On Aug. 21, PDK International and Gallup released the 45th annual
edition of the Poll of the Public’s Attitudes Toward the Public
Schools, the nation’s longest-running poll on education issues.
In a live video chat, Bill Bushaw, executive director of PDK,
spoke with EWA Public Editor Emily Richmond about some of the
surprising findings, including the public’s awareness of the
Common Core State Standards, attitudes toward high-stakes
testing, and parental concerns about school safety.
Jacqueline Rabe Thomas of the Connecticut Mirror talks about her
work with colleagues Keith Phaneuf and Mark Pazniokes on a series
of stories probing huge raises for several administrators in New
Hampshire’s cash-strapped public college system. Their reporting
was awarded first prize for Investigative Reporting in a Small
Newsroom in EWA’s 2012 National Awards for Education Reporting.
As the Q&A concludes, Khan fields questions on adapting
lessons for an international audience, the MOOC model, and
solving the problem of credentialing in online ed.
During the Q&A, Khan discusses the history of distance
learning, the structure and composition of his videos, and how
Khan Academy is beginning to approach assessments.
David Jackson and Gary Marx of the Chicago Tribune talk about the
10-year reporting project that became EWA’s Grand Prize-winning
project, “An Empty-Desk Epidemic.” The expansive story
demonstrated how students in Chicago’s public schools racked up
missed days of school even as early as kindergarten.
Recorded at EWA’s 66th National Seminar, May 4, 2013 at Stanford
University
Head to The Educated Reporter to read a guest blog by
Jackson and Marks.
Freelance journalist Peg Tyre talks about how she reported her
award-winning story “The Writing Revolution,” published in
October 2012 by The Atlantic.
Jon Marcus of The Hechinger Report talks about some key stories
on the higher education beat that lead to his second prize in the
2012 National Awards for Education Reporting. Recorded at EWA’s
66th National Seminar, May 4, 2013 at Stanford University.
Justin Pope of the Associated Press talks about how he approached
the timely and difficult topic of how universities are applying
the Title IX gender discrimination law to sexual assault cases.
Pope’s coverage won a special citation in Single-Topic News,
Series or Feature in a Large Newsroom in EWA’s 2012 National
Awards for Education Reporting.
Benjamin Herold of Education Week talks about the coverage he did
for WHYY and the Philadelphia Public School Notebook in 2012, a
particularly tumultuous year for the city’s school system.
Herold’s coverage was awarded first prize in the beat reporting
category, medium newsroom, in EWA’s 2012 National Awards for
Education Reporting. Recorded at EWA’s 66th National Seminar, May
4, 2013 at Stanford University.
Jenny Brundin of Colorado Public Radio talks about following a
group of teachers, administrators and students going through a
turnaround effort at a failing school in Denver. “Trevista” was
awarded first prize, Single-Topic News, Series or Feature in
Broadcast in EWA’s 2012 National Awards for Education Reporting.
Recorded at EWA’s 66th National Seminar, May 4, 2013, at Stanford
University.
*Please note: Due to technical difficulties during recording,
the audio in the first half of this video is distorted. There is
nothing wrong with your speakers.
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and
educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of
innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education.
In this session, Marcie Bober-Michel, San Diego State University,
interviewed by Kyla Calvert, KPBS, about a boom in courses that
blend online and face-to-face learning. Recorded May 4, 2013 at
EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and
educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of
innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education.
In this session, Mark Shermis, University of Akron, is
interviewed by Molly Bloom, WKSU, about the debate over
computerized grading of student essays. Recorded May 4, 2013 at
EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and
educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of
innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education.
In this session, Trace Urdan, Wells Fargo Securities, is
interviewed by Kim Clark, Money Magazine, about burgeoning
investments in innovative education enterprises Recorded May 4,
2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and
educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of
innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education.
In this session, Jay McPhail, Riverside Unified School District
(Riverside, CA), is interviewed by Dayna Straehley, The
Press-Enterprise, about digital instructional materials and
mobile devices for students. Recorded May 4, 2013 at EWA’s 66th
National Seminar at Stanford University.
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and
educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of
innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education.
In this session, Kayvon Beykpour, Mobile Technologies
Entrepreneur, is interviewed by Katherine Long, The Seattle
Times, about how universities can encourage students to start
companies.
Recorded May 4, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford
University.
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and
educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of
innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education.
In this session, Sandra Okita, Columbia University, is
interviewed by Greg Toppo, USA Today, about robots being used for
instruction in K-12 classrooms.
Recorded May 4, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford
University.
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and
educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of
innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education.
Learn about experimental tools, offerings and practices being
made possible by emerging digital technologies, and gather new
ideas for covering innovation on your own beat.
In this session, Wanda Longoria, Northside Independent School
District (San Antonio, TX), is interviewed by Kelsey Sheehy, U.S.
News & World Report, about new ways for teachers to share lessons
online.
More parents are facing educational choices they never had
before. Privileged families have always successfully navigated
the complexities around schools, but lower-income families
haven’t necessarily done so. What new ways are being tried to get
information in the hands of a broader array of parents? As
organizations step in to offer guidance, reporters can
learn from the processes they use.
Is there evidence that empowering all parents to choose among
competing schools—district-run, charter, and private—leads to
better outcomes for students? Will a critical mass of charter
schools in a community be a catalyst for positive change or for
school closings that leave students behind? Advocates with
different views debate whether competition threatens to destroy
public education or is strengthening it one school at a time.
Panelists include Randi Weingarten of the American Federation of
Teachers and Kevin P. Chavous of the American Federation for
Children.
In less than two years, massive open online courses (MOOCs) have
altered discussions about higher education reform and access.
Following the announcement that a handful of the courses merit
traditional college credit, MOOCs may be poised to alter
students’ pathways to a diploma. Or they might be the latest
example of Internet overreach. A discussion of the possibilities.
Speakers: Scott Jaschik, Inside Higher Ed; Daphne Koller,
Coursera; Bob Samuels, University Council-AFT; Cathy Sandeen,
American Council on Education; Gabi Zolla, Council for Adult and
Experiential Learning
The biggest obstacles that many undergraduates face en route to a
college degree are the remedial or developmental courses in which
they will be placed for their first year. These courses, which
students must pass before they can take classes that carry
college credit, add to the expense and time it takes to earn a
degree. Are such classes really needed? Or can schools replace
them with other forms of academic support?
Much attention has focused on achievement gaps among children
from different demographic groups, and on teacher effectiveness
as the chief in-school influence on student performance. But what
about factors that carry more weight than teachers? And how can
society close opportunity gaps often associated with widely
decried achievement gaps in school? Sarah Garland, The Hechinger
Report (moderator); Prudence Carter, Stanford Graduate School of
Education; Michael Petrilli, Thomas B.
More states are embracing “third grade reading guarantees” that
aim to prevent children from moving to fourth grade until they
have progressed from “learning to read” to “reading to learn.”
But research has shown that students who are retained often end
up dropping out. Two researchers will probe what the research
says, and whether legislatures are on the right track. Panelists:
Lyndsey Layton, The Washington Post (moderator); Shane Jimerson,
University of California, Santa Barbara; Martin West, Harvard
University.
Traditionally, career and technical education (CTE) has often
translated into tracking low-income students into less demanding
classes. But with a focus on college and career readiness, a
national push is under way to fuse rigorous academics and career
training at the high school level.
By 2014, it is expected that assessments based on the Common Core
State Standards will be widespread across the country. What are
the obstacles, opportunities and implications? Do schools have
the needed technological capacity? How will states implement “cut
scores”? Can the tests measuring “deep learning”? How high-stakes
should they be?
President Obama got the early childhood education world buzzing
when he announced his ambitious plans to expand preschool during
his State of the Union. But doubts remain. Would expanding
universal pre-K lead to a top-down push for more academics at
younger ages? Do states have the funding to provide early
childhood education for all who want it? Can state programs and
Head Start coordinate effectively? Panlists include: Ron French,
Bridge Magazine; Bruce Fuller, University of California,
Berkeley; Sterling Speirn, W.K.
Dr. James Heckman, a Nobel laureate economist, is a strong
proponent of investing early in children and disadvantaged
families. During a Q&A moderated by the Wall Street Journal’s
Stephanie Banchero, Heckman fields questions on the the
feasibility of basing policy around his research, paying for
early childhood education, and the benefit of skills programs
directed at older students.
Dr. James Heckman, a Nobel laureate economist, is a strong
proponent of investing early in children and disadvantaged
families. As the talk continues, he discusses how early childhood
interventions can affect skills acquisition later in life and the
effects of education on achievement.
Dr. James Heckman, a Nobel laureate economist, is a strong
proponent of investing early in children and disadvantaged
families. In part one of his talk he discusses the importance of
parents, the limits of standardized testing, and America’s
“skills problem.”
What are the higher education stories on innovation that
reporters should be following this year? Scott Jaschik, editor
and co-founder of Inside Higher Ed, offers his insights on what
stories are worth covering in the coming months.
