Ed Insight, April 24

Before we dive into this weeks edition, I'd like to highlight the work that all Afterschool Professionals do each day for students everywhere. Thank you!

Welcome to our latest edition of the Ed Insights Weekly, where we explore the dynamic landscape of education and highlight innovative approaches shaping teaching and learning. Please share, like, and comment below, I would love to hear your thoghts and hope this newsletter can act as a catalyst for deeper conversations surrounding the complex world of education.

This week we begin by exploring essential tools for fostering positive communication and conflict resolution in the classroom. Through the introduction of the Honest Expression Sheet and the Peace Path, educators can empower students to articulate their observations, feelings, and needs with clarity and empathy. These structured frameworks provide students with valuable skills in navigating conflicts and promoting understanding and cooperation among peers.

Next, we delve into the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education, as highlighted by recent studies. While generative AI offers innovative capabilities for personalized learning and content creation, it also presents significant challenges related to privacy, security, and ethics. Educators are navigating complex decisions about when and how to integrate AI tools, balancing the benefits of technology with concerns about academic integrity and student privacy.

The importance of social and emotional learning (SEL) in promoting student well-being and academic success is also looked into. By integrating SEL principles into classroom instruction and school culture, educators can empower students with essential skills such as self-awareness, self-management, and responsible decision-making. SEL initiatives contribute to the creation of inclusive and supportive learning environments where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Additionally, we'll review the insights from recent survey reports on the current trends and priorities in K-12 education. These reports offer valuable perspectives on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, staffing challenges, student mental health, equity and inclusion initiatives, and technology integration in schools. By understanding the challenges and opportunities facing educators, we can inform strategic planning and decision-making processes aimed at addressing the needs of students, staff, and school communities.

Lastly, we discuss the alignment between career and technical education (CTE) principles and innovative initiatives in workforce preparation. The partnership between the University of Nebraska system and Google to offer career certificates demonstrates a commitment to providing students with targeted training in high-demand fields. By integrating career certificates into educational offerings, institutions can enhance opportunities for students to acquire valuable skills and credentials for success in the workforce.

I invite you to explore the articles and resources featured in this edition and engage in meaningful conversations about how we can collectively support student learning and well-being. Happy reading!

Article: Helping Elementary Students Develop Conflict Resolution Skills

Link: https://www.edutopia.org/article/conflict-resolution-elementary-students

Summary: The Honest Expression Sheet, developed by renowned speaker and author Joe Brummer, provides students with a structured framework for articulating observations, feelings, needs, and desired outcomes during conflicts. By encouraging the use of "I" statements, this tool empowers students to express themselves with clarity and empathy.

The Peace Path, a creation of Playworks, offers a physical and sequential approach to conflict resolution. Through designated steps, students learn to validate perspectives, articulate feelings and needs, and collaboratively reach resolutions, fostering a sense of understanding and cooperation.

To seamlessly integrate these tools into classroom routines, we recommend a multi-faceted approach that includes modeling, vocabulary development, and a gradual release of responsibility. By customizing these strategies to meet the unique needs of our diverse learners, we can cultivate environments that promote empathy, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Supplemental Resource: "I Message" - https://www.bumc.bu.edu/facdev-medicine/files/2011/08/I-messages-handout.pdf

Article: Study Points to Unaddressed Risks of Using Gen AI in K–12 Education

Link: https://thejournal.com/Articles/2024/04/19/Study-Points-to-Unaddressed-Risks-of-Using-Gen-AI-in-K-12-Education.aspx

Summary: In this "The Journal" article unaddressed risks associated with the use of generative AI in K-12 education are highlighted. While generative AI offers innovative capabilities, such as creating personalized learning materials and generating content, it also poses significant challenges related to privacy, security, and ethics. The study underscores the importance of developing robust policies and safeguards to mitigate these risks and ensure responsible use of generative AI tools in educational settings.

A report, conducted by the Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT), explores more in depth how educators are navigating the potential of generative AI while grappling with issues of detection, discipline, and distrust. Educators face complex decisions about when and how to use generative AI tools, balancing the benefits of personalized learning and content creation with concerns about academic integrity and student privacy. The report emphasizes the need for clear guidance, training, and support to help educators effectively leverage generative AI while upholding ethical standards and maintaining trust with students and stakeholders.

