i heart blogging

test

Back to the BOARDS

I have completely decide to shift wheels and go with a Mandala Stubbie. Passing on the Pendoflex. more to come

NY York Times Video

Unbelievable subject matter. The media represented the topic perfectly. Definite a benchmark for that style of messaging.

Wired Librarian ?

Wired Librarian has literally ripped a page of my book and posted on her blog. Her blog reflected how her time is shallowed up by her commitments. It was interseting to read a blog that was so relative. What that on purpose or just coincidence?

PERSONAL MASTERY

Personal Mastery in my field of teaching begins before you even start the process. I was a on again off again carpenter since my teen years. I liked that kind of work, but never loved it as a profession. When a principle of a high school told me about the need for tech teachers, I jumped at the chance to teach it. I was able to use my college degree and my well honed (personal mastery) carpentry skills and pass along to the students what my father handed down to me. I feel that my carpentry skills give me confidence in all subject matters I teach. But the longer I teach the more I realize you do not need any real practical skills. The skills you need to master as a teacher, are much more complex. You need to be able to truely communicated with your students at a level they are comfortable with. You have to have them understand your on the same side as them. That it's not a you against them process. You have to be able to understand the NY State standards and incorporate them into your curriculum effectively to the age group your teaching, and have the students understand why they are learning them. You must "D.I." your lesson to accomdate the different learners. Do I believe I have Personal Mastery over all these skills. Probally no, but I understand their importance, and my students and athletes I coach all feel we are on the same "team".(edit later)

Team Learning

Team learning in my district is usually by department. For example members in my department share curriculum materials. However I beleive the most team learning I have experienced as a educator is working with Varsity Coaches. We share many of the same philosphopies and beliefs, but the greatest part is sharing directions. I have learn so much just observing the head coach, my first couple of seasons. His approach with the students/ athletes was one of such support and caring. I have used this approach with the students in my class room, and it made a real difference in my entire experience as a teacher.