The rise of online education arguably represents the first real
change in centuries to how courses are taught in postsecondary
education, both on and off campus. This discussion examines the
potential online teaching technologies have to change how
students learn—both in lecture halls and cyberspace—and how
universities function.
Speakers: Claudia Dreifus, The New York Times; Sir Michael
Barber, Pearson; John Mitchell, Stanford University; Mark Smith,
National Education Association
Recorded May 2, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford
University.
From the Education Writers Association 2013 National Seminar, a
discussion between Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tom Friedman
(New York Times) and Stephanie Banchero (Wall Street Journal).
Filmed at Stanford University.
During the Q & A portion of his talk, Friedman fields questions
on the pitfalls of online education, being overwhelmed by
information, and how technology might offset rising tuition
costs.
From the Education Writers Association 2013 National Seminar, a
discussion between Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tom Friedman
(New York Times) and Stephanie Banchero (Wall Street Journal).
Filmed at Stanford University.
In part 3, Friedman discusses how young people are faring in the
job market and how U.S. schools compare with their international
counterparts.
From the Education Writers Association 2013 National Seminar, a
discussion between Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tom Friedman
(New York Times) and Stephanie Banchero (Wall Street Journal).
Filmed at Stanford University.
In part 2, Friedman talks about the boom in Massive Open Online
Courses, the role of teachers in increasingly tech-focused
classrooms, and the importance of motivation in a world of
defined contributions.
From the Education Writers Association 2013 National Seminar, a
discussion between Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tom Friedman
(New York Times) and Stephanie Banchero (Wall Street Journal).
Filmed at Stanford University.
In part 1, Friedman discusses the idea of education as an
economic and national security issue.
As the Q&A comes to a close, Sec. Duncan responds to
questions about SIG funding for ‘parent trigger’ schools, whether
federal policies invite cheating, and negotiating with states on
common core standards.
As the Q&A portion of his talk continues, Sec. Duncan fields
questions on transparency at the Department of Education, erasure
scandals, and the ongoing battle against rising college costs.
At EWA’s 66th National Seminar, the Secretary of Education talks
about the value of early education, the importance of
professional development for teachers and challenges facing
turnaround schools.
In part 2 of his talk, Sec. Duncan talks common core waivers,
battling poverty and the the “staggering” impacts of violence on
schools and communities. He also begins the Q & A portion by
addressing his perception of a lack of diversity in the school
reform movement.
Research around charter schools seems rarely neutral.
How do you navigate it with use of data? Two researchers will
offer insight on how to cut through the spin and look at the real
numbers behind how charter school students are performing and
what kinds of students charter schools are serving.
David Bornstein, author of The New York Times “Fixes” blog,
explains and discusses solutions journalism, which aims to
examine credible responses to social problems. What is “SoJo”?
How does it differ from traditional reporting and how does it
apply to education reporting? Recorded at EWA’s 66th
National Seminar, “Creativity Counts: Innovation in Education and
the Media,” May 2-4, 2013.
Do reporters who cover major efforts to improve schools focus on
incremental developments at the expense of the big picture? Do
they pay too much attention to leaders with star power and too
little to quieter contributors? The authors of two new books on
urban education reflect on media coverage of efforts to revamp
big-city schools. Moderator: Benjamin Herold, WHYY; Richard
Colvin, Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship; David Kirp,
University of California, Berkeley. Recorded at EWA’s 66th
National Seminar, “Creativity Counts: Innovation in Education and
the Media,” May 2-4, 2013
What’s the best way to determine how effectively a college goes
about the business of educating its students? If popular college
rankings in the media are flawed, what other models of crunching
the data might deliver more illuminating comparisons? To what
extent is a college’s success at graduating students dependent on
the types of students it enrolls? This session offers insights on
new approaches on how to use the data available to see a more
complete picture of college performance.
From the president’s State of the Union address to the local want
ads, STEM education and the careers these disciplines can lead to
have become a centerpiece of discussions of education reform.
This discussion will explore why STEM has become such a hot
topic. Panelists: Linda Rosen, CEO, Change the Equation David
Saba, COO, National Math and Science Initiative Scott Jaschik,
Co-Founder and Editor, Inside Higher Ed
(moderator). Recorded at EWA’s STEM Education conference at
the University of Maryland Baltimore County, Feb. 8, 2013.
Two top STEM education reporters offer their insights on
developments reporters should be following this year along with
tips for breaking down the issues and connecting with sources.
Panelists: Scott Jaschik, Co-Founder and Editor, Inside Higher Ed
and Erik Robelen, Assistant Editor, Education Week. Recorded
at EWA’s seminar on STEM Education at the University of Maryland
Baltimore County, Feb. 8, 2013.
Student loans have become a focal point in the national debate
over college affordability. This session examines the impact that
loan debt has on students, both while they are pursuing their
degrees and after they have graduated. Panelists: Stephen Burd,
New America Foundation (moderator); Vic Borden, Indiana
University School of Education; Chris LoCascio, Fix UC; Vasti
Torres, Indiana University Center for Postsecondary Research.
Recorded at EWA’s Seminar for Higher Education Reporters at
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Nov. 2-3,
2012.
Are there alternatives that can either prevent students from
accumulating loan debt while they are in school or assist them in
repaying their debt after they have earned a degree? In this
session, we examine the pros and cons of options such as
income-based repayment and student loan bankruptcy reform.
Panelists: Kim Clark, Money (moderator); Lauren Asher, The
Institute for College Access and Success; Rohit Chopra, Consumer
Financial Protection Bureau; Nicholas Hillman, University of
Utah; Lynn O’Shaughnessy, The College Solution.
The latest on what we know about how students learn best, what
institutions should be looking for, and how they determine if
it’s happening. Panelists: Kenneth Terrell, Education Writers
Association (moderator); George Kuh (NILOA) and Robert Gonyea
(NSSE); Trudy Banta and Gary Pike, IUPUI. Recorded at EWA’s
Seminar for Higher Education Reporters at Indiana
University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Nov. 2-3, 2012.
Inside Higher Ed’s Scott Jaschik talks to reporters about 10
stories he wants to see in 2013 (added bonus: three “don’ts” to
observe while covering the higher ed beat).
This address was a part of “Degrees vs. Debt: Making College More
Affordable,” EWA’s Nov. 2-3 2012 seminar for higher ed reporters
at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
When students pay different amounts to take the same courses,
does one student’s tuition go toward another’s education? We take
close look at this debate as part of a discussion of the factors
that college and university administrators consider when they
determine tuition prices. Panlists: Jon Marcus, Hechinger Report
(moderator); Steve Hurlburt, Delta Cost Project; Paul
Lingenfelter, State Higher Education Executive Officers; Richard
Vedder, Ohio University/Center for College Affordability and
Productivity.
In recent years, various options have emerged to trim the costs
of earning a degree. In this session, we will examine whether
options such as three-year degree programs and online education
can make higher education more affordable. Panelists: Scott
Jaschik, Inside Higher Ed (moderator); Kris Clerkin, Southern New
Hampshire University; David Daniels, Pearson; Tom Harnisch,
American Association of State Colleges & Universities; Burck
Smith, StraighterLine; Tom Snyder, Ivy Tech Community College.
Plummeting prices for e-readers and tablet computers mean big
changes for the textbook industry, as more students and
professors clamor for digital versions of traditional paper
editions. What does this shift in the publishing world mean for
college costs, and how are universities getting e-textbooks into
the hands of students? Panelists: Jeff Young, The Chronicle of
Higher Education (moderator); Nicole Allen, U.S. PIRG; Bruce
Hildebrand, Association of American Publishers; Mickey Levitan,
Courseload.
Arthur Levine, president of the Woodrow Wilson National
Fellowship Foundation, delivers the keynote address at EWA’s Oct.
26, 2012 seminar, “Ready to Teach: Rethinking Routes to the
Classroom.”
A collaboration between EWA and the New Journalism on Latino
Children program, this panel focuses on the large practical and
pedagogical shifts that will have to occur in order to implement
Common Core on a systemic basis.
A collaboration between EWA and the New Journalism on Latino
Children program, this panel focuses on new strategies and
philosophies for teachers in the classroom.
A collaboration between EWA and the New Journalism on Latino
Children project, this panel surveys superintendents from
California school districts to see how they are bringing Common
Core standards into the classroom.
The executive director of the Get Schooled Foundation talks with
Emily Richmond about a new report, Skipping to Nowhere, about
student attitudes toward absenteeism.
Charter schools—which are tuition-free public schools created and
operated by parents, organizations, or community groups to fill
an educational need not oth…
On May 31, EWA took part in a special webcast to help journalists
understand key issues in Latino education as part of the College
Board’s — Prepárate™: Educating Latinos for the Future of
America. Panelists: Mark Hugo López from the Pew Hispanic Center
Frances Contreras, author, associate professor and director of
the Higher Education Program at the University of Washington
Alfred Herrera, assistant vice provost for academic partnerships
at UCLA and undocumented student advocate Katherine Leal Unmuth,
award-winning education journalist, EWA member and blogger at
latinoedbeat.org.
