Recommended Sites

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Helpful Sites Teachers 
(Click on Links Below)

Brain Development

Abstract: This is an educational and commercial site, and a web resource from Scientific Learning. Anyone can subscribe to a bi-weekly Newsbuzz newsletter. The contect is accurate and objective and there are links to professionals in the field of brain development so a viewer can read what the professional has to say. Some of the more scholarly articles provide references, and since the site is updated bi-weekly it is current information. Visitors will receive accurate information about learning and the brain, as well as, current findings in the area of brain development.

INSIGHTS (about temperament)

Abstract: This site provides information about children's temperament and information on the INSIGHTS program, research studies, books, workshops, and a temperament questionnaire for school age children.  This site is research based, and scholarly, and I recommend it for all teachers who want to learn more about children's temperament and behavior. Resources are provided in addition to the research studies related to temperament. The site is regularly updated and is offered in collaboration with the New York University Nursing Program. 

Provider-Parent Relationships for Child Care Providers

Abstract: This web site is provided for child care providers as an extension of Purdue University, by Judith A. Myers-Walls, PhD, CFLE. It is an outstanding resource for child care providers about the importance of developing positive relationships with parents, and becoming a knowledgeable professional.  The site includes advice about child care issues and teaching, so child care professionals feel educated and secure sharing this wisdom with parents.  There are links to a variety of topics including guidance and discipline, growth and development, health and safety, parent relationships, and others.  Each of these areas are explored thoroughly and providers are given education that is practical and applicable. The site is updated regularly, march, 2005 being the last update. I highly recommend every child care provider visit this web site.

Behavioral Development Initiatives and Temperament Questionnaires

Abstract: Although this site is most beneficial to those interested in purchasing items, it still provides helpful downloadable information about temperament and behavior. Teachers can opt to purchase temperament profiles and tests, and additional books and resources are provided to practitioners, parents, and teachers. The information is scholarly and references to the original researchers of temperament, Stella and Chess, are provided. The Carey Temperament Scale questionnaires, and CTS scoring software may be helpful for those wanting detailed information about temperament and behavior. I provided this link because temperament and guidance are my most requested topics.

Lesson Plans and Continuing Education at Education World

Abstract: Education World site provides lesson plans and classroom projects for teachers, as well as continuing educational and professional development. It features an education-specific search engine with links to over 100,000 sites. Education World provides monthly reviews of other educational web sites, grade-specific search engines, grant listings, national education employment listings, and other news. Experts provide helpful tips on a variety of topics which can be shared with parents.

Computer Training

Abstract: This web site is designed to meet the needs of the 21st Century educator. Apple Professional Development Online provides information for K-12 teachers, administrators and university faculty.  Forms of education support include leasing and financing options, online ordering, and special offers for educators who want to buy a Mac of their own. Putting computers in the classroom does not guarantee that a positive change in teaching and learning will occur.  The success of technology in the schools is dependent on teacher preparation. This site offers virtual seminars, and a variety of optional purchases. Even if one does not plan to purchase anything, it is still a helpful site for those interested in learning more about working with computers in the classroom. 

Assessing Your Students and Ideas for Teachers

Abstract: This site is based at the University of Western Australia and The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning. It includes teaching articles that can be downloaded on Adobe Acrobat. Information is not current because it was last updated July, 2003. But the information is helpful for teachers, and includes articles about powerpoint, assessment, and activities.

Innovative Assessment

Abstract: This web site provides a guide that was written in 1996 by Graham Mowl, Senior Research Assistant in the Educational Development Service, University of Northumbria with support from Liz McDowell and Sally Brown of the same institution. The site addresses the underlying philosophy and application of assessment techniques and tools. It discusses the benefits of utilizing more innovative approaches to assessment, rather than relying on the traditional methods used in most schools today. Although it is somewhat dated, the information may be of interest to educators who are facing the challenges of assessment daily.   

Online Community of Teachers (Called Tapped In)

Abstract: Tapped In went online in 1997 and has had ongoing funding from the National Science Foundation and Sun Microsystems. Tapped In brings educators together both locally and worldwide to cultivate a community that supports teaching and teachers. Teachers support one another through peer networks supported by the Tapped In community. Educators Plan and conduct learning projects with colleagues and students, participate in on-line discussions, attend online courses, mentor other educators, obtain new ideas and resources. Experts, mentors, and new colleagues are available to any teacher. Tapped In is an interesting and supportive site for education professionals. The site was last updated in 2004.

Teacher2teacher (teaching math)

Abstract: This site has information for teachers of all ages preshool to college about activities and how to teach various math related topics creatively. A teacher can ask detailed questions matched to special needs, and visit dozens of archived materials and teacher-to-teacher discussion boards about nearly any math topic.  Teachers can get lesson plans and advice from other teachers. Each archived discussion includes response dates. Updated information is posted on the main page. Information is informal, yet scholarly, in that it is a research and educational enterprise of Drexel University. 

Discovery School Lesson Plans

Abstract: This informative educational site for teachers, parents, and children of all ages sponsered by Discovery School. It is more scholarly than some homework links accessible to and recommended for children.  It provides over 700 educational sites, and includes links for teachers to lesson plans and resources. The information is easily navigated and the information, and it is updated regularly by a hired consultant. There are galleries, curriculum centers, and information to read about current Discovery School projects. Parents will also find this site informative.  There is an area to purchase Discovery School items, which are considered educational and appropriate

Smithsonian Institute

Abstract: This is the official site for the Smithsonian Institute.  Teachers can take virtual tours at galleries across the world and take their students on a journey in art and design, history and culture, or science and technology. Research, outreach, and museums are integrated throughout the site. This resource can benefit any teacher and is one of the most recommended web sites for bringing the outside world into the classroom via the web. There are links for children and teachers, and recommended lessons.  Thousands of references exist on this web site. It is updated regularly by the Smithsonian.

Literacy Development

Abstract: This document summarizes the best available research and professional expertise to help teachers provide high-quality literacy instruction for elementary and middle school students. The authors are John J. Pikulski and J. David Cooper. The information has been organized around topics that are important to literacy development. Although the publish date is 1999, the web site provides thorough information about literacy development, along with scholarly references.  It is a giant research paper on literacy where teachers can get many questions answered about what is considered developmentally appropriate literacy development and literacy instruction. References are provided throughout the document.