The hottest Education Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Education Topics

Fixing the research-to-policy pipeline

Hypertext • 19 implied HN points • 27 Mar 24
🚌 Education Research Policy Evidence-based Programs Scaling
  1. Challenges in evidence-based policy include interpreting research results, dealing with luck, p-hacking, and external validity.
  2. Pre-registration of RCTs and requiring data/code sharing help combat issues like luck and p-hacking in research.
  3. Scaling effective programs poses challenges of logistics, resources, and ensuring successful reproduction in multiple settings.
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sunday memepool: gato's home schoolin'

bad cattitude • 105 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🚌 Education Teaching Learning Curriculum Homeschooling Child development
  1. The education system isn't broken; it's doing what it was designed to do. We need to recognize that and adjust how we teach to make it more effective.
  2. Teaching kids important skills is vital. If we don't step in, they might not be ready for tough jobs in the future.
  3. Homeschooling can be a good alternative to standard education. It allows for tailored learning that meets a child's specific needs.

Shop Class 2.0: Rethinking High School to Accelerate Electrification

Volted: Electrify your Life • 57 HN points • 11 Jul 23
🚌 Education Education system
  1. Public high schools are crucial for bringing more young people into the clean energy workforce and addressing the labor shortage
  2. We need more young people to enter trades like electricians and HVAC technicians to meet the workforce demands of electrification
  3. Introducing 'Shop Class 2.0' in high schools can provide vocational training, flexible post-graduation pathways, and improve diversity in the trades workforce

Solving f'(x)= f^(-1)(x) [the inverse of f(x)] [Math Mondays]

Technology Made Simple • 79 implied HN points • 17 Jan 23
🚌 Education Math Problem Solving Software Engineering
  1. Solving f'(x)= f^(-1)(x) is a powerful technique in problem solving used in Math and Software.
  2. Math and coding share similar neural pathways, making a Math background beneficial for coding.
  3. When solving problems, start with a warm-up, rely on pattern matching, attack problems from multiple angles, and remember that complex solutions can have simple building blocks.

Imago DEI at Cornell University

Heterodox STEM • 199 implied HN points • 17 Mar 24
🚌 Education Free speech Campus culture Intellectual Diversity Critical Thinking
  1. The theme year for Freedom of Expression at Cornell University is controversial, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
  2. There is a concern about the prioritization of DEI over free speech, leading to a culture of fear and conformity on campus.
  3. Efforts are being made to bring in speakers who promote fearless, rational, and civil speech on campus, to counteract the perceived lack of free expression.

One Year of Humanities in Revolt

Humanities in Revolt • 139 implied HN points • 16 Sep 22
🚌 Education Humanities Critical Thinking Ethics Culture Public Engagement
  1. Humanities are not just for colleges and universities; they have value in everyday life and should be shared with a wider audience.
  2. Engaging with humanities involves critical evaluation and thoughtful contemplation, not just passive consumption.
  3. The humanities encourage independent thinking, dialogue, and self-examination, tackling existential questions and challenging ideas with respect and humility.

Yes, Xxit

Never Met a Science • 88 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🚌 Education Higher education Communication Media Studies Sociology Public Engagement
  1. Many universities are considering leaving social media platforms like X because they can hurt their reputation and make communication less effective.
  2. Instead of trying to compete for attention on crowded platforms, universities should focus on creating their own quality spaces for sharing academic knowledge, like high-quality videos and public talks.
  3. Communication needs to be taken seriously; a careless online presence can be more damaging than having no presence at all, so investing wisely is important.

We Need to Do Better than Hum 1 & Soc Sci 2 in General Education

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 215 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🚌 Education Humanities Higher education Liberal Arts Critical Thinking
  1. The purpose of humanities in education should be more than teaching a limited view of Western literature and thought.
  2. It is valuable to provide students with a broad liberal education that includes exposure to different perspectives, even critical ones.
  3. American universities should focus on teaching true facts and how to think critically rather than implanting specific values.

Abstract Mathematics 101 Bootcamp

Deep-Tech Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 23 Mar 24
🚌 Education Mathematics Quantum Computing Machine Learning
  1. A new 'QF Abstract Mathematics 101 Bootcamp' is launching annually starting in June 2024 to help bridge the gap in mathematical knowledge within the Quantum Formalism community.
  2. The bootcamp curriculum will cover topics like Set theory, Abstract Algebra, and Differential Geometry, catering to those interested in areas like quantum computing and machine learning.
  3. Participants of the bootcamp will receive certifications upon completing each module and will have the opportunity to learn from experts like Bambordé Baldé and Max Arnott.

Polymathic Aspirations

Polymathic Being • 95 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🚌 Education Learning Mindset Creativity Innovation Personal Growth
  1. Embrace your white belt attitude. This means being curious, humble, and open to learning new things without thinking you know it all.
  2. Understand the complexity of problems around you. Instead of simplifying them, try to appreciate their depth to find better solutions.
  3. Connect with others to learn together. Sharing insights and challenges in a community can help strengthen your polymathic mindset.

