Educators | Discovery Education Nurture Curiosity Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:48:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 Instructional Strategies: Simple and Effective Techniques for the Classroom https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/instructional-strategies/ Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:59:40 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=204032 Key takeaways Effective instructional strategies help teachers reach all students and improve learning. High-performing classrooms use a wide variety of techniques because students learn in different ways. Teachers have the greatest impact when they intentionally match instructional strategies to student needs. In today’s classrooms, effective teaching is not defined by a teacher’s personality, charisma, or […]

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Key takeaways

  • Effective instructional strategies help teachers reach all students and improve learning.

  • High-performing classrooms use a wide variety of techniques because students learn in different ways.

  • Teachers have the greatest impact when they intentionally match instructional strategies to student needs.

de dual discipline station rotation card

In today’s classrooms, effective teaching is not defined by a teacher’s personality, charisma, or even experience alone—it’s shaped by the intentional use of instructional strategies that help all students learn.

As a superintendent, I’ve visited countless classrooms across grade levels and districts. The most effective teachers aren’t just delivering content; they are using specific instructional strategies that promote thinking, discussion, practice, reflection, and learning.

Understanding what instructional strategies are—and how to use them proficiently—can transform classroom learning and create an environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.

What Are Instructional Strategies?

Instructional strategies are methods, techniques, or approaches teachers use to help students learn more effectively. These strategies guide how teachers introduce content, build understanding, check for mastery, and support students as they apply what they have learned.

When people ask, What are instructional strategies?, the simplest answer is this: they are the tools teachers use to make learning more engaging and accessible. These strategies can be whole-class, small-group, or individual. They can also be discussion-based, hands-on, technology-driven, collaborative, or reflective. What makes them “instructional” is the intention behind them—each strategy is chosen with a purpose and aligned to a learning goal.

Instructional strategies also create consistency in the classroom. When students know what to expect—whether it’s modeling, guided practice, or small-group work—they can focus less on the routine and more on the learning. Over time, these predictable structures help students become more confident and independent learners.

Why Instructional Strategies Matter

Schools that focus on effective teaching practices achieve higher levels of student achievement, stronger student engagement, and more predictable classroom environments. In my experience, intentional instructional decision-making strengthens everything from daily interactions to long-term academic outcomes.

Effective instructional strategies matter because they:

  • Support all students. Every classroom includes students with varied backgrounds, strengths, and needs. Strategies such as differentiation, modeling, and scaffolding ensure that all students have access to appropriate grade-level content.
  • Increase student engagement. When students participate in structured conversations, hands-on tasks, or collaborative problem-solving, they are far more likely to stay engaged. This engagement is not accidental—it is the result of the teacher’s instructional choices.
  • Improve understanding and retention. Guided practice, visuals, and quick checks help students learn new ideas and remember them. These strategies make complex tasks easier and better reinforce key concepts.
  • Strengthen routines and classroom culture. Consistent use of instructional strategies creates a sense of safety and structure in classrooms. When students know what success looks like—and how to achieve it—behavior improves and classrooms run more smoothly.
  • Support Teacher Effectiveness. Strong instructional strategies reduce guesswork. Instead of relying on trial and error, teachers can use proven techniques that reliably increase understanding, engagement, and learning outcomes.

Research consistently shows that thoughtful instructional choices directly influence student achievement. When teachers select strategies that align with learning goals and student needs, academic growth improves, and classroom learning becomes more effective and meaningful.

What Are the Different Types of Instructional Strategies?

While there are countless ways to categorize instructional strategies, most fall within a few broad groups that help teachers decide when and why to use each approach. These include:

Direct Instruction

Direct instruction uses clear, explicit teaching to introduce new skills and ideas. The teacher models the skill, explains their thinking, and guides students through practice.

Examples of direct instruction include: modeling and think-alouds, guided practice, explicit vocabulary instruction, and mini-lessons.

Collaborative Learning

Collaborative learning tasks students with working together to solve problems, develop ideas, and deepen their understanding of a topic.

Examples include: Think-Pair-Share activities, literature circles, and group projects.

Inquiry-Based Learning

These strategies encourage students to explore ideas, ask questions, and discover answers on their own.

Examples of inquiry-based learning include: project-based learning, Socratic seminars, experiments, and research tasks.

Differentiated Instruction

Differentiation helps teachers meet diverse learning needs by adjusting content, tasks, or the way lessons are taught.

Examples include: tiered assignments, flexible grouping, choice boards, and scaffolded texts.

Assessment

While often overlooked, assessment is a critical part of instruction. Teachers use ongoing checks to guide their next steps.

Examples include: exit tickets, conferences, quick writes, and whiteboard responses.

What Are Examples of Instructional Strategies?

Teachers often ask, What are examples of instructional strategies? Here are several high-impact strategies that can be implemented in classrooms today:

  • Think-Pair-Share encourages every student to participate by thinking on their own, sharing with a partner, and then discussing with the class.
  • Cooperative learning approaches like Jigsaw ensure every student has a role and contributes to group learning.
  • Modeling and think-alouds show students the steps needed to approach a task or solve a problem.
  • Graphic organizers, such as Venn diagrams and mind maps, help students visualize relationships and organize information.
  • Sentence frames support academic discourse and structured writing.
  • Centers provide active learning opportunities and allow students to practice skills in multiple ways.
  • Retrieval practice strengthens memory and long-term retention.
  • Exit tickets provide quick checks for understanding at the end of a lesson.
  • Anchor charts offer ongoing visual reference points.
  • Digital resources within a high-quality K–12 online learning platform can enhance engagement and support mastery across content areas.

These examples show that strong instructional practice is not about one tool—it’s about selecting the right strategy for the right moment.

What Are the 5 Instructional Strategies?

Schools often define the five instructional strategies by using a common set of five standard approaches:

  1. Direct Instruction: Explaining, modeling, and guiding practice.
  2. Indirect Instruction:  Learning through observation, inquiry, and connection-making.
  3. Interactive Instruction: Learning by discussing and working with others.
  4. Experiential Learning:  Learning through hands-on activities and real-world experiences.
  5. Independent Study: Students working on their own to build skills or explore topics.

How to Choose the Right Strategy for Your Students

Choosing the right instructional strategies is about the teacher’s purpose, not their preferences. The most effective teachers intentionally consider what they want students to learn and select the approach that best supports that goal. When strategy selection becomes purposeful rather than habitual, instruction becomes clearer, more engaging, and more effective.

Start with the Learning Objective

Every strategy begins with a clear destination. Teachers should first identify what students must know or be able to do by the end of the lesson.

If the goal is to introduce new content, direct instruction or modeling may be appropriate. If the goal is application, problem-solving, or discussion, strategies like cooperative learning or inquiry tasks may be a better fit. The approach is successful when it directly supports the outcome you want students to reach.

Consider Student Needs

The students in front of you should shape your instructional choices. Their background knowledge, confidence, and learning preferences all influence which approach will work best.

  • Use modeling or guided practice when students need more clarity.
    These strategies work well in subjects like math or writing, where students benefit from seeing an expert think through a problem.
  • Use cooperative learning when students need engagement or peer support.
    This is effective in ELA discussions, science labs, and social studies tasks where multiple viewpoints enhance understanding.
  • Use inquiry tasks when students need deeper thinking and exploration.
    Inquiry is ideal for STEM projects, research activities, and hands-on investigations that require questioning and discovery.

Matching the strategy to your students’ needs ensures they can access the lesson.

Use Data

Teachers make better instructional decisions when they use real-time information. Exit tickets, observations, student conversations, and quick formative checks all show you whether students are ready to move on or need more support.

In classrooms where teachers use data effectively, instruction becomes more responsive. Teachers can reteach when necessary, extend learning for students who are ready, and adjust the strategy before students become

Prioritize Consistency

A small set of well-executed strategies is more powerful than a long list used inconsistently. Students thrive when routines feel predictable—when they know how group work operates, what to expect during guided practice, or how reflection time will look.

