The Growth Mindset vs the Fixed Mindset.

The Growth Mindset vs the Fixed Mindset. What are the Growth Mindset and the Fixed Mindset? ChaptersDefining Growth and Fixed Mindsets.Some Examples of Fixed and Growth Mindsets.The role of mind set in your ability to achieve success is an idea that has become hugely popular of late due to the work of the Stanford University psychologist and professor, Carol Dweck. Her two books, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success and Mindset: How You Can Fulfil Your Potential, have both become bibles for many educators, entrepreneurs, writers, and politicians.Both books outline the theory that has made Dweck famous: there is a continuum of ‘mindsets’ that stretches from the ‘fixed mindset’ on one end to the ‘growth mindset’ on the other. Where you sit on this continuum has huge impact on your chances for success, your ability to receive praise and criticism, and your ability to face failure and take risks.It has been a hugely inspiring idea, not least because it takes an ancient idea â€" essentially the difference between nature and nurture â€" and repackages it as a scient ific theory and practice that places success as its goal.Read our introduction to growth mindset!The Value of Dweck’s Work.Yet, there is huge value in Dweck’s work. Defining mindset as a process of self-conception and self-regulation that we all have â€" and that people use to ‘structure the self and guide their behaviour’, her work gives the tools to analyse and evaluate the attitudes and ideas that define the way we think about ourselves and the things we do.In this respect, her work has given people a much greater new understanding of themselves â€" and a new attitude that has inspired them to think differently about their talents and abilities, the possibility of learning and growth, and the ways that they can achieve their goals.Here, we’re going to share Dweck’s two central concepts â€" a growth mindset and a fixed mindset â€" and show you the differences. If you want to know a bit more about the background to Dweck’s work, check out our article, What is Growth M indset Theory?Let’s get started! Teach your child a growth mindset from an early age.. This is why we referred to these theories as something like nature and nurture above.You can probably reach the conclusions yourself as to what these two differing mindsets might mean for everyday situations such as accepting criticism, encountering setbacks, and learning new things.People with a fixed mindset are thought, in their reliance on habits of mind that tell them that ability is unchangeable and set in stone, to be much less able to learn and grow and to relish that process of learning and personal growth. Meanwhile, the growth mindset sees others persevere at every setback, as they have a mental attitude which continually strives to learn new things.We’ll be exploring some of the other differences between growth and fixed mindsets below.Encountering Growth Mindsets in the Education System.But first, it is worth paying attention to the ways in which Dweck reached the conclusions of this most compelling of the theories of intelligence out there at the moment. Whilst her ideas have become rather in vogue right now, the initial studies she undertook to elaborate her theories came from a number of studies with kids about twenty years ago.In these studies, groups of children were given a test. Once they completed the test, they were all told that they had done brilliantly.However, when returning the test scores, the researchers told different groups of the children different things: some were praised for their intelligence and others were praised for their effort.After the study, the kids were monitored for their general attitude and their academic achievement. Those who the researchers had been praising for their effort were much more likely to go on and do much better than those whose intelligence had been praised. Those whose intelligence had been praised â€" their innate ability, rather than their practical effort â€" were more likely to demonstrate a fear of failure later on too.All this was take n as evidence that a growth mindset â€" a mindset that valued effort over innate ability â€" was the key to success.Find out how to develop your growth mindset!Education and the Growth Mindset Today.Nowadays, these studies have taken the education system by storm â€" at least in England. In this country, the imperative to praise effort rather than a simple ‘amount of intelligence’ in school kids has long been influential, encouraging them to persevere, to try harder, and to believe that success comes with work rather than the luck of biology.The idea that praise can be enough to instigate a change of mindset is one that has drawn criticism. However, elsewhere in the world, the difference between innate ability and developable intelligence is one that has gained a huge amount of traction.Some Examples of Fixed and Growth Mindsets.So now, let’s take some examples of the ways in which the two different mindsets â€" fixed vs growth â€" differ in everyday life.We know that both are born of the difference in the conception of the origin of intelligence, yet what affect does this have? For it to be called a ‘mindset’ at all, all of this has to be a bit more significant than a mere belief in innate ability.And that’s precisely the thing: this belief infuses all other aspects of our lives, attitudes, and ways in which the brain works.Let’s take some concrete examples of how these mindsets differ.Learning New Things.One of the main aspects of the fixed mindset is that when it comes to learning new things, people don’t necessarily have the will, the motivation, or the self-determination to do it. If the fixed mindset suggests that intelligence is innate, the motivation to learn is not there: no further education feels worthwhile or even possible.Rather than learning new things, people with a fixed mindset rather want to show themselves and others that they are intelligent â€" for reasons of confidence.Meanwhile, those of a growth mindset relish the opport unity to continually learn, as they recognise that that is the way that intelligence works.Encountering Challenges.Another aspect of the fixed mindset is its aversion to challenge. In the course of learning, any challenge or obstacle will throw them off course â€" and they are much more likely to give up than those with a growth mindset.The latter here see challenge as an opportunity for future growth â€" a means by which to learn new skills. Perseverance is one of their greatest qualities. You'll never learn an instrument if you don't believe that you can.Accepting Criticism and Advice.People with a fixed mindset are also not considered to be particularly good at accepting criticism and advice. They see it as a personal attack, a wound to their pride, their ability, and their very being.On the other hand, those who have a growth mindset are able to see the value in every criticism, in every piece of advice. If fixed mindsets want the world to know that they are clever, growth mindsets want to pursue intelligence continually. Every advice or piece of constructive criticism keeps pushing them forward.Accepting the Success of Others.Sometimes we feel jealous and resentful â€" or even threatened and intimidated â€" by other people’s achievement and success.For people with a fixed mindset, this is due to the fact that they too want to be recognised as clever â€" or that they will never achieve, with the lot that they have been given â€" the success that they see in others .People with a growth mindset meanwhile find inspiration in the success of others. They see it as something that, with enough effort, they too can achieve. Develop your growth mindset with us.Changing the World.All of this boils down to a fundamental difference in outlook on the nature of the world. And this is where the difference between the growth and the fixed mindsets takes on larger proportions.Because a fixed mindset demonstrates a fundamentally deterministic vision of the world, in which the traits with which you are born cannot change â€" and nor can anything else.Meanwhile, growth mindsets thrive in the knowledge that everything can change and develop â€" and that it should.Check out more growth mindset resources!

