The National Science Education Standards

In my graduate class, we had a discussion about NSES and Oklahoma PASS.  Why are the NSES seemingly vague?  I think the key is in the word National.  Our education system, for good or bad, is based on local community standards.

Science plus Kittens equals Maximum Cuteness!!!

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What I learned today

I learned that having no scientific basis does not hinder authors and publisher from writing and publishing non-peered reviewed pseudo-scientific books.  I also learned that if an author cites random citations, readers fail to judge the text with scrutiny or skepticism.

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Another reminder not to let the little things bother you

I just got this in an email and am passing it along.  If you think your daily problems are overwhelming and stressful, here is a reminder of how lucky we are.

Joplin, MO Slide show

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Why So Serious?

As a new teacher, I see the administration and fellow teachers argue, fight and bicker over a myriad of issues.  Almost every time I see these arguments, I am befuddled.  I don’t understand the fuss. 

I took this picture on December 27, 2004.  It is just south of Baghdad.  This girl was begging for food.  As you can see in the pictures, she has no shoes and begging for food.  There was nothing around for miles.  It was barren desert.  Someone probably dropped her off.  This was a very dangerous section of MSR Tampa.  This is an image I will never forget. 

Free WIFI at the retail store

I went shopping at several stores today with my sweetie.  While we were shopping, I checked my trusty iPod touch to see if there were any free open wireless networks I could hop on.  None of the chain stores had them.  I was floored.  Why haven't they tapped onto this potential retail goldmine?  I know why.

Humor and Creativity in the Classroom

I have been seeing a trend in my career as an educator.  Something I noticed last year and it continues to this year.  Education takes itself too seriously.  When it does laugh, it is strained and forced.  Even as a student, education did not have a sense of humor.  I find this fascinating as the teachers who made the longest and most lasting impact on me were the funny teachers.