The big news hitting the media recently is the ranking of academic
performance by country. While American students performed above the
average for nations taking part in the survey there is not much to cheer
about. The most striking contrast is math where almost half of 8th
graders in South Korea, Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) and Singapore reached
the advanced level compared to only 7% of American test-takers (TIMSS,
2011). Others countries such as Japan, Russia, and Quebec (Canada)
outperformed the United States by significant margins. The same
countries performed well in science in comparison as well. Previous PhysEd
Global posts applauded the Fins who ranked number 1 in the assessments
four years ago. They dropped to about the same scores as the USA in 4th
and 8th grade math. (Education Week, Dec 13, 2012). Most notable is
England that showed the most improved results in math of any country.
(Read previous post on my theory why this is the case). America does not rank in
the Top 10 of nations in either math or science.
On the health
front there is a proposal in Australia to put student's weight on report
cards as part of an effort to combat obesity. The Sydney Morning Herald
( Dec 7, 2012) reports that such a step could lead to teachers and
parents discuss students' diet and fitness routines according to Prof.
David Penington, former vice-chancellor of Melbourne University and dean
of medicine. This is a tough one because of confidentiality issues and
there are certainly other ways to open communication on health-related
issues between teachers and parents. Public education on obesity has not
helped much over a 12-year period in the USA and a bit of shock tactics
might just be what the doctor ordered.
Finally The Guardian
(London) reports that educators on the UK is advocating for outdoor
learning citing benefits such as physical skills, self-confidence,
relationship development and risk taking. In a world of excessive
curriculum, safety conscientiousness and fear of litigation school trips
have drastically declined. However, outdoor exploration probably
addresses more learning styles of students than most structured lesson
plans in a classroom. It is important that students are given an
opportunity to explore - even if it is a local park - Michael Cordier
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Monday, September 24, 2012
Sport and Test Scores
Since the previous posting - and a little hiatus - lots have happened. In the world of sport we watched the Tour de France and Olympics in awe. We suffered with, and shouted for joy as prime athletes faced their own challenges and objectives. We saw NBA basketball wrap up and NFL football taken off. All the while keeping an eye on the long season of baseball. Formula I championship points shift with every race and NASCAR's best are duelling it out for the Cup as the season rolls to an end.
On a personal level I discovered the Paleo lifestyle and have managed to shed about 35 pounds over the past year - with one major relapse and a 14 pound weight gain while traveling abroad and taking care of family issues. I learned first-hand that everyone can start over again and today is the best day to do so.
On a professional level we finalized the Fizika Active Learning Specialist Certification course. This project has been a year in the making and we consider it a first where brain research, physical literacy, and best practices are combined in one program to impact student performance and behavior which ultimately drives school improvement plans. Every teacher and administrator should look into it.
But what caught the eye for this posting was an article in the Independent (London) Newspaper - September 20, 2013, with the headline "Reading and Math Achievements Up in England". It goes on to share that the percentage of England's 11-year-old students reaching level four or above on national curriculum tests increased this year by three percentage points in reading and four percentage points in math. A bit more so by boys than girls.
After almost 12 years and millions spend on sports colleges across the country (magnet schools with a sports theme), a successful hosting of the Olympics and excellent performance on the podium by British athletes, it is not a long stretch to make the body/mind connection. Enough research shows that physical activity impacts brain performance and the 'UK Experiment' shows the impact of a concerted effort to promote physical activity on a macro level. There is no doubt in my mind that the increased participation in sport at school level is now reflected in the academic performance of the second generation of students exposed to this practice. Hopefully the fine folks in the UK who pioneered Physical Literacy will do some research on this topic.
Michael Cordier
PS. If you like this topic or posting please 'follow' me.
On a personal level I discovered the Paleo lifestyle and have managed to shed about 35 pounds over the past year - with one major relapse and a 14 pound weight gain while traveling abroad and taking care of family issues. I learned first-hand that everyone can start over again and today is the best day to do so.
On a professional level we finalized the Fizika Active Learning Specialist Certification course. This project has been a year in the making and we consider it a first where brain research, physical literacy, and best practices are combined in one program to impact student performance and behavior which ultimately drives school improvement plans. Every teacher and administrator should look into it.