A Day in the Life at The Pennsylvania State University

A Day in the Life at The Pennsylvania State University The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teachtheyre sharing their college experiences as well. Elizabeth received her bachelors degree in biology and her masters degrees in biology and science education from The Pennsylvania State University. She is currently an online tutor specializing in algebra tutoring, ISEE tutoring, science tutoring, and several other subjects. See what she had to say about her experience at Pennsylvania State University: Describe the campus setting and transportation options. Elizabeth: Pennsylvania State University is located in State College, PA. It is a very unique town and campus because even though it is in a rural county, the university and town have almost all of the amenities of a larger city, such as concert events, a bus system, lots of places to eat, and many cultural events. There is free bus transportation on campus, and the bus system runs throughout the county. All of the university and most of the town is accessible by bike. You would not need a car. The town and campus are extremely safe places, and there is a very low crime rate. There are also many sporting events to attend. How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants at The Pennsylvania State University? Elizabeth: Pennsylvania State University is an extremely large university, and class sizes can vary from four to about 700 students. The size of Pennsylvania State University has allowed me to choose from hundreds of majors and minors. I was able to fine-tune my program to fit my needs, and I always had regular meetings with my adviser. I have found that faculty and staff are always willing to meet with, help, and guide students, even in the largest of classes. Also, I had numerous research, internship, and job opportunities during my undergraduate experiences, which allowed me to work closely with faculty, staff, and graduate students. How would you describe the dorm liferooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students? Elizabeth: I really enjoyed dorm life at Pennsylvania State University. My favorite part was the meal plan. There are more than six different dining halls across the campus, so I could always find one serving something that I liked. There are also many coffee shops and convenience stores on campus that accept the meal plan. My resident assistants always did a great job at helping new students get acclimated to the university. There are hundreds of clubs that students can join, from dance to science education, which allows for socialization, recreation, and service. Which majors/programs are best represented and supported? Elizabeth: I studied biology with an ecology option, and I minored in wildlife and fisheries sciences. Within biology, students can choose tailored programs, such as ecology, neurology, physiology, etc. You can choose almost any major or minor you can think of at Pennsylvania State University. There is even an option to create your own degree. Pennsylvania State University is also a leading university in online education, so many degrees can be completed online through the World Campus. How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life? Elizabeth: It was very easy for me to meet people and make friends. I came from a very small high school (I graduated with 98 students), and it was wonderful to make new friends from diverse backgrounds. Pennsylvania State University offers many free social events. I met most of my friends in classes, through Pennsylvania State University social events, and in clubs. I was in a science education outreach club that did science lessons and demonstrations for local schools and at special campus events. Greek life can play a significant role in campus social life. I was not part of a sorority, but some of my friends were. I went to and participated in some Greek philanthropy events. My brother-in law went to Pennsylvania State University, and he ended up getting his first job because of his fraternity affiliation. How helpful is the Career Center and other student support services? Elizabeth: The career center offers a full suite of career services, such as helping build a resume, holding practice interviews, and helping students and alumni find jobs. Thousands of companies from all over the world come to Pennsylvania State University to recruit future employees. Pennsylvania State University also has numerous career fairs where hundreds of companies come to recruit. We have the largest alumni network in the world. How are the various study areas such as libraries, the student union, and dorm lounges at The Pennsylvania State University? Elizabeth: Because of its size, there are many, many study areas. Every dorm has study rooms. Almost every building has studio space for working on group projects. The library and student union are enormous, and they are great places to study. The town has coffee shops, cafes, restaurants, and other spaces, such as religious or group spaces that are good places to study. The study spaces can become crowded during finals, but the library and student union stay open 24 hours a day to accommodate the larger volume of students. Describe the surrounding town. Elizabeth: For me, it is the best of both worlds. I have access to all the amenities I want, but it is also very easy to get involved with numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, and camping. First- and second-year students usually stay around town, but there are small towns nearby which offer new places to eat, study, and have fun. There are many things to do at and around Pennsylvania State University if you are willing to look. There is even a small ski slope which can be reached via bus. How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes at The Pennsylvania State University? Elizabeth: The student body is one of the largest in the country. I was okay with this because I came from a small town and small school, and I was ready for a change. Also, I wanted the freedom to choose any major and meet new people. My first class had 730 students in one lecture hall, but despite the size, I was able to meet personally with the instructor, and I ended up being a teaching assistant for that class. By my senior year, I was in classes that averaged about 15 students. Most of the large classes are introductory courses, and class size gets smaller the longer you are in a program. Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one you regret the most. Elizabeth: My most loved moment is when my Biology 110 professor (where the class size was 730) noticed that I was doing well in the course and helping students around me in class. She asked me to be a teaching assistant for the course. After being a teaching assistant, I knew I wanted to become a science educator. I had never considered a career in education before that experience, and now it has become my passion. Check out Elizabeths tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

Lets Learn How to Play the Ukulele.

