It’s one of the longest-running promises of edtech: Have students provide proof of work online. Get better assessment results. Provide students agency and enable them to express themselves creatively. Take teaching and learning to the next level.
For the most part, we’re still waiting. But not Gary Heidt, who leads the Innovation Lab at Perkiomen Valley HS in Pennsylvania and is a champion of a tool called Unrulr. In this conversation, we discuss the implementation and impact of Unrulr in his classroom, where he tries to focus on creating a more human and reflective learning experience. Joining us was Aaron Schorn, Head of Growth and Community at Unrulr to detail how students can document their learning moments, create exit ticket reflections, engage in discussion boards, and build larger learning journeys.
Here’s a link to a blog post that dives deep into Gary’s experiences when it comes to documentation and Unrulr. And here’s a link to the portfolio that Uses Unrulr public links throughout to tell the story of one student’s project journey.
Key highlights include:
Purpose-Driven Learning: Unrulr supports purpose-driven learning by enabling students to work on projects that are not only self-driven but also impactful on a community level.
Agile Project Management Approach: The tool facilitates a flexible and agile approach to project management, incorporating concepts like Agile and scrums to adapt to different timelines and individual schedules.
Building a Learning Community: Gary creates a sense of community by allowing students to publish and share their work not only with teachers but also with peers, fostering collaboration, support, and a deeper understanding of the learning process.
Digital Portfolio Differentiation: According to Gary, Unrulr stands out as a process portfolio that goes beyond showcasing final products. It emphasizes the documentation of the learning process itself, allowing students to create dynamic portfolios that evolve over time.
Reflection and Feedback: The tool encourages reflection, both from students and teachers, providing a space for individuals to assess their progress, share insights, and receive feedback. This reflective approach is seen as essential for meaningful learning.
Equity of Access: Gary says Unrulr ensures equity of access by offering a web browser version in addition to a mobile version, accommodating various devices and school policies regarding technology use.
Slow Approach to Learning: Gary mentions a “slow approach” to education, emphasizing the importance of making room for reflection and providing feedback. This approach contrasts with a rushed curriculum, aiming for a deeper understanding of content.
Kevin is a forward-thinking media executive with more than 25 years of experience building brands and audiences online, in print, and face to face. He is an acclaimed writer, editor, and commentator covering the intersection of society and technology, especially education technology. You can reach Kevin at KevinHogan@eschoolnews.com
Looking for the must-try restaurants in Baton Rouge, LA? Look no further than this Redfin article. From Cajun and Creole cuisine to BBQ and Italian, this vibrant city has a diverse culinary scene that will satisfy any food lover. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we’ve compiled a list of must-try restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through Baton Rouge’s finest dining establishments.
1. Elsie’s Plate & Pie
Cuisine Type: Cajun and Creole Restaurant, New American Restaurant Location: 3145 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Website:Elsie’s Plate & Pie
Elsie’s Plate & Pie is a Cajun and Creole restaurant as well as a New American restaurant. They are known for their delicious pies and unique combination of flavors in their dishes.
2. Curbside Burgers
Cuisine Type: Burger Joint, American Restaurant Location: 4158 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Website:Curbside Burgers
Curbside Burgers is a popular burger joint and American restaurant. They offer a variety of mouth-watering burgers with unique toppings and flavors.
3. Doe’s Eat Place
Cuisine Type: American Restaurant, Steakhouse Location: 3723 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Website:Doe’s Eat Place
Doe’s Eat Place is an American restaurant and steakhouse. They are known for their perfectly cooked steaks and hearty American dishes.
4. Rocca Pizzeria
Cuisine Type: Italian Restaurant, Pizzeria Location: 3897 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Website:Rocca Pizzeria
Rocca Pizzeria is an Italian restaurant and pizzeria. They serve authentic Italian pizzas with a variety of toppings and flavors.
5. La Carreta Mid City
Cuisine Type: Mexican Restaurant, Dining and Drinking, Pub Location: 4065 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Website:La Carreta Mid City
La Carreta Mid City is a Mexican restaurant, dining and drinking establishment in Baton Rouge. They offer a wide range of Mexican dishes and drinks in a lively atmosphere.
