Powerful learning first, technology second
By modeling the behaviors I want, others will be willing to learn from my example. Last spring I planned a fall book study to be completed by anyone in their own time frame, with the culminating event being a Twitter chat with authors Heather Dowd and Patrick Green. The book was Classroom Management in the Digital Age which addressed many of the areas of weakness in our district. While I love preparing engaging questions and planning how teachers would share their learning, it was a flop. Three of us completed the book study. Here is the format I used goo.gl/Rg58bq.
It is only now while reflecting that I realize what might have been the true reason for the book study not being well received. I assumed it was because people were afraid to try Twitter and Google+, but perhaps the reason for low participation was that I wasn't focusing on the strengths of my organization, but on the weaknesses. I saw teachers having problems with management of digital tools, so I sought a solution. What I perceived as me thinking outside the box, PD in a teacher's own time, even in their pajamas, did not have the results I'd hoped for.
I thought I was modeling a growth mindset, trying new things by moderating a Twitter chat. And maybe I was, but I was also modeling was what we often do in education, focusing on the weaknesses. What about building on strengths, where competence can build confidence and improving their learning skills?
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