Navigating the New Pedagogy: Six Principles that Transform Teaching

In the early 21st Century, a new vision for classroom practice emerged that looks very different from the teaching that existed previously. This new teaching is a synthesis of effective curriculum, big ideas, nurturing relationships, differentiated instruction, appropriate assessment, teaching to standards, use of technology, and solid understanding of the content being taught. Six core principles emerge from the new educational theory that have the power to define and organize this new vision for classroom practice and to transform teaching itself. Navigating the New Pedagogy: Six Principles that Transform Teaching provides this vital map of education's 'new landscape' of the current best practices and philosophies. Teachers, administrators, and education professors will find ideas that will help transform classrooms into positive, productive learning environments.

Table of Contents:
Chapter 1 Preface Chapter 2 Introduction Chapter 3 Principle 1: Make Kids Think Chapter 4 Principle 2: Teach Big Ideas Chapter 5 Principle 3: Nurture Student Learning Chapter 6 Principle 4: Construct Meaning Chapter 7 Principle 5: Build Relationships Chapter 8 Principle 6: Honor Individuality Chapter 9 Closing

About the Author :
Jeff Halstead is an educational trainer, staff developer, writer, and National Board-certified English teacher. He received his master's in education from Whitworth University and lives in Spokane, WA. Visit his webstite at www.thenewpedagogy.com.

Review :
In a world where there is increasing scrutiny of teachers, here is another book that states the obvious: it is the teacher's place to inspire, interest, and facilitate student learning. How this book differs from so many others is that the author, Halstead, has written a simple guide to achieving stellar results. From the first page to the last, Halstead opens the door to a fun and active learning classroom environment. Through specific description, thinking activities, and teaching modalities, he gives example after example of ways to transform subject matter into relevant, current, and real-life experience. Do not be deceived by the relatively simple-sounding principles he presents: "Make Kids Think," "Teach Big Ideas," "Nurture Student Learning," "Construct Meaning," "Build Relationships," and "Honor Individuality." Although the concepts are simple, he presents many creative examples that one could use for any subject matter or grade. This author's goal is to inspire creative thinking in elementary, middle, and high school teachers and teach them how to inspire leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking skills. It is an easy, inspiring read. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readership levels. Navigating the New Pedagogy offers a 21st century message to experienced educators as well as novices and future teachers. It's packed with real examples of great teaching at a variety of content and levels, with an emphasis on creating meaningful learning and well-rounded students. These days, as teachers are pressured to focus on finite skills and move quickly through material, this book reminds us 'The job of educators is to make students solid thinkers and problem solvers.' Navigating the New Pedagogy: Six Principles that Transform Teaching is a wonderful contribution to the literature on effective teaching that results in meaningful learning. Jeff Halstead shares expertise he has developed from years in professional leadership and as an experienced and outstanding teacher. He provides fellow educators with compelling descriptions and ideas for transformative teaching in the 21st century. Dedicated teachers everywhere will benefit from the wisdom he offers in this very well-written book. It is a must read! There is no dearth of books commenting on the state of education in America. But Navigating the New Pedagogy is different. This book provides teachers with concrete examples of excellent teaching and learning in action at the classroom level. Halstead effectively describes teaching 'the new pedagogy' in a compelling fashion using accessible terms. I heartily recommend this book for teachers who want to navigate through the jungle of strategies and approaches touted in education and provide effective classrooms in which their students will succeed. In Navigating the New Pedagogy, Jeff Halstead weaves a comprehensive tapestry of professional learning principles that both inform and transform teaching. After reading his work, not only did I reflect upon my teaching practices, I made needed changes.