President Obama called for making college more affordable in his
2012 State of the Union Address. But how? Do increases in federal
financial aid spur mounting prices, or help more students afford
higher education? Would incentives aimed at curbing tuition
increases actually work? What about honesty about the true cost
of college? Goldie Blumenstyk, senior writer and columnist with
the The Chronicle of Higher Education, discusses these questions
with Michelle Asha Cooper, president of the Institute for Higher
Education Policy.
Greg Toppo of USA Today closes out the Tomorrow’s Teachers
session at EWA’s 65th National Seminar.
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
The Mayor of Newark, NJ speaks at EWA’s 65th National Seminar on
education inequality, innovation, and the need for tough
questions in school coverage.
Speaker: Elena Silva, senior policy analyst, Education Sector
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Speaker: Ron Thorpe, National Board for Professional Teaching
Standards
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Speaker: Rebecca Pringle, secretary-treasurer, National Education
Association
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Speaker: Anthony Bryk, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of
Teaching
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Speaker: Denise Khaalis, South Pointe High School, S.C.
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Speaker: Tom Kane, Harvard Graduate School of Ed/Gates MET Study
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Speaker: Roxanna Elden, Hialeah High School teacher
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Speaker: Deborah Loewenberg Ball, University of Michigan
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
More than ever, community colleges are being seen as key to
getting millions of Americans the education they need to thrive.
Yet while many students enter community colleges for job training
that does not culminate in a degree, many more intend to get a
degree but fall short. What can change?
Charter advocates are pushing for greater access to facilities
and more equitable funding. At the same time, some school
districts are seeing steep budget cuts, and in some cases facing
bankruptcy, in part because of a shift of students and funding to
charter schools. We explore a range of perspectives on this
complicated issue.
Charter advocates are pushing for greater access to facilities
and more equitable funding. At the same time, some school
districts are seeing steep budget cuts, and in some cases facing
bankruptcy, in part because of a shift of students and funding to
charter schools. We explore a range of perspectives on this
complicated issue.
In a new analysis, researchers from the University of
Pennsylvania make the case that some state higher education
policies may be aggravating social stratification and widening
college-going gaps. Are states implementing the right policies to
improve higher education, or are they making matters worse? Are
there solutions? How should reporters cover these issues?
Speaker: Richard Ingersoll, University of Pennsylvania
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Greg Toppo of USA Today introduces the Tomorrow’s Teacher session
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to
Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s
65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Forty-six states plus the District of Columbia have pledged to
use the Common Core standards, and all but five states are
involved in collaborative efforts to develop related assessments.
Yet while supporters see Common Core as a watershed, much needs
to go right for the initiative to bear fruit. What are the key
questions journalists need to ask?
Moderator: Fawn Johnson, correspondent for National Journal
A roundtable including journalists, a public information officer
and a principal discuss how reporters can better gain access to
schools and classrooms. Erin Richards, education reporter,
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (moderator); Terry Corallo, director
of communications, Paterson Public Schools, N.J.; Michael Foran,
principal, New Britain High School in New Britain, Conn.; Rose
Ciotta, senior editor for digital/print projects, The
Philadelphia Inquirer; Susan Snyder, higher education reporter,
The Philadelphia Inquirer. Recorded at EWA’s 65th National
Seminar on May 17, 2012.
In many communities, campus violence and student discipline
issues are ever-present concerns for educators struggling to make
schools safe places to work and learn. Members of the Pulitzer
Prize-winning team from The Philadelphia Inquirer and others
discuss the newspaper’s year-long project on school violence and
its impact on the community.
Anthony Cody, a longtime teacher and blogger who is now a
consultant and expert on teacher leadership, and Lisa Goncalves
Lavin, a first grade teacher and member of the Turnaround Teacher
Team (T3) at Blackstone Elementary School in Boston, Mass., share
their views of how teachers are experiencing turnaround efforts.
Judy Hale, president of AFT-West Virginia, showed this video at
EWA’s March 24, 2012 seminar on turnaround schools. “Reconnecting
McDowell” is a comprehensive, long-term effort to make
educational improvements in McDowell County, WV.
Ellen Holmes (NEA) and Judy Hale (AFT-West Virginia) discuss the
unions’ programs developed in response to the national push to
turn around low-performing schools.
How does the charter school model factor into efforts to turn
around low-achieving campuses? Why haven’t more charter
management organizations signed on for school turnarounds? What
questions should reporters be asking when faced with conflicting
data on charter school performance?
In this excerpt from his presentation at EWA’s March 24
conference in Chicago, Professor Daniel Duke of the University of
Virginia reviews the history of recent school turnaround efforts,
lessons that can be drawn from successes and setbacks, and issues
and concerns that persist as the reform effort moves forward.
Deputy Assistant Secretary Jason Snyder of the U.S. Department of
Education provides an overview of federal reform efforts and the
Obama administration’s goals for the SIG program.
Timothy Knowles, director of the University of Chicago Urban
Education Institute, talks about key findings from studies of
Chicago’s turnaround initiative.
Recorded at EWA’s March 24, 2012 conference on school turnarounds
at the University of Chicago
William Guenther, president and chief executive of Mass Insight,
discusses his organization’s role in facilitating “Partnership
Zones” in numerous districts nationwide.
How does the charter school model factor into efforts to turn
around low-achieving campuses? Why haven’t more charter
management organizations signed on for school turnarounds? What
questions should reporters be asking when faced with conflicting
data on charter school performance?
What lessons can be learned from the push to turn around schools
in the nation’s third-largest school district? What is the
union’s role in the efforts? Are classroom teachers noticing a
chance in their school environment or in student achievement?
Marisa de la Torre, associate director for professional
development, University of Chicago Consortium on Chicago School
Research, discusses recent data examining school turnarounds in
the nation’s third-largest school district. Recorded at EWA’s
March 24, 2012 seminar fon school turnarounds at the University
of Chicago.
Via John Merrow: New York City is the largest public school
system in the U.S., by far. There are approximately 92,000
teachers, more than 1,300 schools and nearly 1.1 million
students. To put it in perspective, only nine cities in the U.S.
have that many people.
In 2002, MIchael Bloomberg was elected Mayor of New York and he
appointed former assistant US attorney general and businessman
Joel Klein as the schools chancellor.
Kevin Carey, policy director at Education Sector, talks with
EWA’s Caroline Hendrie about his radical idea for reining in the
price of postsecondary education, and offers tips for excising
jargon from education writing.
Via Ed Week: Despite being close to the United States, Canada’s
approach to education significantly differs. Part of Education
Week’s Quality Counts 2012 report.
In his first interview about his criminal fraud, Sam Eshaghoff
tells how he was able to take the SAT and ACT college admissions
exams for others who paid him up to $2,500 per test. Alison
Stewart reports for 60 Minutes.
Students at the National Defense University’s iCollege learn
about hacking and other cyber threats. (Video by Bob
Spoerl/Medill News Service for Military Times)
From Learning Matters TV: In Indiana, GOP-led school choice
reforms have created three distinct competitive options for
public schools. Is this ultimately a good thing for education?
Is the Fourth Estate influencing the debate over teacher
evaluations? Should media publish data, by name, on the estimated
value that teachers add to student test scores? What questions
should reporters ask about value-added measures and other issues
in reforming teacher evaluation? Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 12, 2011
Teacher Evaluation Seminar at the University of Chicago.
What are the thorniest issues states are facing in developing and
putting in place new approaches? How are they striking the
balance between state leadership and local flexibility? How much
are state policies being influenced by federal carrots and
sticks? Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 12, 2011 Teacher Evaluation
Seminar at the University of Chicago.
What is the evaluation process typically like for a classroom
teacher? How do teachers think the process could best be changed
so that the results would actually help them improve? Do teachers
think emerging approaches to evaluation are useful and fair?
Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 12, 2011 Teacher Evaluation Seminar at the
University of Chicago.
What lessons can be learned from initiatives around the country
to revamp the way teacher performance is assessed? What role is
federal policy playing in driving change? How are partnerships
among districts, unions, and reformers playing out?
Panel recorded at EWA’s Nov. 12, 2011 Teacher Evaluation Seminar.
Panelists discuss the challenges associated with increasing
higher ed completion and achievement among increasingly diverse
student populations. Recorded at EWA’s Higher Education Seminar
at UCLA on Nov. 5, 2011.
Robert Archibald, author of Why Does College Cost So Much?, talks
about why higher education should be viewed in the context of
other sectors of he economy. Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 4-5 seminar
for higher education reporters.
How can higher education reporters use CIRP survey data in their
stories? How are educational institutions using the information?
John Pryor, director of CIRP at UCLA’s Higher Education Research
Institute, gives guidance in this interview conducted at EWA’s
Higher Education Seminar on Nov. 4-5 at UCLA.
From EWA’s Nov 4-5 Higher Education Seminar at UCLA: As more
students crowd classrooms, many colleges and professors are
looking for new ways to use technology to make the learning
experience more effective. From large-scale course redesigns to
using Twitter to pass “notes” in class, what’s the impact when
college courses get plugged in?
From EWA’s Nov 4-5 Higher Education Seminar at UCLA: The latest
updates on what government budget cuts mean for colleges and
students. What is the current impact on public colleges and
universities and what is the outlook for further cuts in 2012?
