David Wiley explores the potential of generative AI, like ChatGPT, in transforming the traditional textbook model. He proposes the concept of “generative textbooks”, which would consist of structured collections of highly crafted prompts that learners interact with, instead of reading static, linear text.
This approach would turn the learning experience into a conversation, allowing learners to ask for overviews, in-depth explanations, personally relevant examples, and immediate feedback on interactive practice. Wiley suggests that this model could enhance metacognitive skills, information literacy, and the ability to ask useful questions. He also predicts that many students might prefer the interactive, open-ended, and personalized nature of generative textbooks over traditional ones.
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This summer, as part of my doctoral work, one of my courses focuses on leading organizational change. The text, Leadership and the New Science, offers a challenging perspective on leadership.
While we normally think of organizations as well-structured, curated entities, the author here delves into fields of quantum physics and chaos theory, positing that the structure of an organization only becomes apparent after being constructed naturally, after the chaos.
Yes, it’s different. But I’m enjoying the perspective, particularly when thinking about public schools and how we just keep trying to organize teachers and students into neat little groups that fit into certain categories.
Hint: that don’t work. Period.
Forgive my foray into Kentucky speak.
Information was the topic of a recent chapter and how it influences organizations. Or, perhaps, how it builds organizations, giving life to them.
Below are some thoughts I shared with the group:
“In a constantly evolving, dynamic universe, information is a fundamental yet invisible player, one we can’t see until it takes physical form. Something we cannot see, touch, or get our hands on is out there, influencing life. Information seems to be managing us”
For most of my life, I’ve been a dealer in information. Whether it was teaching amateur performers how to harmonize in a small church choir, training employees and salespeople, teaching middle school math students, or writing articles, videos, tweets, podcasts, etc., for people worldwide on technology and education topics, I’m an information dealer.
Information, above all else, wants to be and should be free. At least, that’s what people who are smarter than me have said. Stewart Brand brought this concept into being in the early years—the very early years—of the digital age. At the first Hacker’s Conference, then again in his 1987 book The Media Lab, Brand declared, “Information wants to be free” (Brand, 1987; O’Leary, 2009). This thought became a slogan for the early hacker community (no, not those hackers, the good kind), placed forever in Hacker Ethics (The Hacker’s Ethic, 2001).
The Internet, at first a connection between 12 universities to share resources and information (High, 2018), became the democratizing force of the modern world. Over several decades, the internet has made it easier and faster to access vast information and knowledge from anywhere in the world (Castells, n.d.).
But what does this have to do with organizational leadership? Every organization communicates, and what they communicate, in its simplest form, is information.
As Wheatley (2006) discusses, information is a fundamental player in every organization, including schools (p. 96). In my experience, communicating information to every stakeholder is essential for a well-functioning school. Communicating with all stakeholders builds trust, transparency, and a positive school culture. When school leaders effectively communicate with students, parents, staff, and community members, they can keep everyone informed about what is happening inside the school and create a sense of belonging and ownership (Gurganus, 2019).
When I think about the flow of information in schools, I think back to Wheatley’s (2006) words on the Colorado River finding more than one way to reach the ocean (p.18) and how schools are finding new ways to share information within the organization as well as with the broader school community. I can only think that, as we get better at sharing information, our schools will continue to improve, and our discussions about what is equitable for all students will help guide education into a bright future.
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Many people hailed Snowden as a hero for exposing the government’s intrusion into people’s private lives, while others criticized him for jeopardizing national security. Snowden was charged with espionage and fled the country, seeking asylum in Russia, where he still resides today.
The impact of Snowden’s revelationshas been profound. His disclosures led to changes in the law, including the USA Freedom Act, which ended the NSA’s bulk collection of phone records. Tech companies, such as Apple and Google, also implemented stronger encryption to protect their users’ data from government surveillance.
However, the debate about surveillance and privacy continues. In recent years, there have been concerns about the use of facial recognition technology, the collection of data by social media companies, and the government’s ability to access encrypted communications.
I understand why schools use this software (full disclosure: my own school district uses a system to block access to certain sites and actively monitors student usage) and have seen that it can be helpful when students need help outside of the school setting. However, using these tools must be constrained to protecting students and not for teachers and administrators to play “gotcha.”
Privacy is the ultimate issue of our time for every person who accesses the Internet. There is no substitute for protecting privacy at all costs.
Ten years after Snowden’s revelations, it’s clear that his actions sparked a valuable conversation about government surveillance and privacy. While opinions about Snowden himself may be divided, there’s no denying the impact he’s had on the world.
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When it comes to personal growth and learning, the difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset is huge. In simplest terms, a growth mindset is when you believe that you can improve your skills with practice and hard work. A fixed mindset is when you think that your abilities are set in stone and can’t really be changed.