Let’s Learn How to Play the Ukulele. Everything You Need to Know about Playing the Ukulele. ChaptersWhat is the Ukulele?Some Famous Ukulele Players and Performances.How to Play the Ukulele.Where to Find Ukulele Lessons.The ukulele is one of those instruments that everyone thinks that they can play. It’s an instrument that populates the corners of kids’ bedrooms. And it’s an instrument that is generally seen â€" a bit disrespectfully, perhaps â€" as generally just a ‘small guitar’, on which you can strum along to things like Jason Mraz.Yet, this does not really do credit to the instrument itself. Because ukuleles are not just guitars for beginners. Rather, they are quite distinct instruments, with their own history, their own sound, and their own particular traditions. Tell Jake Shimabukuro, for example, that it’s just an easy guitar; we’re sure that it will be appreciated.So, rather than collapsing this instrument into the category of the guitar, we’re going to talk about how you can learn to play the ukulele properly. We’re going to talk about how you can be a proud ukulele player with an awesome ukulele technique. We’re going to give you the knowledge of this instrument and the skills you need to hold your own in it. And, finally, we’ll point you in the direction of some ukulele teachers who guide you further on your journey.Let’s get started. Because the ukulele is a beautiful and hugely versatile instrument that you’ll love to learn and to play. So, there’s no reason not to take it seriously. Let’s have a look. PeterGuitar Teacher £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EdgarGuitar Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PaulGuitar Teacher 5.00 (12) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DanielGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ToddGuitar Teacher 4.75 (4) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SamueleGuitar Teacher 5.00 (5) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KurtGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RyanGuitar Teacher £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsWhat is the Ukulele?Yes, the ukulele is a type of guitar. But only in the same way that a mandolin or a cittern are. Because whilst the guitar has come to be the most recognisable of all plucked string instruments, it, like many of the rest of them, developed out of the lute.The same is true of the ukulele, which itself took its form from the Portuguese string instruments such as the cavaquinho and the rajao, as you’ll see below.As you’ll probably know, the ukulele is a small four-string instrument that uses re-entrant tuning â€" in which the strings are not necessarily tuned in order of pitch. Most often, the highest string (physically speaking) is not of a low pitch but is tuned much higher.These days, ukuleles are played in all sorts of different genres of music â€" not just in Hawaiian music.Find out about learning the mandolin - or about how to play the cittern! See what the ukulele can offer.A Brief History of the Ukulele.So, whilst you probably know that the ukulele was played originally by the Hawaiians, this is not to say that it developed there. Rather, the Portuguese â€" some sixteen thousand of whom moved to the islands at the turn of the twentieth century â€" brought their native instruments with them.These, such as the cavaquinho or the machete, were four-stringed instruments from the islands of Portugal â€" and they gave both their structure and their common tunings to the ukulele.Enjoyed by Hawaii’s king at the time, King Kalakaua, the instrument became hugely popular across the islands â€" and soon spread to the United States. From there, as is predictable, it went global â€" and moved from traditional Hawaiian music to all sorts of different genres.Learn about the lute!Different Types of Ukulele.If you are hoping to play ukulele, it is probably helpful to know the many different styles and types of instrument that you can find . Because whilst we say ‘ukulele’ as if it were just a single thing, there are actually many sizes that you should be aware of.The most common type is the soprano ukulele, which has generally become known as the standard ukulele. It comes in at about fifty centimetres, with about twelve to fifteen frets. Whilst you can tune the instrument pretty much however you want, a standard tuning is GCEA.Alongside this, there is the concert ukulele (or alto ukulele) which is slightly larger, as well as the tenor ukulele, the baritone, and the bass. These get progressively larger, with a longer fretboard and a lower pitch range.If you can play one, you can play them all. However, as they increase in size, you may have to get used to the extra stretch.Some Famous Ukulele Players and Performances.Whilst knowing the instrument’s history and types is helpful if you want to learn ukulele, it is pretty crucial to hear some real ukulele music too.Because watching a professional play the instrume nt is inspiring â€" like, actually â€" and it shows you what your instrument can actually do. And whilst strumming major chords is fun, that’s not half of what you can get out of learning the ukulele.So, get ready to see some performances that are actually impressive. Watch their technique and learn a little bit from them too.George Formby.George Formby was the comedian and musician from Wigan in the UK. He was, for a while, the highest-paid entertainer in the country â€" and he was known primarily for his ukulele and banjolele.Whilst he was known more for his comedy, Formby was actually quite an important figure in the history of the ukulele. After his death, the George Formby Society was set up to continue performances in his spirit. And this, in turn, influenced the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain â€" an organisation that continues to tour the world.Find out how to learn the banjo!Israel Kamakawiwo’ole.After the sixties, after George Formby had died, the ukulele fell out o f popularity a little. It wasn’t until the nineties, when Israel Kamakawiwo’ole started making music, that it entered back into the mainstream.Israel, or IZ, remains Hawaii’s biggest selling artist ever, and it was his arrangement of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ and ‘What a Wonderful World’ that brought attention back to the instrument. Since then, the instrument’s popularity has reached stratospheric levels. Why not learn a new instrument?Jake Shimabukuro.If you want to see ukulele playing that moves away from simple strumming patterns, check out Jake Shimabukuro, the Hawaiian ukulele virtuoso who went viral with his covers of George Harrison.If you want to see how to play ukulele in a way that will simply astonish people, Shimabukuro’s work is where you need to look.His music has won a huge number of awards â€" alongside the music he recorded with his early band, Pure Heart â€" and he continues to tour the world with his instrument.How to Play the Ukulele.So, we hope that you have seen the beauty that you can get out of the ukulele’s four strings. But now we’re turning to look at how you can learn to play ukulele. You’ll be playing your favourite songs in no time.As you’ll have read above, the most common tuning for the ukulele is GCEA, in which the G is the string physically highest as you hold the instrument.How to Hold the UkuleleThe trick with knowing how to hold the ukule le is in remembering that you need to press the instrument against you whilst you are strumming the chords. You’ll do this with the forearm of your right arm.This may mean that you don’t immediately feel like you have a lot of movement in your right arm. This is true â€" however, you don’t need that movement. What you need instead is space for the movement of your wrist. Because this is the motor that will power your strum.Strumming.When you play the ukulele, the majority of your contact with the strings will be done with your thumb or your index finger.If you are using your index finger, you’ll want to keep it loose and relaxed â€" whilst striking the strings with your nail.The alternative to fingerpicking is that you use a pick or a plectrum. However, with the uke, you usually play with one that is felted. This means that you won’t get the plasticky click of pick on nylon strings â€" which tends to ruin the vibe. You should learn the ukulele too.Where to Find Ukulele Lessons.Much of the materials that you will need to get started with the ukulele are available online. By this, we mean the basic ukulele chord charts and chord shapes, the tablature for easy ukulele songs, and the required music theory for beginner ukulele players.If you don’t like to read this sort of stuff, there are plenty of video tutorials on YouTube for you to learn in a bit more of a practical way.However, you may well want to find a teacher to help you develop as a ukulele player. They would be able to show you the ukulele techniques first hand â€" and jam with you once you know the basic chords.Head to Superprof to Find a Private Ukulele Instructor.Superprof is one of the best places to find a ukulele tutor in your area.Across the UK, we have hundreds of ukulele teachers who can teach you everything you need to know â€" either face-to-face or online. It’s a great â€" and super easy â€" way to learn the ukulele â€" a nd the vast majority of our tutors offer their first hour free!Find out about different kinds of string instruments!

