Authentic Learning Experiences

Dayna Laur is a veteran high school social studies teacher of fourteen years. During that time, she implemented numerous Authentic Learning Experiences in her co-taught special education classes, Advanced Placement courses, and mainstream social studies classes. She was featured in Edutopia’s Schools That Work series and as a model teacher for Authentic Learning as produced by the National Institute for Professional Practice. She currently serves as a Senior National Faculty member for the Buck Institute for Education and travels nationally to train teachers on effective implementation of Project-Based Learning. She has a BA in History from VA Tech, a MEd. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Pittsburgh, and a MSEd. in 21st Century Teaching and Learning from Wilkes University. She is also a two-time National Board Certified teacher. She has written articles that have appeared in Tech-Edge and EARCOS Journal. In addition to Authentic Learning Experiences, Dayna’s educational interests include the implementation of the Common Core State Standards and technology integration. You can follow her on Twitter @daylynn. This is her first book with Eye On Education.

• Chapter 1: Authentic Learning Experiences: An IntroductionMy Story An Overview of Authentic Learning Experiences Chapter 2: Creating a Challenging InvestigationComplex Problems Critical Thinking The Challenging Investigation Teaching Critical-Thinking Skills Sample Authentic Learning ExperiencesChapter 3: Creating the Community/Career ConnectionCareer Connection Community Connection Career Connection ExamplesCommunity Connection ExamplesChapter 4: Justification of One’s WorkMoving Beyond Brainstorming Making the Most Out of Research Sample Authentic Learning ExperiencesChapter 5: Creating a Meaningful Outside AudienceWhat Is a Meaningful Outside Audience?How to Create an Outside Audience Using Technology to Connect to Your Audience The Outside Audience Promotes the Justification Element Sample Authentic Learning ExperiencesChapter 6: The Common Core and Other State StandardsTesting in the Common Core Era Directly Connecting the Elements of Authentic Learning Experiences to the Test Sample Authentic Learning ExperiencesChapter 7: Designing Interdisciplinary Authentic Learning ExperiencesA Shift in Thinking .The Single-Teacher Approach The Multiple-Teacher Approach Interdisciplinary ExamplesChapter 8: Authentic AssessmentFormative Assessment: What Is It, Anyway? Effective Formative Assessment Summative Assessment Is More Than Just a Test Final Thoughts Chapter 9: Facilitating Authentic Learning ExperiencesTaking the First Steps Collaboration Is a Needed Skill Researching Scaffolding Is Not Differentiation Final Thoughts References

"With Authentic Learning Experiences, Dayna Laur has outlined a realistic model for creating dynamic classrooms that will prepare students with the skills, critical thinking and problem solving that will prepare them for their lives. Use this book to experiment and connect with other teachers to transform your classrooms." —Holly Jobe, President of ISTE"This book pushes you beyond the traditional mode of teaching to one that truly engages students in relevant, authentic life experiences. The examples of Authentic Learning Experiences are inspiring. As a peer coach in my district, I wanted to share the content and examples with many of my colleagues from various levels and contents." —Erica Ringelspaugh, Adams-Friendship High School, WI"With the advent of the Common Core Standards, educators are constantly looking for valuable resources for the classroom that create authentic learning experiences. This resource provides the background information, explanation, and justification for those authentic learning experiences and additionally addresses the Common Core aspect. The examples provided are outstanding. I appreciated the chapter regarding the "Outside Audience," particularly because it seems to be an area that is overlooked. I also appreciate the information regarding research! My district struggles with authentic research opportunities and this resource provides justification and sound ideas." —Kim Wagner, Traughber Jr. High, ILThis book provides a wealth of information; interesting, thought-provoking ideas; and a challenge to increase the rigor of our instruction. This book is appropriate for all classroom teachers who seek to improve student engagement, inspire learners, and move toward real-world solutions to our difficult problems.--Kathy Highfield and Laura Pardo, Michigan Reading Journal