These two ways of thinking shape how you feel about your abilities, how you see challenges, and how you deal with setbacks. For instance, if you have a growth mindset, you might see a challenge as a way to learn and grow, but if you have a fixed mindset, you might see the same challenge as evidence of your limitations. And if you face a setback, someone with a growth mindset might use it as a chance to reflect and improve, while someone with a fixed mindset might see it as proof that they’re not good enough.
It’s important to know about these mindsets and how they affect our lives because they can impact how motivated we are, how we handle obstacles, and how successful we are. If we focus on having a growth mindset and believe that we can get better with practice, we can achieve more and overcome challenges more easily.
Exploring The Fixed Mindset
A fixed mindset is grounded in the belief that our abilities are innate and unchangeable. This can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy where people with a fixed mindset believe that their talents and skills are predetermined, making them less likely to take risks and try new things. This can stifle personal growth and development, as individuals with a fixed mindset may avoid challenges for fear of failure. Instead of viewing setbacks as learning opportunities, they may perceive them as personal deficiencies. It’s important to recognize the limitations of a fixed mindset and how detrimental that mindset can be to your personal success.
The Growth Mindset Paradigm
Contrarily, a growth mindset propels the idea that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort, learning, and persistence. Carol Dweck first popularized the idea of a growth mindset in her seminal work, Mindset. It’s about viewing challenges as opportunities to learn, grow, and improve. Instead of avoiding difficult tasks, individuals with a growth mindset embrace them, understanding that effort is a critical path to mastery.
The Underlying Neuroscience
The concept of neuroplasticity, which is the ability of our brains to reorganize and form new connections, supports the growth mindset theory. This has significant implications in various areas of our lives, such as education, personal growth, and professional development. In the context of education, understanding the potential of our brain’s neuroplasticity can lead to designing teaching practices that help students develop a growth mindset. Educators can encourage students to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, which can foster learning and innovation.
Teachers who adopt a growth mindset can empower their students by providing them with the tools and support they need to take charge of their own learning. By fostering student agency, teachers can help to create a more collaborative and dynamic learning environment, where students are encouraged to take risks and explore new ideas. The growth mindset can also influence personal growth through developing habits and mindsets that facilitate neuroplasticity, such as engaging in novel experiences or practicing mindfulness.
Finally, school leaders can create a culture of learning and development by promoting a growth mindset, which can lead to improved performance and innovation. By recognizing that the mindsets of students, teachers, and school leaders can be developed through dedication and hard work, we can tap into our limitless potential and foster personal and professional growth.
Comparing Fixed and Growth Mindsets
While a fixed mindset can lead to stagnation and a fear-based approach to life, a growth mindset promotes continuous improvement, resilience, and a love for learning. The comparison between these two mindsets can be seen in how they respond to challenges, deal with criticism, and approach success.
Examples of Fixed Mindset Students:
Elementary School: A student in third grade named Michael was hesitant to try new activities because he was afraid of making mistakes. His teacher noticed that he often gave up when things got difficult and encouraged him to keep trying. Michael responded, “I’m just not good at this. I don’t want to keep doing it.”
Middle School: A student in seventh grade named Emily struggled with math. She had always believed that she just wasn’t good at it and that she would never understand. Her teacher noticed that Emily often shut down during math class and rarely asked questions. When her teacher tried to encourage her and tell her that she was capable of understanding math, Emily responded, “I’m just not smart enough for this. It’s too hard.”
High School: A student in eleventh grade named John was interested in playing the guitar but was hesitant to join the school band. He believed that he wasn’t musically talented and that he would embarrass himself. When his music teacher suggested that he try out for the band, John responded, “I’m not good enough. I’ll just mess up and embarrass myself.”
Elementary School: A student in second grade named Sarah struggled with reading. Her teacher encouraged her to keep practicing, telling her, “It’s okay to make mistakes, that’s how we learn!” Sarah began to see reading as a challenge to overcome and eventually became an avid reader.
Middle School: A student in eighth grade named Alex was struggling in math class. His teacher noticed that he was becoming discouraged and decided to work with him one-on-one after class. She encouraged him to view mistakes as opportunities to learn and to keep trying. Alex’s hard work and persistence paid off, and he eventually became one of the top students in the class.
High School: A student in twelfth grade named Maria was nervous about taking the SATs. Her guidance counselor reminded her that the test was just one step in her college application process and that many resources were available to help her prepare. Maria embraced the challenge, seeking out study materials and practice tests. Maria scored higher than she had expected and was accepted into her top-choice university.
Adopting a growth mindset is a valuable approach that can significantly improve student outcomes and teacher practice. It encourages students to embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, which is a vital aspect of developing problem-solving skills and promoting a healthy approach to failure. In addition to this, adopting a growth mindset also provides a framework for teachers to promote student agency and authentic learning experiences, which can help to create a more dynamic and engaging learning environment.