Andrew Rosen, chair and CEO of Kaplan Inc., talks about the boom
in online education, and reacts to increased government
regulation of private-sector institutions.
Panelists discuss the challenges facing first-generation college
students, the difference between “retention” and “persistence,”
and the challenge of matching students with ideal institutions.
Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 4-5 seminar for higher education reporters
at UCLA.
via Education Week: While most of the attention is on urban high
schools with low graduation rates, rural schools also struggle to
retain at-risk students.
EWA’s Caroline Hendrie talks to Alyson Klein of Ed Week about an
upcoming bill that would overhaul the Bush-era No Child Left
Behind legislation. What’s in store, and what should education
reporters be paying attention to in this complex legislation?
via Colorado’s I-News Network: I-News spent ten months
investigating what is really happening to students who attend
online K-12 schools in Colorado. We found that millions in state
taxpayer dollars are going to online schools for students who
aren’t attending classes, those who do fall farther behind the
longer the stay “online,” and attempts at reforming the $100
million system have failed.
EWA’s Caroline Hendrie talks with Diane Stark Rentner of the
Center on Education Policy about how school districs are
preparing to put common standards in place.
via Learning Matters TV: At Banana Kelly HS in the South Bronx –
one of the poorest Congressional districts in America — ninth
grade students embarked on a curriculum centered on the
experiences of refugees. In the process, they learned a great
deal about their own world as well.
EWA Executive Director Caroline Hendrie spoke last week with
Sarah Yatsko, a research analyst at the University of
Washington’s Center on Reinventing Public Education. Yatsko is
the author of a forthcoming study that indicates some
discouraging results in one state’s SIG-funded turnaround
efforts.
Sarah has been kind enough to join EMC temporarily and field any
questions you may have. Her responses are on the record.
Attached to this post, you’ll also find a Powerpoint presentation
she recently gave, which goes into the study’s findings in more
detail.
At the “Save Our Schools” rally, teachers and others critical of
standards- and test-based accountability bring their complaints
to the Obama administration’…
Many states, including Ohio, are moving toward more rigorous
evaluation systems. We talked to DC teachers evaluated by DC’s
IMPACT evaluation system to hear …
Grade retention in schools. Dr. Peter DeWitt talks with Elaine
Houston, news anchor from WNYT (NBC Affiliate) about retention in
schools. www.petermdewitt.com
Peter DeWitt, Ed.D. (www.petermdewitt.com) talks
about the Dignity for all Students Act with anchor/reporter
Elaine Houston (WNYT, NBC affiliate). Dignity fo…
EWA’s Caroline Hendrie talks with Daniel Edelson, vice president
for education with the National Geographic Society, about the
findings of the NAEP Geography…
Saw something today about embedding arts in the curriculum as a
way of both preserving arts in schools but also using them more
fully. This is about a project that’s part of an overall IU
School of Education partnership.
As a part of an ongoing Indiana University School of Education
partnership focusing on literacy skills with the Gary Community
School Corporation’s Dr. Berna…
In 2007, the U.S. Department of Education granted the IU School
of Education at IUPUI $1.5 million dollars to form a partnership
between the School of Education and the Indianapolis Public
Schools, funding a project to better prepare new teachers,
develop skills of current teachers, and revise college faculty
teaching methods for teaching English language learners.
Fifty-five elementary, middle, and secondary teachers from three
schools took part in addition to the 29 faculty members in
teacher education.
Dr. Andreas Schleicher sits down with EWA’s Dale Mezzacappa to
discuss how other countries approach tough teaching assignments
(0:01), what unionization means outside the United States (2:54),
and what other countries can learn from this country (6:20).
Andreas Schleicher talks with EWA’s Dale Mezzacappa about how
American education policy differs from other countries (0:01);
strategies for recruiting highly-qualified teachers to
low-performing schools (1:30); and how countries can change their
approaches to bring about school improvement (5:30).
USA Today’s Greg Toppo interviews John Fremer, President of
Caveon Test Security, on the topic of investigating suspicious
patterns in school test results.
USA Today’s Greg Toppo interviews John Fremer, President of
Caveon Test Security, on the topic of investigating suspicious
patterns in school test results.
Richard Arum, co-author of “Academically Adrift: Limited Learning
on College Campuses,” talks with EWA member and Money Magazine
Senior Writer Kim Clark abou…
The author of There Are No Children Here talks with Wall Street
Journal education reporter and EWA President Stephanie Banchero
about The Interrupters, a documentary he made with director Steve
James. The film, which follows a group of anti-violence activists
working in inner-city Chicago, airs on the PBS series Frontline
Feb. 14, 2012.
The author of There Are No Children Here and producer of the new
film The Interrupters talks with the Wall Street Journal’s
Stephanie Banchero about the impo…
via Learning Matters: Full-time public cyber schools are now an
option in 30 states, allowing some 250,000 students in
kindergarten through 12th grade to press a button to raise their
hand and message their teachers. John Tulenko of Learning Matters
Television reports from Pennsylvania where the demand for online
charter schools is high.
Via Learning Matters: This piece follows two teenagers in PA –
Courtney Dunn and Nate Kusich. Dunn is a student at PA Cyber
School, and Kusich is a former student at another cyber school.
Their experiences as cyber students were drastically different.
This is a companion piece to a look at cyber charters that aired
on PBS NewsHour in February of 2012; it was produced by John
Tulenko of the Learning Matters group.
EWA Hangout with Bill Bushaw
On Aug. 21, PDK International and Gallup released the 45th annual edition of the Poll of the Public’s Attitudes Toward the Public Schools, the nation’s longest-running poll on education issues. In a live video chat, Bill Bushaw, executive director of PDK, spoke with EWA Public Editor Emily Richmond about some of the surprising findings, including the public’s awareness of the Common Core State Standards, attitudes toward high-stakes testing, and parental concerns about school safety.
How I Did the Story: Investigating Huge Administrator Pay Increases in Higher Ed
Jacqueline Rabe Thomas of the Connecticut Mirror talks about her work with colleagues Keith Phaneuf and Mark Pazniokes on a series of stories probing huge raises for several administrators in New Hampshire’s cash-strapped public college system. Their reporting was awarded first prize for Investigative Reporting in a Small Newsroom in EWA’s 2012 National Awards for Education Reporting.
A Conversation with Sal Khan, Part 3
As the Q&A concludes, Khan fields questions on adapting lessons for an international audience, the MOOC model, and solving the problem of credentialing in online ed.
A Conversation with Sal Khan, Part 2
During the Q&A, Khan discusses the history of distance learning, the structure and composition of his videos, and how Khan Academy is beginning to approach assessments.
How I Did the Story: “An Empty Desk Epidemic” by David Jackson & Gary Marx
David Jackson and Gary Marx of the Chicago Tribune talk about the 10-year reporting project that became EWA’s Grand Prize-winning project, “An Empty-Desk Epidemic.” The expansive story demonstrated how students in Chicago’s public schools racked up missed days of school even as early as kindergarten.
Recorded at EWA’s 66th National Seminar, May 4, 2013 at Stanford University
Head to The Educated Reporter to read a guest blog by Jackson and Marks.
How I Did the Story: “The Writing Revolution” by Peg Tyre
Freelance journalist Peg Tyre talks about how she reported her award-winning story “The Writing Revolution,” published in October 2012 by The Atlantic.
A Conversation with Sal Khan, Part 1
John Merrow of Learning Matters talks with the founder of Khan Academy about the beginnings of the online education startup.
How I Did the Story: Beat Reporting in an Education-Only Newsroom
Jon Marcus of The Hechinger Report talks about some key stories on the higher education beat that lead to his second prize in the 2012 National Awards for Education Reporting. Recorded at EWA’s 66th National Seminar, May 4, 2013 at Stanford University.
How I Did the Story: Title IX and Sexual Assault on Campus
Justin Pope of the Associated Press talks about how he approached the timely and difficult topic of how universities are applying the Title IX gender discrimination law to sexual assault cases. Pope’s coverage won a special citation in Single-Topic News, Series or Feature in a Large Newsroom in EWA’s 2012 National Awards for Education Reporting.
How I Did the Story: Beat Reporting in a Medium Newsroom
Benjamin Herold of Education Week talks about the coverage he did for WHYY and the Philadelphia Public School Notebook in 2012, a particularly tumultuous year for the city’s school system. Herold’s coverage was awarded first prize in the beat reporting category, medium newsroom, in EWA’s 2012 National Awards for Education Reporting. Recorded at EWA’s 66th National Seminar, May 4, 2013 at Stanford University.
How I Did the Story: Reporting From a Turnaround School in “Following Trevista”
Jenny Brundin of Colorado Public Radio talks about following a group of teachers, administrators and students going through a turnaround effort at a failing school in Denver. “Trevista” was awarded first prize, Single-Topic News, Series or Feature in Broadcast in EWA’s 2012 National Awards for Education Reporting. Recorded at EWA’s 66th National Seminar, May 4, 2013, at Stanford University.
*Please note: Due to technical difficulties during recording, the audio in the first half of this video is distorted. There is nothing wrong with your speakers.
