The hottest Teaching Methods Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Education Topics

A Glimpse Inside the Vanity Project

In My Tribe • 227 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. The Vanity Project aims to create an interactive seminar that teaches students about human interdependence. The project is still in progress and needs dialogue improvements.
  2. The course outline includes multiple chapters and concepts related to psychology, social order, and government. Each chapter breaks down complex ideas into manageable parts.
  3. The project requires collaboration and possibly funding for future developments. There's a bigger plan to create seminars for professors based on their courses.

This week in the science of learning, May 19, 2024

The Bell Ringer • 59 implied HN points • 19 May 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Schools need better data on how students read and what materials they are using. This helps to improve teaching methods.
  2. There's a strong interest in sharing stories and research about learning methods. People want to hear what works and what doesn't.
  3. The community is encouraged to provide feedback on topics of interest, which can lead to more personalized and engaging discussions.

From the principal's desk, a slow burn

The Bell Ringer • 99 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. It's important for schools to adopt the science of learning to help students succeed. This means using research-based strategies that really work in classrooms.
  2. Getting everyone in the school on board takes time and effort. The principal emphasizes the value of patience in making these big changes happen.
  3. Collaboration among teachers, parents, and students is key for improving education. Working together can create a better learning environment for everyone.

This week in the science of learning, April 28, 2024

The Bell Ringer • 59 implied HN points • 28 Apr 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. New approaches to math can help students understand concepts better. It's important to make math engaging and relatable.
  2. More homework in college may help students grasp subjects thoroughly. This suggests that practice is key to learning effectively.
  3. Student journalism plays a crucial role in education. It encourages critical thinking and helps students express their viewpoints.

Social Theory for the Mid-21st Century: Part I. What Do I Ask My Students to Read so That They Will Understand the World of 2055?

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 415 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Teaching students about human affairs is essential to prepare them for their future. We need to help them understand how to navigate their lives and the society they'll be part of.
  2. History provides valuable lessons and analogies, but it's important to synthesize these into useful theories. Good theories help us learn from the past and think about the future.
  3. It's necessary to adapt our teaching to current and future realities, rather than relying only on past approaches. Students need knowledge that applies to the world of 2055, not just what was relevant 40 years ago.
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Project Learning in the age of AI

In My Tribe • 106 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a great way to help students learn by working on real projects. This method encourages teamwork, creativity, and deeper understanding.
  2. Using AI in projects can make learning easier and more effective. It can help students figure out their ideas and avoid common mistakes.
  3. Assessing student understanding through AI can be beneficial. It allows for more personalized feedback and can challenge students to think critically about their work.

Mathematical Adventures Await Us

Kids Who Love Math • 335 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Viewing new math topics as adventures makes learning more fun. It helps kids feel excited and curious about what they'll discover.
  2. Preparation is important before starting a math adventure. Physically, emotionally, mentally, and philosophically getting ready can help kids face challenges.
  3. Tracking progress and celebrating discoveries during and after the adventure makes learning rewarding. It encourages kids to think about what they learned and plan for future adventures.

Subtle resistance

Sunday Letters • 99 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. People often resist new technologies because they feel uncomfortable with change. This can lead to silly arguments against using something that actually helps.
  2. In the past, teachers were hesitant to accept printed papers due to concerns about quality, but this resistance seems odd now. It shows how we can misjudge new tools.
  3. It's important to examine why we push back against new ideas. Sometimes our reasons might not make sense and could actually prevent us from benefiting.

Revamping Math Education

Heterodox STEM • 99 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Math education could be more interesting and useful. Students should learn concepts like calculus and coding, which are important for understanding technology today.
  2. The current teaching approach is too focused on memorization and lacks real-world problem-solving. Instead, it should simplify concepts to aid understanding from the start.
  3. Some changes need to happen, like integrating coding into math lessons and allowing students to progress based on ability rather than age. This can help everyone learn better and faster.