But what caught the eye for this posting was an article in the Independent (London) Newspaper - September 20, 2013, with the headline "Reading and Math Achievements Up in England". It goes on to share that the percentage of England's 11-year-old students reaching level four or above on national curriculum tests increased this year by three percentage points in reading and four percentage points in math. A bit more so by boys than girls.
After almost 12 years and millions spend on sports colleges across the country (magnet schools with a sports theme), a successful hosting of the Olympics and excellent performance on the podium by British athletes, it is not a long stretch to make the body/mind connection. Enough research shows that physical activity impacts brain performance and the 'UK Experiment' shows the impact of a concerted effort to promote physical activity on a macro level. There is no doubt in my mind that the increased participation in sport at school level is now reflected in the academic performance of the second generation of students exposed to this practice. Hopefully the fine folks in the UK who pioneered Physical Literacy will do some research on this topic.
Michael Cordier
PS. If you like this topic or posting please 'follow' me.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Math, Reading and... Chess!
The Daily Telegraph reports that students in Britain lags behind many other developed countries in math achievement. One expert blames the focus on testing and 'procedures' for the lack of performance. More than a third of 16-year old students failed to achieve a 'C' in standardized testing in the subject last year. The countries mentioned as out performing Britain include the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Japan, Finland and Russia.
Analysis: Interestingly USA students fares worse than the UK students for pretty much for the same reasons: focus on testing. Students do not integrate math principles in their daily lives but simply try to pass a test.
The same paper reported a new initiative to promote reading among elementary students. Research showed that a student reading for a half hour each day could add one year to their education by age 15.
Analysis: This is the reason why spelling bee competitions are so important and the reading initiative must be applauded. The only obstacle is to actually prove that reading took place.
In Armenia, Turkey and Norway school officials are adding chess to the national curriculum. Chess is a cheap intervention that can be played on a large scale by all students. A summary of research produced by the Quad Cities Chess Club in America opines of enhanced mental abilities and an improvement in conventional schoolwork amongst chess players.
Analysis: Why not? Chess improves analytical skills, encourages positive competition and adds a sense of achievement when figuring out certain moves. Does it matter if it is a sport or a game?
Students in Afghanistan will no longer learn about the most recent four decades in the country's history. This decision is intended to eliminate lessons of divisiveness in wars with the former Soviet Union and America. All high school history text books will not include content after 1973. Afghan's education minister, Faooq Wardak, says that these are the first books in decades that are depoliticized and de-ethnicized. (Washington Post, Feb. 2012)
Analysis: There are two ways of looking at this: it is either a truthful attempt to allow a very tumulus time in the nations' history to heal and form a scab or it could be seen as an attempt to sweep a lot of incompetence and strive under the carpet. It is time for that nation to heal and the the is much time for the truth to be reported in the future.
New Zealand is considering a proposal to increase the teacher-student ratio and close some schools. Under this proposal, money saved will be diverted to improving quality of instruction in the country's schools. (New Zealand Herald, Fe. 2012)
Analysis: Bad move all around. The track record of bureaucrats in most societies to spend excess money to 'improvement' is a pipe dream. Smaller teacher / student ratios means more personal time and attention.
Elementary school students in Seoul, Korea get an average of just over three hours of spare time per day during the week, indicating growing competition for academic performance even among younger age groups. Elementary school children in the capital spend an average of 195.6 minutes per day in leisure activities, which is about the same as the 195.2 minutes for students in high school. South Korean parents are renowned for their educational fervor, which often puts students under immense pressure to attain good grades and enter prestigious universities. Graduates of elite colleges are considered highly likely to enjoy successful careers and a stable future. (The Kora Herald, Feb.2012)
Analysis: Think about it: three hours a day to do sport, relax, eat or play. Maybe some students in the US should be part of an exchange program to Korea to understand how good they have it when complaining about homework or being tired!
Analysis: Interestingly USA students fares worse than the UK students for pretty much for the same reasons: focus on testing. Students do not integrate math principles in their daily lives but simply try to pass a test.
The same paper reported a new initiative to promote reading among elementary students. Research showed that a student reading for a half hour each day could add one year to their education by age 15.
