Amplifying STEM
Schools everywhere are working to define STEM or STEAM and to identify ways to implement this definition into their program. There is much to consider including what computation tools and technologies to incorporate, how to include programming concepts, ways to make room for engineering, and the extent of integration. This strand will pose questions to help teachers discuss and better understand STEM or STEAM education and will provide curricular ideas and strategies for use in the STEM classroom.
Best Practices in Pedagogy and Assessment
With the abundance of research on learning and the trend toward ubiquitous technology, the pedagogical and assessment practices needed in the classroom have evolved. This strand will feature work by experts in the field and the opportunity for participants to engage in conversation about contemporary best practices. A range of topics will be covered, including motivation and engagement, thinking routines, standards based formative feedback and grading, creating authentic assessments, building relevance, project-based learning and more!
Contemporary Literacy
Today’s students need traditional skills including reading, writing, and arithmetic but they also need to develop global, digital, and media literacy skills. Technology can help today’s students connect and collaborate to develop a contemporary skill set. It also provides ways to better monitor and teach the traditional literacies. This strand will ask participants to consider the best ways to prepare our students for a life of learning.
Fostering Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Schools
While schools have made considerable strides in addressing 21st century skills, they frequently leave out the crucial components of diversity, equity, and inclusion. For students and faculty to be relevant in the future, they must strive to be culturally competent, able to engage in conversations about and across difference and, most importantly, have a clear understanding of self. They must translate their understanding into a culturally responsive curriculum and environment that values and celebrates all students. This strand will help guide attendees in a deeper understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion and what it means for students and faculty in schools.
New for 2018! School Leadership
Strong, visionary leadership is an essential requirement for a successful, forward-thinking school. This strand will explore how to develop and sustain leadership at all levels, from the classroom to the boardroom. Learn how to connect sound methodologies to educational research while exploring ways to transform leadership practice, build and empower a leadership team, and incorporate all stakeholders into the leadership conversation.