Consistency doesn’t mean using the same strategy every day; it means using strategies often enough that students understand the structure and can focus on learning rather than directions.

Reflect and Adjust

Reflection strengthens every instructional decision. Effective teachers regularly ask themselves:

  • Which students understood the lesson?
  • Who needs more support?
  • Did the strategy help students reach the goal?

Reflection improves lessons over time and supports continuous growth.

Districts that prioritize these skills often experience higher teacher retention and more effective instructional practice, because teachers feel supported, confident, and prepared with instructional strategies that work.

Effective Instructional Strategies, More Effective Classrooms

Instructional excellence comes from using instructional strategies that meet students where they are and help them build deeper understanding. When teachers focus on what works, check student progress, and adjust as needed, the impact is immediate. Whether improving direct instruction, using collaborative approaches, or relying on formative assessment to guide your next steps, choosing the right instructional strategy can transform a classroom.

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]]> de-dual-discipline-station-rotation-card 10 Teacher Goals for 2026 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/teacher-goals/ Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:17:33 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=204023 Key takeaways Effective teacher goals should be clear, purposeful, and directly linked to student learning. The strongest teacher goals for the school year focus on growth—not perfection—and help teachers build habits that improve over time. Administrators must provide clarity, coaching, and consistent feedback to help teachers turn meaningful teacher goals examples into lasting, schoolwide improvement. […]

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Key takeaways

  • Effective teacher goals should be clear, purposeful, and directly linked to student learning.

  • The strongest teacher goals for the school year focus on growth—not perfection—and help teachers build habits that improve over time.

  • Administrators must provide clarity, coaching, and consistent feedback to help teachers turn meaningful teacher goals examples into lasting, schoolwide improvement.

teacher teaching class

Early in my career as an assistant principal, I learned a valuable lesson: meaningful teacher goals come from honest conversations, reflection, and a commitment to growing in areas that directly impact students—not from checklists, directives, or evaluation rubrics. Setting strong teacher goals for the school year helps teachers to improve instructional practice, strengthen relationships, and build classrooms where all students can succeed.

As you consider possible areas for growth this year, review the essential goals below. Each is designed to create stronger classrooms and better student outcomes.

Goal 1: Strengthen the Classroom Environment with Clear Routines

A well-structured classroom environment is the foundation of effective teaching. It supports learning, reduces behavior issues, and helps students feel safe and connected. That’s why many high-quality teacher goals for the school year focus on routines and expectations.

A clear classroom environment goal could be:

“I will implement and reinforce three consistent routines (entry, transitions, and closure) to improve student engagement and reduce lost instructional time.”

When teachers establish effective routines, the payoff is almost immediate. Students know what to expect, transitions become smoother, and the classroom operates more efficiently. From my observations, teachers who invest in goals related to the classroom environment almost always regain instructional minutes each day—time that directly benefits student learning.

Goal 2: Strengthen Relationships with Students and Families

Building positive relationships is essential to effective teaching. When students feel seen, valued, and supported, they are more willing to engage, take risks, and meet classroom expectations.

A meaningful relationship-based goal might be:

“I will build stronger connections with students by greeting them daily, checking in with at least three students each week, and incorporating one relationship-building activity into my classroom each month.”

Relationships with your students and their families matter. In my experience, beginning teachers often see some of their biggest improvements by strengthening relationships and communication.

Investing in relationship-based goals improves classroom culture, supports better communication, and increases student connection to school.

Goal 3: Use Data to Inform Daily Instruction

Using data is one of the most effective teacher goals because it helps teachers understand what students know and what they still need to learn. Data-driven instruction isn’t about spreadsheets—it’s about using quick, everyday checks to guide teaching. Exit tickets, short quizzes, student reflections, and other formative assessments all provide valuable information about what your students are learning.

A meaningful data-focused goal might be:

“I will review weekly exit tickets to plan targeted reteaching for students who have not yet mastered key concepts.”

When teachers consistently look at data, they can spot misunderstandings sooner, adjust lessons as needed, and provide better support. This leads to more responsive teaching, stronger student growth, and greater teacher confidence because decisions are based on evidence and research—not guesswork.

Goal 4: Increase the Use of High-Impact Instructional Strategies

High-impact strategies are those proven techniques that elevate student engagement and deepen understanding. These include checks for understanding, modeling, centers, cold-calling, and scaffolding.

An effective instructional strategy goal might look like this:

“I will implement at least two high-impact instructional strategies (such as think-pair-share and small group instruction ) in every lesson to increase my students’ participation.”

When teachers use these strategies intentionally and consistently, classrooms shift from teacher-centered to student-centered. When students’ engagement increases, more students participate, and learning improves.

These types of teacher goals are especially effective for teachers who want to boost classroom interaction without overwhelming themselves with new initiatives.

Goal 5: Improve Differentiation for Each Learner

From my perspective, differentiation is one of the most essential—and most challenging—components of effective teaching. Students come with a variety of strengths, needs, experiences, and learning styles. A  differentiation goal ensures your students receive the right level of support while still being challenged throughout the school year.

A clearly worded goal about differentiation could be:

“I will plan at least two differentiated options for practice or assessment each week to support the varied learning needs of my students.”

Differentiation can include strategies such as using leveled texts, flexible grouping, choice boards, or modified activities. Regularly applying these strategies in the classroom promotes independence, confidence, and success among students.

These teacher goals for the school year are valuable because they help all students access learning at the level that’s right for them.

Goal 6: Improve Feedback to Drive Student Growth

Providing feedback is one of the most powerful ways to help students learn, especially when it’s delivered in a timely and specific way. Even veteran teachers often set goals to help them improve how they deliver feedback.

A feedback-focused goal could be:

“I will provide students with clear feedback within one week and create opportunities for them to revise or practice based on that feedback.”

Giving students meaningful feedback helps them to better understand expectations, improve their work, and grow more quickly.

These teacher goals for the school year directly support improved student learning.

Goal 7: Increase Student Ownership of Learning

Students learn best when they see themselves as active participants in their growth. That’s why goals related to student ownership are highly impactful.

A goal designed to increase student ownership might be:

“I will implement student goal-setting and reflection routines every two weeks to build student ownership and develop stronger reflection skills.”

Student ownership leads to stronger motivation, better self-regulation, and increased academic effort.

Teachers who set this type of goal often see significant improvements in classroom engagement and student independence.

Goal 8: Strengthen Content Knowledge and Teaching Skills

Professional development isn’t just a professional responsibility—it’s a great opportunity to strengthen your instructional practice.

Setting goals related to content knowledge or pedagogy helps teachers build confidence and expand their instructional toolbox.

One possible goal pertaining to content knowledge could be:

“I will complete a professional learning series related to literacy instruction and implement at least three newly learned strategies by semester’s end.”

From an administrative perspective, choosing the right professional development can be challenging. I’ve found that the best ideas often come directly from teachers who are comfortable sharing where they want to grow. Most teachers already have a sense of the skills or areas they would like to improve; sharing those ideas with your administrator often leads to more effective learning opportunities for you and your colleagues.

Goal 9: Increase Collaboration With Colleagues

Collaborating with other teachers builds a shared sense of purpose, improves instructional alignment, and supports schoolwide growth. When teachers collaborate, they exchange ideas, work through challenges, and build a stronger professional community that benefits everyone in the school.

A useful collaboration-centered goal could be:

“I will meet biweekly with my grade-level or content team to review data, share strategies, and plan upcoming lessons.”

Collaborative goals are especially powerful because they improve individual practice and build momentum across your school.

Goal 10: Use Technology to Enhance Learning

Technology plays a major role in today’s classrooms, but it’s most effective when it’s used intentionally. Many teachers explore digital tools through an educational resource or a district-supported learning platform to help them plan instruction.