Analysis: This is the reason why spelling bee competitions are so important and the reading initiative must be applauded. The only obstacle is to actually prove that reading took place.
In Armenia, Turkey and Norway school officials are adding chess to the national curriculum. Chess is a cheap intervention that can be played on a large scale by all students. A summary of research produced by the Quad Cities Chess Club in America opines of enhanced mental abilities and an improvement in conventional schoolwork amongst chess players.
Analysis: Why not? Chess improves analytical skills, encourages positive competition and adds a sense of achievement when figuring out certain moves. Does it matter if it is a sport or a game?
Students in Afghanistan will no longer learn about the most recent four decades in the country's history. This decision is intended to eliminate lessons of divisiveness in wars with the former Soviet Union and America. All high school history text books will not include content after 1973. Afghan's education minister, Faooq Wardak, says that these are the first books in decades that are depoliticized and de-ethnicized. (Washington Post, Feb. 2012)
Analysis: There are two ways of looking at this: it is either a truthful attempt to allow a very tumulus time in the nations' history to heal and form a scab or it could be seen as an attempt to sweep a lot of incompetence and strive under the carpet. It is time for that nation to heal and the the is much time for the truth to be reported in the future.
New Zealand is considering a proposal to increase the teacher-student ratio and close some schools. Under this proposal, money saved will be diverted to improving quality of instruction in the country's schools. (New Zealand Herald, Fe. 2012)
Analysis: Bad move all around. The track record of bureaucrats in most societies to spend excess money to 'improvement' is a pipe dream. Smaller teacher / student ratios means more personal time and attention.
Elementary school students in Seoul, Korea get an average of just over three hours of spare time per day during the week, indicating growing competition for academic performance even among younger age groups. Elementary school children in the capital spend an average of 195.6 minutes per day in leisure activities, which is about the same as the 195.2 minutes for students in high school. South Korean parents are renowned for their educational fervor, which often puts students under immense pressure to attain good grades and enter prestigious universities. Graduates of elite colleges are considered highly likely to enjoy successful careers and a stable future. (The Kora Herald, Feb.2012)
Analysis: Think about it: three hours a day to do sport, relax, eat or play. Maybe some students in the US should be part of an exchange program to Korea to understand how good they have it when complaining about homework or being tired!
Monday, January 16, 2012
Around the World - 2012 Kick-off!
UAE
AMEinfo.com reports that according to a survey by the Health Authority-Abu Dhabi (HAAD), the emirate spends Dh1bn on healthcare every year to treat diabetics who are young and who are very likely to suffer from heart disease in the near future, Gulf News has reported. The study showed that 18% of the Abu Dhabi Emirati population suffer from Type2 diabetes and that 24% are "losing control of their sugar level" and will soon become diabetic, HAAD said.
Commentary: To spend that amount on one disease that is preventative in a small nation is alarming. It seems that a number of initiatives are needed to combat diabetes. The same issue mentioned that a diabetes clinic bus was launched to tour the United Arabian Emirates (UAE) which is a good start. But a fundamental education program is needed at school and community levels to turn this ship around - and it will take many years. To their credit, we have seen an uptick in sport promotion and physical education in this Kingdom which all contributes to the fight against preventative diseases.
FINLAND
The Finnish education system has been at the center of global attention for exactly a decade, reports ASCD SmartBrief. Ten years ago Finland's performance was mediocre compared to the rest of the world but then it changed drastically to be the leader today. What may come as a surprise is that Finland has neither engaged in researching its own, distinctive reform measures, nor generated change knowledge to steer education policy implementation. Instead, Finnish researchers have relied on the theories and insights of their international peers. In short, the Finns have been open to learning from other education systems.
The key driver of education-development policy in Finland has been providing equal and positive learning opportunities for all children and securing their well-being, including their nutrition, health, safety, and overall happiness. Finnish authorities, in this regard, have defied international convention. They have not endorsed student testing and school ranking as the path to improvement, but rather focused on teacher preparation and retention; collaboration with teachers and their union representatives; early and regular intervention for children with learning disabilities; well-rounded curricula; and equitable funding of schools throughout the country.