6. Superior Grill
Cuisine Type: BBQ Joint, American Restaurant, Tex-Mex Restaurant Location: 5435 Government St # 5435, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Website:Superior Grill
Superior Grill is a BBQ joint and an American and Tex-Mex restaurant. They are known for their flavorful BBQ dishes and Tex-Mex specialties.
7. Zeeland Street
Cuisine Type: Deli, American Restaurant, Southern Food Restaurant Location: 2031 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70808 Website:Zeeland Street
Zeeland Street is a deli, American restaurant, and Southern food restaurant. They serve a variety of deli sandwiches and classic Southern comfort food.
8. Hannah Q Smokehou
Cuisine Type: BBQ Joint Location: 4808 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Website:Hannah Q Smokehou
Hannah Q Smokehou is a popular BBQ joint in Baton Rouge. They are known for their tender and flavorful BBQ meats.
Thai Pepper is a Thai restaurant. They offer a variety of authentic Thai dishes with bold and aromatic flavors.
10. Gov’t Taco
Cuisine Type: Latin American Restaurant, Taco Restaurant Location: 5621 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Website:Gov’t Taco
Gov’t Taco is a Latin American restaurant and taco restaurant. They specialize in creating unique and flavorful tacos inspired by Latin American cuisine.
11. Cocha
Cuisine Type: New American Restaurant, Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurant Location: 445 N 6th St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802 Website:Cocha
Cocha is a new American restaurant and vegan/vegetarian restaurant. They offer a variety of innovative and plant-based dishes that cater to different dietary preferences.
12. T J Ribs
Cuisine Type: BBQ Joint Location: 2324 S Acadian Thruway, Baton Rouge, LA 70808 Website:T J Ribs
T J Ribs is a popular BBQ joint in Baton Rouge. They are known for their mouth-watering BBQ ribs and other smoked meat dishes.
13. Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant
Cuisine Type: Cajun and Creole Restaurant, Seafood Restaurant Location: 3225 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70808 Website:Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant
Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant is a Cajun and Creole restaurant as well as a seafood restaurant. They offer a variety of fresh and flavorful seafood dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Louisiana cuisine.
Louisiana, often called the “Pelican State,” is a vibrant and culturally rich state that captures the essence of the Deep South. Life in Louisiana is a feast for the senses, with the sultry sounds of jazz and the savory aromas of Creole and Cajun cuisine. It’s a state where the party never ends, from the iconic Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans to the lively music scene found throughout. So whether you’re searching for a historic home for sale in Baton Rouge, or apartments in New Orleans, get ready for what Louisiana has to offer. Read on for the 10 pros and cons of living in Louisiana to help you learn more about this state.
Pros of living in Louisiana
1. Rich cultural and historical heritage
Louisiana boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage that makes it a unique and enticing place to live. This state is a melting pot of influences from Native American, French, Spanish, African, and Creole cultures, resulting in a vibrant tapestry of traditions, music, cuisine, and festivals. From the lively jazz scene of New Orleans to the captivating architecture of the French Quarter, every corner of Louisiana is steeped in history and charm. Additionally, Louisiana’s deep-rooted Mardi Gras traditions and connection to the vibrant arts scene contribute to a colorful and dynamic way of life.
2. Vibrant music scene
Louisiana’s vibrant music scene is a testament to its cultural richness and has been a source of inspiration for artists and music enthusiasts worldwide. The state is often hailed as the birthplace of jazz, with iconic venues like the Preservation Hall in New Orleans showcasing this genre’s enduring influence. The city’s French Quarter is home to legendary bars and clubs where jazz, blues, and zydeco rhythms fill the air. Additionally, the roots of Cajun and Zydeco music run deep in Louisiana, with places like Lafayette hosting numerous festivals and dance halls dedicated to these distinctive styles.
3. Delicious and diverse cuisine
French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences have given birth to a unique and diverse culinary landscape in Louisiana. Creole and Cajun cuisines, for instance, are celebrated for their rich and spicy flavors, with dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and étouffée captivating the palate. New Orleans is a culinary mecca, offering iconic delicacies such as beignets, po’boys, and the famed muffuletta sandwich. Seafood lovers can indulge in fresh catches from the Gulf of Mexico, including mouthwatering crawfish, shrimp, and oysters.
