Author Archives: Mary McConnell
Would-be education reformers love to chide teachers. I’ve chided at times myself. But a recent New York Times article on artificial intelligence-based, computerized essay grading reminded me of one criticism that I find especially irritating . . . all the more since it generally comes … Continue reading
When the debate over the common core standards first erupted, my initial reaction was, “do standards really matter that much, anyway?” This still strikes me as a good question. For all the fears and hopes surrounding the new standards, I can’t … Continue reading
Again, my apologies for the long radio silence. We had a death in the family, and I’ve been too preoccupied to pursue my usual web surfing. I’m back home now, and wanted to share a couple of interesting articles … Continue reading
My apologies. This is the longest I’ve gone without posting since starting up this blog. A visit to family has been extended to include a funeral, and I’ve slackened off my internet surfing to attend to family issues. But I … Continue reading
Okay, here’s one where I’m genuinely torn. Today’s Washington Post included an article entitled “States draw a hard line on third-graders, holding some back over reading”. A number of states, including the usual reform-minded suspects such as Florida and Indiana, have … Continue reading
I posted earlier on efforts by Washington state teachers to boycott standardized tests. Last month the superintendent of schools in Montgomery County, Maryland, likewise called for a testing moratorium while the state moved forward on implementing the common core standards. … Continue reading
From time to time I’ve hosted guest bloggers (and I’m very willing to host more.) Today I am posting an article from Lisa Snell, who is the director of education and child welfare at Reason Foundation, a nonprofit think tank … Continue reading
From time to time I’ve highlighted states that have pursued education reforms especially aggressively. One of these states – and a state that Utah legislators have looked to as a model – is Florida. Here’s a quick summary from … Continue reading
Okay, let’s be honest here. Teachers – like parents – sometimes resort to bribery. If you write an additional practice essay I’ll give you extra credt ( my personal favorite.) If you work quietly and productively at your desks for 15 … Continue reading
In his State of the Union Address President Obama called for a major expansion of preschool programs, though where he planned to find the money wasn’t quite as clear. It’s hard to quarrel with programs designed to give disadvantaged kids a … Continue reading
