The term "best practice" is widely used throughout education despite lack of evidence or consensus concerning which practices are "best." The pervasive use of this term creates three problems. First, it promotes a plug-and-play approach, in which teachers are encouraged to adopt new methods and use them as much as possible but…

The purpose of this study was to determine what kinds of plans teachers make prior to the time they enter the classroom. (CD)

Just because an activity crosses subject matter lines does not make it worthwhile; it must also accomplish important educational goals. Learning activities should be educationally significant or desirable even without the integration feature. Activities should also foster, rather than disrupt or nullify, major goals in each subject area. (MLH)

Students are most intellectually engaged when they help define lesson content, have time to pursue an interesting direction, are allowed different forms of expression, create original and public products, and accomplish a socially relevant task. Teachers can help engage and empower students by developing overarching goals, gaining insights through…

Heritage month programs may actually reinforce stereotypes. When planning heritage events, schools should develop learning objectives; address values, history, and current power relationships shaping cultures; employ food and dance in context; include all Americas; portray present-day Native Americans; and examine overall school curriculum and…