Thinking About Teaching Economic History to the First-Year Economic History Graduate Students This Forthcoming Semester

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 199 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Economic history helps us understand how preferences and market structures formed over time. Looking back can show us why things are the way they are today.
  2. It's important for economics students to learn about the historical context of economic principles. This context can enrich their understanding and practical applications in the real world.
  3. Questions about past economies can shed light on current issues, like inequality and technology progress. Exploring these questions can lead to valuable insights for today's economists.

Seminar Update

In My Tribe • 75 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. You can now have one-on-one conversations with the professor in the online seminar, which allows for better interaction and understanding of the material. It's a great way to ask specific questions and get personalized feedback.
  2. The seminar uses a unique format where you read chapters like a play, with characters talking, and the AI generates responses based on your questions. This makes learning more engaging.
  3. The development of the seminar platform has been sped up significantly with the help of AI, allowing for more content creation and interactive features without needing a lot of time. This means more resources for users in less time.

Edu-Snippets

The Science of Learning • 159 implied HN points • 10 Jul 23
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Highly decorated classrooms can distract kids, making it harder for them to focus on lessons.
  2. Children tend to learn reading skills slower in open-plan classrooms compared to traditional ones.
  3. Using short instructional videos can help reduce the need for extra tutoring in online courses.

Three Things

The Analog Family • 119 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Talking with others about kids being screen-free can lead to unexpected creative projects, like building a squirrel house from twigs. It's a fun way to encourage children to use their imagination.
  2. The book 'The Art of Gathering' teaches how to host events effectively, emphasizing thoughtful planning and creating engaging themes for gathering guests. Consider making a toast or having a theme for your next dinner party.
  3. Some European countries are moving away from technology in schools, suggesting that traditional learning methods like reading books and writing by hand are better for students. This is different from the tech-focused approach seen in places like Canada.

Ready for anything

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 139 implied HN points • 09 Aug 23
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Students need to learn how to adapt to constant change, especially with the rise of digital technology. Traditional teaching methods focused on stable information aren't enough anymore.
  2. Digital proficiency isn't about mastering specific technologies but developing skills to understand and respond to changes. This means being able to identify problems, evaluate sources of information, and think flexibly.
  3. Teaching these skills effectively can happen in any subject, not just in standalone courses. Teachers can use creative methods to build critical thinking while covering standard curriculum content.

sunday school pool

bad cattitude • 142 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Modern education often lacks excitement and doesn’t focus on interesting topics.
  2. There seems to be a gap between what’s taught and what actually engages students.
  3. This lack of engaging content makes learning less enjoyable for many.

HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES: Again, This Year, I Lament I Have No Opportunity to Give My "How to Think Like an Economist" Lecture

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 99 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Learning economics requires new ways of thinking, similar to learning a new language. It helps people see the economy more clearly but may also overlook things that are not easily measured.
  2. There's an ideal time in college to teach how to think like an economist. Teaching it too early or too late may not be effective.
  3. Economics is viewed differently based on background; some see it as a science, while others view it as outdated psychology. Both views have some truth to them.

What Had I Hoped to Teach This Just-Past Semester?

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 130 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Understanding history is crucial for making sense of current and future human affairs. It helps us to see patterns and learn from past mistakes.
  2. Students should learn to think critically about economic issues. This includes analyzing how economic instability relates to political decisions and vice versa.
  3. History teaches us to look both backward and forward in time, which is a valuable skill. It allows us to make better decisions by using past examples to inform our understanding of present circumstances.

Novice Teachers and Study Strategies

The Science of Learning • 79 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Novice teachers often don't know the best study strategies and can recommend less effective ones when asked spontaneously.
  2. They tend to recognize effective study methods when given a list, indicating they have some knowledge but struggle to apply it in real situations.
  3. Teaching new teachers about effective study strategies could help them give better advice to students, leading to improved learning outcomes.

