Stop Asking Teachers to Chase the Discovery Dragon

The phrase “chasing the dragon” refers to the classic cycle of addiction. People keep chasing the dragon not because it’s working, but because they’re convinced the payoff will eventually come — if only they keep trying. (I’ll spare you a digression into my history with the game of golf.) Teachers are told to chase the … Continue reading Stop Asking Teachers to Chase the Discovery Dragon

Science of Learning Jargon And Element Interactivity

A possible barrier to the science of learning movement is that there are potentially a lot of research terms and definitions that need to be learned in order to communicate clearly with one another. On the one hand, the pursuit of a shared language among educators is worthwhile. If when you say productive struggle, I … Continue reading Science of Learning Jargon And Element Interactivity

Direct Instruction Embodies the Science of Learning

In one of my more popular posts, I argued that we need to do better than just nod politely at Direct Instruction (DI). Cognitive Load Theory is honored through DI’s ruthless efficiency: every word is deliberate, every example intentional, every new piece of content layered step by step to keep working memory clear and focused. … Continue reading Direct Instruction Embodies the Science of Learning