Commentary: The search for the optimal education system has been ongoing since the 1800's. So many factors come into play to develop a system that accommodates a large population and keep track with knowledge and development. Being a small country the Finns could take 'best practices' from all over the world to create their model. That is easier said than done. Tons of resources and a steady political commitment were needed to get to this point. Interestingly, their focus is on developing the whole child which is perhaps a message in our day of 'races to the top".
UNITED KINGDOM
Technology is changing the face of teaching and learning in England where computer games are used to teach math and animation with computer graphics are also used in this core subject.
Commentary: This is no surprising in a world where the cell phone with texting has replaced normal conversations and relationships. Officials say that the use of technology helps students with the understanding of subject matter but more importantly, keep them engaged. And every time a student is engaged, learning takes place!
USA
Teachers in Chicago in the US are testing a professional-development method known as "lesson study", which often is used in Japan. The system allows teachers to design lessons and explain their aim to colleagues. A teacher then will give the lesson to students, while dozens of colleagues observe, later offering suggestions for improvement. (WBEZ-FM - Chicago)
Commentary: There are more positives than negatives to group and peer review. Hats off to this experiment as it takes commitment from the teachers for proper preparation and for the administration to set time aside for observation by others. This type of 'spot check' is invaluable for teacher evaluation and the method allows for full disclosure.
Michael Cordier
AMEinfo.com reports that according to a survey by the Health Authority-Abu Dhabi (HAAD), the emirate spends Dh1bn on healthcare every year to treat diabetics who are young and who are very likely to suffer from heart disease in the near future, Gulf News has reported. The study showed that 18% of the Abu Dhabi Emirati population suffer from Type2 diabetes and that 24% are "losing control of their sugar level" and will soon become diabetic, HAAD said.
Commentary: To spend that amount on one disease that is preventative in a small nation is alarming. It seems that a number of initiatives are needed to combat diabetes. The same issue mentioned that a diabetes clinic bus was launched to tour the United Arabian Emirates (UAE) which is a good start. But a fundamental education program is needed at school and community levels to turn this ship around - and it will take many years. To their credit, we have seen an uptick in sport promotion and physical education in this Kingdom which all contributes to the fight against preventative diseases.
FINLAND
The Finnish education system has been at the center of global attention for exactly a decade, reports ASCD SmartBrief. Ten years ago Finland's performance was mediocre compared to the rest of the world but then it changed drastically to be the leader today. What may come as a surprise is that Finland has neither engaged in researching its own, distinctive reform measures, nor generated change knowledge to steer education policy implementation. Instead, Finnish researchers have relied on the theories and insights of their international peers. In short, the Finns have been open to learning from other education systems.
The key driver of education-development policy in Finland has been providing equal and positive learning opportunities for all children and securing their well-being, including their nutrition, health, safety, and overall happiness. Finnish authorities, in this regard, have defied international convention. They have not endorsed student testing and school ranking as the path to improvement, but rather focused on teacher preparation and retention; collaboration with teachers and their union representatives; early and regular intervention for children with learning disabilities; well-rounded curricula; and equitable funding of schools throughout the country.
Commentary: The search for the optimal education system has been ongoing since the 1800's. So many factors come into play to develop a system that accommodates a large population and keep track with knowledge and development. Being a small country the Finns could take 'best practices' from all over the world to create their model. That is easier said than done. Tons of resources and a steady political commitment were needed to get to this point. Interestingly, their focus is on developing the whole child which is perhaps a message in our day of 'races to the top".
UNITED KINGDOM
Technology is changing the face of teaching and learning in England where computer games are used to teach math and animation with computer graphics are also used in this core subject.
Commentary: This is no surprising in a world where the cell phone with texting has replaced normal conversations and relationships. Officials say that the use of technology helps students with the understanding of subject matter but more importantly, keep them engaged. And every time a student is engaged, learning takes place!
USA
Teachers in Chicago in the US are testing a professional-development method known as "lesson study", which often is used in Japan. The system allows teachers to design lessons and explain their aim to colleagues. A teacher then will give the lesson to students, while dozens of colleagues observe, later offering suggestions for improvement. (WBEZ-FM - Chicago)
Commentary: There are more positives than negatives to group and peer review. Hats off to this experiment as it takes commitment from the teachers for proper preparation and for the administration to set time aside for observation by others. This type of 'spot check' is invaluable for teacher evaluation and the method allows for full disclosure.