The evening class institute

Soaring Twenties • 100 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Evening classes can be a mixed bag, with some students really passionate but also a bit much at times. It's important to balance enthusiasm with respect for the class and the teacher.
  2. Some students have a tendency to show off their knowledge or manage the classroom, which can be distracting. Teachers usually know what they're doing, and students should give them space to lead.
  3. Despite some annoying personalities, adult education classes are a great opportunity to learn new skills and meet interesting people. The overall experience can be really rewarding.

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.

AI Literacy For Educators

Teaching computers how to talk • 83 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. AI is already part of classrooms, and ignoring or fighting it will not benefit students. Teachers need to adapt to these changes instead.
  2. Critical thinking will be the most important skill for students in the future, as traditional education methods won't be enough anymore.
  3. A free handbook on AI literacy for educators is available to help them understand and teach about AI effectively, making sure they are prepared for its influence.

An Inside View of Hoity-Toity East Coast Boarding Schools

Nephew Jonathan • 23 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Boarding schools are not just for rich kids but have historically included middle-class students on scholarships. They aim to prepare students for upper-class society.
  2. Teachers at boarding schools often have low salaries compared to their private school counterparts, though they receive benefits like free housing and discounted tuition for their own kids.
  3. Growing up on a boarding school campus can be great for students, providing a safe, expansive area for play, but it may also blur the lines between faculty's professional and personal lives.

Back in the Classroom: Time to Teach!

Musings on Markets • 19 implied HN points • 15 Dec 21
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Online teaching can come very close to the experience of being in a classroom, so it's important for teachers to offer something special to keep students engaged.
  2. Some subjects work better in an online format and will continue to be taught that way even after the pandemic, making it essential to adapt teaching methods.
  3. While teaching online has its perks, there's a unique energy and connection in a physical classroom that many teachers miss and cherish.

How to Teach Textual Criticism To Fifth-Graders

Nephew Jonathan • 1 implied HN point • 22 Jul 25
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Teaching textual criticism to fifth-graders can be fun and engaging. Using creative methods helps students understand complex topics.
  2. It's possible to teach historical concepts using simple activities, like recreating manuscript copying. This hands-on approach encourages participation and learning.
  3. While students may question the relevance of what they learn, introducing unique subjects helps them appreciate history and critical thinking skills.

Marking Time: A new year, a fresh semester and its class time!

Musings on Markets • 0 implied HN points • 12 Jan 21
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Teaching is all about having a clear story throughout the course. Each class connects through a central theme that helps students remember what they learned.
  2. Corporate finance is super important because it relates to any decision involving money. Knowing how to run a business means understanding corporate finance.
  3. Investment philosophies show that there isn't just one way to be a successful investor. Different strategies work for different people, and trying to copy famous investors often doesn't lead to the same level of success.

From Class Rooms to Class Zooms: Teaching during COVID times!

Musings on Markets • 0 implied HN points • 05 Aug 20
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Teaching has changed a lot because of COVID-19, pushing many classes online. This shift has made it easier for some, but the joy of in-person teaching is missed.
  2. There are different finance courses available, each focusing on key concepts like corporate finance, valuation, and investment philosophies. These courses can help anyone interested in understanding finance better.
  3. The traditional university model might need to adjust after online learning became common. Students often value learning experiences more than just attending classes, which could lead to a rethink of how education is delivered.

Learning to Learn

polymathematics • 0 implied HN points • 16 Mar 22
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Being a beginner helps you stay humble and connected to others. It reminds you how it feels to not know something, which can make you more understanding of others' struggles.
  2. Staying in your comfort zone can make you less approachable. If you only focus on what you know, you might come off as stuck-up or distant to those who are learning.
  3. Embracing the learning process, even when you're not the best, can broaden your perspective. It allows you to appreciate the challenges others face and encourages growth.