Together, these two resources underscore the importance of thoughtful consideration and proactive measures to address the opportunities and challenges associated with the integration of generative AI in K-12 education. The authors highlight the use of AI-powered plagiarism detection software as a valuable tool for identifying instances of academic dishonesty. These software solutions leverage sophisticated algorithms to analyze written assignments and compare them against extensive databases of academic content, helping educators identify potential cases of plagiarism more efficiently.

Furthermore, the article discusses the emergence of AI-based proctoring systems, which enable institutions to monitor online exams and assessments remotely. These systems utilize facial recognition, keystroke analysis, and other AI-driven technologies to verify the identity of students and deter cheating during online exams. In addition to plagiarism detection and proctoring, AI is also being employed to support academic integrity education and awareness initiatives. Virtual assistants and chatbots powered by AI algorithms can provide students with information about academic integrity policies, guidelines, and resources, helping to promote a culture of honesty and ethical behavior. However, the authors acknowledge the ethical implications of AI in academic integrity, including concerns related to privacy, bias, and algorithmic fairness. They emphasize the importance of transparency and accountability in the development and deployment of AI technologies to ensure that they align with ethical principles and respect students' rights.

Overall, the article underscores the potential of AI to enhance academic integrity efforts in higher education while also highlighting the need for careful consideration of ethical and privacy implications.

Supplemental Resource: CDT Report- https://cdt.org/insights/report-up-in-the-air-educators-juggling-the-potential-of-generative-ai-with-detection-discipline-and-distrust/

Evaluating the efficacy of AI content detection tools in differentiating between human and AI-generated text (original study) - https://edintegrity.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1007/s40979-023-00140-5

Article: What Exactly Is Social And Emotional Learning And What Does It Look Like In K-12 Schools?

Link: https://www.forbes.com/sites/katecassada-1/2024/04/19/what-exactly-is-social-and-emotional-learning-and-what-does-it-look-like-in-k-12-schools/?sh=61d0a1bf5494

Summary: Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is gaining prominence in K-12 education as educators recognize its crucial role in supporting students' holistic development. A recent Forbes article explores the concept of SEL and its implementation in K-12 schools.

SEL encompasses a range of skills and competencies that enable individuals to understand and manage their emotions, set and achieve goals, maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. These skills, which include self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making, are essential for academic success and overall well-being. In K-12 schools, SEL is integrated into various aspects of the curriculum and school culture. This includes explicit instruction in SEL competencies, as well as incorporating SEL principles into classroom management, discipline practices, and extracurricular activities.

Schools may use evidence-based programs and practices to teach SEL skills, such as role-playing, cooperative learning, and mindfulness exercises. Effective implementation of SEL requires a whole-school approach, involving collaboration among administrators, teachers, students, families, and community members. Schools may provide professional development for educators, engage families in SEL initiatives, and foster a supportive and inclusive school climate to promote SEL competencies among students.

By prioritizing SEL, K-12 schools can cultivate a positive learning environment where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Supplemental Resource: OECD Child Well-being Dashboard - https://www.oecd.org/els/family/child-well-being/data/dashboard/

Article: K-12 Lens: A Survey Report from Frontline Education

Link: https://www.frontlineeducation.com/k-12-lens-a-survey-report-from-frontline-education/

Summary: The link leads to a survey report titled "K-12 Lens: A Survey Report from Frontline Education," which provides insights into the current challenges and priorities in K-12 education. The report is based on a survey conducted by Frontline Education, a leading provider of school administration software solutions, and includes responses from a diverse range of educators and administrators across the United States.

Key findings from the survey report include:

• Impact of COVID-19: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on K-12 education, with respondents highlighting challenges related to remote learning, student mental health, and staffing shortages.

