Worth Sharing...

Sharing a few thought-provoking posts I came across in recent weeks.

1. Creation Requires Your Influence (Couros)- comments on the importance of working side-by-side with students and taking part in the learning as well.

Having a dad work side-by-side with his daughter to help her learn and do something that she is interested in while helping her develop skills that she will need in her life.  She might not know how to make and edit a video right now, but she will be able to sooner than many kids because of an adult (her dad) taking the time by not only modelling his learning, but, as Chris Kennedy has said, going “elbows deep into learning” with his daughter.

2. What Will the Ed Tech Revolution Look Like (Brady/Fast Company)- prediction for what will transpire in the Ed Tech Revolution over the next 5-15 years.  I jsut wonder if we can wait 15 years for some of these changes to occur.

After a decade more of fiscal pressure at school and many of the changes discussed above, we will finally see widespread changes to our public school model. Schools will move toward one of a handful of models that better support the needs of individual students and reflect the fiscal realities of today.

3. A To-Be List (Maiers)-  what kind of leader do you want to be?

Be A Question Asker.  I have been teaching and writing about the importance of asking great questions for a long time.  Great questions are the best way to have a meaningful conversation, the best way to rope in a mentor AND the best way to look like a star performer.  Make it a priority to listen to people asking great questions. Be in charge of the questions you ask and keep a list of the best questions you hear.  Use this to create a question toolbox you use and can apply to every conversation and interaction you have.

4. A Passion For Learning Is Hard to Quantify-  9th grade student questions how mandatory one size fits all testing is a true measurement of growth and learning.

Tests are important, but are not the only way to find out what kids can do. I know I am not the best test taker, so multiple choice tests aren’t always the best way to show my abilities. And I wouldn't want to just learn how to score better on them.

5.  The Global Transformation in Education- The Global Transformation in Education" addresses the forces of change that are causing educators globally to rethink what education for today's students should involve. Teaching kids how to learn and what it means to be a life long learner.

6. Nike Find Your Greatness- what can we do to create spaces for greatness to occur?