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Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Some Perspective on Recess
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I was reluctant to post about recess, but a parent has requested it so here goes. My observation over nine years of education reporting is that the vast majority of elementary schools still let the kids run around and play for 15 or 20 minutes a day.
Yet the idea that any school could take away recess - and some have - really pushes parents’ buttons. Here’s an AP story on the issue.
Schools with fewer discipline problems seem more likely to have traditional recess, and schools with more discipline problems tend to have only structured play activities. It seems the fear is that some kids kids can’t handle the freedom of recess.
I don’t know that a discussion about whether recess good or bad is worthwhile. I think everyone recognizes its value. The problem seems to lie in how to fit it in amid current concerns about fighting, kids getting hurt, parents marching up to the school. Maybe I’m naive, but I don’t think the pressure to score well on tests is the major issue here. We’re only talking about 15 - 20 minutes a day, and most educators acknowledge a breath of fresh air is good for the brain.
How can recess be a part of today’s more complicated school day?
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Do Educators Need Doctoral Degrees?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Kennesaw State University, the former commuter college now evolving into a major university, is starting its first doctoral program, and it’s in education. Here’s Aixa M. Pascual’s story.
Officials say: “The KSU doctorate is applied, meaning its focus is not theoretical research.”
Teachers, do you need/want a doctorate? Can you tell in your school who has a doctorate and who doesn’t by their practices? Those who have gotten a doctorate, did it make you a better educator?
P.S. Did anybody notice our commenting hours have expanded to 7 p.m.? On Tuesdays, comments will continue to stay open until 9 p.m. I’m still out sick, so if you have sent me an e-mail, I won’t be able to respond until I return to work…
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