because I’m trying to put together non-packaged curriculum. I hope my extra time comes through in better learning exp
I use a textbook. We don't have access to online content regularly.
Textbooks can be the guide, but they should always be supplemented w/ other sources in multiple formats.
Both & sSome of it is because the parents respect the authority of the textbook more than the expertise of teacher.
a teacher that likes/loves the content can easily share great stuff while using texts. I do :)
They are also out of date before they are shipped. I want more for my students. We find resources together.
Wow the is way too crowded for purposeful conversation. I’m out. Take care!
To: Sup Cordova: When in doubt, ask students what they think.
When I taught MS SS I pulled from two textbooks & a heck of a lot of photocopies.Can be done w/o internet
We can't imagine just using the textbook for any class. No differentiation in that.
I like the feeling of a book… kindle, laptop, iPad…don’t have that feeling. Do you know what I’m saying?
Def. One of many. Would love to see them used less and focus be on student discovery and project based learni.ng
That kind of depends on the subject doesn't it? Do math textbooks really go out of date?
Of course using a textbook isn’t evil. Just when I see thoughtless defaulting to it raises ?s for me.
It is hard when you don’t have access to multiple resources… but there are stories, music, etc
I tell lots of stories. (plus I let the kids make art using extra content)
. So naturally(NZ) you get Ts of all types some digital,some all txtbks some a mix.Schs encourage certain wayseg ipads
In language arts, some Ts utilize basal readers on occasion. It is a resource but the curriculum is not built around a single book.
I know *exactly* what you are saying. :)
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Advancements & new discoveries. By the time the book prints, there is something new. Publishers profit w/new ed.
Following chapter 1, then 2, etc. also makes it tough to meet students where they are
. In NZ no compulsory textbksTs freedom not in what you tch (NZ curric) but in the way you tch it. Use diff tools
My students also prefer to have resources with more interactivity. No one likes a paper cut.
WHAT CAN A TEXTBOOK DO for you that the Internet, software, and other resources fail to do?
I think the real difference is any one source just won't cut it: texts, videos, ppts ;)
Meant 2 say when you don’t have access 2 internet- many other resources are available- why just textbooks https://t.co/dx3DO7DoZQ
It is hard when you don’t have access to multiple resources… but there are stories, music, etc
If textbooks are blunt instruments, then what tools are more precise? When to use which tool? Who decides? How?
Working hard with hard to reach students made the most improvement in my teaching.
I think of textbooks like tech.. It's a tool, one of many in our toolboxes.
SO AWESOME! TAB is like Academic choice in I do a little of both in my studio w/Ss https://t.co/7SsY7VfxN6
Via "Students aren't doing MY IDEAS anymore they are doing their own."
Authentic experiences r what kids will remember 5, 10, even 20 yrs from now. Be the one to create those! https://t.co/s7mlqpV3uS
.As a Tcher use curric textbk as guide but use range of tools, ipads comp,real life experts /ppl/family other TsSchs etc+ experiences
Not opposed to have multiple resources available for students, but is a $200 textbook that cannot be updated the best use of money?
Empower staff to teach in other ways- encourage some abandonment -Peanuts analogy - let go of the blanket
Textbook information is selective and too often a shallow overview. We want learners to dig deeper and compare content.
find ways to make it more experiential.Integrate content into LA to build prior knowledge.Choose materials based on learning target.
Maybe a better question would be, do kids want to learn with textbooks or would they prefer something else?
that's the question right?
When we provide learners w/ other resources to supplement the textbook...they get turned on to the content.
Academic choice should be part of learning daily! https://t.co/mYVhSqb3s9
Maybe a better question would be, do kids want to learn with textbooks or would they prefer something else?
I have been ABSENT on Twitter due to my mom's health but I promise to get back in the game! Happy 2nd half! :)
Never heard a S talk about loving answering the Q’s at the end of chapter 4
I love this description of resources that teachers use! And the great thing is we can always add to it! https://t.co/KpQKFedaCK
I think of textbooks like tech.. It's a tool, one of many in our toolboxes.
Do students really "learn with textbooks" or do they just use them to complete the assignment?
And should the teacher be deciding that for everyone or should each student get some say in that preference?
.Yes books are one of the tools.My 5 yr olds LOVE me reading bks to them eg picture books even fairy tales,=wonder
Understood. I have plenty of paper 😊 The trick is to find & supplement w/ more engaging materials.