Innovation Showcase: Blended Learning Boom
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education. In this session, Marcie Bober-Michel, San Diego State University, interviewed by Kyla Calvert, KPBS, about a boom in courses that blend online and face-to-face learning. Recorded May 4, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
Innovation Showcase: Grading Goes 2.0
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education. In this session, Mark Shermis, University of Akron, is interviewed by Molly Bloom, WKSU, about the debate over computerized grading of student essays. Recorded May 4, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
Innovation Showcase: Investing in Education
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education. In this session, Trace Urdan, Wells Fargo Securities, is interviewed by Kim Clark, Money Magazine, about burgeoning investments in innovative education enterprises Recorded May 4, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
Innovation Showcase: Digital Textbook Debate
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education. In this session, Jay McPhail, Riverside Unified School District (Riverside, CA), is interviewed by Dayna Straehley, The Press-Enterprise, about digital instructional materials and mobile devices for students. Recorded May 4, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
Innovation Showcase: Fostering Entrepreneurship in Higher Ed
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education.
In this session, Kayvon Beykpour, Mobile Technologies Entrepreneur, is interviewed by Katherine Long, The Seattle Times, about how universities can encourage students to start companies.
Recorded May 4, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
Innovation Showcase: Robots as Peer Learners
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education.
In this session, Sandra Okita, Columbia University, is interviewed by Greg Toppo, USA Today, about robots being used for instruction in K-12 classrooms.
Recorded May 4, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
Innovation Showcase: Lesson Plans Go Open Source
These interactive sessions feature reporters, analysts and educators spotlighting efforts under way to harness the power of innovation to spark new approaches to K-12 and higher education. Learn about experimental tools, offerings and practices being made possible by emerging digital technologies, and gather new ideas for covering innovation on your own beat.
In this session, Wanda Longoria, Northside Independent School District (San Antonio, TX), is interviewed by Kelsey Sheehy, U.S. News & World Report, about new ways for teachers to share lessons online.
Knowing Their Choices: Assessing Efforts to Inform Parents
More parents are facing educational choices they never had before. Privileged families have always successfully navigated the complexities around schools, but lower-income families haven’t necessarily done so. What new ways are being tried to get information in the hands of a broader array of parents? As organizations step in to offer guidance, reporters can learn from the processes they use.
Choice and Competition: Improving or Undermining Public Education?
Is there evidence that empowering all parents to choose among competing schools—district-run, charter, and private—leads to better outcomes for students? Will a critical mass of charter schools in a community be a catalyst for positive change or for school closings that leave students behind? Advocates with different views debate whether competition threatens to destroy public education or is strengthening it one school at a time. Panelists include Randi Weingarten of the American Federation of Teachers and Kevin P. Chavous of the American Federation for Children.
What to Make of MOOCs
In less than two years, massive open online courses (MOOCs) have altered discussions about higher education reform and access. Following the announcement that a handful of the courses merit traditional college credit, MOOCs may be poised to alter students’ pathways to a diploma. Or they might be the latest example of Internet overreach. A discussion of the possibilities.
Speakers: Scott Jaschik, Inside Higher Ed; Daphne Koller, Coursera; Bob Samuels, University Council-AFT; Cathy Sandeen, American Council on Education; Gabi Zolla, Council for Adult and Experiential Learning
New Prescriptions for Remedial Education
The biggest obstacles that many undergraduates face en route to a college degree are the remedial or developmental courses in which they will be placed for their first year. These courses, which students must pass before they can take classes that carry college credit, add to the expense and time it takes to earn a degree. Are such classes really needed? Or can schools replace them with other forms of academic support?
Opportunity Gaps and Out of School Factors
Much attention has focused on achievement gaps among children from different demographic groups, and on teacher effectiveness as the chief in-school influence on student performance. But what about factors that carry more weight than teachers? And how can society close opportunity gaps often associated with widely decried achievement gaps in school? Sarah Garland, The Hechinger Report (moderator); Prudence Carter, Stanford Graduate School of Education; Michael Petrilli, Thomas B.
Retention in the Third Grade: Help or Hindrance?
More states are embracing “third grade reading guarantees” that aim to prevent children from moving to fourth grade until they have progressed from “learning to read” to “reading to learn.” But research has shown that students who are retained often end up dropping out. Two researchers will probe what the research says, and whether legislatures are on the right track. Panelists: Lyndsey Layton, The Washington Post (moderator); Shane Jimerson, University of California, Santa Barbara; Martin West, Harvard University.
Not Your Father’s Shop Class: Linked Learning and STEM
Traditionally, career and technical education (CTE) has often translated into tracking low-income students into less demanding classes. But with a focus on college and career readiness, a national push is under way to fuse rigorous academics and career training at the high school level.
Ready or Not: Common Core Assessments
By 2014, it is expected that assessments based on the Common Core State Standards will be widespread across the country. What are the obstacles, opportunities and implications? Do schools have the needed technological capacity? How will states implement “cut scores”? Can the tests measuring “deep learning”? How high-stakes should they be?
Early Childhood Education: Not All Options Are Created Equal
President Obama got the early childhood education world buzzing when he announced his ambitious plans to expand preschool during his State of the Union. But doubts remain. Would expanding universal pre-K lead to a top-down push for more academics at younger ages? Do states have the funding to provide early childhood education for all who want it? Can state programs and Head Start coordinate effectively? Panlists include: Ron French, Bridge Magazine; Bruce Fuller, University of California, Berkeley; Sterling Speirn, W.K.
James Heckman at the National Seminar, Part 3
Dr. James Heckman, a Nobel laureate economist, is a strong proponent of investing early in children and disadvantaged families. During a Q&A moderated by the Wall Street Journal’s Stephanie Banchero, Heckman fields questions on the the feasibility of basing policy around his research, paying for early childhood education, and the benefit of skills programs directed at older students.
James Heckman at the National Seminar, Part 2
Dr. James Heckman, a Nobel laureate economist, is a strong proponent of investing early in children and disadvantaged families. As the talk continues, he discusses how early childhood interventions can affect skills acquisition later in life and the effects of education on achievement.
James Heckman at the National Seminar, Part 1
Dr. James Heckman, a Nobel laureate economist, is a strong proponent of investing early in children and disadvantaged families. In part one of his talk he discusses the importance of parents, the limits of standardized testing, and America’s “skills problem.”
Top 10 Stories on Innovation in Higher Education
What are the higher education stories on innovation that reporters should be following this year? Scott Jaschik, editor and co-founder of Inside Higher Ed, offers his insights on what stories are worth covering in the coming months.
What Online Education Means for College Classrooms
The rise of online education arguably represents the first real change in centuries to how courses are taught in postsecondary education, both on and off campus. This discussion examines the potential online teaching technologies have to change how students learn—both in lecture halls and cyberspace—and how universities function.
Speakers: Claudia Dreifus, The New York Times; Sir Michael Barber, Pearson; John Mitchell, Stanford University; Mark Smith, National Education Association
Recorded May 2, 2013 at EWA’s 66th National Seminar at Stanford University.
A Conversation with Thomas Friedman, Part 4: Information Overload, College Costs and Education as a Civil Right
From the Education Writers Association 2013 National Seminar, a discussion between Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tom Friedman (New York Times) and Stephanie Banchero (Wall Street Journal). Filmed at Stanford University.
During the Q & A portion of his talk, Friedman fields questions on the pitfalls of online education, being overwhelmed by information, and how technology might offset rising tuition costs.
A Conversation with Thomas Friedman, Part 3: Modern Career Opportunities, Fear of Technology and Reasons to Be Optimistic
From the Education Writers Association 2013 National Seminar, a discussion between Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tom Friedman (New York Times) and Stephanie Banchero (Wall Street Journal). Filmed at Stanford University.
In part 3, Friedman discusses how young people are faring in the job market and how U.S. schools compare with their international counterparts.
A Conversation with Thomas Friedman, Part 2: Missing the Point on MOOCs, Cost vs. Value in Higher Ed and the ‘401(k) World’
From the Education Writers Association 2013 National Seminar, a discussion between Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tom Friedman (New York Times) and Stephanie Banchero (Wall Street Journal). Filmed at Stanford University.
In part 2, Friedman talks about the boom in Massive Open Online Courses, the role of teachers in increasingly tech-focused classrooms, and the importance of motivation in a world of defined contributions.
A Conversation with Thomas Friedman, Part 1: Education as National Security and What Holds America Back
From the Education Writers Association 2013 National Seminar, a discussion between Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tom Friedman (New York Times) and Stephanie Banchero (Wall Street Journal). Filmed at Stanford University.
In part 1, Friedman discusses the idea of education as an economic and national security issue.
Arne Duncan at the 2013 EWA National Seminar: Part 4
As the Q&A comes to a close, Sec. Duncan responds to questions about SIG funding for ‘parent trigger’ schools, whether federal policies invite cheating, and negotiating with states on common core standards.
Arne Duncan at the 2013 EWA National Seminar: Part 3
As the Q&A portion of his talk continues, Sec. Duncan fields questions on transparency at the Department of Education, erasure scandals, and the ongoing battle against rising college costs.