3 Common Mistakes to Avoid on AP Exams

3 Common Mistakes to Avoid on AP Exams High school students everywhere recognize that one of the most stressful periods of the entire school year is that of the AP Exams. There are numerous subjects that are tested upon social sciences, mathematics, literature, and languages to name only a few. Although each exam focuses only on its own unique subject, there are a few overarching lessons to be studied as well that students can apply across the board. Preparing for the exam involves more than just learning the subjects at hand; it is vitally important to understand how to prepare for and take the exams. These are 4 myths about AP prep. Learn to avoid these 3 common mistakes so as to say you have really studied and trained for every trick question possible in preparation for the daunting and numerous AP exams. 1. Poor time management during the test The first question of any AP exam cannot be found on the first page; it is, instead, decided before the test even begins and asks how do you plan to use your time? Too often, students approach each question in order, debating over each unsure answer before moving on to answer the next question. Unfortunately, this method often leads to a time crunch, forcing the need for a race to the finish if all the questions are to be answered before the teachers call time. To avoid missing any right answers or questions you feel confident about, take the unexpected route and skip over or even take an educated guess on all of the debatable and difficult questions during an initial run-through of the exam. This should leave you with plenty of time to go back and debate any questions to which you are not sure of the answer; this will truly put your knowledge and memory to the test. 2. Missing the meaning of questions Of course, there are other ways to adjust for the time crunch that accompanies each exam. Often, students will push to answer each question as quickly as possible, only skimming both the questions and answer choices provided. But it is during that race to the finish line where one of the most fatal mistakes often occurs when questions are simply skimmed, or only read halfway, important details can (and often are) missed. Another similar and equally common mistake occurs when students fail to understand exactly what the question is asking. Dont be so caught up in finishing the exam on time that you miss the meaning or intent behind a question completely. Some questions especially the essays or long answers require a bit of translation before the answering can begin. Any errors in comprehension can, and often do, lead to the wrong answer. 3. Skipping the proper preparation The final and most frequently ignored mistake, however, requires more work than simply studying and paying attention to all the necessary exam material. All too much, students forget to properly prepare for their AP exams, beginning with those initial first steps when to start studying and when to stop. Here is agreat test prep timeline for AP exams. If you work better with a study partner, you may wish to reach out to an APtutor. Make sure to begin studying significantly in advance as studies have shown that the brains ability to retain information increases exponentially by the third day of review. The recommended start date, however, is at least a few weeks before the first exam date. These are some great AP practice teststo help you prepare. On that same note, dont waste time cramming for the AP exam the night prior to it. Instead, go to sleep with a full eight hours to spare and have your bag filled with pencils, pens, snacks, jacket, ID, and water all ready to go for the nex t morning. Before heading to bed, look up the location of the testing room and set your alarm as needed. That way, all that is necessary in the morning will be waking up on time and eating a full and balanced breakfast (i.e. protein and carbs) before beginning the first test! Good luck!