An effective technology goal might be:

“I will integrate one meaningful digital tool per unit to increase engagement and provide a variety of practice or assessment options.”

Teachers who use technology purposefully can differentiate more easily, provide immediate feedback, and offer multiple ways for students to access content and learning. These teacher goals for the school year help teachers adapt to evolving instructional needs.

Bringing It All Together

Meaningful teacher goals are more than professional responsibilities—they are commitments to growth that shape teaching, learning, and classroom culture. Over the years, I’ve seen how intentional teacher goals for the school year elevate practice, improve student achievement, and strengthen relationships across a school community. When educators choose goals aligned with their strengths and students’ needs, they set the stage for continuous improvement and sustained success. Thoughtful goal-setting isn’t just beneficial for teachers; it ultimately transforms the entire learning environment.

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]]> teacher-goals Benefits and Strategies for Teacher Collaboration https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/educational-leadership/teacher-collaboration/ Mon, 24 Nov 2025 19:11:40 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=203841 Key takeaways Strong schools rely on strong teams—and the strongest teams are built through meaningful teacher collaboration. Working together builds trust, reduces isolation, and creates a more supportive school culture for staff. Collaboration works best when leaders provide time, direction, and structures that make teamwork a natural part of the school day. As a former […]

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Key takeaways

  • Strong schools rely on strong teams—and the strongest teams are built through meaningful teacher collaboration.

  • Working together builds trust, reduces isolation, and creates a more supportive school culture for staff.

  • Collaboration works best when leaders provide time, direction, and structures that make teamwork a natural part of the school day.

teacher collaboration

As a former principal and current superintendent, I’ve learned that teacher collaboration is essential to teaching and learning. When teachers work together, students benefit, and your staff feels more supported. Collaboration turns ideas into practice and helps schools navigate everything from curriculum shifts to behavioral trends to new district initiatives.

Understanding what teacher collaboration looks like in practice—and why it matters—helps districts build a culture where teacher collaboration becomes the norm and where effective collaboration with teachers strengthens instruction, encourages problem-solving, and leads to schoolwide improvement.

What Is Teacher Collaboration?

Let’s start by clarifying what teacher collaboration is not. It is not two adults standing in the same classroom or one person teaching while another monitors behavior. Genuine collaboration is far more intentional. It is the practice of educators working together to support student learning and strengthen instruction.

 Effective collaboration with teachers happens when educators:

  • Plan together on a regular basis.
  • Analyze student data as a team.
  • Reflect collectively on instructional strategies.
  • Observe one another and share their feedback.
  • Align academic expectations across their classrooms.

At its core, teacher collaboration is a mindset—the belief that we are better together and that student success is a shared responsibility. In schools where teacher collaboration is embedded in the culture, no teacher is left isolated, and no student slips through the cracks.

Examples of collaborative teaching include Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), co-teaching, cross-grade team meetings, curriculum committees, and data discussions. No matter the format, the most important elements are consistency, trust, and purpose; when these are present, collaboration can transform instruction.

What Are the Benefits of Teacher Collaboration?

Over the last 20 years, watching teachers work in classrooms across different schools, I’ve come to see that teacher collaboration is one of the most meaningful practices we can invest in. Its benefits extend beyond instruction and help make schools better places to learn and work.

As districts strengthen their approach to collaboration, many also rely on an educational resource to support shared planning, instructional tools, and consistent access to high-quality materials across classrooms.

Better Results for Students

Schools with teachers collaborating effectively often see higher student achievement. Teachers align expectations, assessments, and instructional strategies, giving students a more consistent and supportive learning experience. Effective teacher collaboration ensures that strong strategies spread schoolwide—not just remain isolated to one effective teacher in one classroom.

More Effective Instruction

When educators share ideas, discuss best practices, and review data as a team, instruction improves. Teachers collaborating learn more from one another, can better identify what works well, and are able to continuously refine their practice.

Stronger School Culture

Collaboration strengthens relationships. When staff are connected, they work better as a team—supporting and challenging one another and creating a more positive and inclusive work environment. This culture of trust and collaboration with teachers naturally extends to students.

Higher Teacher Satisfaction and Retention

Teachers are far more likely to stay in schools where they feel supported. Collaboration with teachers provides that support—creating an internal professional learning network where teachers feel comfortable seeking advice, sharing frustrations, and celebrating success.

Increased Innovation and Problem-Solving

Schools face a variety of complex challenges: learning gaps, technology changes, shifting standards, and evolving student needs. When teachers collaborate, they bring together a wide range of perspectives, often resulting in more meaningful, creative, and innovative solutions for students.

Greater Consistency in Student Learning

Collaboration helps ensure students receive effective, consistent instruction regardless of which teacher they have. When collaborating teachers align expectations and share effective strategies, they create more meaningful learning opportunities for every student.

How to Foster Collaboration in Your School

As a school leader, your involvement is essential to fostering teacher collaboration in your district. We can’t just mandate collaboration—it requires intentionally designing opportunities for it to occur. Effective school leaders foster collaboration by:

Building Time into the Schedule

Time is the biggest barrier teachers face. Schools must do everything they can to build time for teacher collaboration into the schedule through:

  • Dedicated PLC blocks
  • Early-release or late-arrival days
  • Common planning periods
  • Monthly curriculum meetings

When collaboration with teachers is built into the school schedule, it communicates that this work matters.

Setting Clear Purpose and Expectations

Collaboration succeeds when teachers know:

  • The goals of collaboration
  • The expected work (data analysis, planning, reflection, etc.)
  • How the team will measure progress

 Clear expectations turn meetings into meaningful, results-driven work rather than informal conversations.

Providing Access to High-Quality Data

Strong teacher collaboration requires access to high-quality data. Leaders should provide:

  • Assessment data
  • Student work samples
  • Engagement and attendance reports
  • Curriculum maps
  • Instructional frameworks

When teachers have meaningful data at their fingertips, collaboration becomes far more focused and productive.

Investing in Professional Development

Teachers need guidance on how to collaborate with other teachers effectively. Provide regular professional development opportunities on:

  • Running effective PLC meetings
  • Giving and receiving peer feedback
  • Analyzing data collaboratively
  • Navigating change as a team

When teachers feel confident, collaboration becomes more effective and easier to maintain.

Modeling Collaboration as a Leadership Team

Collaboration starts from the top. Teachers notice when administrators collaborate effectively—and when they don’t. When leaders model shared decision-making, open communication, and mutual respect, staff follow suit.

Start Small and Build Momentum

Trying to roll out teacher collaboration across an entire district all at once rarely works—it’s too overwhelming. It’s more effective to start with a small group of teachers who are ready and build on their momentum.

FAQs About Teacher Collaboration

Effective teacher collaboration is built on a few key practices that make the work teachers do together meaningful and productive.


 The “4 C’s” of collaboration outline what teams need to work effectively in our schools:

  • Communication – Talking openly about ideas and feedback so everyone stays on the same page.
  • Cooperation – Ensuring everyone involved is working toward the same goals
  • Coordination – Aligning expectations, strategies, schedules, and resources
  • Contribution – Making sure each team member participates meaningfully

The more these four practices become the norm in your school, the more teacher collaboration will flourish.

One of my favorite examples of collaborative teaching is a grade-level team analyzing student writing. This group of teachers shared writing samples, identified what students were doing well and where they struggled, and talked openly about what worked and what didn’t. Together, they adjusted their lessons, developed new instructional strategies, and created common rubrics.

Another example was two of my middle school teachers—a math teacher and a science teacher—co-planning a shared unit. One developed the instructional flow while the other created assessments and materials. After the lesson, they regrouped, evaluated student responses, and refined their plan. It wasn’t a simple process, but it strengthened instruction every time.

