Education

Creative writing is more than just putting words on a page; it’s the art of giving voice to imagination, emotion, and perspective. For students and lifelong learners alike, it builds critical thinking, strengthens communication skills, and fosters empathy by inviting writers to see the world from different viewpoints. Whether through poetry, short stories, or reflective essays, creative writing creates space for authentic self-expression and nurtures a deeper understanding of the human experience.

The start of a new school year is always a moment of both excitement and anxiety. The quiet hum of freshly waxed hallways, the anticipation of meeting a new group of students, and the scent of dry-erase markers mark the return to the classroom. But alongside these rituals are the very real pressures educators face, such as new curriculum mandates, shifting expectations, and the ever-present desire to make a lasting impact.

In an era where education is changing rapidly, professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in their communities require advanced knowledge and skills that fit into their busy lives. Kent State University’s 100% online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Cultural Foundations provides the perfect blend of flexibility and impact, empowering students to explore the intersections of education, social justice, and cultural awareness—on their own schedule.

Cultural organizations—such as museums, libraries, theaters, and arts centers—play a vital role in education, offering dynamic learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. These institutions provide opportunities to explore history, art, and culture in ways that inspire curiosity, foster lifelong learning, and build connections within communities. The 100% online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Cultural Foundations at Kent State University prepares students to collaborate with cultural organizations to promote educational initiatives that are impactful and community-driven.

Conflict is an inevitable part of life, and for educators, it is a frequent occurrence in the classroom. However, instead of viewing conflict as a disruption, teachers can reframe it as an opportunity for learning and growth. With the right strategies and training, educators can guide students in resolving disputes constructively, helping them develop essential life skills in communication, negotiation, and emotional intelligence.

With everything going on in the world, the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to challenges is more important than ever. The good news for you is that we now know resilience is not just a personality trait reserved for a select few; it’s a skill that anyone can cultivate. In this post, we’ll explore how developing resilience can transform the way you navigate both personal and professional challenges and enhance your resilient leadership attributes and how the Rise & Thrive: Leading with Resilience workshop from Kent State University can equip you with the tools you need to thrive.

For teachers, the rise of AI presents an exciting opportunity to enhance teaching, streamline tasks, and personalize learning for students. But how can educators effectively integrate AI into their classrooms while maintaining the human connection at the heart of teaching? Dr. Julee Henry, instructor of Kent State’s AI for Educators workshop, emphasizes the urgency of preparing educators for the AI-driven future: “As educators, we must intentionally engage with AI to harness its potential responsibly. Our students are already using this technology, often without guidance. It’s critical for teachers and administrators to understand AI’s implications now to guide students toward ethical and effective use while also enhancing classroom learning.”

At Kent State University, our faculty members are the heart of our academic excellence, and Dr. Marian Maxfield exemplifies this every day. Teaching 100% online workshops in the College of Education, Health, and Human Services, Dr. Maxfield has been named an EHHS MVP—an honor awarded by student nomination. This recognition highlights her unwavering dedication to creating engaging, high-quality online learning experiences that inspire and empower her students.

Mary Ann Devine is a Professor at Kent State University in the Cultural Foundations and Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management programs and also directs the Disability Studies and Community Inclusion Graduate Certificate program, an online graduate certificate focused on inclusive practices and accessibility.

As an educator, you know the importance of finding effective ways to deepen your professional learning and understanding. In an age where information is abundant and technological distractions are ever-present, one time-tested method for professional development is to engage with a book study. Whether you do book studies individually, in groups, online, or in person, this type of learning can yield benefits far beyond mere reading.