It is important to recognize that a growth mindset is not just about intelligence or natural talent. Instead, it is about understanding that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. By adopting this approach, students and teachers alike can tap into their limitless potential and set the foundation for continuous personal and professional development.
Building Growth Mindset in the Classroom: Concrete Practices to Support Student Persistence
One of the key benefits of adopting a growth mindset is that it can promote a more positive attitude toward learning. When students are encouraged to view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, they are more likely to take an active role in their own learning. This can lead to increased motivation, engagement, and a greater sense of ownership over the learning process.
Similarly, teachers who adopt a growth mindset can help to empower their students by providing them with the tools and support they need to take charge of their own learning. By fostering student agency, teachers can help to create a more collaborative and dynamic learning environment, where students are encouraged to take risks and explore new ideas.
320 Pages – 02/28/2006 (Publication Date) – Random House (Publisher)
Shifting from a Fixed to Growth Mindset
Adopting a growth mindset is not a destination, but a journey. It involves recognizing and challenging our fixed mindset beliefs, embracing challenges, persisting in the face of setbacks, and understanding that effort is the path to mastery. This shift fuels our potential, ignites our creativity, and empowers us to achieve our goals.
In conclusion, understanding and implementing the growth mindset in our lives can empower us to become better learners, innovative thinkers, and proactive individuals. By recognizing that our abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work, we can truly tap into our limitless potential and foster personal and professional growth
Today, we’re witnessing a transformative phase in the educational landscape, significantly driven by technology. From creating engaging and immersive learning experiences to empowering educators and students with access to limitless resources, technology plays an indispensable role in modern education.
The progression from traditional chalk-and-board classrooms to interactive digital learning environments is not just a shift in teaching methods. It’s a change that enhances student engagement, collaboration, and personalized learning while opening avenues to global knowledge repositories.
Technological Integration: A Step-By-Step Implementation Guide
For any educational institution planning to embrace technology, it’s crucial to understand the implementation process. This will ensure a smooth transition and maximize the benefits of technology integration.
Step 1: Establish Clear Goals
Begin with a clear vision of what you wish to achieve. Establish the learning outcomes and the ways technology can enhance those. Whether it’s increasing student engagement, encouraging collaboration, or personalizing learning experiences, having clear goals will guide your technological integration.
Step 2: Assess the Infrastructure
Assessing the existing infrastructure is the next critical step. Determine the state of current resources, including hardware, software, and internet connectivity, and identify areas of improvement. This will ensure that the technology integration aligns with the institution’s capabilities.
Equip teachers with the necessary training to navigate the new technology. Professional development programs ensure teachers are comfortable using the tools, making their teaching more effective.
Step 4: Evaluate and Choose the Right Technology
Research and identify the technologies that align with your goals. Whether it’s learning management systems (LMS), interactive whiteboards, or student response systems, evaluate each based on their utility and compatibility with your institution’s needs.
Step 5: Gradual Integration and Constant Evaluation
Integrate technology gradually into the learning environment and constantly evaluate its effectiveness. This will ensure that the technology enhances the learning experience as intended.
244 Pages – 11/15/2022 (Publication Date) – Independently published (Publisher)
The Impact of Technology on Student Engagement and Collaboration
The integration of technology in education can greatly enhance student engagement. Interactive tools and multimedia content cater to various learning styles, making the learning process more engaging and inclusive.
Additionally, technology fosters collaboration among students. Digital platforms enable students to collaborate in real-time, irrespective of their geographical location. This cultivates a sense of community and encourages peer-to-peer learning.
Technology and Personalized Learning
One of the significant benefits of technology in education is the opportunity for personalized learning. Digital platforms provide adaptive learning experiences tailored to individual students’ needs, thereby making learning more effective and enjoyable.
The Way Forward
With the growing influence of technology in education, it’s important for educational institutions to adapt and evolve. While the path to technological integration may seem daunting, it promises a future of enhanced learning experiences, better student engagement, and personalized education.
The future of education is undoubtedly intertwined with technology. It’s time to embrace this change and leverage the endless opportunities that technology presents to enhance learning experiences. With a strategic approach to implementation, we can ensure that technology serves as an effective tool in our mission to educate and inspire the next generation.
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When you stand inside somebody’s library, you get a powerful sense of who they are, and not just who they are now but who they’ve been. . . . It’s a wonderful thing to have in a house. It’s something I worry is endangered by the rise of the e-book. When you turn off an e-book, there’s no map. All that’s left behind is a chunk of gray plastic.