What is it Like to Attend Tulane University

What is it Like to Attend Tulane University The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teach theyre sharing their college experiences as well. Erin is a Houston tutor specializing in Spanish tutoring, Biology tutoring, Statistics tutoring, and much more. She graduated from Tulane University in 2013 with a Bachelors degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. See what she had to say about her school: VT: Describe the campus setting and transportation options.How urban or safe is the campus?Are there buses or do you need a car/bike? Erin: Tulane is in the heart of New Orleans, located in the Uptown portion of the city. The St. Charles streetcar is available right in front of campus to take you anywhere you want to go. The campus is small, so you can usually get to all your classes by walking, but the campus is bike friendly as well. If you ever take classes outside of the main campus, Tulane has free shuttles to get you there. VT: How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants? Erin: Entry-level classes will be the largest classes you take at Tulane, with around 100-200 students. However, the majority of the classes have around 12-20 students. One-on-one time with professors is very common and many professors have very accessible office hours. Most professors understand if you cannot make their scheduled office hours and will coordinate with when you are available to meet. VT: How would you describe the dorm life rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students? Erin: There are tons of clubs and organizations to join at Tulane, including Relay for Life, Habitat for Humanity, Student Government, and many intramural and club sports. There is one cafeteria as well as a food court with many different options of food. Freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus. All the dorms are located in the main campus and are very close to everything you need. There are some new dorms and some old dorms. The newer ones are obviously nicer, more spacious, and cleaner; however, the older dorms are fine as well. VT: Which majors/programs are best represented and supported?What did you study and why? Did the university do a good job supporting your particular area of study? Erin: The Business School is very well known, but there is a wide variety of majors and minors. The School of Science and Engineering has great Biomedical and Chemical Engineering programs. Tulane School of Medicine and Tulane School of Law are also well known and popular, so pre-med and pre-law classes are very well represented. VT: How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life? Erin: Tulane does a very good job of organizing events for freshmen to participate in. Even though I didnt know anybody when I first came to Tulane, within two weeks I had a group of friends whom I remained friends with for all four years. Greek life is prevalent at Tulane and many students participate. However, you do not need to be Greek to be social or involved in the campus. I was not Greek and had many friends and different social opportunities. VT: How helpful is the Career Centerand other student support services?Do many reputable companies recruit on campus? Erin: The Career Center has grown a lot since I started at Tulane. I used the Career Center a little bit for resume building, but not as much for job searching. I did work on campus as an undergrad and the center does help with placement in school jobs. VT: How are the various study areas such aslibraries, the student union, and dorm lounges? Are they over-crowded, easily available, spacious? Erin: The student union is an excellent place to study with many different lounges, study areas, and conference rooms. The library was my next favorite place to study. It has many computers and laptop stations as well as many quiet study areas, but does get packed. Tulane also has a coffee shop which is very popular for studying among students. Dorm study areas typically get overcrowded and I rarely studied in my dorm, unless I was in my own room. VT: Describe the surrounding town. What kinds of outside establishments / things to do are there that make it fun, boring, or somewhere in between?To what extent do students go to the downtown area of the city versus staying near campus? Erin: New Orleans is buzzing with so many things to do. Live music is a huge part of New Orleans and a great way to spend your weekends. There is so much to do within walking distance of campus as well, including delicious places to eat. Downtown New Orleans is just a streetcar ride away, but Tulane also offers shuttle services. If you decide not to live in a residence hall, there are many nice neighborhoods surrounding campus that are just a short bike ride or walk away. There is nothing boring about New Orleans, and I do not regret anything about my undergraduate experience. VT: How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes? Erin: Tulane has about 6,000 undergraduate students. I found it to be a perfect size for me. I always saw and met new people, but was never overwhelmed by how many students there were. Typical class sizes once you get out of entry-level classes are around 12-20 people. These classes are built around discussion and interaction instead of lecture, which I liked. VT: Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one youregretthe most. Erin: I loved all my professors in my major. I worked in a lab as a research assistant and a teacher assistant and was able to become close with several professors. One professor, who was my freshman Biology lab instructor, ended up becoming my honors thesis advisor because we had built such a close relationship over the four years I was an undergrad. Check out Erins tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