Teachers collaborating together aren’t just attending another meeting—they’re actively working to improve student engagement and student learning.

Effective collaboration with teachers depends on a few key elements. It starts with respect and trust; teachers need to feel comfortable working together. Teachers benefit from clear goals and regular meetings to stay focused. Open, honest communication helps teachers better understand each other’s ideas, and shared leadership ensures everyone has a voice.

When these pieces are in place, collaboration becomes smoother and more meaningful.

The 80/20 rule is simple: students—not teachers—should speak for roughly 80% of classroom instructional time. Teachers guide, prompt, and support learning, but students drive engagement. Teacher collaboration helps teams share strategies for increasing student talk and participation.

Teacher collaboration is the foundation of strong schools. When educators share expertise, align their efforts, and take collective responsibility for student learning, the entire system becomes stronger. As leaders, our role is to create the structures, time, and trust that allow teachers to collaborate and thrive—because when teachers succeed together, students succeed with them.

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]]> teacher-collaboration What are Professional Learning Communities (PLC)? https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/educational-leadership/professional-learning-communities/ Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:32:11 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=203825 Key takeaways PLCs focus on teacher collaboration to improve student outcomes. PLCs give teachers control over their ongoing development, providing a safe space to share, seek feedback, and continuously improve. Effective PLCs require structure and shared goals. Professional learning communities are a critical element for student success across all levels, content areas, and geographic regions. […]

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Key takeaways

  • PLCs focus on teacher collaboration to improve student outcomes.

  • PLCs give teachers control over their ongoing development, providing a safe space to share, seek feedback, and continuously improve.

  • Effective PLCs require structure and shared goals.

group of teachers

Professional learning communities are a critical element for student success across all levels, content areas, and geographic regions. These communities, often referred to as PLCs, bring together small groups of educators regularly to improve student outcomes. 

Professional learning communities provide a space for educators to collaborate rather than simply cooperate through task division. In a time when there is an overwhelming amount of information at our fingertips, PLCs create a structure for using formal and informal data in meaningful ways that inform planning and practice. In a PLC, teachers work together to continually improve student growth and achievement by focusing on enhancing instructional knowledge and skills.

What is a professional learning community (PLC)?

A professional learning community (PLC) can be any group of educators that meets on a regular basis with structures in place to improve their practices and outcomes for students. There is no magic formula to create a PLC. In fact, one of the elements that makes professional learning communities so effective is that each group will be unique to their shared goals, collaborative style, and commitment to improvement. 

Many school leaders make it a point to remind staff members that a PLC is not the meeting itself or a stand-alone professional development opportunity.  Instead, a professional learning community is made up of dedicated people. Strong institutions will have numerous professional learning communities operating at the same time. 

An entire school with a shared vision for student success, with processes in place to allow for the use of data to help teachers improve, would be considered a PLC.  Although this could be a place to start to get all staff members on the same track, most PLCs should be much smaller than an entire school to allow for purposeful conversation and teacher ownership of the group.  

Professional learning communities intentionally put the control for ongoing professional development and growth in the hands of teachers.  This is critical because providing leadership opportunities to teachers improves achievement levels for all students. When teachers have a space and system to share information and seek feedback in a safe setting, they can continuously improve their professional practices. PLCs also give school leaders a powerful structure for providing relevant professional learning opportunities for teachers, an approach that has been shown to increase staff retention at an individual school and within the educational field as a whole.

Common configurations for a PLC

Although there is no singular way to create a PLC, let’s consider elements that lead to a successful professional learning community:

  •       Dedicated educators
  •       Common goal for student success
  •       Scheduled meetings
  •       Respect for all voices
  •       Access to data  
  •       Access to resources to support learning
  •       Structures for meetings

At the elementary level, the most common PLC would be a grade-level team with an overarching goal focused on increased achievement or growth. These teachers would select a day and time to meet each week.  The first meeting would be an excellent time to establish norms to guide future collaboration. The team would determine in advance which content area they would discuss each time they come together. During their scheduled time, the teachers would analyze appropriate data sources and notice patterns from the findings. The outcomes from the analysis will lead to discussions about how to create or adjust instructional planning or practices. This process would occur each time the group meets, forming a team that consistently collaborates and reflects to improve performance.

Although teacher groupings might differ across levels, the overall structure of a PLC would remain the same. At the middle or high school level, it might make sense to have PLCs for teachers serving a common group of students, such as English language learners or students with IEPs. An additional advantage of a PLC is that teachers without counterparts at their own school could be a part of a group that operates across a district or even a state.

What is an example of a PLC?

Professional learning communities will look different within each individual school or school district.

  • The elementary example in the previous section is a common PLC configuration, but other areas should also be considered. 
  • A leadership team is an example of a PLC with goals that could improve outcomes for staff members or students. A group of dedicated school leaders could analyze data on both micro and macro levels.
  • New educators would be another example of a possible PLC. The early years of teaching can be overwhelming and this group could focus on goals related to overall student success, rather than simply a grade-level curriculum.  
  • At the secondary level, educators are often subject-matter experts in a specific field.  A PLC could be formed that brings together one department, such as social studies, or focuses on one main course, such as world history.

What are the benefits of a PLC?

The most obvious benefit of a PLC is improved student results. However, it is how PLCs achieve these results that will have the most lasting impact on educators. Professional learning communities enable teachers to improve their practice and remain relevant in the ever-changing world of education. PLCs empower teachers to take control of their own professional learning. Educators can rely upon their colleagues or consider an additional educational resource to support their continuous improvement.

Collaboration

The number of responsibilities assigned to teachers can make every day a challenge. In true collaboration, educators work together to share and reflect, with the goal of creating something new or improving on something.  It can be tempting to divide and conquer, but this often leads to stagnation and a lack of clarity in instructional planning. 

Data collection and analysis

Implementing protocols within a PLC provides teachers with a structure for reviewing data together.  Many schools are excellent at collecting data through progress monitoring, assessments, and grading.   However, it is more challenging to use the data to change teacher instruction. Each PLC will have the autonomy to select and analyze data that relates to its goals.

Enhanced teacher strategies

When teachers meet regularly to share common goals, they will strengthen the skills they want to share with their students, including engagement, problem-solving, and self-efficacy. What is good for teacher practice is good for student learning. Building educational teams composed of reflective educators will drive innovation.

Improved student results

Years of research have shown that one of the most important factors in student success is the quality of teaching.  To support existing and future teachers, there must be continued commitment to professional learning.  Teachers working collaboratively to review their students’ needs and identify techniques to address these deficits is the most effective and efficient way to improve student outcomes. 

How to create a professional learning community

The most important element of a PLC is a group of teachers who want to positively impact students. Once you have that group, it’s time to plan:

  1. Come together to identify your goals
    • i.e., increase Lexile levels
  2. Scheduled meetings (weekly or twice a month)
    • 60 minutes a week would be ideal, but work with what you have 
  3.  Establish norms for meetings and record keeping 
    • How will your team interact during meetings? How can you document the learning from the meeting without creating additional work?
  4. Identify necessary data sources and choose a protocol for analysis
  5. Tap into available resources
    •  consider human resources, interventions, book studies, etc. 
  6. Develop the habit of sharing, collaborating, and reflecting.

When considering the question “What are PLCs in education?” remember that PLCs put teacher development at the center of student growth.  If the idea of protocols or multiple data sources seems overwhelming, just start small.  Bring together a group of teachers with a common goal.  With time and space to discuss how students are doing and what strategies are working, teachers will learn with and from their colleagues in an authentic way that cannot be reproduced in a “sit-and-get” professional learning session. To empower students, school leaders must first empower teachers.

