It's that time of year when traditional classroom teachers/educators are preparing for a new group of students. Preparations include organizing curriculum and lesson plans, creating a welcoming environment, and gathering classroom supplies. So much prep work goes into getting the first day, first week, first month just right. In the midst of all of this... Continue Reading →
I often wonder...do students WANT choice? When I give students the opportunity to own their learning, many choose the easiest option. We live in an era of nothing but options. The tools change before we have time to master. Learning is fast and furious. Goodbye teaching hello facilitating. Sometimes I feel it's impossible to keep... Continue Reading →
My passion for different types of learning spaces stems from watching my own child learn. I have been educated by my son on learning spaces for 12 years. For him, his ultimate learning space is not one confined to the traditional desk and chair that most students endure for 6 hours, 5 days a week.... Continue Reading →
Some of the trendiest topics in Education are Student-Directed learning, #LearnerAgency and #StudentOwnership. As I hear these phrases, I ask myself...are these topics that new? I’ve been a Teacher/Trainer/Specialist/Facilitator for 23 years. To me, the idea of students owning their learning is nothing new. For years, good teaching has been good teaching. What has changed... Continue Reading →
The art of conversation has taken on new meaning. Communication has evolved from spoken word to text forms not many could have dreamed of in years past. What once was face to face, then voice to voice, has now catapulted into a world of text to text over space, time, and distance. The efficiency surrounding text... Continue Reading →
Feedback, constructive criticism, assessment, evaluation, observation...whatever you want to call it, it should be given and received as a way to #becomebetter. Unfortunately it can be a slippery slope. One that many avoid being a part of. If feedback is not something one is seeking, then often times is perceived negatively and defenses can build... Continue Reading →
WHY relationships? This blog is co-written with my colleague and friend Chris Tuttell. How else could this piece be written on relationships? Dr. Brad Gustafson writes in his book Renegade Leadership, “If pedagogy is the driver, and technology is the accelerator. This may be true, but relationships are the runway.” "Relationships are the runway." Yes!... Continue Reading →
When it comes to blogging there is no "right" or "wrong" way. Blogging is a way to express your thoughts, share your opinions, give advice, or just a place for your voice to be heard. When blogging with students it is important to follow a few basic steps: Choose a tool you want your students... Continue Reading →
It's not about me. It's not about you. It's about the students. In Alan November’s book, Who Owns the Learning, his message is clearly heard and conveyed as, Empowering students to lead in their learning, and for teachers to make the subject material relevant to the lives of students.. In a world where teachers are... Continue Reading →
To change, or become different, is uncomfortable for some. Others thrive in it. Change can seem scary. It signifies newness. When there is change, what was once comfortable doesn't look or feel the same. But without change, growth does not occur. This is why I think change is worth the risk. So WHY change or do things differently... Continue Reading →
Still Learning 