Canadian Education, Zone of Proximal Development & More

Busy week? We’re here to help. Here’s our roundup of top educational stories from the past seven days:

• How has Canada managed to climb into the top tier of international rankings and become an education superpower? According to Andreas Schleicher, the OECD’s education director, it’s equity.

• iPads are being increasingly adopted as an instructional tool in classrooms, bringing with them boundless learning and teaching opportunities. Here are ten essential skills for teachers to know.

• “If we’re able to scaffold through prior knowledge, the structure of the activity and the timeframe, then we’re able to hit the cognitive sweet spot.” EdSurge examines how teachers can help students find their Zone of Proximal Development.

• The end of summer approaches, but there’s still time to relax, recharge, and regain your inner balance. EdCircuit shares five ways summer vacation can develop the “whole” teacher.

• “We should be supporting and compelling students to do well-crafted work that makes them, their families and their communities proud.” Getting Smart talks about why it is worthwhile for students to do work for the common good.

• Dr. Rod Berger chats with Dr. Gail Pletnick, President of The School Superintendents Association, about the new three Rs of education: redefine, redesign, and reimagine.