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]]> group-of-teachers Curriculum-Aligned Resources in Discovery Education Experience https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/curriculum-aligned-resources-in-discovery-education-experience/ Thu, 20 Nov 2025 20:04:51 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=203416 Curriculum-Aligned Resources: Powerful Support for Student Progress Emily is a third-grade teacher who’s passionate about her work. She loves seeing each student make progress on foundational skills throughout the school year, and she puts in extra time and effort to ensure that everyone can. While she likes the curriculum and resources provided by her school, […]

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Curriculum-Aligned Resources: Powerful Support for Student Progress

Emily is a third-grade teacher who’s passionate about her work. She loves seeing each student make progress on foundational skills throughout the school year, and she puts in extra time and effort to ensure that everyone can. While she likes the curriculum and resources provided by her school, sometimes she has to find and adjust additional resources to meet individual needs or change things up in her classroom.

Derek is a seventh-grade math teacher who enjoys using real-world problems to bring relevance to concepts discussed in his classroom and to show students the importance of math in life. Working from the district-adopted core curriculum, he has assembled a set of instructional resources that he can draw from, but he wants to incorporate current events and use new activities to prevent student boredom.

Though Emily and Derek have very different teaching responsibilities and challenges, they share a need for resources that can help them drive student learning more effectively. While they are willing to spend the time and effort to identify and modify more resources on their own, this may be difficult and stressful in light of their typically heavy workloads.

Curriculum-Aligned Resources in Experience Closeup

One way district leaders could address this is by offering high-quality curriculum-aligned resources to their teams. Let’s explore what we mean by this, why these resources matter, and what adoption mistakes districts should avoid.

What Are Curriculum-Aligned Resources?

Teaching and Learning Pyramid
Alignment in Every Aspect of Teaching Is Important for Effective Learning

Curriculum-aligned resources are resources like instructional materials, strategies, and supplemental tools for teachers or content students access directly, such as videos, interactives, or hands-on activities, that directly connect to learning objectives and outcomes in accordance with the adopted curriculum’s content and pedagogy. Teachers can use curriculum-aligned resources to enhance unit topics, review skills, or find instructional strategies to meet individual student needs—whatever it takes to support effective learning.

Key Factors in Positive Student Outcomes

Ultimately, all the work that educators put into each classroom, school, and district is designed to set students up for academic and career success. Recent studies and surveys reveal that the use of high-quality instructional materials (HQIM), accompanied by professional learning, is instrumental in boosting student achievement.

Standards alignment also plays a key role. EdReports’ State of the Market report says: “Teachers using aligned materials are more likely to implement high-impact instructional practices, such as engaging students in scientific models or justifying mathematical solutions. These practices promote critical thinking and deepen student engagement across subjects.” Plus, districts using aligned materials see less variance in teacher efficacy and are better able to support all of their students.

The best curriculum-aligned resources will include or support HQIM and align to state standards without requiring extra effort from teachers. This not only increases teacher satisfaction but also improves the quality of their teaching, leading to greater student performance gains.

Curriculum Alignment Is More Than Content

The content that curriculum-aligned resources provide may be a primary consideration when searching for and choosing them, but you need to determine whether a particular resource meets your expectations for learning. For example, the ISTE Standards* give educators and education leaders a framework for evaluating types of learning (creativity, collaboration, authentic problem solving, etc.) within digital tools that’s research based. And don’t forget interoperability: look for proof that curriculum-aligned resources will actually integrate with your other tools and systems, including your LMS and assessments.

 

*For over 20 years, the ISTE Standards have been used, studied, and updated to reflect the latest research-based best practices that define success in using technology to learn, teach, lead, and coach. 

Smiling African American Male Teacher Standing with Laptop

Curriculum-Aligned Resources Adoption Considerations

Curriculum‑aligned resources can become essential components of coherent, equitable instruction across the schools in your district. When you’ve adopted the right program, you can see the results in higher student achievement and teacher satisfaction. However, make sure you avoid these five adoption mistakes that can impede your success:

  1. A tech‑first, curriculum‑later approach: This can lead to misalignment, require teachers to find workarounds, and limit the impact of the resources.
  2. Minimal teacher voice involved: Teacher buy-in and fidelity could be significantly affected.
  3. “One‑and‑done” professional development: Orientation does not support the same success as ongoing professional learning.
  4. Ignoring interoperability: Hidden integration costs may be expensive, and data silos can interfere with a real understanding of student progress.
  5. No plan to evaluate effectiveness: Without quantitative and qualitative measures of usage and efficacy, funding may be wasted on subscription renewal.

More Impact with Discovery Education Experience

Curriculum-Aligned Resources in Experience

Experience combines ready-to-teach lessons, activities, and engaging content with research-backed instructional strategies and user-friendly tools. In its Curriculum Aligned Resources section, teachers will find content directly aligned to popular K–8 literacy, math, and science curricula. Each curriculum has resources that are thoughtfully organized by grade level and unit, making it easy to find age-appropriate content to meet student learning needs.

CAR Wit and Wisdom Gr7 Mod1

Suggested resources vary depending on what point of the curriculum a teacher is in, but they often include a mix of instructor and student resources. Choices may include:  

  • Ready-to-teach lessons  
  • Reading passages  
  • Videos  
  • Activities  
  • Interactives 
  • Curated content channels  
  • Research-based instructional strategies 
  • And more!   

Finding the perfect curriculum-aligned resources in Experience is faster than ever with Personalized Content Recommendations, so whether teachers can get right to extending content, building background knowledge, or reteaching. It also includes customizable assessments and connects to a variety of LMS’s. 

Why not try our interactive demo today to explore Experience’s curriculum-aligned resources in more detail? 

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]]> CARs-Experience-Page-Closeup Teaching-and-Learning-Pyramid Blog-Teacher-Holding-Laptop-in-Class Curriculum-Aligned-Resources-in-Experience CAR-Wit-and-Wisdom-Gr7-Mod1 Turning Pages into Possibilities: Four Years of Literacy Innovation https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/turning-pages-literacy-innovation/ Thu, 13 Nov 2025 18:51:59 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=203188 Over the past four years, our partnership with the Dollar General Literacy Foundation has centered on one mission: equipping educators and out-of-school-time professionals with the tools they need to close the literacy gap. Together, we’ve worked to make literacy instruction more accessible, engaging, and effective one creative step at a time. We began with bite-sized […]

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Over the past four years, our partnership with the Dollar General Literacy Foundation has centered on one mission: equipping educators and out-of-school-time professionals with the tools they need to close the literacy gap. Together, we’ve worked to make literacy instruction more accessible, engaging, and effective one creative step at a time.

Screenshot 2025 11 11 at 3 43 31 PM
Screenshot 2025 11 11 at 3 45 45 PM
We began with bite-sized Microlearning Modules: quick, 6–8-minute trainings paired with ready-to-use activities that educators could implement immediately. These modules offered practical strategies without overwhelming busy schedules. Next came animated Explainer Videos, designed to introduce the five foundational literacy skills in a way that was clear, visual, and fun.
By Year 3, we wanted to capture the magic of real classrooms. Our Masterclass video showcased the subtle but powerful techniques master teachers use every day—gestures, tone of voice, and hands-on manipulatives that transform lessons into experiences. Seeing these strategies in action brought theory to life.
Now, in Year 4, we’re expanding on the current student-facing content. Why? Because educators told us they needed more tools for direct instruction—and the data backs it up. These new resources will help teachers engage learners more deeply, reinforcing literacy skills in ways that feel interactive and meaningful.