Michael Cordier
Friday, November 4, 2011
The Difference between 'Good' and 'Excellent' Teachers
Researchers at the London's Institute of Education set out to find what makes an 'excellent' elementary teacher. Research leader, Prof. Iram Siraj-Blatchford, says that it is bundle of behaviors working together that can make a difference to children's development. It is pointed out that all children benefit from these classrooms but disadvantaged children the most. A longitudinal study tracking 3,000 students from ages 3 to 16 provided the data that found the following:
Michael Cordier
- EXCELLENT ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS - making sure that students understand the learning objectives and associated concepts in a well organized and smooth classroom routines;
- POSITIVE CLASSROOM CLIMATE - where adults and children in the class respect each other and behavior management is sensitive;
- PERSONALIZED TEACHING - catering to individual needs and provide resources to to match those needs. Teachers are more likely to link learning in the classroom with the world outside and homework that links directly to lesson content;
- DIALOGIC TEACHING AND LEARNING - harnessing the power of talk to extend and stimulate student thinking for advance learning and understanding;
- PLENARIES - applying a plenary to recap a lesson or to provide feedback. An example is to create a group solution from individual answers.
Michael Cordier
Monday, October 17, 2011
Obesity is Still an Issue
Michigan Getting Aggressive
The fight against obesity has become stale due to overuse of the term. Luckily a lot of decision makers have not given up on this issue. Michigan Governor Rick Snyder (R) unveiled a series of proposals to tackle health issues in his state and chief amongst them is childhood obesity. He is trying to partner with state agencies schools, farmers and doctors to develop programs to encourage healthy eating and physical activity amongst the youth of Michigan. Included in his proposal is the tracking of BMI (Body Mass Index) of students over time.
Analysis: Advocates for physical education wants to move away from the term 'fight against obesity' to the term 'increase of physical activity'. They point out that obesity is the symptom while inactivity and poor nutrition are the causes. The 'fight' is therefore aimed at the wrong solution.They might have a point!
The measurement of Body Mass Index has always been a bone of contention. It is a measurement of body fat based on height and weight. Problem is that it scewer outcomes of performance athletes. However, it is pretty accurate for the general population when height and weight is measured accurately and a very good form of non-invasive data collection for all ages. Given that 20% - 30% over normal weight is considered obese and increase the risk of many preventative diseases, it is very good to measure it regularly.
Technology is Becoming part of the Education Framework Globally
Two new low-cost alternatives to Apple iPad tablet computer were released last week with the intention of providing new access to technology for students who could otherwise not afford it. KOED.org (10/11) reports that the Aakash tablet will allow unprecedented access to e-texts and other resources for students in India. The solar-powered I-Slate is set to be priced around $50 and offers a version of the handheld blackboards used by many students around the world. In Africa. more people with have access to mobile phones than electricity. Growing mobile technologies are allowing distance learning in African schools and universities and assisting in teaching primary schools in Tanzania , Kenia, and South Africa.
Analysis: When mentioning the prediction that more than 50% of students in the USA will not be tutored in a traditional school building by 2020, the reaction ranges from shock to confirmed dementia. It is interesting to see how developing countries are embracing all forms of technology to provide education while we fight about standards and test scores. These 'new learners' will have a competitive edge by default due to technology applications and irrespective of test results!
Michael Cordier
The fight against obesity has become stale due to overuse of the term. Luckily a lot of decision makers have not given up on this issue. Michigan Governor Rick Snyder (R) unveiled a series of proposals to tackle health issues in his state and chief amongst them is childhood obesity. He is trying to partner with state agencies schools, farmers and doctors to develop programs to encourage healthy eating and physical activity amongst the youth of Michigan. Included in his proposal is the tracking of BMI (Body Mass Index) of students over time.
Analysis: Advocates for physical education wants to move away from the term 'fight against obesity' to the term 'increase of physical activity'. They point out that obesity is the symptom while inactivity and poor nutrition are the causes. The 'fight' is therefore aimed at the wrong solution.They might have a point!
