Video Games Boost Brain Power, Multitasking Skills

NPR reports: a University of Rochester professor says results from more than 20 studies show that children may benefit from playing video games. Children who play video games excel in vision, attention and some cognitive skills over those who do not play, according to Daphne Bavelier.

Helping students get more out of social media

Educators need to show students how to make social media work for them, writes tech integration specialist Andrew Marcinek on Edutopia's blog. Instead of having students connect to various networks, teachers should encourage students to be active members in their networks, Marcinek says. That means having students go beyond re-tweeting information and promote debate online, as well as accept constructive criticism.

Media literacy in Science Education

In this post ("When The New Yorker Probes the 'Decline Effect,' An Opportunity Emerges to Rethink Science Education,") the author presents an argument for the embedding of media literacy curricula within science education in high schools and colleges.

Using Film in Schools: A Practical Guide

Coming on the heels of their previous document, Films: 21st Century Literacy, Media Education Wales has produced Teaching Film in Schools: A Practical Guide. This free 50-page document covers how film can be used across the curriculum and for other outcomes; equipment and spaces for viewing, discussing and making films; film education resources and support; and how copyright and the law affects film education.

New Media Literacy Curricula

Pearson/Prentice-Hall's MEDIASTUDIO is a worthy addition to national media literacy curriculum materials. Middle and high school versions are available. The interactive content includes media literacy, film literacy, advertising literacy and more. It is well designed and highly recommended. A press release touts the product as helping promote critical thinking and 21st century skills.

txtN N d library: Ideas for Librarians Who Want to Embrace the Power of Cell Phones

While for some, libraries bring to mind microfiche, card catalogs, and dusty stacks, today’s innovative librarians are shattering these stereotypes using technologies to provide engaging and relevant learning spaces for students.