As we celebrate National Family Literacy Month this November, we’re reminded that literacy is more than a skill it’s a gateway to opportunity. Explore our growing library of resources and see how we’re helping educators and families turn every page into a new possibility

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]]> Screenshot 2025-11-11 at 3-43-31 PM Screenshot 2025-11-11 at 3-45-45 PM Futures Fair and Career Fairs: Shaping Student Professional Success https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/future-ready-students/futures-fair-and-career-fairs-shape-student-success/ Mon, 10 Nov 2025 20:29:45 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=203078 From Curiosity to Career: How School Career Fairs Shape Student Futures It’s so rewarding to see students make breakthroughs, whether it’s learning a new concept, developing proficiency across multiple standards, or finding a sense of direction for their life after they finish school. But that last example can often be a mystery for many students. […]

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From Curiosity to Career: How School Career Fairs Shape Student Futures

It’s so rewarding to see students make breakthroughs, whether it’s learning a new concept, developing proficiency across multiple standards, or finding a sense of direction for their life after they finish school. But that last example can often be a mystery for many students. Educators hear “I don’t know” a lot when they ask about career plans, even from high school students.

That kind of moment is why career fairs matter. For many students, especially those whose families or communities haven’t presented a wide range of professions, a career fair may be the first time they glimpse what’s possible. Hearing a powerful story, meeting someone with an impressive job, or just seeing someone who looks like them in a role they hadn’t considered can shift their perspective.

2025 Futures Fair HS Students by Table

Let’s explore the benefits of career fairs in general and then look at what makes Discovery Education’s Futures Fair stand out.

Four Reasons That Career Fairs Matter

  • Exposure Expands Possibility: Students can’t aspire to what they don’t know exists. Career fairs give them the chance to discover careers far beyond the small circle of what they normally see.
  • Relevance Connects School to Life: Research shows that students who participate in career development activities are significantly more likely to believe school is useful to their future. When they hear directly from a professional how math, writing, or teamwork matters in their field, students discover real-world applications for their skills.
  • Role Models Make Careers Real: Meeting professionals in person (whether an architect, nurse, or designer) helps them picture themselves in those roles. Career fairs turn job titles into relatable people and stories.
  • Interpersonal Skills for Success: Career fairs aren’t just about jobs, they’re practice grounds for life skills. Students learn how to ask thoughtful questions, introduce themselves with confidence, and explore what interests them. These interactions build social capital and professional fluency long before a job interview.

What Is Futures Fair?

Discovery Education’s Futures Fair is an annual virtual career fair connecting classrooms across the U.S. with real-world professionals from companies involved in STEM, the arts, skilled trades, entrepreneurship, public service, and more—including Honda, LIV Golf, and Verizon. Educators and students tune in to discover how today’s learning connects to tomorrow’s opportunities. They can choose from elementary, middle school, and high school tracks, which offer a series of 25-minute virtual sessions that give students a firsthand look at the skills shaping the future.

Our overall goal is that we want to encourage early and often career exploration and giving students all sorts of experiences that allow them to understand what their skills are, what they’re interested in, [and] who the people are in the jobs that they could be meeting.

Amy Nakamoto, EVP of Marketing, Brand, and Corporate Partnerships at Discovery Education
2025 Futures Fair HS Student with Corporate Partner

What Was the 2025 Futures Fair Like?

The inaugural Futures Fair connected over 30,000 students in K–12 classrooms, virtually and in person, for a day of inspiring learning and career exploration. Some of the virtual sessions included:

Elementary Track (K–5)

  • “Bright Minds, Safe Futures: Exploring Smart Tech & Creative Problem-Solving!” from Norton’s Director of AI & Innovation Iskander Sanchez-Rola 
  • “From Pipes to Sinks: The Plumbing Magic Behind Everyday Water!” from Home Depot’s Director Omni Retail Sales Casey Nix 
  • “Fire Detectives: Solving Mysteries with Science” from The Hartford’s Forensic Engineer Ben Smith 

Middle School Track (6–8)

  • “Medicine Meets Machines: Exploring the Future with a Tech-Savvy Doctor!” from Meta’s Director, Product Management John MacDonald
  • “From Cockpit to Cutting-Edge: A Journey into Aerospace Innovation” from Honeywell’s Distinguished Technical Fellow, Aerospace Technologies Thea Feyerelsen
  • “From Farm Fields to Lab Discoveries: A Scientist’s Journey to 3M!” from 3M’s Corporate Scientist Jeff Emslander

High School Track (9–12)

  • “Crash Science: How Engineers Design Cars to Keep You Safe!” from Honda’s Crash & Safety Test Engineer Paige Vernon, and Principal Automotive Crash Safety Engineer Susan Mostofizadeh
  • “Genes, Germs, and Discovery: A Biologist’s Mission to Make Science Make Sense!” by Illumina’s Senior Scientist Chris Beierschmitt
  • “Breaking the Mold: How Courage, Curiosity, and Steel Spark Lifelong Growth!” by Nucor’s Branch Manager Victoria Kirk

A huge thank you to Discovery Education for including my students and me in such an inspiring experience. The Futures Fair was awesome. Moments like these remind me why I teach to empower students with voice, choice, and a vision for their future.

Daniel Jones, M.Ed. ABD

In-Person Futures Fair

This year’s experience was not limited to virtual. We approached our longstanding partner Prince Georges’ County Public Schools with the idea of transforming Gwynn Park High School into a real-life Futures Fair for the day. We brought corporate partners to the event, so more than 500 tenth and eleventh grade students got the chance to interact with professionals from companies like Capital Power, AES, Charles River, and The Swinerton Foundation. They also got to learn about community organizations such as PGCPS Parks & Rec and Atlantic Union Bank.

2025 Futures Fair Kick off

Education advocate and former engineer Brandon Okpalobi kicked the event off by inspiring students with a message to make the most of the opportunity to connect and explore. Then students participated in hands-on activities to develop the “4 Cs”: 

  • “Pitch It” prompted kids to pitch a product idea in 30 seconds (Communication)
  • “Design a Logo” prompted them to design a logo for their dream brand (Creativity)
  • “Build It” challenged kids to build as high a structure as possible using pipe cleaners and tin foil (Collaboration)
  • “Reflex Test” asked them to consider what goes into making quick judgment calls (Critical Thinking)

The day concluded with a special, all-grades broadcast live from Churchill, Manitoba (the polar bear capital of the world). Renowned wildlife artist and former Disney animator Aaron Blaise explored how art can connect humans with wild animals, including polar bears.

All the students, educators, and professionals who joined the first Futures Fair made it successful far beyond our expectations, and now we can’t wait to do it again in 2026!

It’s very important to learn about [career options], so you can at least expand your information, [and] explore new things that you want to do in life.

Gwynn Park High School Student

How to Continue Career Exploration in Your School or District

Career exploration remains important beyond time spent holding career fairs. According to research we released last year, over two-thirds of students (67%) feel that their education is not evolving to meet workplace needs. And three out of four adults agree. However, we’re ready to help you change this for good:

  • Experience is the only teaching and learning solution that makes it easy to connect career exploration to curriculum.
  • Career Connect is built into Experience, making it safe and simple to bring industry professionals directly into classrooms.
  • Careers Hub lets educators access curated resources aligned to 14 career clusters, complete with profiles, virtual field trips, and immersive tools.

You’ll find even more resources through our partnership with STEM Careers Coalition.

Picture of DE Staff

DE Staff

David has spent over 10 years in various roles with companies seeking to improve lives through effective teaching and learning. He values the empowering nature of adding knowledge and strengthening understanding, whether personal or professional.

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]]> Blog-2025-Futures-Fair-HS-Students-by-Table Blog-2025-Futures-Fair-HS-Student-with-Corporate-Partner Blog-2025-Futures-Fair-Kick-off Picture of DE Staff Get Students Moving: Why Physical Immersive Activities Boost Engagement and Learning https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/get-students-moving-to-boost-engagement-and-learning/ Mon, 03 Nov 2025 19:33:28 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=202201 As educators know, sitting still for hours isn’t how children learn best. Decades of research and modern neuroscience all point to the same conclusion: physical movement improves attention, memory, motivation – and ultimately academic performance. A 2023 meta‑analysis of over 7,300 participants found cognitively engaging physical activities (like movement requiring decision-making and rule-following) produced improvements in working […]

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As educators know, sitting still for hours isn’t how children learn best. Decades of research and modern neuroscience all point to the same conclusion: physical movement improves attention, memory, motivation – and ultimately academic performance.