Arne Duncan at the 2013 EWA National Seminar: Part 1
At EWA’s 66th National Seminar, the Secretary of Education talks about the value of early education, the importance of professional development for teachers and challenges facing turnaround schools.
Arne Duncan at the 2013 EWA National Seminar: Part 2
In part 2 of his talk, Sec. Duncan talks common core waivers, battling poverty and the the “staggering” impacts of violence on schools and communities. He also begins the Q & A portion by addressing his perception of a lack of diversity in the school reform movement.
Dissecting the Data on Charter Schools
Research around charter schools seems rarely neutral. How do you navigate it with use of data? Two researchers will offer insight on how to cut through the spin and look at the real numbers behind how charter school students are performing and what kinds of students charter schools are serving.
Solutions Journalism: A Different Lens on Stories
David Bornstein, author of The New York Times “Fixes” blog, explains and discusses solutions journalism, which aims to examine credible responses to social problems. What is “SoJo”? How does it differ from traditional reporting and how does it apply to education reporting? Recorded at EWA’s 66th National Seminar, “Creativity Counts: Innovation in Education and the Media,” May 2-4, 2013.
Urban School Reform: Beyond Stars and Scandals
Do reporters who cover major efforts to improve schools focus on incremental developments at the expense of the big picture? Do they pay too much attention to leaders with star power and too little to quieter contributors? The authors of two new books on urban education reflect on media coverage of efforts to revamp big-city schools. Moderator: Benjamin Herold, WHYY; Richard Colvin, Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship; David Kirp, University of California, Berkeley. Recorded at EWA’s 66th National Seminar, “Creativity Counts: Innovation in Education and the Media,” May 2-4, 2013
For Good Measure: Assessing College Performance
What’s the best way to determine how effectively a college goes about the business of educating its students? If popular college rankings in the media are flawed, what other models of crunching the data might deliver more illuminating comparisons? To what extent is a college’s success at graduating students dependent on the types of students it enrolls? This session offers insights on new approaches on how to use the data available to see a more complete picture of college performance.
Why STEM? Why Now?
From the president’s State of the Union address to the local want ads, STEM education and the careers these disciplines can lead to have become a centerpiece of discussions of education reform. This discussion will explore why STEM has become such a hot topic. Panelists: Linda Rosen, CEO, Change the Equation David Saba, COO, National Math and Science Initiative Scott Jaschik, Co-Founder and Editor, Inside Higher Ed (moderator). Recorded at EWA’s STEM Education conference at the University of Maryland Baltimore County, Feb. 8, 2013.
The Science of Covering STEM: Advice for Reporters
Two top STEM education reporters offer their insights on developments reporters should be following this year along with tips for breaking down the issues and connecting with sources. Panelists: Scott Jaschik, Co-Founder and Editor, Inside Higher Ed and Erik Robelen, Assistant Editor, Education Week. Recorded at EWA’s seminar on STEM Education at the University of Maryland Baltimore County, Feb. 8, 2013.
Dealing with Student Loan Debt: The Problems
Student loans have become a focal point in the national debate over college affordability. This session examines the impact that loan debt has on students, both while they are pursuing their degrees and after they have graduated. Panelists: Stephen Burd, New America Foundation (moderator); Vic Borden, Indiana University School of Education; Chris LoCascio, Fix UC; Vasti Torres, Indiana University Center for Postsecondary Research. Recorded at EWA’s Seminar for Higher Education Reporters at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Nov. 2-3, 2012.
Dealing with Student Loan Debt: The Solutions
Are there alternatives that can either prevent students from accumulating loan debt while they are in school or assist them in repaying their debt after they have earned a degree? In this session, we examine the pros and cons of options such as income-based repayment and student loan bankruptcy reform. Panelists: Kim Clark, Money (moderator); Lauren Asher, The Institute for College Access and Success; Rohit Chopra, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; Nicholas Hillman, University of Utah; Lynn O’Shaughnessy, The College Solution.
Making Sense of Higher Education Engagement, Outcomes & Assessment
The latest on what we know about how students learn best, what institutions should be looking for, and how they determine if it’s happening. Panelists: Kenneth Terrell, Education Writers Association (moderator); George Kuh (NILOA) and Robert Gonyea (NSSE); Trudy Banta and Gary Pike, IUPUI. Recorded at EWA’s Seminar for Higher Education Reporters at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Nov. 2-3, 2012.
10 Higher Education Stories You Should Be Covering This Year
Inside Higher Ed’s Scott Jaschik talks to reporters about 10 stories he wants to see in 2013 (added bonus: three “don’ts” to observe while covering the higher ed beat).
This address was a part of “Degrees vs. Debt: Making College More Affordable,” EWA’s Nov. 2-3 2012 seminar for higher ed reporters at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
Who’s Subsidizing Whom and Other Secrets of Tuition Pricing
When students pay different amounts to take the same courses, does one student’s tuition go toward another’s education? We take close look at this debate as part of a discussion of the factors that college and university administrators consider when they determine tuition prices. Panlists: Jon Marcus, Hechinger Report (moderator); Steve Hurlburt, Delta Cost Project; Paul Lingenfelter, State Higher Education Executive Officers; Richard Vedder, Ohio University/Center for College Affordability and Productivity.
Different Ways to a Degree
In recent years, various options have emerged to trim the costs of earning a degree. In this session, we will examine whether options such as three-year degree programs and online education can make higher education more affordable. Panelists: Scott Jaschik, Inside Higher Ed (moderator); Kris Clerkin, Southern New Hampshire University; David Daniels, Pearson; Tom Harnisch, American Association of State Colleges & Universities; Burck Smith, StraighterLine; Tom Snyder, Ivy Tech Community College.
Turning the Page on Textbooks: More Affordable Options
Plummeting prices for e-readers and tablet computers mean big changes for the textbook industry, as more students and professors clamor for digital versions of traditional paper editions. What does this shift in the publishing world mean for college costs, and how are universities getting e-textbooks into the hands of students? Panelists: Jeff Young, The Chronicle of Higher Education (moderator); Nicole Allen, U.S. PIRG; Bruce Hildebrand, Association of American Publishers; Mickey Levitan, Courseload.
Arthur Levine: Lessons Learned About Teacher Education
Arthur Levine, president of the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation, delivers the keynote address at EWA’s Oct. 26, 2012 seminar, “Ready to Teach: Rethinking Routes to the Classroom.”
Recorded at the University of Minnesota.
Finding Common Ground: How is the Common Core Hoping to Alter Teaching Practices, Student Thinking and Tests?
A collaboration between EWA and the New Journalism on Latino Children program, this panel focuses on the large practical and pedagogical shifts that will have to occur in order to implement Common Core on a systemic basis.
Finding Common Ground: Common Core in the Classroom
A collaboration between EWA and the New Journalism on Latino Children program, this panel focuses on new strategies and philosophies for teachers in the classroom.
Finding Common Ground: What’s Your District Doing to Get Teachers Ready?
A collaboration between EWA and the New Journalism on Latino Children project, this panel surveys superintendents from California school districts to see how they are bringing Common Core standards into the classroom.
EWA Interview: Marie Groark
The executive director of the Get Schooled Foundation talks with Emily Richmond about a new report, Skipping to Nowhere, about student attitudes toward absenteeism.
Learn more about the report’s findings at https://getschooled.com/attendance-research
Charter Schools 101
Charter schools—which are tuition-free public schools created and operated by parents, organizations, or community groups to fill an educational need not oth…
Educating Latinos: The Game-Changing Stories Behind the Numbers
On May 31, EWA took part in a special webcast to help journalists understand key issues in Latino education as part of the College Board’s — Prepárate™: Educating Latinos for the Future of America. Panelists: Mark Hugo López from the Pew Hispanic Center Frances Contreras, author, associate professor and director of the Higher Education Program at the University of Washington Alfred Herrera, assistant vice provost for academic partnerships at UCLA and undocumented student advocate Katherine Leal Unmuth, award-winning education journalist, EWA member and blogger at latinoedbeat.org.
College Affordability: Covering the Costs
President Obama called for making college more affordable in his 2012 State of the Union Address. But how? Do increases in federal financial aid spur mounting prices, or help more students afford higher education? Would incentives aimed at curbing tuition increases actually work? What about honesty about the true cost of college? Goldie Blumenstyk, senior writer and columnist with the The Chronicle of Higher Education, discusses these questions with Michelle Asha Cooper, president of the Institute for Higher Education Policy.
Tomorrow’s Teacher: Closing Remarks
Greg Toppo of USA Today closes out the Tomorrow’s Teachers session at EWA’s 65th National Seminar.
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Buskin Lecture: Mayor Cory Booker
The Mayor of Newark, NJ speaks at EWA’s 65th National Seminar on education inequality, innovation, and the need for tough questions in school coverage.
Getting to the Source: Teachers on the Future of Their Profession
Speaker: Elena Silva, senior policy analyst, Education Sector
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
Building a True Profession
Speaker: Ron Thorpe, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
Education Utopia: Unions Leading the Way
Speaker: Rebecca Pringle, secretary-treasurer, National Education Association
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
It is (Mostly) About Improvement
Speaker: Anthony Bryk, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
That Class Coulda’ Broke Me But…
Speaker: Denise Khaalis, South Pointe High School, S.C.