Lev Grossman
There’s something comforting about surrounding yourself with books. If you’re not sure what that feeling is, I encourage you to take a trip to your local public library. Head inside, stroll into the first stack of books you see, and just stand there.
Don’t grab a book yet. Don’t walk around the stacks and browse. Just stand there. Let the voices of past and present speak to you. Hear the wisdom of ages, the folly of tyrants, and let the whimsical dance of poets blanket your soul.
For a bibliophile, there’s no greater pleasure than sharing beloved books, but no crueler pain than losing them for good-until the Personal Library Kit
Revive old-fashioned library circulation techniques for fun and book retention with our classic bestseller
For bibliophiles, there’s no greater pleasure than sharing your beloved reads. With the Knock Knock Personal Library Kit, you can share your favorites, fret-free! Simply place the self-adhesive pocket inside the cover, complete the circulation card, and loan away
Includes: one (1) kit including 6 x 7.50 x 1.25-inches gifty box, 20 self-adhesive pockets and card catalog checkout cards / bookplates, date stamp, inkpad and pencil
If you dig library card pockets, date stampers, and cool book accessories, this beauty’s for you
The perfect gift for book lovers and old-school card catalog fans! Best of all, this classic bestseller comes in a fancy gift-ready package that looks like an actual book!
Knock Knock is an independent maker of clever gifts, books, and whatever else they can think up; their mission is to bring humor, creativity, and smarts to everyday life
【Advantage Set】You will get 50 vintage library card bookmark, 50 kraft library pouches, 1 adjustable date stamp, 1 black ink pad, 1 kraft roller pens black, 1 pack of light champagne raffia and 1 exquisite gift box, a total of 105 pieces, enough to meet your daily use and replacement needs; you can also share with others and swim in the ocean of books together.
【Perfect Size】Each library card is approximately 7.6*12.7cm/ 2.99 x5 inches, the library card pocket is approximately 9*11.5cm/ 3.54 x 4.53 inches, the date stamp is approximately 7.7*3.2*2.7cm /3.03*1.26*1.06 inches, the ink pad is approximately 7.5*5*1.7cm/ 2.95 x 0.67 inches, the paper pen is approximately 14 cm/ 5.51 inches long, the gift box is approximately 22.5*17.5*3.5cm/ 8.86 x 6.89 x 1.38 inches, the extra hard airplane box is approximately 25*19*4cm/9.84*7.48*1.57 inches, and the weight of the light champagne raffia is approximately 10 grams; the right size is suitable for you.
【Durable Material】These library book checkout cards and kraft envelopes are made of reliable paper material, smooth and thick enough to write on, no ink seepage, the pockets have self-adhesive properties, can be firmly adhered to the book, not easy to fall off. The date stamp and ink pad leave a clear impression every time you use it due to the excellent ink transfer function.
【Perfect Combination】The little free library kit is rich and complete, which can be used as a personal library kit and a gift for book lovers. You can write with the provided pen to stamp the date as needed, take notes or memories, and create your personal library collection.
【Wide Application】Due date note cards and library card pockets can be used in the book lending system, which helps to improve the efficiency of public libraries, school libraries or private libraries, and keep good borrowing and return records. This library lending tool kit is rich and complete, suitable for family, friends, colleagues, neighbors who love reading, and is an ideal gift for generous readers.
You don’t have to take a book home, but you should. You don’t have to pick up a book at all, but you should.
If you stand in the library long enough, you’ll feel a pull on your inner being.
That’s the feeling I’m speaking of right now. The feeling that there is something you need in one of those books; the feeling that what you are seeking is within your grasp.
You can have this feeling at home by building a personal library. A personal library is an excellent tool for both personal and professional growth. It serves to remind you of the vast amount of knowledge that exists in the world, and how much there is still to learn. In addition, it helps to keep you humble by showing you how much you don’t know.
My own journey toward building a personal library began during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s still a long way from where I want it to be, but I’m well on my way.
Building a personal library isn’t just about stocking books on a shelf. It’s about creating a refuge, a personal sanctuary that houses the wisdom of the ages and sparks your imagination. It’s about carving out a space that reflects your identity, where each book has been handpicked with love and care.
By building your personal library, you can discover new interests and passions and expand your understanding of the world around you. It serves as a hedge against hubris and complacency, providing a constant source of inspiration and motivation for personal growth.
“Read books are far less valuable than unread ones,” author Nassim Nicholas Taleb claims. Your “library should contain as much of what you do not know as your financial means, mortgage rates, and the currently tight real-estate market allow you to put there. You will accumulate more knowledge and more books as you grow older, and the growing number of unread books on the shelves will look at you menacingly.”
I know not everyone has the means to build a personal library of thousands of books. The thought of owning even 100 books might seem overwhelming. I promise it’s easier to get there than you think.
