Because of the title of this post, you probably think I’m advocating to teach students facts and not conspiracy theories, the Flat Earth Movement being a well-known one, along with the moon landing, JFK, etc. And you would be correct:… Read More ›
critical thinking
Let the Instruction Begin
If the last few years have taught us anything, it is this: media literacy needs to be a core subject of student learning. Everyone is Online The pandemic shifted millions of students online for learning, entertainment, and social interactions for… Read More ›
Data Literacy in the Library
Data Driven Data has always been around us, but recently it’s taken center stage in all areas of society. Earlier this month I attended the virtual Empire State Library Network Pillars Symposium. During the conference, I gathered valuable resources and… Read More ›
Critical Thinking through Conspiracies
The moon landing is fake. The earth is flat. 5G radio waves cause COVID-19 and suppress the immune system. What do these claims have in common? They are conspiracy theories. Renee Hobbs, Professor of Communication Studies, Director Media Education Lab, University… Read More ›
Teaching Students to Evaluate Their Reading Lives
As the pandemic rolls on and stress levels remain high among students and parents, schools are beginning the academic year with much uncertainty. Whether classes are online, in person, or a hybrid, they are sure to be overwhelming for students… Read More ›
Project RAP
Young learners come to the school library possessing skills and talents just waiting to be revealed. The school librarian also possesses talents. The librarian knows how to connect students with literature that incites curiosity. The librarian knows how to select… Read More ›
Inquiry Framework: What Makes Sense?
I’m on a quest to refine my teaching to be both student-centered and relevant. This has evolved over time to mean that I talk a lot less now, and put more effort into the design of the learning experience. How… Read More ›
Visual and Media Literacy for Deeper Learning
The Venting Just recently I was talking with a colleague at an education conference. We discussed how to create and develop better ways to engage students in reading at the intermediate level. I will admit we vented to one… Read More ›
Teaching Information Literacy in a World of Misinformation
By now, all of us have heard the term fake news. It’s become another overused phrase, insidious in how it sticks like a bad smell. Yet its very stickiness is what makes it such a useful rhetoric device…. Read More ›
Librarians and Student Leadership
Why do we need librarians if students have access to the Internet and their phones? I find my first answer to this question includes the dubious term fake news. Dubious because fake news is rare; biased or misleading news is where… Read More ›