The abacus predates the alphabet and the invention of glass, but its use can help modern day students increase their math proficiency and understanding. Ulrich Boser, the author of Learn Better, studied how the abacus requires decomposition -- a way of thinking about numbers and their pairs -- that is included in the common-core standards. Using an abacus helps students foster a mind-body connection, utilize their short term memory, and grow their confidence, all which help kids learn better. In this video, Boser, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, challenges his daughters to solve math problems using a Japanese abacus.
Curriculum
Video
Problem Solving at the Highest Level: What Teachers and Students Can Learn From Tammie Jo Shults
Pilot and author Tammie Jo Shults on the problem-solving lessons in aviation that apply to teaching and learning.
Curriculum
Video
Planes, Drones, and Mathematics: How One Aviation Curriculum Is Opening Doors for Students
Students across the country are learning problem-solving skills in a curriculum that prepares them for careers in the aviation industry.
Student Well-Being
Video
Inside Latino Parents' Push for Healthy, Culturally Appropriate School Lunches
Parents in one Colorado district want to see the same improvements to school lunches that were achieved in a neighboring district.
Student Well-Being
Video
A Parent Looks Back On a Successful District-Parent Collaboration
In one Colorado district, parents advocated for improved school meals, and succeeded in bringing about significant change.