4. Warm climate and mild winters
Louisiana’s warm climate and mild winters are a major draw for those seeking a more temperate and enjoyable outdoor lifestyle. With its subtropical climate, the state boasts long, sunny summers perfect for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and festivals. The winters are pleasantly mild, with temperatures rarely dropping to freezing levels, making it possible to continue enjoying outdoor adventures throughout the year. The absence of heavy snow and bitter cold is a welcome relief for residents who prefer a more comfortable and relaxed way of life.
5. Beautiful natural landscapes
Louisiana’s natural landscapes are a testament to the state’s breathtaking beauty and provide residents with numerous opportunities to connect with nature. The bayous, swamps, and wetlands of the Atchafalaya Basin and the Honey Island Swamp offer a unique and mystical environment teeming with wildlife, including alligators, herons, and bald eagles. The state’s coastline has pristine beach towns and barrier islands like Grand Isle, a haven for sunbathers, anglers, and birdwatchers. For those who prefer woodlands, Louisiana is home to Kisatchie National Forest, a vast expanse of piney hills, hiking trails, and camping sites.
Cons of living in Louisiana
1. High humidity and hot summers
During the summer, the state experiences high temperatures, often accompanied by humidity levels that make the heat feel even more oppressive. This combination can lead to discomfort and potential health risks, particularly for those sensitive to extreme weather conditions. The high humidity can also contribute to issues like mold growth and make outdoor activities less enjoyable, as excessive sweating and dehydration become common concerns.
2. Frequent hurricanes and tropical storms
The state is highly susceptible to natural disasters like hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during the hurricane season, which typically spans June to November. Louisiana’s low-lying coastal regions and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico make it particularly vulnerable to severe weather events, with hurricanes like Katrina and Rita leaving a lasting impact on the region’s communities. These storms can result in property damage, flooding, and even displacement, leading to significant emotional and financial hardships for residents. Preparing for and weathering these storms demands careful planning and resources, which can be stressful and disruptive.
3. Traffic congestion, especially in larger cities
Traffic congestion can be a notable downside to living in some regions of Louisiana, especially in urban centers like New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The state’s infrastructure and road systems can become overwhelmed during peak travel times, frustrating commutes and delays. Rush hour traffic, particularly on major highways and bridges, can be a daily source of frustration for residents, impacting their quality of life and productivity.
4. Potential issues with pests, including mosquitoes and alligators
The state’s warm and humid climate provides an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, which can be both a nuisance and a health concern due to the risk of diseases like West Nile virus. Residents often need to take preventive measures and use insect repellents to enjoy outdoor activities without interruption. On the other hand, the presence of alligators is a unique aspect of Louisiana’s natural environment. While these creatures are generally not a threat to humans, their company in water bodies and marshy areas can create apprehension for some residents and necessitate caution.
5. Vulnerability to coastal erosion and sea-level rise
Louisiana’s coastal areas have been facing an ongoing and severe erosion crisis, exacerbated by a combination of factors. This loss of land is not only an environmental issue but also a threat to communities, economies, and the unique culture of the region. Sea-level rise is compounding this problem, making coastal areas more susceptible to flooding and inundation during storms and high tides. Efforts to combat coastal erosion and sea-level rise, such as coastal restoration projects and levee systems, are ongoing. Still, the challenges are significant and complex and can cause challenges to residents.
Pros and cons of living in Louisiana: Bottom line
Living in Louisiana offers a unique and vibrant experience, rich in culture, natural beauty, and diverse cuisine. Despite the state’s drawbacks, Louisiana’s unmistakable charm and unique character have a magnetic pull. For those considering a move, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of living in Louisiana.
Tiger Woods made it official Wednesday by announcing he would return to competition as part of the 20-man field at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas.
Woods is the tournament host of the unofficial event on Dec. 1-4 at Albany Golf Club, where the tournament has been played since 2015.
It will be the first time Woods has played the Hero World Challenge, which benefits his foundation, since 2019.