Whatever you may have, start building a personal library. Start small by buying physical copies of the books you love. Buy them whenever you have a chance and the means.
“In a good bookroom you feel in some mysterious way that you are absorbing the wisdom contained in all the books through your skin, without even opening them.”
Mark Twain
Let’s look at the process of building a personal library from scratch…
Building a Personal Library: The First Steps
Why Build a Personal Library? Before you dive headfirst into book buying, take a step back. Why do you want to build a personal library? Understanding your motives can help guide your choices and make the process more meaningful. Perhaps you’re an avid reader looking to curate a collection that reflects your literary journey. Maybe you’re a budding scholar seeking a comprehensive research resource. Or perhaps, you just want a stunning visual display of your love for books. Whatever your reasons, keep them close to heart.
Space-Saving: This 11.81″D x 23.62″W x 62.2″H book shelf occupies little floor space yet offers you 5 tiers of vertical storage organizer. You can use it to place all kinds of items, such as books, garage kit, CDs, potted plants, etc. as you like
Stable & Durable Construction: The modern bookcase are made of premium metal and selected particle board. The tall bookshelf is stable, sturdy, and durable. The narrow bookshelf adopt excellent panel with each panel of the bookcase holding up to 30 lbs
Multiple Usage Scenarios: The simple and fashionable exterior design complements various home styles, making your 5 tier bookshelf not only a place to store, but also a decoration, adding an artistic atmosphere to your space. Idea for living room, bedroom, study, entrance, hallway, office, etc
Farmhouse Design Style: This modern farmhouse bookcase is the perfect combination of shelf and cabinet, special color collocation, has a beautiful appearance, is a perfect decoration.
Modern Industrial Style Display Storage Shelves：This home bookshelf with hard durable P2 grade MDF board, simple, sturdy, and functional. You can put it in your living room, study room, bedroom, and office. Choose Shintenchi Bookcase, make your space neat, tidy, and also in great style. Of course, you can also place multiple bookcases together to create a small library and enjoy the tranquility.
Stable & Safe: There is a stability device behind the large bookcases, you can fix it during installation to ensure the comfort of your family and pets, while avoiding accidental collapse of it and damage to the floor. We will provide customers with stable and safe bookshelves.
WIDE & FUNCTIONAL DESIGN: This book shelf features a wide, open design rectangular shape shelves, making it ideal for living rooms, home offices, or bedrooms seeking accessible horizontal storage
3-TIER WIDE BOOKCASE: This bookshelf provides three spacious shelves perfect for storing books, showcasing decor, or organizing office supplies while maintaining a sleek profile that blends seamlessly with both classic and modern interior styles
WEIGHT CAPACITY: Each shelf of this 3-tier bookcase holds up to 10 lbs; total unit supports up to 30 lbs
Choosing a Space for Your Library. Next on the agenda is choosing a space. Think about where you’d like to house your books. A spare room, a cozy corner, or even a dedicated wall can serve as your personal library. The key is to choose a space that you’ll enjoy spending time in. Ideally, it should be quiet, well-lit, and comfortable.
Book Acquisition: The Heart of Building a Personal Library
Choosing Your Books Now comes the fun part – choosing your books! Start by considering your reading preferences. Are you a fan of classic literature or contemporary fiction? Do you love sci-fi, or are you more of a mystery enthusiast? Don’t just limit yourself to fiction. Your library can house a range of non-fiction genres, from history and philosophy to memoirs and travelogues.
Remember, building a personal library isn’t a race. It’s a journey of discovery, so take your time. Each book should add value to your collection, so consider each addition carefully.
Where to Buy Your Books Books can be sourced from a variety of places. Traditional bookstores, online retailers, second-hand stores, library sales, and even garage sales are all potential gold mines. Don’t shy away from used books; they often come with a sense of character and history that new books lack.
Organizing Your Personal Library
Categorization and Organization: Now that you have your books, it’s time to arrange them. You could sort them alphabetically, by genre, by color, or by personal significance. Experiment and see what works best for you. Remember, the main purpose of organizing is to make it easier for you to find a particular book when you need it.
Labeling Your Books: Consider labeling your books for added organization. You could invest in a personal library kit, complete with bookplates and a date stamp. Not only does this add a touch of professionalism, but it can also give your library an authentic feel.
“Don’t ever apologise to an author for buying something in paperback, or taking it out from a library (that’s what they’re there for…use your library). Don’t apologise to this author for buying books second hand, or getting them from bookcrossing or borrowing a friend’s copy. What’s important to me is that people read the books and enjoy them, and that, at some point in there, the book was bought by someone. And that people who like things, tell other people. The most important thing is that people read…”
Write on labels – premium paper writeable labels compatible with markers, pens, pencils, even crayons, kids can write on their own name with no issue.