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
The Dynamic Trio of Effective Teaching Measures: Classroom Observations, Student Surveys and Student Achievement Gains
Speaker: Tom Kane, Harvard Graduate School of Ed/Gates MET Study
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
Extending the Reach of Excellent Teachers
Speaker: Bryan Hassel, Public Impact
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
The Myth of the Super Teacher
Speaker: Roxanna Elden, Hialeah High School teacher
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
You Can’t Get There From Here
Speaker: Ted Mitchell, NewSchools Venture Fund
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
Great Teachers Aren’t Born, They’re Taught
Speaker: Deborah Loewenberg Ball, University of Michigan
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
Can Community Colleges Get Better?
More than ever, community colleges are being seen as key to getting millions of Americans the education they need to thrive. Yet while many students enter community colleges for job training that does not culminate in a degree, many more intend to get a degree but fall short. What can change?
Should Funding and Facilities Follow the Child?
Charter advocates are pushing for greater access to facilities and more equitable funding. At the same time, some school districts are seeing steep budget cuts, and in some cases facing bankruptcy, in part because of a shift of students and funding to charter schools. We explore a range of perspectives on this complicated issue.
Should Funding and Facilities Follow the Child?
Charter advocates are pushing for greater access to facilities and more equitable funding. At the same time, some school districts are seeing steep budget cuts, and in some cases facing bankruptcy, in part because of a shift of students and funding to charter schools. We explore a range of perspectives on this complicated issue.
New Research on State Policy and College-Going Gaps
In a new analysis, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania make the case that some state higher education policies may be aggravating social stratification and widening college-going gaps. Are states implementing the right policies to improve higher education, or are they making matters worse? Are there solutions? How should reporters cover these issues?
The Teaching Force: Transforming Before Our Eyes
Speaker: Richard Ingersoll, University of Pennsylvania
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
Tomorrow’s Teacher: Opening Remarks
Greg Toppo of USA Today introduces the Tomorrow’s Teacher session
This presentation was a part of “Tomorrow’s Teacher: Paths to Prestige and Effectiveness,” a session held May 18, 2012 at EWA’s 65th National Seminar at the University of Pennsylvania.
Program description
What’s In Store for Common Core?
Forty-six states plus the District of Columbia have pledged to use the Common Core standards, and all but five states are involved in collaborative efforts to develop related assessments. Yet while supporters see Common Core as a watershed, much needs to go right for the initiative to bear fruit. What are the key questions journalists need to ask?
Moderator: Fawn Johnson, correspondent for National Journal
How to Improve Your Access to Schools
A roundtable including journalists, a public information officer and a principal discuss how reporters can better gain access to schools and classrooms. Erin Richards, education reporter, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (moderator); Terry Corallo, director of communications, Paterson Public Schools, N.J.; Michael Foran, principal, New Britain High School in New Britain, Conn.; Rose Ciotta, senior editor for digital/print projects, The Philadelphia Inquirer; Susan Snyder, higher education reporter, The Philadelphia Inquirer. Recorded at EWA’s 65th National Seminar on May 17, 2012.
School Violence: What Can Reporters Uncover?
In many communities, campus violence and student discipline issues are ever-present concerns for educators struggling to make schools safe places to work and learn. Members of the Pulitzer Prize-winning team from The Philadelphia Inquirer and others discuss the newspaper’s year-long project on school violence and its impact on the community.
In the Trenches: Teachers’ Take on Turnarounds
Anthony Cody, a longtime teacher and blogger who is now a consultant and expert on teacher leadership, and Lisa Goncalves Lavin, a first grade teacher and member of the Turnaround Teacher Team (T3) at Blackstone Elementary School in Boston, Mass., share their views of how teachers are experiencing turnaround efforts.
Arizona Vouchers May Rise Again
The McDowell Project
Judy Hale, president of AFT-West Virginia, showed this video at EWA’s March 24, 2012 seminar on turnaround schools. “Reconnecting McDowell” is a comprehensive, long-term effort to make educational improvements in McDowell County, WV.
The Unions’ Engagement in School Turnarounds
Ellen Holmes (NEA) and Judy Hale (AFT-West Virginia) discuss the unions’ programs developed in response to the national push to turn around low-performing schools.
Charter Schools’ Role in Turnaround and Transformation
How does the charter school model factor into efforts to turn around low-achieving campuses? Why haven’t more charter management organizations signed on for school turnarounds? What questions should reporters be asking when faced with conflicting data on charter school performance?
Lessons Learned: What We Know About School Turnarounds
In this excerpt from his presentation at EWA’s March 24 conference in Chicago, Professor Daniel Duke of the University of Virginia reviews the history of recent school turnaround efforts, lessons that can be drawn from successes and setbacks, and issues and concerns that persist as the reform effort moves forward.
Turnaround Schools: Federal Priorities and Research Findings
Deputy Assistant Secretary Jason Snyder of the U.S. Department of Education provides an overview of federal reform efforts and the Obama administration’s goals for the SIG program.
Timothy Knowles, director of the University of Chicago Urban Education Institute, talks about key findings from studies of Chicago’s turnaround initiative.
Recorded at EWA’s March 24, 2012 conference on school turnarounds at the University of Chicago
How Successful Turnarounds Leverage Resources
William Guenther, president and chief executive of Mass Insight, discusses his organization’s role in facilitating “Partnership Zones” in numerous districts nationwide.
Charter Schools’ Role in Turnaround and Transformation
How does the charter school model factor into efforts to turn around low-achieving campuses? Why haven’t more charter management organizations signed on for school turnarounds? What questions should reporters be asking when faced with conflicting data on charter school performance?
Change in the Windy City: A Chicago Perspective
What lessons can be learned from the push to turn around schools in the nation’s third-largest school district? What is the union’s role in the efforts? Are classroom teachers noticing a chance in their school environment or in student achievement?
Making Inroads at Low-Performing Schools: What the Data Tell Us
Marisa de la Torre, associate director for professional development, University of Chicago Consortium on Chicago School Research, discusses recent data examining school turnarounds in the nation’s third-largest school district. Recorded at EWA’s March 24, 2012 seminar fon school turnarounds at the University of Chicago.
Learning Matters: Joel Klein, A Change Agent For NYC Schools
Via John Merrow: New York City is the largest public school system in the U.S., by far. There are approximately 92,000 teachers, more than 1,300 schools and nearly 1.1 million students. To put it in perspective, only nine cities in the U.S. have that many people.
In 2002, MIchael Bloomberg was elected Mayor of New York and he appointed former assistant US attorney general and businessman Joel Klein as the schools chancellor.
More than that…
2 classes team up to create a rebuttal video to the ABC special “Children of the Plains.”
Ed Sector’s Kevin Carey on the Price of College
Kevin Carey, policy director at Education Sector, talks with EWA’s Caroline Hendrie about his radical idea for reining in the price of postsecondary education, and offers tips for excising jargon from education writing.
Opinion: Are Smaller Schools Better?
Via the WSJ: MDRC social scientist Howard Bloom on a study that shows small schools in New York City raise graduation rates and test scores.
Canada’s Immigrant Population Adapts Bi-Lingual Education
Via Ed Week: Despite being close to the United States, Canada’s approach to education significantly differs. Part of Education Week’s Quality Counts 2012 report.
The Perfect Score: Cheating on the SAT
In his first interview about his criminal fraud, Sam Eshaghoff tells how he was able to take the SAT and ACT college admissions exams for others who paid him up to $2,500 per test. Alison Stewart reports for 60 Minutes.
Learning Matters: Budget Cuts In Central PA
A $6.5 million deficit in Mifflin County, PA schools forced some tough choices — but is this just the tip of the iceberg?
Inside a Cyber Security Lab
Students at the National Defense University’s iCollege learn about hacking and other cyber threats. (Video by Bob Spoerl/Medill News Service for Military Times)
Shopping For Schools in Indiana
From Learning Matters TV: In Indiana, GOP-led school choice reforms have created three distinct competitive options for public schools. Is this ultimately a good thing for education?
Reporters’ Role: How Are News Outlets Covering the Story?
Is the Fourth Estate influencing the debate over teacher evaluations? Should media publish data, by name, on the estimated value that teachers add to student test scores? What questions should reporters ask about value-added measures and other issues in reforming teacher evaluation? Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 12, 2011 Teacher Evaluation Seminar at the University of Chicago.
States of Change: Political Realities and Policy Reforms
What are the thorniest issues states are facing in developing and putting in place new approaches? How are they striking the balance between state leadership and local flexibility? How much are state policies being influenced by federal carrots and sticks? Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 12, 2011 Teacher Evaluation Seminar at the University of Chicago.
In the Trenches: How Teachers See the Issues
What is the evaluation process typically like for a classroom teacher? How do teachers think the process could best be changed so that the results would actually help them improve? Do teachers think emerging approaches to evaluation are useful and fair? Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 12, 2011 Teacher Evaluation Seminar at the University of Chicago.
