VARconnection

What are “Genius Hours”?

Genius hours are a fairly new trend in education. The concept behind them is simple- students have one hour a week to explore and learn about whatever they want. The idea is that giving students the freedom to explore the topics they are passionate about helps them stay engaged and retain information. Continue reading →

The Benefits of Creating a Flexible Classroom

WHAT IS A FLEXIBLE CLASSROOM? Flexibility is hard to define in the classroom setting. Are we referring to the colors on the wall? The lighting? The seating? The way students interact with teachers? The real definition is a combination of all of these things, which makes it difficult to determine how flexible classrooms affect student … Continue reading →

Is Video the Key to Personalized Learning?

Social media outlets continue to adjust their algorithms to better accommodate and encourage video – is it time for teachers to do the same? In the digital age, nearly everything we see online has been customized so that it appeals specifically to us. Things are, in fact, getting personal. Education is no exception to this … Continue reading →

Everything You Missed at TCEA 2020

THE TRENDS Esports – It’s what literally EVERYONE is talking about, and for good reason! In Texas school districts alone, esports programs grew from about 20 to more than 300 in the span of a few months leading up to TCEA 2020. Teachers and students are getting increasingly excited about the STEAM curriculum possibilities both … Continue reading →

Exclusive EdTech during TCEA

The Emerging Tech in STEAM Education Showcase will include many vendors that you won’t see on the exhibit floor during TCEA. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, February 5 from 2-7 p.m. and will include speaking sessions on hot topics in education, as well as food truck eats and free drinks! Teachers can make connections … Continue reading →

Top 5 Reasons Schools Need Esports Teams

Esports is taking the world ─ and schools ─ by storm. With a year-over- year growth rate of over 800%, and an audience base that is set to double over the next 6 years, It is clear that the esports industry isn’t going anywhere, and with some universities across the United States offering scholarships, esports … Continue reading →

What are Teachers Saying About Technology in the Classroom?

Last week on the blog we discussed what principals think about technology in the classroom, but what about the professionals who are ultimately responsible for utilizing these tools? What are teachers saying about the technology being brought into their classrooms? Continue reading →

What are Principals Saying About Technology in Schools?

As children become more “plugged in”, principals have been tasked with a difficult decision—how can educators use these devices while also balancing their potentially harmful effects. While technology can help prepare students for success in school and beyond, things like screen time and social media are weighing heavily on principals’ minds as they decide whether to invest in more tech-based products. Continue reading →

Beating the Second Semester Slump

Winter break is over, and students all over the country are heading back to school. Transitioning from the fun of the holiday season back into a normal routine can be tough, resulting in what some call “the second semester slump”. This “slump” refers to the dip in engagement and productivity educators see in students when … Continue reading →

Our Top 5 “Must Read” Blogs of 2019

2019 was another year of growth and progress in education, and we loved every second of it. This year on the blog, we’ve gotten to explore everything from cyber security hygiene in schools to how EdTech is fighting climate change. It’s been a great year, and we are so thankful to have shared it with … Continue reading →