Quantity and size – 60 pcs book plates, 2 x 2 inch large book label stickers size with enough space for writing.
Keep Your Library Organized: – These bookplate labels are perfect for keeping your personal or classroom library organized with ease. Unique design by Mobiusea designers. These book labels are simple and classic, for kids and adults.
Deep Category Coverage: Provides thorough coverage for each genre, specifically including often-overlooked but important Humor and Arts categories for more comprehensive classification.
High-Value Configuration: 90 labels per category ensures adequate supply even for large libraries, preventing early depletion of frequently used genres.
Supports Curriculum Learning: Specifically selects genres closely tied to school curricula (History, Biography, Historical Fiction), directly supporting social studies and language arts.
Creating the Ambience: The Soul of Your Personal Library
Furniture and Lighting: The ambiance of your library is crucial in creating a space where you’ll want to spend time. Select comfortable seating options, such as a plush armchair or a chaise lounge. Consider a sturdy table for your cup of tea or coffee. And don’t forget the lighting – a combination of natural and artificial light works best.
Spring Packs Cushion – This chaise lounge indoor provides support and a cushioned feel, which improves the overall comfort of the chaise lounge. Springs help absorb the impact of repeated use and prevent the cushions from deteriorating quickly. This extends the life of the office chaise lounge chair and reduces the need for frequent replacements.
Durable Corduroy Fabric – This corduroy chaise lounge has a unique pattern and texture, characterised by parallel ridges that give it a smooth and soft feel. The chaise lounge chair has a clear and rounded velvet-like surface, which adds to its luxurious appearance. Additionally, corduroy chaise lounge chair is thick and wear-resistant, making it an excellent choice for those who demand comfort and durability.
No Need to Install – Unboxing the large chaise lounge is as simple as it gets—no assembly needed. Just give it a light tap once you’ve taken it out of the packaging, and chaise chair will gradually bounce back to its original shape within 48 hours. So it is not so fluffy and comfortable when you just unpacked it, you can pat the cushion to make it fluffy and feel better. Our chaise lounge sofa oversize chair comes compactly packed in a single box for your convenience
Modern Oversized Accent Chair: This comfy reading chair features a sleek, contemporary design with an arched backrest and curved armrests. Its clean lines and elegant shape blend seamlessly into any living room, bedroom, or study, adding a touch of sophistication to your space
Sturdy and Long-Lasting: Crafted with a robust wooden and iron frame, this armchair ensures long-lasting durability and stability. The high-density foam padding in the backrest, armrests, and seat provides reliable support for daily use, making it a dependable choice for any home
Perfect Size: Measuring 38.58″ W x 33.07″ D x 34.25″ H with a seat size of 20.5″ W x 20.5″ D, this modern accent chair accommodates various body types comfortably. It supports up to 400 lbs, offering a stable and spacious seating option for users
【Soft and comfortable lounge chair】This recliner is made of highly elastic foam, which not only ensures a soft feeling, but also provides excellent support. You can experience the feeling of being in the cloud in this 360 ° circular recliner, eliminate your fatigue, and relax your body and mind.
【Comfortable touch and strong durability】Corduroy fabric has a soft and comfortable touch. Its velvet strips are clear and round, with a soft luster,giving people a warm and warm feeling. And it has strong wear resistance, which can extend the service life of the product.
【Ergonomically Designed】This lounge chair is equipped with a large cushion, two soft pillows, and a bottom anti slip pad, which can better support your waist, neck, and back, better adapt to your body curves, ensure excellent comfort, and enjoy your leisure time.
Decor and Personal Touches Lastly, infuse your personal style into your library. Decorate with artwork, potted plants, cozy rugs, or anything else that brings you joy. Remember, this is your space, so make it uniquely yours.
FAQs about Building a Personal Library
1. How much does it cost to build a personal library? The cost can vary greatly depending on your book-buying habits and the décor you choose. Building a personal library doesn’t have to be expensive, especially if you’re open to buying second-hand books and re-purposing furniture.
2. How long does it take to build a personal library? Building a personal library is a personal journey that can take as long as you want. It’s more about the quality of your collection than the quantity.
3. How many books do I need to start a personal library? There’s no set number. Your library could start with a handful of books that mean a lot to you. Over time, it can grow to house hundreds or even thousands of volumes.
4. Do I need a lot of space to build a personal library? Not necessarily. While a dedicated room is ideal, you can also create a beautiful library in a small corner or even on a single bookshelf.
5. How do I maintain my personal library? Keeping your books clean and in good condition is important. Dust them regularly and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or high humidity.
6. Can I digitize my personal library? Yes, digitizing your library is a great way to catalog and keep track of your books. There are various apps and software available for this purpose.
