Joy + Learning = One

The equation to being a great teacher, not just a good one is joy + learning = one. This message was threaded through every session I attended today at The PBS Celebration of Teaching and Learning 

Teachers can use the same things good rappers do to engage students in the classroom.

Columbia University Professor Chris Emdin had a packed house for his morning session "Rethinking Student Participation: A Model from Hip-Hop and Urban Science Education".  He has a new book out entitled "Science Education in the Hip-hop Generation” that I look forward to reading.  The premise is that hip hop is not just a music genre, but a culture and a part of student lives than we can connect to in the classroom.

Chris believes that educators can form stronger ties with students by recognizing the differences in the way they think and act. Using rap music in the classroom gives students the room to create and express themselves while learning science content.  This is based on mnemonic. "Once the students know it then push the thinking forward."

On Sesame Street, we use... advertising methods to sell letters and numbers.

Sid the Science Kid is a boy who says things like "scientist in the house". The 'Dinosaur Train' capitalizes on two things every little boy loves.  In both cases, what is "cool" is connected to the message they want to get across about science. And, of course, there is music.  A guitar-picking Craig Bartlett sings a new version of the ABC song with dinosaur names. 

Lisa Henson spoke about developing fun characters that the audience can relate to. In my mind, this is a model for teacher development  When students step into the classroom, they decide right away if the teacher is someone they can learn from or the kids "turn the channel". A great teacher can and should be a fun "character" that the "audience" relates to.

PBS gets it that we need to meet young children where they are, embrace what they already like and let their natural curiosity and creativity lead them to great learning experiences. It seems to me that educators and producers of educational programs need to continue this trend in the middle and high school years. Imagine  MTV or VHI for learning.. Something similar to 'Yo Gabba Gabba', the Nick Jr. children's television show hosted by DJ Lance Rock, but with more thought-provoking lyrics and popular guests with a positive message for older kids and young adults.  Emdin is on to something!