The measurement of Body Mass Index has always been a bone of contention. It is a measurement of body fat based on height and weight. Problem is that it scewer outcomes of performance athletes. However, it is pretty accurate for the general population when height and weight is measured accurately and a very good form of non-invasive data collection for all ages. Given that 20% - 30% over normal weight is considered obese and increase the risk of many preventative diseases, it is very good to measure it regularly.
Technology is Becoming part of the Education Framework Globally
Two new low-cost alternatives to Apple iPad tablet computer were released last week with the intention of providing new access to technology for students who could otherwise not afford it. KOED.org (10/11) reports that the Aakash tablet will allow unprecedented access to e-texts and other resources for students in India. The solar-powered I-Slate is set to be priced around $50 and offers a version of the handheld blackboards used by many students around the world. In Africa. more people with have access to mobile phones than electricity. Growing mobile technologies are allowing distance learning in African schools and universities and assisting in teaching primary schools in Tanzania , Kenia, and South Africa.
Analysis: When mentioning the prediction that more than 50% of students in the USA will not be tutored in a traditional school building by 2020, the reaction ranges from shock to confirmed dementia. It is interesting to see how developing countries are embracing all forms of technology to provide education while we fight about standards and test scores. These 'new learners' will have a competitive edge by default due to technology applications and irrespective of test results!
Michael Cordier
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Good to be Back
Dear Readers - It is a pleasure to be back after a hiatus of four months over the summer. Interesting changes have taken place in our fields of interest and the hope is to report and comment on these on a weekly basis. As always an attempt is made to specifically cover domestic and international news about health, wellness, physical education and fitness and the development of the whole child in general.
Community College Readiness in Two Years?
Edweek.org (10/3/11) reported that 21 high schools in four states are piloting an academic program that are aimed at readying all students for community college by the end of the second year in high school. Academic programs are divided into 'lower division' and 'upper division' and the goal is for every student to either enter a community college, university or a vocational program after graduation.
Comment: This approach has been tried and tested with much success in the United Kingdom and other countries. 'Lower Division' students can choose from the ACT's QualityCore program or Cambridge's General Level program. 'Upper Division' can choose from Cambridge International A and AS level programs, International Baccalaureate program or the College Board's Advanced Placement International Diploma program. This approach allows better tracking of students and help guidance councilors tremendously. It also provides students with definite career goals or at least make them think about a future after school.
Students Bypass Health Choices
Who would have thought? The New York Times (10/2/11) reports that students at Commack High School on Long Island, NY is not gravitating in droves to healthier choices in vending machines. Says one student, "I can get apples for free at home!" Sales in the first three weeks of September is less than a third of what is normally sold through vending machines.
Comment: It is going to take time to get students on a healthy path. Body weight took 20 years to get out of hand so don't expect that legislation will change habits overnight.
Michael Cordier
Community College Readiness in Two Years?
Edweek.org (10/3/11) reported that 21 high schools in four states are piloting an academic program that are aimed at readying all students for community college by the end of the second year in high school. Academic programs are divided into 'lower division' and 'upper division' and the goal is for every student to either enter a community college, university or a vocational program after graduation.
Comment: This approach has been tried and tested with much success in the United Kingdom and other countries. 'Lower Division' students can choose from the ACT's QualityCore program or Cambridge's General Level program. 'Upper Division' can choose from Cambridge International A and AS level programs, International Baccalaureate program or the College Board's Advanced Placement International Diploma program. This approach allows better tracking of students and help guidance councilors tremendously. It also provides students with definite career goals or at least make them think about a future after school.
Students Bypass Health Choices
Who would have thought? The New York Times (10/2/11) reports that students at Commack High School on Long Island, NY is not gravitating in droves to healthier choices in vending machines. Says one student, "I can get apples for free at home!" Sales in the first three weeks of September is less than a third of what is normally sold through vending machines.
Comment: It is going to take time to get students on a healthy path. Body weight took 20 years to get out of hand so don't expect that legislation will change habits overnight.
Michael Cordier
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
National Fitness and Sports Month
Spring is always associated with the notion of getting out and enjoy the outdoors. It is no wonder that the National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is celebrated during this time. The dichotomy is in the fact that while the Olympics and Super Bowl draw record numbers of television viewers, the masses seem to limit their physical activity to exactly that - watching others do it!