Conclusion
Building a personal library is a labor of love, a testament to your passion for books and learning. It’s a journey full of joy, self-discovery, and the simple pleasure of holding a good book in your hands. So, take your time, enjoy the process, and above all, let your library be a reflection of you. Happy reading!
The Eclectic Educator is a free resource for everyone passionate about education and creativity. If you enjoy the content and want to support the newsletter, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Your support helps keep the insights and inspiration coming!
Greetings starfighters. It’s time for another edition of “10 Things” worth sharing with you. It’s almost the end of the school year here in the Bluegrass, and my thoughts turn to summer and to my daughter’s impending move to middle school. I’m old.
Anyway, I hope your life is just as interesting. Perhaps some of these shares will make it even more so.
10 Things Worth Sharing
-I read around 100ish books per year, but as a doctoral student, I’m having to read more. Here are some tips from two experts on how you can read more than you thought possible.
-Some thoughts on how we can avoid raising machines (hint: let’s stop standardized testing) and raise humans.
-I put together some quick resources on Juneteenth that you may find helpful. I know most schools aren’t in session by the time Juneteenth rolls around, but we can’t overlook teaching this important date.
-One of my elementary teachers (and Future Shift Fellowship cohort member) created a podcast with her students. Actually, the students did all the work. It’s pretty awesome.
-Friend and professor John Nash, Ph.D., has done some amazing work with AI in his classes. In a recent episode of his podcast, he talks about testing AI and what does and doesn’t work.
-Fun stuff: if you’re of a certain age, you may remember The Midnight Special. What you may not know is that the show is back, thanks to the official YouTube channel.
-Have you ever seen a copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio? Here’s your chance.
BONUS: As I was compiling this list, I got the notification that you can now provide input on the National Educational Technology Plan. Polls are open for K-12 Educators and Families. Please take some time to let your voice be heard. This is the first time since COVID-19 hit that this important policy document is getting an update. You can access the links to either poll right here.
Thanks for reading. The end of the school year means we’re officially in the “dads and grads” gifting season. I’ve put together a couple of book lists for quick and easy gifting. Here’s one for dads and one for grads. Enjoy!
Penguin Random House, the leading book publisher in the nation, has partnered with PEN America in a significant endeavor to challenge book banning. In an ongoing legal battle, they have joined a coalition comprising parents, authors, and concerned individuals who filed a federal lawsuit against the imposition of bans in Escambia County, Florida.
Escambia County, situated in northwest Florida, has recently enacted restrictions on or removed a minimum of 16 books from public school libraries and classrooms. The banned books encompass a wide range of literary works, including the debut novel of a Nobel Prize laureate and a beloved coming-of-age bestseller from the 1990s.
Among the contested books is “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” which not only achieved success as a novel but also gained popularity as a hit movie. Last autumn, a local high school teacher raised objections to this book and over a hundred others, prompting Christian activists to voice their concerns at multiple school board meetings.
One such activist, Aaron Schneier, a parent from Pensacola, defended the removal of books, arguing that it does not constitute censorship to exclude explicit or sexually provocative literature from school settings. School board member Kevin Adams supported the removal of “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” from the optional 12th-grade novel study, emphasizing the need to establish standards of conduct and manners for students that align with his personal values.
Suzanne Nossel, the executive director of PEN America, expressed the organization’s commitment to defending free speech. Over the past two years, PEN America has meticulously documented more than 4,000 cases of book bans or removals. Escambia County’s situation was deemed particularly egregious, prompting the decision to file this lawsuit. The plaintiffs involved include affected parents, students, Penguin Random House as an affected publisher, and other concerned individuals. They collectively advocate for the intervention of the judicial system to uphold constitutional rights.
Among the plaintiffs is Ashley Hope Perez, an acclaimed writer whose bestselling book, “Out of Darkness,” depicts a love story between a Mexican American girl and an African American boy. Perez humorously remarks that her book is “super banned,” having faced bans in numerous locations, including Escambia County. She observes a recurring pattern wherein books like hers become targets for removal by groups such as Moms for Liberty, which offer pre-prepared talking points. Perez further highlights the lack of substantive engagement with the content of these books, often accompanied by repetitive typographical errors.
While Perez prefers open discussions over legal battles, she recognizes the necessity of utilizing the tools of democracy during this critical moment. She emphasizes that young people seek narratives that are not sanitized but rather provide opportunities to explore challenging issues and imagine lives different from their own.
In response to the mounting pressure, the Escambia School Board announced a temporary halt to book challenges, extending indefinitely. NPR’s attempts to obtain comments from the school board went unanswered.
The joint efforts of Penguin Random House, PEN America, and the coalition of plaintiffs underscore a broader fight against book banning, advocating for the preservation of intellectual freedom and the exploration of diverse perspectives.
