Carney, K. (2011). Think Outside the Book. Learning and Leading with Technology, 39(1), 10- 14.
In the article, “Think Outside the Book,” (2011), Kevin Carney, the author, argues that there is more learning to be had outside of the learning provided in a textbook. Carney states it in this way, “Too many students are not being taught to master state standards, particularly those not being covered in their textbooks. Too many are not learning the basics, are not achieving on standardized and ACT tests, and are not leaving school with the skills necessary for success in a worldwide economy” (p.11). Carney recommends supplementing the curriculum with digital resources.
Using the example of the Vail Colorado School District, Carney models his recommendations through the district’s success. Specifically, Carney recommends “inverting the curriculum,” which meant that they began with the standards and from there decided how they should be taught. This is a change from starting with the book and seeing which standards are included (p.11). Next, Carney recommends “Organizing the Content,” in which he described the process of seeking appropriate resources according to the students (pp. 11-12). Carney highlights the importance of collaboration in this process, naming it one of our most important resources. The author is also careful to highlight the fact that he is not recommending “abandonment of traditional textbooks but rather a philosophy of learning and teaching that transcends textbooks and state standards to strengthen support for communities of teachers, facilitate learning and teaching, and improve student growth and achievement” (p.12).
Carney’s advice is absolutely essential to address as educators. Due to budget cuts and the selection of textbooks by others, we are not always able to choose the book that we feel is needed to best support our students. I agree that books do not always connect to standards and we can use online and other resources to help. In looking at Carney’s arguments, I could not help but think that he also should have addressed the need for extra resources to fit students’ needs. This means needs relevant to special requirements, language variations, and other exceptionalities.
This aligns with the NETS according to “Model Digital Work and Learning” due to Carney’s dedication to meeting academic standards. Specifically, knowing that we are teaching learners who have constant input from digital sources, we can meet their needs in this way.
I completely agree with Carney that we require a diverse repertoire of resources in order to address the diverse needs of our students. I'm surprised that he did not discuss the growing diversity among learners in American schools today and the challenge to address their learning needs. From GATE programs, to ELD, to SDC, to RSP, and everything in between, our students demand a range of resources. How fortunate are we that technology affords us the ability to obtain these resources!
ReplyDeleteDid Carney mention any specific programs or online resources that would assist in helping students "think outside the book"? Also, I still question how this works in a school that uses RTI and "standards and evidence-based curriculum" to support their interventions? Unfortunately, much the creativity in teaching has been replaced by "teacher proof" textbooks.
Indeed, students should not be constrained in textbooks. In fact, research shows that students learn more science concepts and phenomena outside of school. In a study in Brazil, students who did poorly in "school math" were actually very good at "street math." I agree that teachers should go beyond textbooks and use multiple resources, including technology, for students. I also think that standards should go before textbook chapters. Nice post.
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