How to Find Dance Classes Near Me

How to Find Dance Classes Near Me From Ballet to Tango explore Britain’s Dance Classes! ChaptersDancing in the Streets of LondonPerform a Whole Song and Dance in ManchesterDance up a Storm in BirminghamFinding the Right Dance Foot for you in LeedsDance to Glasgow’s Tune“The dance is a poem of which each movement is a word.” Mata HariDancing has been part of civilisation for as far as we can remember. A commemoration of life passages, a celebratory communion for many cultures, dance time and time again translates the spirit of a group, and its very humanity one would argue. Mysterious, graceful, tragic, cutesy, theatrical, ceremonial and always ever so communicative, whether we want it or not, dance is inherently part of our lives.Today with television show likes Strictly Come Dancing and Britain's Got Talent, dance is on the rise. It is a great idea to get some exercise in a fun class just to learn a routine, do a quick two-step, a jig and wow the crowd at the next social bash.Ballet dancing is both poetic and rigorous. (Source: Unsplash).When the music comes on w e all have our favourite choreography and a signature move whether it is the robot, a wild twerk or something that sets us apart on the dancefloor. Be honest now, how many times have you longingly watched that Dirty Dancing scene? What about all those secret rehearsals of Michael Jackson’s moonwalk to get it just right? Or perhaps do you dream of effortlessly achieving a triple pirouette on point ever since you be gobsmacked by Natalie Portman’s performance in Black Swan?Rest assured whether it is a Russian ballet class you are after or a salsa-til-you-drop situation we’ve got you covered. All you need is to put your dancing shoes on and skip over to the nearest class.The United Kingdom definitely has a generous offering of dance schools and sometimes picking the right one can be tricky. The Council for Dance Education and Training (CDET), the national body for dance professionals, operates an information board for prospective students dance academies. It is the reference for professional dance training and ensures relevance to current industry needs.Luckily for dance students, Britain is the home of prestigious dance institutions and companies that travel the world over and not to mention the bustling West End. Whether it's catching last minute seats for the ballet at Covent Garden’s Royal Opera House or hitting a club, dance options are diverse and accessible to all.Joining a dance schools near me has many benefits. There is nothing more liberating than getting out of your head to music you love. Not to mention your heart pumping and legs burning, dance is a great way to lose weight, maintain a strong bone, articular and muscular structure. Finding your balance and coordination through a dance lesson can be an asset in other areas of your life.Also, did you know the discipline involved in rehearsing and developing body awareness is beneficial to your brain? All of that memorising and assimilating new information will keep your intellectual abilities on their toes. One of the best things about dancing is that you're getting all of the above physical and mental health benefits through having fun with other passionate people.“Dance is the hidden language of the soul of the body.” Martha Graham with about 180 students active year round. The school also has a postgraduate company that tours nationally and abroad and an apprenticeship scheme which enables students to spend a year in a professional company.Looking for a more unusual dance degree? The University of East London (UEL) opened an alternative to conventional dance training in 2007, it’s a BA (Hons) in Dance Urban Practice. Its disciplines range from ballet to capoeira and afro-house, the course truly reflects London’s vibrant multiculturality.The sheer variety of dance styles available in London are sure to keep you busy. Always wondered what it took to dance in a music video? Frame Studios in East London teaches how to whip your hair and give that sassy hip twist l ike Queen B.Dance's physical and creative skills have proven to boost self-confidence. (Source: Unsplash).Pineapple Dance Studios is the go-to place for all kinds of hip-hop dancing. With over 250 classes a week, the timetable drops serious street cred with lessons in urban street, commercial and breakdance. Pull on your sickest tracksuit and get your pop and lock on!Last but not least, the Caramelo Latin Dance School in Maida Vale hosts some of the best salsa classes in London. Learn smooth and sensual routines here with passionate teachers. Learn all the steps to wow the crowds on your next night out. Register now and you’ll be sizzling on the dance floor by summer!Just a few more places to twinkle your toes in London:Tap dance at City Academy (Rosebery Avenue, East London)Zumba and Ballet fusion at The Factory (Finsbury Park, North London)Dancehall at At Your Beat (Elephant and Castle, South East London)Swing Dance at Swing Patrol (all over London and Brighton)Pole dance at Pol e People (Barbican, East London)Find dance classes in London.Perform a Whole Song and Dance in ManchesterThe University of Salford holds a BA (Hons) Dance with intensive technical training and a rigorous curriculum. With an extra 150 hours of techniques every semester and a variety of interdisciplinary dance teachings, there is enough here to keep you busy. Take the opportunity to master relevant skills to current industry demands like aerial skills and dance fusion forms. The course also regularly puts students in touch with professional choreographers and glean a better understanding of the professional dance world.The undergraduate course at De Montfort University focuses on technical and performance skills but also aims for students to develop their unique creative voice. To aligns training with career aspirations, dancers are encouraged to choose a specific subject like Choreography and Performance or Education and the Community upon entering their second year.For a highly mark et-oriented degree tailored to entertainment industry work like event performances and music video dancing, the University of Bolton has put together a Professional and Commercial Dance BA (Hons).For those seeking solid dance lessons while not embarking on a professional path, The Dancehouse has a variety of classes for all levels. Mastering a new dance style can be so rewarding and also a great way to spend time with like-minded people. You can even test your performance abilities with the Move It class specifically for performance shows.Did you know the salsa scene in Manchester has been hoping for about twenty years? Salsa Manchester will get you styling and satisfy those itching to strut their stuff to Latino music. You will be spoilt for choice. Whether it’s kizomba, bachata, reggaeton, Cuban rumba, salsa con afro body isolation, there is a class for every taste. Not to mention the ultra sociable Latin dance community, prepare to have a lot of fun.Always wondered if swing da ncing was for you? Swing and Lindy Hop offer weekend workshops for those wanting to get into this dance genre but can’t find the time during the week. Instructors are fun and friendly and provide an accessible introduction to this vintage-tinged style.Feel like getting sultry with a burlesque class? Lady Wildflower will put you at ease and help you lose those daytime inhibitions in a nonjudgmental environment. Channel your inner Betty Page and enter the art of the tease (beyond pouting and feather boas) and connecting with your audience are big components of this unusual class. You will discover a truly powerful style and learn to feel confident and sexy. Time to get your sparkle on and unleash your inner showgirl!More options to bring sexy back with dance lessons in Manchester:Flamenco dance workshops with Flamenco Manchester (all over Manchester)Bollywood at Manchester Dance Centre (Oxford Road, M1)Tap dance at KNT Danceworks (Oxford Road, M1)Modern, street and commercial jazz a t Nathalie Woods School (Stockport)Pole dance and aerial dance at Bodybarre (Thomas St, M4)Dance fitness at Seen On Screen (Church Street, M4)Choreograph and master your wedding dance with Steps Dance (Yardley, B33)Learn Lindy Hop in a day with Swing Era’s Day Hopper (Moseley, B13)Finding the Right Dance Foot for you in LeedsHave you made your choice of dance for higher education in Yorkshire? Renaissance Arts’s three-year vocational course adopts a specialist approach to the most sought-after dance styles: classical ballet, technical jazz, contemporary, commercial style, body conditioning and even pilates. The three-year dance program gives a strong foundation for the student to choose a preferred style or two upon graduating. Practical performance training boosts confidence on stage and instills a professional attitude.Leeds City College has a one-year full-time course focused on developing performance, technique, choreography skills as well as theory. Teaching is given across a range of classes, workshops and projects so it never gets boring and students are guaranteed two major performance pieces on top showcase events. Albeit a general dance degree, graduates leave with professional showcase maturity.Northern School of Contemporary dance offers one of the region’s best certifying degrees in the dance genre. Alumni from this institution have mastered technical skills, honed the physical strength and creative mindset to take on a professional career in dance. The BA course’s variety of learning experiences, both professional and community-oriented builds capable dancers that have the ability to integrate and adapt to any opportunity.You can also take dance lessons as a hobby and a creative outlet in Leeds. Yorkshire dance offers a variety of fun concepts like their Island Energy class. Read tropical tunes concocted by a DJ and leg pumping, hearts beating to Afrobeat and Reggaeton tunes. An instant shot of carnival vibes!Some of us nurse painful memo ries of a mean teacher with gruelling barre work and sitting in the splits. If just thinking about those painful feet have put you off dancing for life, think again. The rich cultures around the world provide dancers with so many options far way from the land of pink tights and pliés.World dances have grown very popular in recent years so it has grown increasingly easy to learn oriental dance or saco dance in Leeds. The Dance Studio Leeds, for example, offers Bellydance, castanets and raggafanatics (from Jamaica with love) classes.More excuses to put your dancing shoes on in Leeds :BA (Hons) at Leeds Beckett UniversityIrish dancing at Leeds University Union (if you’re still a student)Company class for final year students with Phoenix Dance Theatre (Quarry Hill)Beginners’ Ballet at Elevations Academy Leeds (Chapel Allerton, LS7)Find dancing lessons in Leeds.Dance to Glasgow’s TuneThe prestigious Royal Conservatoire of Scotland has a great Modern Ballet course spanning three ye ars. On top of technical strength, the degree provides other essential abilities like a strong understanding of choreography and knowing how to engage with the audience. In partnership with Scottish Ballet, the school is well informed of industry requirements and tunes their courses to suit professional ballet companies.The Glasgow Dance Academy caters to both kids and adults. Classical ballet is taught by international teachers with have worked around the world. If you are looking for courses to prepare for examinations, this place offers dance school audition training in ballet, tap and modern dance. Both fun or more rigorous focused classes have the added benefits of improving concentration, a chance to socialise and maintain a healthy lifestyle.The sparkling performances and glimmering lights of the stage often seduce passionate teens to embark on the professional path. Pro Dance caters to aspiring dancers around aged fourteen to prepare for entry into full time higher performin g arts education at the age of eighteen. Registering early for the right training and advice is critical to pursuing a career in dance, the weekly three-hour is held at Maryhill Burgh Halls.Looking to kill two birds with one stone through making new friends while exercising? Sign up for a ballroom or more mysterious tribal fusion Bellydance class at Dance with Attitude. This one-stop studio offers fun classes and even a post workout meal and drinks at the nearby cafe.Has the dance exercise craze gotten to you? Zumba, samba fitness, dance tone are some of the styles offered at Dance Glasgow to get fit to sunny energetic music learning from friendly teachers. The good vibes will have you skipping to your weekly class!Ever dreamed of mastering the cha cha, the foxtrot or effortlessly carrying out a waltz? Deesdancing welcomes all levels and even couples looking to polish their wedding dance number. Worried beginners will be sashaying across the dancefloor in no time!Take advantage of the heritage-filled city to join the Royal Scottish Dance Society for a spin across the floor. Classes and events are held throughout the year at various locations and for all abilities and ages. Learning how to Ceilidh will sure to come in handy when you’re next convened to a wedding. The perfect strategy to entice that cute bridesmaid or groomsmen’s for a spin around the dancefloor!Where can you take dance lessons in Glasgow?Get light on your feet on with a Highland dancing lesson. (Source: Unsplash).Adding a fitness twist to tradition, the Highland Hustle mixes Scottish Highland dancing to funky high beat music. This style was created for dancers of all levels wanting to get in shape while trying something unusual. Be it low or high-intensity class this is definitely a novelty to try!Sick of sitting on the sidelines everytime a dance song comes on?Beginner hip-hop street dance at Dance GlasgowStrictly Latin and Commercial Jazz at Dance FactoryBollywood or South African Pantsu la style at Dance HouseCome as you are no partner required at Glasgow Line DancingJive classes with Rock til you Drop (across Scotland)With all these choices you will be spinning and swaying your way to becoming true dancing queen or sweep your eye candy off their feet. Now just give it a whirl!We hope you're now on track to finding the dance classes you have dreamed of!