The Herald (Scotland - 5/17/11) reports that the numbers of students in Scotland walking to school is steadily declining despite Scottish Government attempt to promote physical activity. The latest survey found that only 45.8% of school children walked to school while two decades ago it was 62%. This is in contrast to walking being stated as the most frequent for of active travel among youth. The upside is that slightly more students cycle to school (2.8%) compared to 2.3% in 2008. Needless to say the the number one reason given by parents is the fear for the safety of children. This is not unlike the United Sates and a similar barrier for the national Safe Routes to School program.
The British Heart Foundation recently published a survey showing that 73% of students are interested in learning first aid at school that included cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It continues that more than three-quarters of parents support such teaching. According to the BBC (5/15/11), there is a push to make first-aid part of the national curriculum.
If spring is the start of your push to be more physically active, sign up for the President's Council challenge at http://www.presidentschallenge.org/ and record your progress at no cost. It's fun!
Michael Cordier
The Herald (Scotland - 5/17/11) reports that the numbers of students in Scotland walking to school is steadily declining despite Scottish Government attempt to promote physical activity. The latest survey found that only 45.8% of school children walked to school while two decades ago it was 62%. This is in contrast to walking being stated as the most frequent for of active travel among youth. The upside is that slightly more students cycle to school (2.8%) compared to 2.3% in 2008. Needless to say the the number one reason given by parents is the fear for the safety of children. This is not unlike the United Sates and a similar barrier for the national Safe Routes to School program.
The British Heart Foundation recently published a survey showing that 73% of students are interested in learning first aid at school that included cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It continues that more than three-quarters of parents support such teaching. According to the BBC (5/15/11), there is a push to make first-aid part of the national curriculum.
If spring is the start of your push to be more physically active, sign up for the President's Council challenge at http://www.presidentschallenge.org/ and record your progress at no cost. It's fun!
Michael Cordier
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Teachers - Dedicated to Serve
While turmoil circles the daily lives of teachers in the form of budgets, curriculum changes, accountability and various learning models, they continue to show up in class every day to do what they do best - teach children. This dedication to the improvement of other people's children, sometimes at great personal sacrifice, is something not quite well understood by those who lack the passion to teach. Every teacher will admit to a single moment in a classroom or conversation with a student where their life's work is made all worth it. The very reason why they at times suffer abuse from parents, administrators, politicians, and at times, unions. Most parents will admit it is tough enough raising their own brood, never mind 30 others such as theirs.
But how deep does this dedication run? The China Post (Apr 26) reports that teachers in China is concerned about a new law that will limit their work day to eight hours a day, five days a week, beginning in August. Teacher say the new rule is unacceptable because teaching often requires working additional hours. If they are forced to stop working it will leave students unattended. Wow!
This article highlights several issues:
1) Teachers in China consistently work more than eight hours a day, often more than five days a week. They do not have a three-month vacation as is the case in the USA;
2) Students are spending eight hours or more a day, with these teachers - year round;
3) Incredible discipline on the side of the students to maintain an academic workload;
4) Academic performance at school guarantees entrance to the top universities across the world;
5) Global competition is of paramount importance for these students and teachers.
This is underscored by an article in the Daily Mail (London, Apr 28) that reports the number of foreign-born students enrolling in Britain's private schools has increased by 44.4% since last year. About one-third of the students are from China and Hong Kong. As USA states cut back on education budgets and have holds on employment opportunities, one wonders how this will impact the ability of our students to compete globally. With furlough days in several states these past two years due to budget cuts, the gap seems to widen between progress in emerging countries and the status quo on the home front.
As we show appreciation for our teachers let's not forget what other nations are doing to prepare their students for the future.
Michael Cordier
But how deep does this dedication run? The China Post (Apr 26) reports that teachers in China is concerned about a new law that will limit their work day to eight hours a day, five days a week, beginning in August. Teacher say the new rule is unacceptable because teaching often requires working additional hours. If they are forced to stop working it will leave students unattended. Wow!
