Top 5 Books for Teachers to Read this Summer
For educators, summer is a time to relax, rejuvenate, replenish and learn new things to implement next school year. The summer of 2020 is a bit different for educators in the US. The COVID-19 pandemic has created a unique situation for most teachers. In-person school ended abruptly for most and online learning or learning via packets that were sent home began for most of the country.
No one knows exactly what the 2020-21 school year will bring for schools in the United States. There are many possibilities. We put together a list of 5 books for teachers to read this summer as we take some time to learn new things that will help us navigate all of the potential scenarios for next school year.
1.The Online Teaching Survival Guide: Simple and Practical Pedagogical Tips
The Online Teaching Survival Guide provides a robust overview of theory-based techniques for teaching online or technology-enhanced courses. Covering all aspects of online teaching, this book reviews the latest research in cognitive processing and related learning outcomes while retaining a focus on the practical.
A simple framework of instructional strategies mapped across a four-phase timeline provides a concrete starting point for both new online teachers and experienced teachers designing or revamping an online course. Essential technologies are explored in their basic and expanded forms, and traditional pedagogy serves as the foundation for tips and practices customized for online learning.
The tips cover course management, social presence, community building, integration of new technologies, discussion and questioning techniques, assessment, and debriefing, along with new coverage of intensive or accelerated courses, customizing learning strategies, developing expertise, advanced course design, and assessment techniques exclusive to this new second edition.
The theory and techniques of successful online teaching can be significantly different from those used face-to-face. With more and more classes being offered online, this book provides a valuable resource for taking your course to the next level.
- Understand the technology used in online teaching
- Learn specialized pedagogical tips and practices
- Examine new research on cognition and learning
- Adopt a clear framework of instructional strategies
The explosion of online learning has created a demand for great online teachers. Increasingly, faculty who normally teach face-to-face are being asked to cover online courses—yet comprehensive pedagogical resources are scarce.
The learning curve is huge, and faculty need a practical approach to course design and management that can be quickly and easily implemented. The Online Teaching Survival Guide provides that essential resource, with a customizable framework and deeper exploration of effective online teaching.
2. Blended Learning in Action: A Practical Guide Toward Sustainable Change
Blended learning has the power to reinvent education, but the transition requires a new approach to learning and a new skillset for educators. Loaded with research and examples, Blended Learning in Action demonstrates the advantages a blended model has over traditional instruction when technology is used to engage students both inside the classroom and online. Readers will find:
- Breakdowns of the most effective classroom setups for blended learning
- Tips for leaders
- Ideas for personalizing and differentiating instruction using technology
- Strategies for managing devices in schools
- Questions to facilitate professional development and deeper learning
3. Working with Students Who Have Anxiety: Creative Connections and Practical Strategies
As the number of students with anxiety increases in schools and classrooms, this book serves as the go-to guide for teachers and educators who strive to provide a welcoming environment conducive to students’ learning. Working with Students Who Have Anxiety provides an accessible understanding of anxiety in its various forms, how anxiety impacts academic and social skills, and what teachers can do to create a positive climate.
An exciting new resource for teachers, special educators, art specialists, and school counselors, this book covers the causes, signs, and symptoms of anxiety; includes academic, behavioral, and art-based interventions; and explores ethical and legal issues relating to students with anxiety.
Filled with real-life examples, practical teaching tips, and creative advice for building connections with students, this book not only provides readers with the latest information about anxiety but also focuses on strategies to give educators the real tools they need to reduce the negative impact of anxiety in academic settings.
4. The Virtual Training Guidebook: How to Design, Deliver, and Implement Live Online Learning (Trainer’s Workshop)
Packed with checklists, advice, and how-to features, The Virtual Training Guidebook teaches you how to design, deliver, and implement live online learning.
This book will help learning professionals transition to the online classroom by taking a holistic look at successful implementation, including gaining organizational support, selecting a platform, designing classes, selecting facilitators, preparing participants, global considerations, and the logistics required for success.• Learn how to prepare for a virtual training rollout.
• Create live online classes using a three-step design process.
• Select the technology that is right for the organization.
• Select and prepare facilitators who can effectively engage participants.
5. Supporting and Educating Traumatized Students: A Guide for School-Based Professionals
Traumatic or adverse experiences are pervasive among school-aged children and youth. Trauma undermines students’ ability to learn and manage their feelings, behavior, and relationships. Meanwhile, school-based professionals often struggle with responding to the complex needs of traumatized students within the typical school day.
The second edition of Supporting and Educating Traumatized Students is designed for professionals in mental health and education settings, and combines content and expertise from experts in the fields of education, school psychology, school administration, resilience, and trauma into one comprehensive guide.
The book provides a thorough background on current research in trauma and its impact on school functioning; administrative and policy considerations; and a broad set of practical and implementable strategies for adapting instruction, modifying the classroom environments, and building competency for students and staff.
New chapters address topics such as post-traumatic growth, interpersonal violence, and trauma screening and assessment among others. Educators can continue to use this updated edition as an ongoing resource, with the ability to quickly and easily access a variety of school-based strategies to help improve educational and social outcomes for traumatized students.
Conclusion
There are many unknowns going into the 2020-21 school year. By spending a little time the summer reading and learning, we can be better prepared for what lies ahead.
If you would like to find out the 10 Best Books for Teachers in 2020 click here.
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