A Teaching Manifesto: An Invitation to my Spring 2020 classes

Musings on Markets • 0 implied HN points • 19 Dec 19
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. The Spring 2020 classes will be available online for free, allowing anyone to watch the sessions and access materials at their convenience. You can choose to take the classes in real-time or catch up later with the recorded videos.
  2. There is a free online version of the classes that offers shorter, 12-15 minute videos for easier viewing. These are designed to fit better into people's busy lives compared to the longer, full-length sessions.
  3. NYU now offers a paid certificate version of the classes, which includes quizzes, projects, and live sessions with the instructor to help deepen understanding and ensure learning. This version is different from the free classes and has additional requirements.

The educational system is producing scions of machine anthropomorphism

Top Carbon Chauvinist • 0 implied HN points • 20 Aug 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Educational systems are mixing up science and engineering, which can cause confusion. We should focus on understanding how things work and how to build better tools without merging the two ideas.
  2. Anthropomorphism, or giving machines human-like traits, is not helpful for technological progress. It's better to design machines for their specific tasks without trying to make them act like humans.
  3. Universities are continuing to teach outdated and incorrect ideas about machines. Educators need to correct these misconceptions rather than just pass them on to students.

Using AI in Education Part 4

Solresol • 0 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Personalized chatbots in education, like Tutebots, will be a key theme in 2024.
  2. Using AI tools like chatbots can benefit learners facing challenges like language barriers.
  3. Educators can encourage students to interact effectively with chatbots by incorporating exercises and activities in courses.

Online Teaching: Promise, Pitfalls and Potential!

Musings on Markets • 0 implied HN points • 20 Jul 17
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Online classes often lack the personal touch that in-person classes provide. It's not the same as being in a room with others, even if the videos are high quality.
  2. Interaction is crucial for learning, but online learning can be too formal. In-person classes allow for spontaneous discussions that help deepen understanding.
  3. Staying disciplined is harder online. Without the structure of a physical classroom, many people struggle to finish online courses.

Revisiting Education: From Map Memorizers to Explorers

resonantbrain • 0 implied HN points • 30 Jan 23
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Education needs to shift from traditional 'i-talk-you-listen' models to focus on creating explorers, not just 'map memorizers'.
  2. Rigid classroom schedules should give way to on-demand learning for teaching concepts precisely when a child is ready to grasp them.
  3. Technology, as a patient assistant, can enhance education by supporting meaningful learning aspects like motivation and engagement.

Lessons learned, unlearned and relearned: A semester of online class

Musings on Markets • 0 implied HN points • 07 May 12
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Discipline is really important for both teachers and students. Teachers need to stay organized, and students must manage their time well to keep up.
  2. Students come from different backgrounds, which can make learning hard for some. It's good to offer extra resources for those who need a bit more help.
  3. Technology can be tricky! There can be issues with recordings and bandwidth, so it's important to keep improving the tools we use for online classes.

The barbarians are at the gate! Of universities, moats and disruption!

Musings on Markets • 0 implied HN points • 27 Jan 14
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Universities have a strong reputation and tradition that help them attract the best students, but online education is trying to break through this barrier. Good partnerships and measurable skills could help online entities compete.
  2. Colleges offer personalized programs and interactive classes, which are harder for online courses to replicate. Online education often lacks structure and engagement, making it less effective for many learners.
  3. Networking and career placement are critical advantages for universities, as they provide valuable connections and support. Online institutions must build trust with employers to match this benefit over time.

Experiments in online teaching: My Spring Classes and an Online Valuation Class

Musings on Markets • 0 implied HN points • 27 Jan 14
🚌 Education Teaching Methods
  1. Online courses need to be shorter and more engaging, as 80-minute lectures can feel very long in a virtual setting. Keeping online classes brief helps keep students' attention.
  2. Interaction is crucial in online learning; students should communicate more with each other and their instructors. This can enhance learning and make the experience more enjoyable.
  3. Feedback is important for students to know if they understand the material. Online classes should include assessments or tests to help students gauge their learning progress.