This article highlights several issues:
1) Teachers in China consistently work more than eight hours a day, often more than five days a week. They do not have a three-month vacation as is the case in the USA;
2) Students are spending eight hours or more a day, with these teachers - year round;
3) Incredible discipline on the side of the students to maintain an academic workload;
4) Academic performance at school guarantees entrance to the top universities across the world;
5) Global competition is of paramount importance for these students and teachers.
This is underscored by an article in the Daily Mail (London, Apr 28) that reports the number of foreign-born students enrolling in Britain's private schools has increased by 44.4% since last year. About one-third of the students are from China and Hong Kong. As USA states cut back on education budgets and have holds on employment opportunities, one wonders how this will impact the ability of our students to compete globally. With furlough days in several states these past two years due to budget cuts, the gap seems to widen between progress in emerging countries and the status quo on the home front.
As we show appreciation for our teachers let's not forget what other nations are doing to prepare their students for the future.
Michael Cordier
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Body Mass Index and Student Recording
Over the past 10 years the PEP Grant (Carol M. White grant) was the major funding vehicle for physical education in America. While obesity continues to increase among youth and adults, school districts continue to refuse increased spending in the one area that can positively impact the nation as a whole and academic performance on individual level. The obvious excuse now is the bad economy but even in the 'good old days' this single funding source provided the majority of impetus in innovation, technology and application of structured physical education.
The funding for PEP 2011/2012 is still being debated but guidelines were provided should the legislation approve funding. Major changes from past practices are evident, the first being " Program Specific Assurances for Competitive Preference # 1 - Collection of Body Mass Index (BMI) measurement". This is a shot across the bow to ensure data gathering and empirical evidence that can show any intervention to have a positive impact on the major reason for funding: fighting obesity and improving fitness.
The issue of measuring body fat in some form or another has been controversial in our politically correct society since scientists developed protocols for it. At best, it is an elective practice in some schools or school districts around the country. But other countries, who are serious about the health of their nation, simply legislate interventions such as body fat percentage measurements or Body Mass Index (ratio of height to weight) data collection. Malaysia is the most recent country that will display BMI on report cards of all students in addition to curricular subjects.
As part of Malaysia's fight against obesity, school cafeterias will be banned from selling sugary soft drinks or fattening junk foods. Food vendors selling sugary fried snacks will be discouraged (read removed) from setting up outside playgrounds after school. According to the country's health minister, almost one-third of Malaysians are overweight while a further third are obese (1.7 million below the age of 18 are obese). This is not as bad as the situation in America but the Malaysian government acted sternly and aggressively, using BMI to educate parents about ideal weight, overweight or being obese.
On serious issues such as these, where many parents are in denial, they should be applauded for doing the right thing. I predict that Malasia will drop in the Asian obesity rankings (6th currently) in one generation.
Michael Cordier
The funding for PEP 2011/2012 is still being debated but guidelines were provided should the legislation approve funding. Major changes from past practices are evident, the first being " Program Specific Assurances for Competitive Preference # 1 - Collection of Body Mass Index (BMI) measurement". This is a shot across the bow to ensure data gathering and empirical evidence that can show any intervention to have a positive impact on the major reason for funding: fighting obesity and improving fitness.
The issue of measuring body fat in some form or another has been controversial in our politically correct society since scientists developed protocols for it. At best, it is an elective practice in some schools or school districts around the country. But other countries, who are serious about the health of their nation, simply legislate interventions such as body fat percentage measurements or Body Mass Index (ratio of height to weight) data collection. Malaysia is the most recent country that will display BMI on report cards of all students in addition to curricular subjects.
As part of Malaysia's fight against obesity, school cafeterias will be banned from selling sugary soft drinks or fattening junk foods. Food vendors selling sugary fried snacks will be discouraged (read removed) from setting up outside playgrounds after school. According to the country's health minister, almost one-third of Malaysians are overweight while a further third are obese (1.7 million below the age of 18 are obese). This is not as bad as the situation in America but the Malaysian government acted sternly and aggressively, using BMI to educate parents about ideal weight, overweight or being obese.
On serious issues such as these, where many parents are in denial, they should be applauded for doing the right thing. I predict that Malasia will drop in the Asian obesity rankings (6th currently) in one generation.
Michael Cordier
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