National Perspective: Common Themes, Different Contexts
What lessons can be learned from initiatives around the country to revamp the way teacher performance is assessed? What role is federal policy playing in driving change? How are partnerships among districts, unions, and reformers playing out?
Panel recorded at EWA’s Nov. 12, 2011 Teacher Evaluation Seminar.
When Minority Becomes Majority: Achieving Success with Students of Color
Panelists discuss the challenges associated with increasing higher ed completion and achievement among increasingly diverse student populations. Recorded at EWA’s Higher Education Seminar at UCLA on Nov. 5, 2011.
EWA Interview: Putting College Costs in Context
Robert Archibald, author of Why Does College Cost So Much?, talks about why higher education should be viewed in the context of other sectors of he economy. Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 4-5 seminar for higher education reporters.
EWA Interview: UCLA’s John Pryor on the CIRP Freshman Survey
How can higher education reporters use CIRP survey data in their stories? How are educational institutions using the information? John Pryor, director of CIRP at UCLA’s Higher Education Research Institute, gives guidance in this interview conducted at EWA’s Higher Education Seminar on Nov. 4-5 at UCLA.
Can Technology Fix Higher Education?
From EWA’s Nov 4-5 Higher Education Seminar at UCLA: As more students crowd classrooms, many colleges and professors are looking for new ways to use technology to make the learning experience more effective. From large-scale course redesigns to using Twitter to pass “notes” in class, what’s the impact when college courses get plugged in?
Higher Ed’s Cash Crunch: Who’s Getting Hurt?
From EWA’s Nov 4-5 Higher Education Seminar at UCLA: The latest updates on what government budget cuts mean for colleges and students. What is the current impact on public colleges and universities and what is the outlook for further cuts in 2012?
EWA Interview: Kaplan CEO on Online Learning
Andrew Rosen, chair and CEO of Kaplan Inc., talks about the boom in online education, and reacts to increased government regulation of private-sector institutions.
A Glass Half Full: A Look at Student Retention
Panelists discuss the challenges facing first-generation college students, the difference between “retention” and “persistence,” and the challenge of matching students with ideal institutions. Recorded at EWA’s Nov. 4-5 seminar for higher education reporters at UCLA.
Rural ‘Dropout Factories’ Often Overshadowed
via Education Week: While most of the attention is on urban high schools with low graduation rates, rural schools also struggle to retain at-risk students.
EWA Interview: Will Congress Scrap NCLB?
EWA’s Caroline Hendrie talks to Alyson Klein of Ed Week about an upcoming bill that would overhaul the Bush-era No Child Left Behind legislation. What’s in store, and what should education reporters be paying attention to in this complex legislation?
Project VoiceScape: The Haves and the Have Nots (A Documentary by Madena Henderson)
The Have and the Have Nots (Madena Henderson) – The financial struggles of students going to college today.
Project VoiceScape is a partnership with Adobe Youth Voices, PBS and POV to mentor today’s best young documentary filmmakers.
Online Schools
via Colorado’s I-News Network: I-News spent ten months investigating what is really happening to students who attend online K-12 schools in Colorado. We found that millions in state taxpayer dollars are going to online schools for students who aren’t attending classes, those who do fall farther behind the longer the stay “online,” and attempts at reforming the $100 million system have failed.
EWA Interview: The Local Angle on Common Standards
EWA’s Caroline Hendrie talks with Diane Stark Rentner of the Center on Education Policy about how school districs are preparing to put common standards in place.
Tipping the Scales
via the Center for American Progress: A video animation explains how a flaw in current education law allows unequal funding for schools.
Empathy 101: A Refugee-Based Curriculum in the South Bronx
via Learning Matters TV: At Banana Kelly HS in the South Bronx – one of the poorest Congressional districts in America — ninth grade students embarked on a curriculum centered on the experiences of refugees. In the process, they learned a great deal about their own world as well.
EWA Interview: Sarah Yatsko on School Turnaround
EWA Executive Director Caroline Hendrie spoke last week with Sarah Yatsko, a research analyst at the University of Washington’s Center on Reinventing Public Education. Yatsko is the author of a forthcoming study that indicates some discouraging results in one state’s SIG-funded turnaround efforts.
Sarah has been kind enough to join EMC temporarily and field any questions you may have. Her responses are on the record.
Attached to this post, you’ll also find a Powerpoint presentation she recently gave, which goes into the study’s findings in more detail.
Teachers March on Washington
At the “Save Our Schools” rally, teachers and others critical of standards- and test-based accountability bring their complaints to the Obama administration’…
DC teachers speak out about teacher evaluations
Many states, including Ohio, are moving toward more rigorous evaluation systems. We talked to DC teachers evaluated by DC’s IMPACT evaluation system to hear …
Storyboarding with iPads
A California teacher uses grant-funded iPads to teach his second-grade class about the elements of good storytelling. Source: EdWeek.org
April 2009 Segment
Grade retention in schools. Dr. Peter DeWitt talks with Elaine Houston, news anchor from WNYT (NBC Affiliate) about retention in schools. www.petermdewitt.com
Interview on Struggling Learners.wmv
KFOR (Oklahoma City NBC affiliate) Linda Cavanaugh discusses the issue of Struggling Readers with Peter DeWitt
Dignity for all.wmv
Peter DeWitt, Ed.D. (www.petermdewitt.com) talks about the Dignity for all Students Act with anchor/reporter Elaine Houston (WNYT, NBC affiliate). Dignity fo…
If Students Fail History, Does It Matter?
Test results released in June showed that fewer than one quarter of all students are “proficient” in American history.
Are We Too Strict?
EWA Interview: Daniel Edelson on the NAEP Geography Survey
EWA’s Caroline Hendrie talks with Daniel Edelson, vice president for education with the National Geographic Society, about the findings of the NAEP Geography…
The play’s the thing that helps teach with Gary school partnership
Saw something today about embedding arts in the curriculum as a way of both preserving arts in schools but also using them more fully. This is about a project that’s part of an overall IU School of Education partnership.
As a part of an ongoing Indiana University School of Education partnership focusing on literacy skills with the Gary Community School Corporation’s Dr. Berna…
Professional development for ELL teachers changes teaching and learning for all
In 2007, the U.S. Department of Education granted the IU School of Education at IUPUI $1.5 million dollars to form a partnership between the School of Education and the Indianapolis Public Schools, funding a project to better prepare new teachers, develop skills of current teachers, and revise college faculty teaching methods for teaching English language learners. Fifty-five elementary, middle, and secondary teachers from three schools took part in addition to the 29 faculty members in teacher education.
EWA Interview: Andreas Schleicher on Teaching
Dr. Andreas Schleicher sits down with EWA’s Dale Mezzacappa to discuss how other countries approach tough teaching assignments (0:01), what unionization means outside the United States (2:54), and what other countries can learn from this country (6:20).
EWA Interview: Andreas Schleicher on America’s Standing Among World Education Systems
Andreas Schleicher talks with EWA’s Dale Mezzacappa about how American education policy differs from other countries (0:01); strategies for recruiting highly-qualified teachers to low-performing schools (1:30); and how countries can change their approaches to bring about school improvement (5:30).
EWA Interview: John Fremer on Investigating Suspicious Test Scores (Part 3)
USA Today’s Greg Toppo interviews John Fremer, President of Caveon Test Security, on the topic of investigating suspicious patterns in school test results.
EWA Interview: John Fremer on Investigating Suspicious Test Scores (Part 2)
USA Today’s Greg Toppo interviews John Fremer, President of Caveon Test Security, on the topic of investigating suspicious patterns in school test results.
EWA Interview: John Fremer on Investigating Suspicious Test Scores (Part 1)
EWA Interview: Richard Arum on “Academically Adrift”
Richard Arum, co-author of “Academically Adrift: Limited Learning on College Campuses,” talks with EWA member and Money Magazine Senior Writer Kim Clark abou…
Alex Kotlowitz on “The Interrupters”
The author of There Are No Children Here talks with Wall Street Journal education reporter and EWA President Stephanie Banchero about The Interrupters, a documentary he made with director Steve James. The film, which follows a group of anti-violence activists working in inner-city Chicago, airs on the PBS series Frontline Feb. 14, 2012.
For more information: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/interrupters
Recorded at EWA’s 64th National Seminar, held in April 2011 in New Orleans.
EWA Interview: Alex Kotlowitz on the Power of Storytelling
The author of There Are No Children Here and producer of the new film The Interrupters talks with the Wall Street Journal’s Stephanie Banchero about the impo…
Online Public Schools Gain Popularity, but Quality Questions Persist
via Learning Matters: Full-time public cyber schools are now an option in 30 states, allowing some 250,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade to press a button to raise their hand and message their teachers. John Tulenko of Learning Matters Television reports from Pennsylvania where the demand for online charter schools is high.
Inside the life of a cyber school student
Via Learning Matters: This piece follows two teenagers in PA – Courtney Dunn and Nate Kusich. Dunn is a student at PA Cyber School, and Kusich is a former student at another cyber school. Their experiences as cyber students were drastically different. This is a companion piece to a look at cyber charters that aired on PBS NewsHour in February of 2012; it was produced by John Tulenko of the Learning Matters group.