  • A 2023 meta‑analysis of over 7,300 participants found cognitively engaging physical activities (like movement requiring decision-making and rule-following) produced improvements in working memory, fluid intelligence, on-task behaviour, and creativity.
  • Less than 42% of U.S. children ages  6–11 meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity – impacting health and classroom focus.
  • A campus tech‑services team sums it up: just ten minutes of standing or gentle movement raises concentration, reduces stress, and improves retention – even at the college level.
  • A 2025 systematic review of children with ADHD found physical activity interventions improved working memory.
VR Lesson with Teacher and Elementary Students
Movement doesn’t have to mean aerobic exercise mini-breaks. Simply having freedom of movement is enough.

Movement enhances brain function by increasing circulation, activating cerebellar coordination centers, and strengthening recall pathways. When students move – whether via brain breaks, gesture-based math, or kinesthetic games – they stay alert and motivated, and they process concepts more deeply.

Immersive Learning: AR/VR Experiences Provide Opportunities for Movement

Immersive learning environments – think augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), simulations, role‑plays – are natural allies of physical, experiential learning. These technologies encourage learners to move through scenarios, manipulate virtual objects, and act out scenarios in ways that traditional instruction simply can’t.

When students move, they don’t just activate their muscles – they awaken a network of senses that feeds the brain with rich, multisensory input. Shifting position, changing perspective, and engaging in tactile interaction stimulates sight, sound, touch, and even balance, creating a layered sensory experience. These moments act as cognitive attractors – memorable, high‑engagement events where attention sharpens and information “sticks” more deeply. In immersive learning, physical movement amplifies this effect, making the experience feel real, personal, and memorable.

Discovery Education’s immersive learning platform makes these ideas practical and accessible. Two standout AR tools that provide opportunities for physical movement and experiential learning are:

TimePod Adventures

Timepod Time Machine in AR
The TimePod time machine lands in the student’s real space and can be walked around in 360 degrees.

TimePod Adventures turns students into the main character in narrative‑driven, 3D storylines – such as historic journeys or scientific explorations – played out in AR on an iPad or iPhone. Students physically move through space to investigate clues, collaborate in groups, and solve problems. The combination of spatial movement, story immersion, and peer interaction naturally promotes engagement, memory retention, and higher order thinking.

Sandbox AR

Sandbox AR enables students to build, share, and inhabit virtual topical worlds using augmented reality on an iPad. Whether constructing ecosystems, exploring ancient civilizations, or modeling scientific phenomena, learners physically move around their creations, manipulate objects in 3D space, and collaborate with classmates. It transforms abstract concepts into tactile, shared experiences – driving engagement and deep understanding.

Blog Teacher and MS Student Using Sandbox AR
Sandbox AR reaches students who engage fully in activities that involve physical activity. Credit: London Grid for Learning

Connecting Research to Practice

So how do these AR tools bridge the gap between research on movement and real classroom application?

Blog New Hampshire State Capitol Building Sandbox AR
The New Hampshire state capitol building sits on a school sports field in Sandbox AR.

Movement-Inspired Engagement & Retention

Stepping into a TimePod Adventures scene or walking around a Sandbox AR build turns learning into a physical experience. This movement taps into embodied cognition – boosting attention, memory, and concept retention.

Intrinsic Motivation and Autonomy

Physically active learning has been shown to raise motivation, independence, and mastery. Both apps put students in the driver’s seat, letting them explore, create, choose paths, and solve problems in ways that feel personally meaningful.

Active Collaboration and Social Interaction

Group work comes naturally here. Students move together, share observations, and make real‑time decisions. These moments mirror the benefits seen in active learning research, where collaboration, role‑play, and simulation strengthen critical thinking and achievement.

Classroom Management Support

Movement doesn’t have to mean chaos. Sandbox AR’s “table scale” mode keeps students seated while they build, discuss, and explain their choices, then “life scale” mode delivers that big immersive moment. TimePod Adventures’ 10‑minute AR episodes pair with full‑length classroom activities, giving students a structured, reflective segment to settle, focus, and capture their learning on paper.

Tips for Educators: Putting AR Movement to Work in Your Classroom

  • Plan for shared space: Clear an area where students can stand and move with tablets. Let them rotate roles – navigator, clue‑tracker, builder – to keep energy flowing.
  • Blend movement with content: Ask students to gesture concepts – map routes, act out historical events, or build with Sandbox pieces. Embedding learning in physical activity strengthens memory.
  • Reflect on experience: After each AR session, invite groups to discuss: What did moving around reveal? How did acting it out help you remember or understand?
  • Alternate formats: Use TimePod Adventures for narrative exploration, and Sandbox AR for creative building. That variety keeps engagement high and supports different learning objectives.
Historical Artifact in 3D Space
A historical artifact floats in 3D space, waiting for students to walk right up to and analyze it.

Ready to Get Your Students Moving?

Bringing physical movement into the classroom isn’t about turning lessons into PE class – it’s about following the science. Students who move stay more alert, engaged, motivated, and they learn better. Immersive learning tools like TimePod Adventures and Sandbox AR deliver movement-rich, experiential learning that echoes what decades of research tell us: embodied, active classrooms help students thrive.

By combining high‑quality AR experiences with flexible classroom design and purposeful reflection, educators can turn content into lived experiences – boosting engagement, memory, and outcomes in ways that traditional methods simply can’t match.

Picture of Hannah McNaughton-Hussain

Hannah McNaughton-Hussain

David has spent over 10 years in various roles with companies seeking to improve lives through effective teaching and learning. He values the empowering nature of adding knowledge and strengthening understanding, whether personal or professional.

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]]> Blog-ES-Teacher-VR-Lesson-with-Students Blog-Timepod-Time-Machine-in-AR Blog-Teacher-and-MS-Student-Using-Sandbox-AR Blog-New-Hampshire-State-Capitol-Building-Sandbox-AR Blog-Historical-Artifact-in-3D-Space Picture of Hannah McNaughton-Hussain The State of AI in Education: Dealing with Disruption https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/state-of-ai-in-education-dealing-with-disruption/ Thu, 16 Oct 2025 21:47:19 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=201647 “Welcome, how can I help?” This may look familiar if you’ve used generative artificial intelligence (AI). Whether you’re currently using AI or not, you likely recognize that AI is affecting every industry, including education. For example, the 2025–2026 Education Insights report revealed that 40% of students admit using AI on assignments without permission. Based on […]

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“Welcome, how can I help?” This may look familiar if you’ve used generative artificial intelligence (AI). Whether you’re currently using AI or not, you likely recognize that AI is affecting every industry, including education. For example, the 2025–2026 Education Insights report revealed that 40% of students admit using AI on assignments without permission. Based on this report and other news, it’s clear that AI in education is reshaping what it means to teach, learn, and engage. Let’s explore how schools can adapt now to prepare students for the future. 

Teacher and Students Using Laptop During Class

AI in Education Today

If a significant number of students are using AI to help them complete assignments without permission, are teachers aware of this? Yes, according to the 2025–2026 Education Insights report: 65% say they have caught their students doing so. Even if they haven’t caught students cheating using AI, teachers are aware that the potential exists. 

Not all students have embraced AI in education, whether for cheating or for approved uses. Some are concerned that using AI will dull their critical-thinking skills, and others don’t find using AI to be fulfilling or a part of meaningful learning. Many students question the usefulness of the skills they’re currently learning based on what AI is already able to do. In fact, 70% of high school students surveyed for the Education Insights report agreed with the statement, “I believe the skills I’m learning will be something AI can do.” This belief may play a role in disengagement for some learners in the classroom. 

