The InterActive Classroom: Practical Strategies for Involving Students in the Learning Process

Shift Students’ Roles from Passive Observers to Active Participants. Preparing students for a world that did not exist when they were students themselves can be challenging for many teachers. Engaging students, particularly disinterested ones, in the learning process is no easy task, especially when easy access to information is at an all-time high.   How then do educators simultaneously ensure knowledge acquisition and engagement?  Ron Nash encourages teachers to embrace an interactive classroom by rethinking their role as information givers. The Interactive Classroom provides a framework for how to influence the learning process and increase student participation by sharing • Proven strategies for improving presentation and facilitation skills • Kinesthetic, interpersonal, and classroom management methods • Brain-based teaching strategies that promote active learning • Project-based learning and formative assessment techniques that promote a robust learning environment Intended to cultivate an interactive classroom in which students take an active role in learning, this book provides a blueprint for educators seeking to amplify student engagement while imparting critical twenty-first century skills.

Table of Contents:
Foreword by John Almarode Acknowledgments About the Author Unique Features of this Book Introduction Chapter 1. The Tinkerer’s Mindset Pay It Forward Some Reflections on Reflecting What I Did With My Summer Vacation Getting Better at Getting Better The Synergy in Collaborative Planning An Innovative Spirit Turning Talk Into Action Chapter 2. Some Assembly Required When Plans Go Plop The Work in Working Relationships Embrace the Motivators Avoid the Demotivators Chapter 3. Incorporating Structured Conversations Making Time to Process New Information Life in the “Telling” Classroom The Simultaneity Principle Working in Pairs TTYPA (Turn to Your Partner and . . .) Modeling and Teaching Empathetic Listening Pausing and Paraphrasing Chapter 4. Managing Movement in the Classroom Reimagine Classrooms With Movement in Mind Getting Both Partners Involved Paired Verbal Fluency (PVF) Gallery Walks Chapter 5. Presenting With Confidence Presenters and Facilitators Rapport, Relationships, and Rehearsals Purposeful Movement Visuals and Technology Seek Clarity and Simplicity Measure Twice, Cut Once Provide Process Time Verbal Miscues The Mighty Pause Humor Chapter 6. Let’s Be Clear Do as I Do High Operational Standards One at a Time Remove Barriers to the Message Clear and Unambiguous Feedback “Why are we doing this?” “Who is making the decision here?” Chapter 7. Making Time to Write Speaking Supports Writing Hooking Kids on Writing Let Students Be Teachers Learning Logs and Journals Reflective Blogs Connecting the Writing to the Writer Quickwrites Connecting Speaking With Writing Confident Writers Chapter 8. Using Music to Facilitate Process Music to Support Transitions and Breaks Music to Enhance Discussions and Support Activities The Role of Music in Choosing Learning Partners Choosing Music Technology Chapter 9. Unlocking Doors With Storytelling The Focus Factor Opening Doors to the Content Material Ownership Through Questions It’s What They Think That Counts Chapter 10. Accelerating Progress The Role of Feedback in the Continuous-Improvement Process A Clear Picture Bringing Students Into the Conversation Checklists and Rubrics Working the Room Chapter 11. Behind the Seen That Whole Groundwork Thing Finding Time to Reflect and Ask Questions Challenging Seven Common Assumptions Final Thoughts Notes References Index

Review :
"This extraordinary book is unique in two very important ways: Rarely do we find books by someone who has the wisdom of teaching for decades who also truly understands the next generation of students. And rarely do we find a book that spans fun, interactive strategies such as movement with essential methods for improving thinking and writing. New and veteran teachers alike will find countless ideas to continuously improve their teaching practices."  "In The InterActive Classroom, Ron Nash draws on his wealth of experience in education and offers useful ideas, strategies, and tools that busy teachers can apply immediately in their classrooms. The suggestions in this book are not only practical, but also based on principles of sound pedagogy. When put into place, they will undoubtedly improve students’ experiences in schools." "Would you like to unlock the door to active cognitive engagement? No matter what role you find yourself in—teacher, mentor, trainer, and/or facilitator—this book offers a wealth of strategies that will help you become an activator and orchestrator of learning. Ron Nash’s proactive approach will not only increase the rate and degree of learning, but also encourage students to take ownership of their own learning.  Every toolbox should be filled with these practical and user-friendly strategies!" "Ron Nash taught middle and high school for years, and in his own humorous, self-deprecating way, he shares how he overcame his mistakes and recreated himself into a much more effective teacher. The InterActive Classroom is truly an interactive experience. Ron gives examples from his own teaching, then challenges his readers in "Your Turn" sections to implement his ideas and reflect on how teachers can use techniques come Monday morning! This is a book every teacher needs; let Ron be your mentor. Whether you are a beginning teacher or a seasoned veteran, you (and more importantly your students) will benefit for years to come." "Ron Nash has given us an extraordinary back-to-school gift! It’s obvious his heart and soul are in this project; he shares personal classroom experiences, walk-the-talk demonstration lessons, and coaching. Years of classroom-tested and perfected strategies for involving all kiddos in the learning process highlight the art and craft of teaching from day one through lifelong learning. The book includes a vast repertoire of strategies for energizing learners, organizing a classroom layout, enhancing project-based learning, and much more! Ron structures his research-based work in an easy-to-follow sequence, with Tactical Tips adding proverbial fresh air and wisdom. You will also receive a wealth of resources, reflective questions to involve the reader, and an extensive bibliography and index for further learning. Nash encourages us to be lifelong learners, modeling the joy of learning with brain-compatible activities sure to engage all students! ("Learning is not a spectator sport.") Perfect for the novice or veteran instructor, I’d add the book to all new teacher support programs, university teacher prep, book clubs...You get the idea!"