• Staffing Challenges: School districts are facing staffing challenges, including difficulties in recruiting and retaining teachers, substitutes, and support staff. This has been exacerbated by factors such as increased workload, burnout, and concerns about health and safety.
• Student Mental Health: Educators are increasingly concerned about student mental health and well-being, citing issues such as anxiety, depression, and social-emotional challenges. Schools are implementing strategies to support students' mental health needs and provide access to counseling and support services.
• Equity and Inclusion: There is a growing emphasis on promoting equity and inclusion in education, with respondents highlighting the importance of addressing disparities in access to resources, opportunities, and support services. Schools are implementing initiatives to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion and ensure all students have access to high-quality education.
• Technology Integration: Technology integration remains a priority for schools, with a focus on leveraging digital tools and platforms to enhance teaching and learning experiences, facilitate communication and collaboration, and support administrative tasks.

Overall, the "K-12 Lens: A Survey Report from Frontline Education" provides valuable insights into the current landscape of K-12 education and the challenges and priorities facing educators and administrators. The findings can inform strategic planning, resource allocation, and decision-making processes aimed at addressing the needs of students, staff, and school communities.

Supplemental Resource: Report PDF - https://www.frontlineeducation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/K12_Lens_2024_Annual_Trends_Report.pdf

Article: NU, Google to Offer Career Certificates to Students, Alumni and All Nebraskans

Link: https://www.the74million.org/article/nu-google-to-offer-career-certificates-to-students-alumni-and-all-nebraskans/

Summary: The partnership between the University of Nebraska system and Google to offer career certificates also aligns closely with the principles of career and technical education (CTE). CTE programs aim to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to succeed in specific career pathways.

Key points from the article include:

• Relevance to CTE: The career certificates offered through the Google Career Certificates program directly contribute to CTE goals by providing individuals with targeted training in high-demand fields. These certificates are designed to align with industry needs and equip participants with the practical skills necessary to excel in their chosen careers.
• Workforce Preparation: CTE emphasizes preparing students for the workforce by offering education and training that directly translates to job opportunities. The career certificates offered in collaboration with Google are tailored to meet the needs of employers in sectors such as IT support, project management, and data analytics, ensuring that participants are well-prepared for employment in these fields.
• Hands-on Learning: CTE programs typically incorporate hands-on learning experiences to help students develop practical skills and competencies. Similarly, the Google Career Certificates program offers a combination of online coursework and real-world projects to provide participants with relevant experience and expertise.
• Industry Partnerships: Collaboration between educational institutions and industry partners is a hallmark of effective CTE programs. The partnership between the University of Nebraska system and Google exemplifies this approach, leveraging the expertise of both organizations to deliver high-quality education and training that meets industry standards and expectations.
• Career Pathways: CTE emphasizes the importance of career exploration and pathways, guiding students toward viable and rewarding careers. The career certificates offered through the program provide clear pathways to employment in growing fields, empowering individuals to pursue meaningful and fulfilling careers.

By integrating career certificates into its educational offerings, the University of Nebraska system is enhancing its commitment to CTE principles and expanding opportunities for students and residents of Nebraska to acquire valuable skills and credentials for success in the workforce.

Supplemental Resource: Grow with Google - https://grow.google/certificates/

Additional Links from this weeks posts:

Poland Bans Homework - https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/04/11/metro/poland-homework-ban/

STEM All-Stars - https://www.the74million.org/article/students-ai-opportunity-while-adults-fret-artificial-intelligence/

Student Involvement in Design - https://www.k12dive.com/news/students-teachers-school-design-architecture-construction/712477/

Tennessee AI - https://www.k12dive.com/news/school-districts-develop-ai-policy/712791/

Future Teachers - https://www.edweek.org/leadership/signing-ceremonies-honor-students-who-want-to-be-teachers/2024/04

PK Aid - https://www.chalkbeat.org/2024/04/18/preschool-expansion-funded-by-covid-aid-nieer-study-finds/

NYC Journalism - https://www.chalkbeat.org/newyork/2024/04/18/nyc-students-urge-council-members-to-support-high-school-journalism/

Power of Play - https://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2018/08/31/642567651/5-proven-benefits-of-play

Drama Benefits - https://www.edutopia.org/article/using-games-reinforce-classroom-routines