Student Working on Laptop in Library

Ultimately, the ease of student access to AI means that educators find themselves needing to find a balance between limiting misuse and exploring potential. Based on Education Insights report findings, educator familiarity with AI and AI tools may affect classroom usage:  

  • Only 49% of teachers report using AI to complete tasks at school 
  • Just 53% of teachers feel optimistic about AI’s possibilities  

In contrast, 70% of the high school students who reported that they have used AI with approval believe it was helpful, saying they’ve been able to learn and complete schoolwork faster. 

The Engagement Connection: Why AI Matters Beyond Technology

Research shows that engaged students learn and achieve more than peers who aren’t actively involved in their learning. Because engagement is so important, educators may wonder whether including AI in their classroom is a good idea. One challenge that AI presents is that it can complicate how teachers see and measure student engagement. For example, AI can make student thinking harder to observe where teachers only see the final output of completed assignments. And getting to that final output doesn’t mean that the student put in the necessary effort for deep learning to occur, like with traditional approaches to teaching and learning.

Challenges and Opportunities with AI in Education

Like many technological innovations, AI presents both risks and opportunities when students have access to it in the classroom. Primary risks come from misuse and include:

  • Deliberately using AI in ways that are not approved or intended
  • Convenient ways to plagiarize
  • Overreliance on AI that stunts critical thinking
  • Shortcuts that undermine authentic learning experiences

Notable opportunities include:

  • Personalized learning
  • Scaffolding when students need it
  • Increased efficiency in completing assignments and research
  • New forms of creativity and inquiry

Despite the risks, AI is here to stay, and educators are learning to define its role in teaching and learning. In doing so, they can guide students to use it thoughtfully so that it enhances, rather than replaces, meaningful engagement.

Classroom of Students Using Technology

AI Strategies for Schools

Here are six recommended strategies to increase your chances of success:

  • Establish clear policies and shared language for AI use
  • Focus on process and thinking during assessment, not just output
  • Teach AI literacy explicitly
  • Design assignments that AI can’t easily solve
  • Use AI to support differentiation and feedback
  • Continuously evaluate and adapt practices

Note that you don’t have to figure all of this out on your own. Prominent companies can provide guidance and even work side by side with you to evaluate challenges, needs, and resources. For example, Norton, a leader in online safety, has joined the Digital Citizenship Initiative by Discovery Education and will offer free standards-aligned classroom resources supporting safe student engagement with AI.

Here’s what one teacher told us about AI in her classroom:

I always look for ways to engage students in using AI effectively—for example, to generate ideas, organize thoughts, and clarify questions—rather than relying on it to write papers or complete assignments.

Jessica Erlanger, High School English Teacher, Upland, CA

Shaping the Future, Not Simply Reacting

Most likely, AI is already being used in your school or district’s classrooms, and its presence will only continue to grow as the technology develops. So the question about AI is “How do we best use it to enhance teaching and learning?” rather than “How do we deal with it?” As we’ve seen in our exploration of the state of AI in education, when educators approach it with clarity, creativity, and intentionality, they can turn disruption into opportunity.

There’s more about AI in education and a wealth of fascinating insights into student engagement in our full Education Insights 2025–2026 report!

Picture of DE Staff

DE Staff

David has spent over 10 years in various roles with companies seeking to improve lives through effective teaching and learning. He values the empowering nature of adding knowledge and strengthening understanding, whether personal or professional.

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]]> Teacher and Students Using Laptop During Class Student Working on Laptop in Library Classroom of Students Using Technology Picture of DE Staff Watch On Demand: Educator-Led Webinars to Power Your Classroom  https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/educator-led-webinars/ Wed, 15 Oct 2025 19:13:07 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=201426 Faced with teaching a unit on bacteria, two seventh-grade teachers paused to consider how their students would best learn the information. Watching a video? Exploring interactive simulations? Reading engaging content?  They quickly realized the answer was—all of these options. Or maybe just one of them. It simply depended on each student’s particular learning style. Enter […]

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Faced with teaching a unit on bacteria, two seventh-grade teachers paused to consider how their students would best learn the information. Watching a video? Exploring interactive simulations? Reading engaging content? 

They quickly realized the answer was—all of these options. Or maybe just one of them. It simply depended on each student’s particular learning style. Enter Discovery Education’s choice boards, interactive “digital menus” which allow students to choose how they learn a topic or standard. Choice boards cater to different learning styles, foster deep engagement, and allow students ownership of their learning. They’re one of the many curriculum-aligned tools our educator panelists will be discussing in our upcoming Educator Essentials Fall Webinar Series.

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Real Classrooms. Real Solutions. Real Impact.

Our Educator Essentials Webinar Series will feature short, practical sessions led by educators in our Discovery Educator Network (DEN) and aim to provide a deeper understanding of how to use DE tools in a meaningful way. They’ll focus on real classrooms, real solutions, and real impact, and you’ll walk away with fresh strategies you can put into practice immediately.  

The Presenters

Rita A Mortenson

Rita Mortenson

Instructional Coach, Verona Area High School, Wisconsin

The Experience webinars will be hosted by Rita Mortenson, Instructional Coach at Verona Area High School in Wisconsin. Rita is a 20-year veteran user of Discovery Education and incredible advocate for Experience solutions. She brings a wealth of classroom insight and professional development expertise, making her uniquely equipped to guide educators in leveraging Experience solutions for transformative learning. Rita’s co-presenter will be Jessie Erickson.  

Sarah Yonts

Library Media Specialist, L.I. Wilder Elementary School, Wisconsin

The DreamBox Math webinars will be hosted by Sarah Yonts, Library Media Specialist at L.I. Wilder Elementary School in Wisconsin. Sarah is in her 23rd year with Green Bay Area Public Schools, and has also worked as a music educator, classroom teacher, and middle school ELA teacher. A longtime DEN member, Sarah started using DreamBox Math in 2020 and acts as her school’s tech lead, helping teachers and students navigate its powerful features. Sarah’s co-presenter will be Kelsy Rusch. 

 

Join us live to ask questions or watch on-demand when it fits your schedule! 

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The Lineup

Power Up Your Practice with Discovery Education Experience

Tuesday, October 28, 7:00 PM ET

Explore how Discovery Education Experience can elevate your instructional practice and boost student engagement. This session will spotlight the Instructional Strategy Center, Careers Hub, and Curriculum-Aligned Resources—three powerful tools designed to save time, personalize learning, and connect classroom content to real-world relevance. 

Engaging Every Learner with Discovery Education Experience

Monday, November 3, 7:00 PM ET

Student engagement is at the heart of effective teaching—and Discovery Education Experience offers flexible, standards-aligned resources to help you reach every learner. This webinar will explore how to use  Experience to personalize instruction, support core curriculum, and close learning gaps in literacy and math. 
 

Unlocking the Power of DreamBox Math Features

Tuesday, November 4, 7:00 PM ET

Explore how DreamBox Math’s most powerful features—Curriculum Guide, Assignments, and Progress Monitoring—can streamline instruction and elevate student engagement. This session will walk educators through how to plan, assign, and monitor learning with DreamBox Math, all while keeping students at the center of the experience.  

Engaging Every Learner with DreamBox Math

Thursday November 6 7:00 PM ET

Student engagement is the key to meaningful learning—and DreamBox Math is designed to meet every learner where they are. This webinar will explore how DreamBox Math supports differentiation, connects to core curriculum, and helps close gaps in math understanding. Learn how to use DreamBox Math to foster confidence, personalize instruction, and make math meaningful for all students.  

Ready to energize your classroom with tools that help every learner? Join us! 

Learn more about Discovery Education Experience and DreamBox Math today!

The post Watch On Demand: Educator-Led Webinars to Power Your Classroom  appeared first on Discovery Education.

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