❤️the analogy!! Let them see benefits of letting go of the blankie and replacing w/authentic learning
Probably the most important question! https://t.co/scP8LcKtGS
Maybe a better question would be, do kids want to learn with textbooks or would they prefer something else?
of course they can learn with them, students can learn from anything.
Are you happier w/learn from? A student can get a new skill or new knowledge from a textbook.
Well said. It's the learning, not the tool. https://t.co/A4OyGxGWcM
I think of textbooks like tech.. It's a tool, one of many in our toolboxes.
my kids haven't missed using them ...
Also, I doubt the tool we use is nearly as important to student learning as is the student wanting to learn that curriculum.
We always learn better when we want to learn, even a crappy tool can be useful then.
.. We use Inquiry lrng. Ss ask ?s & we explore tog. Use range of tools, books, comp, ipads, people etc
Too often TEXTbooks have been used as TESTbooks…just saying.
Textbooks aren't great. Kids want to learn in a way that is fun. Make Textbooks fun. 100% possible.
and then be told to not use the textbook ... Talk about a mixed message
I write iBooks for my class. It allows me to include specific information relevant to my school community
Indeed. Have found better resources each year to use & inspire over the textbook. Have them, but rarely used.
Textbook information is limited. Content should be just the opposite.
I don't care about learning in a fun way when I want to learn. I prefer efficient myself. '
They can absolutely be written better. More pressure should be on companies to do so.
That is awesome! Mystery Ghangouts are supposed to be an awesome resource too! https://t.co/yeKGeMZ7Ie
.. We use Inquiry lrng. Ss ask ?s & we explore tog. Use range of tools, books, comp, ipads, people etc
true, I'm a big fan of giving students choice about what they use to learn
Topic: How do we get teachers to stop using textbooks as a guide for curriculum?
I just switched over to Seinfeld. It helps me have the right mood for ;)
THE biggest classroom win is students experiencing success every day. Be a success coach!
I've not been told not to use a textbook, but at the same time, it's about appropriate use.
Well put and I agree. I'd rather get information clearly and efficiently, but that can be entertaining.
(1) Help them to become more comfortable with curriculum documents. (more)
the most precise tool is the one that works for that kid ... Each kid may need a different tool
very true... Standardized textbooks used to prepare our non-standardized kiddos for standardized tests
Completely agreed. They could use a little teacher intervention in the process
Do I need to periscope the 'backchannel' between and I during this ?
. Connect/retell wth stories.Ss love eg "Book with no pics" T has to say funny things,make funny noises.Make me reread
Some Ss "want" to learn bc we have found tools that motivate.Theres correlation bt the "want" and how we motivate
(2) Help them to become true masters of their subjects. (ends)
I'm not so sure. I think they find things they want to learn but I doubt it is because of the tools we use.
Support them through modeling. Won't happen overnight. Gradual release as they become empowered. Coaching! https://t.co/oIr3REbCTV
Topic: How do we get teachers to stop using textbooks as a guide for curriculum?
I was always intrigued at how social studies curriculum was always taught war by war by war.
To build inquiry, questioning, and problem-solving, learners need comparative info to compare against textbook content.
to me it is entertaining because I am learning what I want. It's like a natural high.
and they're way TOO EXPENSIVE
That assumes motivation. IF (big if) fun helps w/learning motivation great. Bottom line is learning
I spend very little time on the wars that happen during the years I cover.
Maybe not, but it beats some things that pass for teaching in modern education!
they=students, as a whole. Class full of type A= ?
Of all professionals, teachers are the most likely to be informed about abuse. False allegations are rare. https://t.co/nmxHuVNVrU
How will you ensure you learn from your students tomorrow?
Less emphasis on textbooks and more support for open sources could go a long way in changing curriculum or at least methodology.
To reduce reliance on textbooks to guide curriculum, we need to help tchrs become more comfortable accessing other resources.
I think motivation comes from being interested, not from the 'fun' aspect of the tool.
No one needs to see that!
I didn’t adopt a textbook while designing a CompSci class.But that doesn’t mean textbooks lack value.
I remember when we were being told to be careful of using content on the net because anyone could put it there.
Calculating out the cost for those textbooks ... Could surely use other materials instead. 😉
Now it seems many trust the internet more than the textbook in the classroom.
It also takes a willingness to relinquish some control to provide opportunities for students to develop their learning resources.
I suspect that says a lot about the last 20 years in education and how it has changed.
