choice theory

The Legacy of Fear: Test Scores Rise in Washington, D.C. (As Does Suspicion)

“When it seems too good, you know it might be untrue.” Untrue by Dinosaur Feathers A recent article published in USA Today, “When Standardized Test Scores Soared, Were the Gains Real?” is nothing if not disturbing. Under the dictatorial leadership … Continue reading

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choice theory

Does Academic Rigor Matter? (What Your Doctor Won’t Tell You)

Most of us blindly accept that students preparing to be doctors should be subjected to the most demanding, rigorous, God-awful course of studies as undergraduates. I mean, that soft, liberal arts, humanistic stuff is OK, but “real” professionals – like … Continue reading

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choice theory

Want to Reduce Bullying? (Some Things You Should Know)

Education Week online published an article recently, “Lack of Knowledge Stymies Efforts to Stop Bullying.” It describes a two-day conference that brought together experts from around the country in an effort to address – in the words of Secretary of … Continue reading

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choice theory

Race to the Top: An Invitation to the Bad Old Days

In the not-too-distant past, teachers worked in relative isolation, staying behind closed doors in their rooms, hoarding their best ideas, and reluctant to share with their colleagues. I’m not sure if it was fear that their innovative ideas would be … Continue reading

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choice theory

Standardized Testing, Perception and Reality

With increased backlash against excessive testing both in the US and in other countries, elementary teachers in Ontario have taken a stand, asking that standardized testing in grades 3 and 6 be suspended for the next two years (“Elementary teachers … Continue reading

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