Singing Lessons Liverpool

Singing Lessons Liverpool Where Can You Find Singing Classes with a Voice Coach in Liverpool ChaptersTake Singing Lessons in a Music SchoolThe Choir With No NameWhat to Look for in a Voice TeacherTake Singing Lessons with a Private InstructorLearning to Sing OnlineLiverpool: what a music-oriented city to live in!Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the Capital City of Pop Music, The Pool  - as locals call it, is where the most successful male band  members, and those from  female music acts originated from.With the advent of The Beatles, Liverpool became the seat of the Beat Music movement, which in turn became the British Invasion.The Merseybeat, the name given to the unique fusion of Chuck Berry style guitar, played at mid-tempo, with jazz and soul riffs thrown in, became the foundation of the standard rock group of today.All over the world, pop and rock bands of today owe their format â€" lead, rhythm and bass guitars, drums and vocals â€" to the Liverpool music scene.Whether for fun or to get serious about a career in singing, you might want to add your name t o the long, illustrious roster of Liverpudlians whose echoes of talent, style and vocal prowess still dazzle us today.The best place to start is with singing lessons, so let's go find some!Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts has a programme for every aspiring singer Source: Wikipedia Credit: Rept0n1XLiverpool Institute for Performing Arts.Their focus is on contemporary and commercial music, with a curriculum targeted to all aspects of songwriting and performance.Learning how to sing through LIPA's three- or four-year degree programme ensures you will be indoctrinated  in everything from breath control to ear training â€" connecting the sounds you hear with notes on a paper.You will learn all about reading and writing music and, on evenings and weekends, you will have the opportunity to perform in front of an audience of your peers (and possibly heavies of the music industry, such as agents and producers).Are you worried about stage fright?LIPA has a solution for you: weekly one- on-one voice training sessions with a vocal coach.This individual attention will help you improve your technique, find your pitch and help you become a better vocalist.You will find it easy to extend your vocal range: through their singing exercises, it will only a matter of time before you hit all of those high notes!By the time you graduate, after three years (or four), you would be a well-rounded professional singer, as adept at songwriting as you would be comfortable in front of an audience.What if your circumstances and schedule do not permit a three year commitment to vocal training?The Choir With No NameThis group might be a fun bunch with whom to kick your musical ambitions into high gear!Founded three years ago in Liverpool, they give regular performances around the city. Their singing success is due in large part to weekly rehearsals.After which you can enjoy a nice meal together!Not only are they a diverse group of people from all walks of life, but their repertoire refle cts individual members' backgrounds. They have been known to sing:Rock and PopSoul and FunkJazz and BluesReggaeGospelShow tunesAdmittedly, they've yet to do any acid rock or punk... but they are open to suggestion!The Choir With No Name hosts regular singing workshops, open to beginners and advanced singers alike.You do not need to be an accomplished vocalist to join them; in fact, they do not require you to audition at all!If you are at least somewhat confident of your singing voice and wish for some informal vocal coaching, or if you just want to learn from others to improve your singing technique, this choir could be a step in the right direction for you.Imagine how stunned your mates would be on karaoke night when, fresh from choir practice, you belt out Adele's Hello!Be sure to not strain your voice with too much singing, though.Don't let a lack of self-confidence freeze you behind the microphone! Source: Pixabay Credit: Neoloky it is up to voice teachers to help their performe rs feel more relaxedVocal health: rest, moisture and muscle tone are the three key ingredients to healthy vocal cordstaking care of your larynx is an important part of your development as a singer; avoid straining your voice box at all costs!Beyond teaching you how to sing better, your singing classes should be structured around your overall artistic development; not just your singing technique.As fabulous as her voice is, Mariah Carey has often been cited as a singer more interested in exercising her admittedly impressive 7-octave range, rather than putting heart into her music.Don't be that singer! Let us help you find vocal lessons that amount to more than performance coaching.Take Singing Lessons with a Private InstructorWith two of the only ten singing teachers in the UK who are certified by Vocology in Practice, Balance Vocal Studio might just be the right place for you to learn how to sing.Their method of instruction is nurturing and supportive; embracing all aspects of voice training.For instance, they would not have you start singing if your throat does not feel in tip top shape, nor would they arrange for you to sing out of your range.They would, however, lead you through vocal exercises, and then, once you are thoroughly warmed up, have you start singing songs you are comfortable with.Have you written any songs? Have you composed brilliant lyrics, and only need help putting them to music?Here again, Balance is ready to help. If you want to learn how to write a song before you can sing any songs at all, their instructors are just waiting to teach you.There is a popular misconception that only classical singers have these sorts of voice lessons. - Ian DavidsonBalance Vocal Studio is there to help you learn how to sing,  whether you are classically trained or not... just in time for you to serenade next anniversary, or sing at any other grand occasion.They also give voice lessons online!With a decent set-up, you could take singing lessons online Source : Pixabay Credit: Mohamed HasanLearning to Sing OnlineIf you have a decent Internet connection and a deep desire to learn how to sing â€" but no time to attend scheduled lessons, making use of Skype to connect with a voice coach could be a workable solution.Music Teachers UK is a resource for the determined but busy singer who wishes to hone her skill or build his craft.Working with a singing coach online is not so very different than going to a studio or school.Granted, you have to be a self-starter, and it might be easier and more efficient if you already know fundamental singing techniques, like proper breathing and pushing from your diaphragm.Still, if you know how to read music and have benefited from voice lessons in the past â€" if you just want to improve your tone quality or, even better!, have landed a gig...Online singing lessons may just be the right fit for you.If you are open to taking lessons online, Superprof has hundreds of qualified voices just waiting for you to t ake lessons from them.Whether you are into contemporary music or bel canto is more your style, you will certainly find the right trainer for your voice.Any one of our music coaches could take your training in hand and turn your voice into an instrument akin to those of great singers you might hear in a  concert  hall.Singing has been proven to have numerous health benefits, for your mind and your body.But mostly, we sing for the passion of it; for the sheer joy it brings.So, with all of the ways to take singing lessons in Liverpool, how to learn to sing is all up to you.Breathe in, log on and find a teacher. Your vocal chords will thank you!And if you live across the pond, find out more about learning to sing in the famously musical  Madchester.Whether you're from Cardiff, Glasgow, Bournemouth, Nottingham, Belfast, Edinburgh or the capital, you can learn to sing in any UK city!