Dynamic teachers-dynamic curriculums rely on multiple resources to produce great learning experiences
100% agreed about tools, but fun can come from the lesson as a whole & thus help w/motivation
.HaveS that doesn't like Maths apps bt phys eg lego puzzles blocks 5yr olds. Not crappy but still choosing tool to lrn
were they motivated by what they were learning or how they were learning? And does that really matter anyway?
I think they DO have value, but don't think "most" Ss use them for much more than completing assignments.
I suspect our ultimate goal should be that they can learn, not necessarily that they learn what we have to teach them.
Begins with the curriculum review process. Focus on pedagogy and not resources. https://t.co/1NlAngMvnF
Topic: How do we get teachers to stop using textbooks as a guide for curriculum?
Perhaps textbooks fail when they do not replicate anything like the resources that Ss use in their everyday lives. No interactivity.
I teach elem sped & have reluctant Ss but when I find motivating ways to present the material I get better results
Please join for tonight at 7 Central to talk about Using Fiction in the Classroom.
It's is their learning, it should be their choice. Of course we need the resources to give them choices too.
Joining late--I think it's great when teachers can come together to build curriculum with and for Ss.
Granted every child is different, but what tends to motivate Ss most? Interest? Peer pressure? Fun? An innate quest for knowledge?!
Teaching the curriculum via textbook was a method used for generations before more free, relevant Info on the Internet was available.
It is like when we give pre and post tests on vocab. If we directly teach vocab in between they will know more.
. So true. As Piaget said . " Play is a child's work"
I believe all Ss "can" learn. My ultimate goal is 2 motivate them to learn&enjoy it so they want to continue learning
Info today is more fluid (ex:YouTube videos, Google searches). In a way, textbooks are like cars, they depreciate once off the lot.
amazing reading teacher at my school is using wonderful read aloud poetry to inspire reading,discussion.
Dear , I know you are desperate to improve but no, no, no. Don't ruin the poetry of 140. https://t.co/ksQLwIoIAd
Twitter's CEO tries to soothe your panic about Twitter's possible new 10,000 character limit. https://t.co/CYioO8bBN7
I want my kids to know how to learn so when they are interested they can do it more efficiently
That moment when you realize you've been following instead of the real guy & think, eh, it seems to be ok.
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Are you a T under 30? Were you once under 30? Check out the new slowchat to help us all grow! https://t.co/3hLqfBDkc5
I could not function effectively without having memorised multiplication tables.
Humans tend to work towards efficiency. Until there are options more efficient to teach with than textbooks we will be using them.
I like the notion of developing "expert learners" - this is a great idea.
Love. LEARN FROM... So much to gain from S voices TY https://t.co/wuO3JXutsW
How will you ensure you learn from your students tomorrow?
. It would require shifting the emphasis for textbook purchases to tech. Not a difficult problem.
Our nation's prisons are filled with victims of child abuse. What if abuse was prevented or support given? https://t.co/Lgn28g2EjW
this seems like a scheduling problem ,at least in older grades. Stop scheduling around content, problem solved
Depends on the district. Very difficult problem in our rural district!
She so carefully chose the author, poetry focus, voice to match Ss interests. They love it.
Update 7 Pros & Cons Of Teaching With Genius Hour - ... The post 7 Pros & Cons Of Teaching With Genius ... https://t.co/pVFopmJhjR
If you haven’t read what has to say about ditching the textbook mentality, his book is a must!
In an effort to stay relevant, most new textbooks have great online, frequently updated supplemental resources.
Def!from an elem persp.i need 2 inspire inquiry 2 spark wonder &questions so Ss want to learn&investigate
they were motivated by content, author, the way she was allowing them to recreate poems w/voice, actions
. Determine the textbook budget for one year and see if you still feel that way.
Great goal one we can always continue to reach for.
Our weekly needs moderators for next week and the week after. Please consider signing up: https://t.co/2Pk3ht8w9S Thanks!
Rough day back. Love my kids, but many aspects of my position are toxic. Sails = deflated. I guess my word is
Thought tonight’s topic was pretty relevant to the great work you have done…and are doing :)
Textbooks can be another great resource, but too many teachers actually think the textbook IS their curriculum
Textbooks are overpriced when content is easily available. They are really just a convenient compilation of information for some.
Unfortunate when the textbook's table of contents determines the teaching pace & learning opportunities in the classroom.
There is already a Tech budget.Adding a major portion of the textbook budget and using open sources should be quite doable.
