"...we are thrilled to announce the new Educating for Democracy Deep Dive developed by the Teaching Channel and the Civic Engagement Research Group at the University of California, Riverside. The Deep Dive is a curated collection of videos accompanied by educational resources, blogs, and articles related to preparing youth for civic and political life in the digital age. It provides educators with the opportunity to see key aspects of civic learning and digital media learning in action. It also provides avenues for educators and their students to explore the ways in which our civic, political, and digital lives are inextricably linked in the 21st century.

"For example, there are videos and resources that highlight various ways educators can integrate civic learning in line with the following essential questions:

-INVESTIGATION & RESEARCH: How do I help students research issues that matter to them?
-CIVIC KNOWLEDGE: How do I help further students’ civic knowledge and understanding?
-DISCUSSION: How do I help students have productive discussions about current and controversial issues?
-VOICE: How can students voice their perspective on issues that matter to them?
-ACTION: What are effective ways to take action in the digital age?
-LEARN MORE: Where can I learn more and find resources?"

Writing isn't that hard. We can all do it, one word after next, little baby steps until a whole thought is complete. Writing so people will care is pretty darn difficult though, especially in an age where we are constantly besieged by words and ideas on email, social media and whatever news sources are best at forcing themselves in front of our eyes.

Still, the need is there. In fact, there has perhaps not been a more important time for educators to share their stories.

I've been writing about teaching heavily for the last five years, and I've learned things. I've learned the things that have been the difference between having a few people read a piece and a few hundred thousand. I've learned about the honest desire from many to hear directly from teachers as well as the desire of some to use teacher voices for their own needs.

I've learned about haters, and I've learned how amazing it is to hear how you've impacted or supported a colleague you've never met before.

So, then, here are some quick lessons to think about when you are ready to share your stories and ideas more broadly, whether you are thinking of submitting to a website, starting your own blog, or sending in a letter to the editor. Let me know when they're done; I'd love to read and share them.

Things to do:

Free resource of educational web tools, 21st century skills, tips and tutorials on how teachers and students integrate technology into education

In an age where our children swipe, pinch and tap on smartphones and tablets from birth, is the “hand” in “handwriting” about to be removed forever? And are there any benefits to good old-fashioned pen and paper: artistic posterity, cognitive benefits, or something else?

Are your characters dry, lifeless husks? Writing effective description is the secret to breathing new life into them. Author Rebecca McClanahan shares 11 secrets.