Woods, who announced his decision on Twitter, has not played competitively since he missed the cut in the British Open at St. Andrews in July.
That was only the third tournament he played in 2022, all of them majors. He made the cut at the Masters and PGA Championship, finishing 47th at Augusta National and withdrawing after three rounds at Southern Hills.
The Hero World Challenge is the start of a busy month for Woods, who also has agreed to play in a made-for-TV exhibition on Dec. 10 with Rory McIlroy as his partner in a 12-hole match against Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas.
Woods also is expected to play in the PNC Championship a week later with his son, Charlie. They were runners-up a year ago in Orlando, Florida.
The 20-man field in the Bahamas receives world ranking points, with the caveat that sponsor exemptions must be among the top 50 in the world. There is an exception for the tournament host — Woods is at No. 1,245.
Woods said Tommy Fleetwood and Kevin Kisner would be the other exemptions, joining an already stacked field that has 17 of the top 20 players in the world. The only players from the top 20 not playing are McIlroy, Cameron Smith and Patrick Cantlay. Smith, the British Open champion, is ineligible because of his PGA Tour suspension for joining LIV Golf.
Also, tournament officials announced that Will Zalatoris has not fully recovered from a back injury that kept him out of the Tour Championship and the Presidents Cup. Zalatoris was replaced by former British Open champion Shane Lowry.
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AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP—Sports
WASHINGTON — Two Haitian politicians are facing U.S. sanctions over allegations they abused their positions to traffic drugs in collaboration with gang networks and directed others to engage in violence.
The Treasury Department said Friday it was imposing sanctions on Haitian Senate President Joseph Lambert and former Sen. Youri Latortue. The two are accused of using their official roles to engage in the drug trade for decades. Lambert was also designated by the State Department for diplomatic sanctions and visa restrictions.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that “there is credible information of Lambert’s involvement in a gross violation of human rights, namely an extrajudicial killing, during his government tenure.”
He said the State Department is also designating Lambert’s spouse, Jesula Lambert Domond.
The sanctions mean their U.S. property is blocked and American people and companies that do business with them could face penalties as well.
Spokespeople for Lambert and Latortue did not immediately return WhatsApp messages seeking comment on Friday.
The sanctions against Lambert and Latortue come as Haiti is embroiled in political violence and economic crisis.
Last month, Eric Jean Baptiste, a former presidential candidate and leader of a political party in Haiti, was shot to death in the capital, Port-au-Prince, along with his bodyguard. Baptiste’s death stunned many in the destabilized island nation.
Brian Nelson, Treasury’s under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, said Lambert and Latortue “abused their official positions to traffic drugs and collaborated with criminal and gang networks to undermine the rule of law in Haiti.”
“The United States and our international partners,” Nelson said, “will continue to take action against those who facilitate drug trafficking, enable corruption and seek to profit from instability in Haiti.”
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Associated Press writer Danica Coto in San Juan, Puerto Rico, contributed to this story.
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Follow the AP’s coverage of Haiti at https://apnews.com/hub/haiti.
Celebrate With the LA Dodgers in SoCal Design Agency’s Latest Design Remix Series in Honor of Mexican Heritage Night.
LOS ANGELES, May 8, 2019 (Newswire.com)
– The LA Dodgers celebrate Mexican Heritage Night this week against the Atlanta Braves. SoCal design agency Creative Squeeze just released the latest installment of The Design Remix featuring a custom design series honoring Mexican Heritage Night, an annual celebration hosted by the LA Dodgers. An equal passion for sports and design to honor Mexican Heritage come together beautifully in this special project.
Elvis Lopez was one of the main designers on the project and was asked about his main source of inspiration behind the effort:
“Growing up in East LA in a predominantly Mexican neighborhood, one of the core foundations that brought the community together was everyone’s love for The Dodgers. I wanted to bring that nostalgic feeling to the designs so that it properly visualized and represented my community. I know it’s a very specific perspective to identify both my Mexican heritage as well as a Dodgers fan in one design, but I have a feeling that if it represents me, then it will speak to others as well.”
The construction of the logo consisted of three main features: 1) Traditionally inspired typography 2) Mexican culture design elements 3) Timeless design