So who are these teachers everyone refers to that only use textbooks with their kids? I have never met one. '
Textbooks don't offer a variety of reading levels or text to speech
Had a similar day, Natayle. If people only knew how much better encouragement is than mandates, directives.
Some teachers supplement more, some less but all of them have supplemented.
.Love my ipad,iphone.I have class blog,wikis,twitter.Personal twitter FBk comp etc but love to readmy novels hard copy
Don't get me started. . . .
Textbooks are convenient ... teachers need to be shown that other sources are available ... how to get those sources
And, if we are honest, technology is just another tool. Just having a light saber doesn't make you a Jedi.
Really? I can pretty much show you a whole school of them.
I'm with you, we have so many resources and definitely blend our resources for learning.
Like food, textbooks should come with a 'use-by' or 'best before' date.
I could buy a lot of great books to use for class with the price of each textbook.
. The Govt has pledged 100% connectivity in all schools for the future (Future Ready).
Is this at elementary? Are there other resources?
They supplement with the worksheets/workbooks that go along with the textbooks.
Any suggestions https://t.co/IWVyquETV9
looking for programs that could create business cards and ads. Student friendly for 5th graders. Thanks
Subliminal message from textbook usage is that content exists outside of Ss influence or contribution, that knowledge is external.
.Im never w/out a book personally eg Tch like a Pirate to James Patterson even tho I love my ipad /iphone twitter Fbketc
So true--it's the blend of the best resources that match context, content, interests, questions.
too often convenience trumps best practices
Middle School. My daughters'. And from what I can tell there is no supplementing besides the textbooks.
standards drive instruction NOT the textbook,
I started out like that. Maybe better school leadership is in order.
. Yes, it should not, but talk to teachers and ask what guides them through the curriculum. The Textbook.
I agree, isn't that the million dollar question... "Is this going to be graded?"
That surprises me, but I know that some schools have few resources, many restrictions.
A textbook on a tablet is still a textbook.
I'd like to think it was that, but sadly I don't believe that. And I have seen it in elementary as well.
Unfortunate when textbook becomes the pedagogical crutch for Ts unwilling to engage in active, reflective, or innovative teaching.
Not sure if anyone watched "Hunting Hitler," but that's a good reason to use more than a textbook to question history.
Typical SS teacher using wars again to teach history.
No fun when textbooks are supplemented with worksheets….
Too, too often. It’s a sad commentary.
And before people message me, yup is a hell of a lot like . Some interesting differences though :)
thanks for great chat tonight! 😊
yes, but the problem with that is many want individual student sign in and encourage its sole use, built in activities
Exactly. There is a lot of associated learning that needs to happen to make tchrs comfortable ditching the textbook.
There's so much room for rich learning, but takes the structure, motivation to happen.
Nope. I cringe every time I look at some of the work my girls do.
Textbooks are made by testing giants. They've been retooled to support standardized testing requirements.
What we need is to have a PD showing Teachers how to locate their own content to meet their standards textbooks are not the answer
My kid’s 7th grade SS T has them act out wars…paper ball cannons,trenches, etc…
Edu reforms fail because they start from a false premise of what learning looks like. Be willing to redesign school from the core.
Your comments on social media are not governed by anyone except the culture of Social Media so It's all good.
REMINDER: Many topics get extended thru discussion on Edchat Radio via
Please join for in 3 minutes!
TOPIC: "Using Fiction in the Classroom."
Challenge for going without textbook is one of locating resources that meet instructional quality and are accessible by Ss.
Thanks to all who participated in tonight’s & to co-mods:
Textbooks are inefficient, mine are so outdated we only use as reference: YouTube is efficient!
And wifi access on Mars might even come before some rural communities.
I love what has to say about giving S’s not just a lesson, but an experience. Hard to do with textbook-centered lessons
Agreed. Librarians are amazing resources to help teachers, but teachers need to make the effort to ask for help.
.My 5 yr olds love kahoot.Buddy some up with older Ss in othr class.Eg ?s on Inquirys we do.Ss love it
too often Teachers are thrown standards and not really shown how to meet those standards ...
efficient for the teacher. Is textbook use really efficient for students?
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Just because it is so convenient, one can't simply assess learning from a textbook. https://t.co/NBTPMKlKDG
Too often TEXTbooks have been used as TESTbooks…just saying.
It's a little late in the century to say an educator doesn't know where to look for other resources.
Anybody know a good group to join for school librarians? Technique suggested by
