MOTAL is all about learning about learning. Physical exhibits are not the only way to learn. We invite you to visit our Learn page periodically to see what’s new—from fresh perspectives to prized artifacts.

Perspectives

What is the role of handwriting in modern society? Educators and experts appear to be divided on this. Read the Education Week article, Summit to make a case for teaching handwriting.

GreatSchools Weekly recently listed their “Best of 2011” articles—those that generated the most buzz. We thought you might want to take a look at some of them:

Do uniforms make schools better?

How important is cultural diversity at your school?

Raising Kate: One mom’s fight for her child’s identity

Inside the tweener’s brain

When it’s the teacher that is bad, so-so, or a bully

Shanghai: Head of the (global) class

Children and nature: Who let the kids out?

Where the achievement gap is born—Those of us who work with parents—and are parents—know that mothers and fathers are grateful to learn how to be better at their roles. We think our website visitors will find this article by Cathie Black interesting and important, for we now know many things about very young children that can affect their futures in great ways.

Artifacts

MOTAL has collected over 200 artifacts of importance to the history of education in the United States. A majority of donors have shared with us a story reflecting their personal connection or fondness for the item. From time to time we will feature an artifact from our collection and share the donor’s story as well.