As a district level Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist who coaches others, I try to always remember the days in my middle school classroom. Those years gave me so much insight into learning differences for students AND adults. While subtle differences occur as we age, there are some similar, fundamental things we need to remember when planning learning opportunities for students and adults. Just like our students, teachers learn in different ways. We need to allow them options on HOW to learn and WHAT to learn. Then, we need to support them while they use what they have learned...not just "turn 'em loose" when the hour-long professional development is over. WHY? It's ultimately best for the students. Giving teachers choice and control of when, what, and how they learn will better enable them to bring learning choice to their classrooms - putting students in charge of their own learning and growth. If we allow teachers to experience the power in this type of learning, they will hopefully see the value in bringing it to their classrooms. The impact of the type of one to one support for teachers that Daniels explains in the video is powerful. This is what will inspire other teachers to want to make a change - even if they simply observe what is going on in the classroom across the hall.. As educators, we know that strategies are more successful when modeled and actively supported - not just thrown out into the wind with the hope it lands where it is needed. I know what some of coaches might be thinking - I don't have time to give everyone individual attention. I hear you, but guess what - that's what we expect teachers to do for their students...we coaches are teachers, too.
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AuthorJeannie Timken Archives
March 2023
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