2016 NC Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference - Heart Math Tutoring

2016 NC Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference - Heart Math Tutoring 2016 NC Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference 2016 NC Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference December 22, 2016 By Padgett Sullivan and Cydney Kramer In November, Cydney and I attended the North Carolina Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference (NCCTM), in Greensboro NC. We were joined by hundreds of other North Carolina math teachers, coaches, and facilitators. It was exciting to be in a place with so many other education professionals who value math education as much as the Heart team! We had many of our mathematical beliefs confirmed, but also learned important new things about how to best support our students! We’ve summarized some of our findings below. The Role of Assessment in Math “Test less, assess more.” While that may seem contradictory, tests are generally summative and let us know what a student has mastered. An assessment lets us know where students are in the process toward mastery and allows us adjust our instruction accordingly. Blurring the line between instruction and assessment allows us to better tailor our instruction. The implication for Heart is that mini-assessments need to not only be a test at the end of a notebook, but an avenue for the coordinator and tutor to learn (at any point along the way toward mastery) what a student is able to do and what he/she still needs to work on. A “failed” mini-assessment is not a failure at all it gives us important information about a student’s mathematical understanding. For example, you may learn that a student can tell you easily “how many less” when the two quantities are only one or two different but has trouble keeping track when the difference is larger. AnOperational view of the Equal Sign vs. a Relational view “Whatever value you have on the left, you must have on the right.” After listening to the researcher Zachary Champagne talk about students’ understanding of the equal sign and watching videos of students explaining it, Cydney and I were stunned by how many students believe the equal sign means “answer.” When given true false equations, most students didn’t believe that 4=4 was true, or that 2+3=3+2 was true, as they had only ever seen equations with an addition or subtraction problem on the left, and the answer on the right. If students are never exposed to anything else, it is understandable that they would find those equations odd or even untrue. It is important for coordinators and tutors to help students understand that the equal sign indicates a balance and means “the same as” rather than “put answer here.” In addition to some minor curriculum updates which will allow students to see equations in a variety of ways, coordinators can and should “push in” to correct students’ operational view of the symbol to prepare them for algebra and other higher level math. See Hearts two-minute tutoring tip here! Mindsets in Math As we all know, students’ mindset about math greatly affects their performance in math. It isforthisreason that one of Heart’s core values is “growth mindset.” It is important for students to see mistakes as learning experiences and as a natural, healthy consequence of trying. It is important for coordinators and tutors to continue to instill in their students a growth mindset (rather than fixed mindset, where intelligence is predetermined at birth), so that they persevere through challenges in math and in life. Coordinators can ensure that tutors are asking students the metacognition and reflection questions as they are leaving the tutoring room. “What was hard about today? What was easy? What do I need more practice on?” This gets students into the habit of reflecting on their effort and normalizes the idea that some things are easy andsome things are hard.It is only by struggling through the hard things that our brains grow and become stronger!