Authentic Lessons for 21st Century Learning
Shelby Blackwood is the English Language Arts Online Learning Writer at the K20 Center for Educational and Community Renewal. Shelby works collaboratively with other content curriculum writers and instructional designers in developing online instruction and curriculum to assist teachers in implementing the Oklahoma Academic Standards. Shelby’s mission in education is to cultivate the love of learning and encourage creativity, compassion, and innovation.
This brief explores the added value and challenges of a 1:1 student-to-laptop ratio in middle school classrooms. The study highlights the benefits of individualized instruction, formative assessment, and increased student engagement, along with management challenges. Read more »
This brief explores the impact of strategic after-school tutoring on the academic performance of at-risk students and students with learning disabilities. The study found significant improvements in quiz and test scores, semester grades, and strategy knowledge. Read more »
This brief explores the impact of scientific calculators on mathematics achievement among low-achieving students. The study found that using scientific calculators significantly improved students' problem-solving skills and overall performance in mathematics. Read more »
This brief explores the impact of a structured ACT coaching program on students' test scores. The study found significant gains in ACT scores for students who participated in the coaching class compared to those who did not. Read more »
This brief examines the Temple Education Scholars (TES) dual enrollment program's impact on college knowledge, readiness, and opportunities for underrepresented high school seniors. The program improved participants' understanding of college processes, academic skills, and access to college opportunities. Read more »
This brief explores how student-led clubs enhance entrepreneurial learning through practical experience, reflective learning, and social interaction. The study highlights the benefits of these clubs in boosting students' confidence and skills. Read more »
In Leadership Club, students will explore aspects of leadership and event management through designing, planning, and executing a variety of engaging student and family events. Students will improve leadership skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity as... Read more »
Created by: Shelby Blackwood
Date Updated: April 17th, 2025
This activity has students engage with the many possible paths available in post-secondary education. Students embark on a scavenger hunt in which they locate facts about the many post-secondary education options by discussing college journeys with teachers, viewing college journey boards, or locating... Read more »
Created by: Shelby Blackwood
Date Updated: February 26th, 2025
In this professional development session, participants will evaluate vocabulary students might encounter in college and career readiness programming. Participants will engage in strategies that reinforce authentic vocabulary instruction of Tier 2 words. Read more »
Created by: Shelby Blackwood
Date Updated: October 11th, 2023
This collaborative strategy is a fun, active way for students to engage in substantive conversations. With meaningful prompts or questions, students can reflect on their learning, review content or vocabulary, and much more with this highly adaptable learning strategy. Read more »
Created by: Shelby Blackwood
July 11th, 2023