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While the bureaucrats continue to ban books, undermine progressive education, and attempt to influence a generation on the necessity of backward thinking, the business world continues to think of new ways to get people into jobs more quickly by cutting out the traditional paths to careers.
We’re only going to see more and more of this type of shift to training usable skills that allow more flexibility for young people, or those who want to start anew.
Meanwhile, public education will continue to slug it out with pompous gasbags who don’t want anything to change yet continue to blame public education for all evils.
I’m sure when many professionals look back on their grad school experience, there are a few things they’d tell their past selves.
“Slow down.”
“Pace yourself.”
“Take care of yourself.”
Face it, grad school requires a ton of time and effort. And many grade students are working full-time while they’re in school, adding to the pressure and lack of time to complete school work.
Yes, there’s lots to do in grad school, but taking time for yourself is still important. Doing well in grad school is important, too, but if you don’t take care of yourself, your accomplishments in school are for naught.
So, let’s get back to your reading habit.
Reading books can help you develop new habits, stay motivated, and increase your energy levels. And reading keeps your brain engaged more than binging 17 seasons of your favorite shows on Netflix (although, sometimes, you need a binge).
Reading for Leisure
I have lots of reading to do in my studies. Let’s face it: most reading for grad school is NOT fun. It may be interesting and, hopefully, informs your work, but it’s not stirring anything deep in your soul.
Should you read for pleasure when you’re in grad school? OF COURSE!
Even if you get in just a few hours a week of reading your favorite genre, you will benefit. Don’t overlook the benefits of jumping into another world for a few hours and forget about the pressures of grad school.
Let’s take a look at some books to help you in your grad school journey. These books cover the writing process, productivity, self-care, and some fun reads.
If you’re having trouble making headway with your writing, you might want to check out “How to Write a Lot” by Paul Silvia. It’s not going to turn you into Shakespeare or anything, but it can help you build good writing habits and make it easier to separate your writing time from your personal time. The book breaks the writing process down into bite-sized chunks, making it easier to tackle and giving you plenty of opportunities to celebrate your progress. Definitely worth a shot – you might be surprised at how much you can get done.
This book is a total classic, and it’s all about how to write and how to get over writer’s block and all those pesky mental roadblocks that get in the way of writing. It’s not specifically about grad school or academia, but it’s on this list because it’s basically the bee’s knees when it comes to writing advice.
The title comes from a story the author wrote when she was a kid about writing a paper about birds. Like “How to Write a Lot,” this is all about taking it slow and steady, tackling one small task at a time.
A unique book that can help snap you out of typical academic writing mode “…thus the present findings elucidate a novel method for exploring the behavior and interactions of…”
Almost poetic. Almost rhythmic. Straight to the point. The author explains in free form the fallacies and illusions of forming sentences and getting them onto the page. This will force you to re-think your mental process resulting in better sentences and better papers.
The end of the book covers examples of common sentences and calls out the superfluous wording, re-writing it with only the essentials.
If you’re lacking motivation, struggling to get started every day, or are completely overwhelmed by the massive task at hand, give this book a look. It doesn’t offer any real advice on the details of a dissertation but instead aims to instill confidence in the reader. The author guides you through setting daily page goals, storing ideas, and getting something–anything–down on the page each day. Essentially a personal confidence coach for writing, applicable to more than just a dissertation.
Starting your literature review is the hardest part. It feels like a daunting task without a clear path to success. This book helps break down each step in the process into achievable goals supplemented by strategies for efficiently and effectively approaching each one. The few hours spent reading this book will be paid back to you in saving time researching and writing later. It will help save your sanity and reduce anxiety approaching your first literature review.
This book has been instrumental in maintaining my sanity. Hal Elrod’s book shares his technique of six popular morning routine practices: exercise, reading, journaling, visualization, affirmations, and meditation. He started doing all of them every morning after a near-fatal car accident left him physically and mentally impaired. He refined the timing and intentions around each practice and shared it with friends, which exploded by word-of-mouth. Eventually, he wrote a book to share the technique with the world.
This book is highly recommended for anyone with a self-driven and self-structured workday, like a typical grad student. Read it soon to see how it can greatly impact your life.
In my mind, this book is the bible of productivity.
“The Getting Things Done (GTD) program is designed to help you do the things you have to do with less time, energy, and effort so you can do more of the things you want to do.
The crux of the GTD system is to store every task, reminder, and note bouncing around your brain in an external organization system to free up your mental energy to actually focus on the task at hand. Your brain is great at creating and processing things but not at remembering them, so trying to keep track of everything in your head saps your brainpower from doing what your mind does best.
The Eclectic Educator is a free resource for everyone passionate about education and creativity. If you enjoy the content and want to support the newsletter, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Your support helps keep the insights and inspiration coming!