Pssst! 24 Medium Blogging Treasures Just For You 🎅🏻

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 139 implied HN points • 01 Dec 22
🚌 Education Blogging Online Courses Media Literacy Content creation Digital learning
  1. Kristina has created a virtual Advent calendar with daily videos about blogging on Medium. Each video is short and designed for busy people.
  2. The Advent calendar is a special thank you for her subscribers, aiming to help them grow their blogging skills.
  3. Next year, Kristina plans to offer updated courses and new content related to blogging, making it even more valuable.
  4. Medium is recognized as one of the best blogging platforms, attracting a large number of paying members.

Two perspectives on the liberal arts and the humanities

Heterodox STEM • 199 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
🚌 Education Liberal Arts Humanities Literature Philosophy Classics
  1. Liberal arts education in the US may serve different purposes for elites and non-elites, with disparities in expectations and outcomes.
  2. Humanities education is seen as vital for a well-rounded education and understanding fundamental human questions and experiences.
  3. Reading classic literature may play a role in shaping perspectives and values, potentially reducing susceptibility to certain societal trends like 'wokeness'.

Criticize by Creating

Polymathic Being • 66 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🚌 Education Innovation Creativity Collaboration Critical Thinking Communication
  1. Instead of criticizing ideas, try to build on them. Use 'Yes, and...' instead of 'Yes, but...' to create a more positive and innovative environment.
  2. Critiquing should focus on improving ideas, not tearing them down. A true critic aims to develop ideas into something better.
  3. Collaboration and combining ideas lead to greater innovation. Working together allows us to see new possibilities that we might miss when thinking alone.

Unbundling the University, Part 4

The Good Science Project • 29 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🚌 Education Higher education Reform Learning models
  1. Universities have too many roles and it's causing them to struggle. We need to separate these roles so different institutions can do better in their specific areas.
  2. Unbundling the university means creating new kinds of organizations that focus on specific tasks, like job training or scientific research, instead of trying to do everything in one place.
  3. It's important for us to experiment with new ideas and institutions to improve education and technology. We need to allow for competition and diversity in how we learn and innovate.

Surveillance Education (w/ Nolan Higdon and Allison Butler) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 89 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🚌 Education Surveillance Privacy Technology Data Analysis Student Rights
  1. Technology in schools can invade student privacy. Many tools are designed for safety but can monitor students in ways they might not agree with.
  2. Surveillance tools can discriminate against students of color and those from poor neighborhoods. They often increase the risk of negative consequences for these groups.
  3. The culture of constant monitoring can stifle curiosity and free expression in classrooms, turning them into places where students just comply rather than learn actively.

Smartphones Don't Belong in Schools

The Analog Family • 79 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🚌 Education Child development Digital learning Parenting Mental health
  1. Smartphones can distract students in school and hurt their focus on learning. When kids check their phones during class, it makes it hard for them to absorb information.
  2. Phones can make kids feel less connected to each other. With everyone looking at screens, it's tough to build real friendships and connect with peers.
  3. Some places are banning smartphones in schools to help students focus better. This isn't about being against technology; it's about supporting better education and well-being for kids.

How to get more male teachers

Of Boys and Men • 95 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🚌 Education Teaching Policy Workforce Gender Employment
  1. There is a significant drop in the number of male teachers, especially in secondary schools, where their share has fallen from 48% to 36%. This means fewer male role models in middle and high schools.
  2. Many men enter teaching later in life, often switching from other careers. About 25% of male teachers come from different professions, indicating a need for easier pathways into education.
  3. Men are more likely to leave teaching for other careers or further education compared to women. This suggests that improving job satisfaction and financial benefits could help retain more male teachers in the field.

AIM Daily XO

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 39 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
🚌 Education Data science Rankings Online Learning Higher education
  1. AIM has been ranking graduate programs for eight years, focusing on Data Science programs in India for 2023. They use surveys and research to create these rankings.
  2. This year's rankings include both on-campus and online/hybrid postgraduate programs. This helps students find options that fit their learning style.
  3. A strong program is one that scores well across various areas, showing its quality and value to students.

Discussion: The AI Era Liberal Arts

Data People Etc. • 71 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🚌 Education Liberal Arts Curriculum design Skill development Critical Thinking
  1. We might need a new set of subjects for students today. The old tools aren't enough for the modern world that we live in.
  2. The seven liberal arts today should focus on skills like logic, statistics, and understanding psychology. These help us make sense of our world and make better decisions.
  3. It's more important to prepare kids to be adaptable and motivated than to worry about specific job skills. Being able to learn and think critically is key for the future.

How to speak a teacher's love language

The Recovering Academic • 98 implied HN points • 27 Sep 22
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Teachers see themselves as equals, not subordinates, and value respect and mutual support. Institutions should communicate this genuinely to build a supportive culture.
  2. Teachers thrive on autonomy to innovate and adapt their teaching methods. Standardization can limit their creativity and enthusiasm for teaching.
  3. Offering financial security and taking monetary concerns off the table can allow teachers to focus on their passion for teaching, ultimately improving performance and morale.

A DRAFT Syllabus for Econ 113: American Economic History :: Spring 2025 :: UC Berkeley

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 76 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🚌 Education Economic History American history Higher education Social Issues
  1. American exceptionalism is a key theme in understanding the country's economic history, exploring what makes it unique compared to other nations.
  2. The course examines significant historical events, like the rise of manufacturing and the impact of immigration, which shaped the American economy over the centuries.
  3. Inequality and economic mobility are crucial topics, focusing on how these issues have evolved from the 1940s to the present day.

Why video > written content for learning technical subjects | #12

pole • 78 implied HN points • 13 Mar 23
🚌 Education Learning methods
  1. Video content is more effective than written content for learning technical subjects because it reduces cognitive load and provides information when needed.
  2. Written content can lead to cognitive overload due to the need to recall and locate information, especially in complex technical topics.
  3. For technical subjects, especially for beginners, video can efficiently provide necessary details without causing bloat in content length.

You can't escape construct validity

The Counterfactual • 59 implied HN points • 27 Jun 23
🚌 Education Research Methods Psychology Measurement
  1. Measuring abstract concepts like happiness is really tough. Researchers need to find good ways to define and measure these big ideas accurately.
  2. Construct validity is important for any type of research claim. It checks if what you're measuring actually reflects the concept you're interested in.
  3. Making decisions, like hiring or choosing a restaurant, involves relying on imperfect measures. It's essential to understand the limitations of these measures to make better choices.

Links to Consider, 2/13

In My Tribe • 182 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🚌 Education Beliefs Institutions Parenting Schools Reform
  1. Individuals may prioritize social rewards over truth in belief adoption, leading to collective delusions. It's hard to overcome irrationality at the individual or group level, so focusing on institutional change is crucial.
  2. There is a pattern in how some view different races, depicted by Coleman Hughes in his book. This mirrors the concept of the Moral Dyad, simplifying moral situations to assign feelings or agency.
  3. Challenges in education include the negative impact of excessive parental spending on education. To promote equality, the idea of a luxury estate tax on high-tuition schools was proposed years ago and still holds potential.

Optionality — The power of smart options and experiments

10x your mind • 19 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🚌 Education Skill development Learning methods Personal Growth Experimentation Decision-making
  1. Optionality is about having backup plans for complex problems, not just deciding between simple choices like ice cream flavors.
  2. Smart options should be non-obligatory and allow for decisions after outcomes, helping increase luck in various aspects of life.
  3. Practice optionality for potentially unlimited gains with limited losses by exploring new opportunities and treating each option as an experiment.

Get basic context first and the right questions will come to you

The End(s) of Argument • 59 implied HN points • 13 Apr 23
🚌 Education Information literacy Critical Thinking
  1. When faced with new information, it's better to first get basic context before diving into asking questions.
  2. Actively engaging with context and information before thinking about questions can help in understanding what truly matters.
  3. The SIFT approach emphasizes the importance of doing some initial research and noticing key details before formulating questions.

The First Domino Principle

DruGroup • 59 implied HN points • 26 Jul 23
🚌 Education Influence Writing Coaching Change
  1. To influence others, you need to start by focusing on a specific group or person, rather than trying to reach everyone at once. It's like knocking over the first domino to set off a chain reaction.
  2. Choosing a clear target audience helps you tailor your message and connect better. For example, if you write for someone relatable, like Truck-driver Rick, you'll capture the interest of others around him too.
  3. Identifying your first domino can shift how you approach your work and communication. It makes it easier to make meaningful connections and adjustments in what you're doing.

Communication Isn’t Optional: A Self-Audit for Influence

Beyond the Screen • 6 implied HN points • 19 Nov 25
🚌 Education Communication Self-awareness Influence Personal Growth Reflection
  1. Communication is really important and can greatly impact how people feel and act. It's not just a nice skill to have; it's essential for understanding and managing relationships.
  2. Understanding yourself is the first step to influencing others positively. Knowing your traits, values, and biases can really improve your communication.
  3. Influence can be used for good or bad, depending on your intentions. It's about building trust and aligning with shared goals instead of just having power.

Infinite Sudoku

Infinitely More • 23 implied HN points • 12 Jul 25
🚌 Education Games Puzzles Mathematics Logic Strategy
  1. Sudoku is typically a solo puzzle where you fill a 9x9 grid with numbers, ensuring that each number appears only once in each row, column, and 3x3 box.
  2. There's a fun two-player version called the Sudoku game where players take turns placing numbers on an empty board, trying to outsmart each other without breaking the Sudoku rules.
  3. The Sudoku game can be played on larger or different shaped boards, and there are even ideas for playing infinite versions of the game on larger grids.