Written by This is Week 5. I was warned that Week 5 was when the fatigue sets in, when the energy dips and when finding sources of positive energy requires a little bit more effort. So, I’ve bought glasses that block the light from the computer – blue light. We will see if this helps. Also, this blog serves as my effort – reaching out and sharing with others gives me positive energy, so (insert sound of me lifting a 300lbs weight) here goes…
1) This episode of “Truth for Teachers” podcast:
This podcast is a very balanced approach to intentionally reflect on what is working in remote learning. Examining your practice – no judgement or expectation. Just noticing:
– Noticing things like what types of students are thriving, or suffering, or just keeping on.
– Efficiency: Take less time getting to the ‘protein’ of the lesson, and when you make a video, try to make it so that it lasts for at least 2 years with relevance (i.e. no jokes, no references to contemporary issues)
– Notice when you might take on intentional opportunities to check for understanding.
– Notice when the students are craving connection time in your class
– Oh, and the Mute-All button on Zoom too! Do you like it? Why? Do you use it? When?
She ends with a warning: do not comparing our practice to what our colleagues or other schools are doing. Don’t compare successes and challenges against others, nor students against students, because these are shifting times, and noticing is the most important thing we can do to push our practice forward
2) I’ve reflected on this Survey Data:
This survey uses a meta-data approach to aggregate finding and feedback to the reader important trends. It is a really good tool to reflect on where you think you and your school are. There are some inspiring data trends to follow here. Also, it allows you to get lost in the numbers – and for some of us, data is a great way to reflect on our own experiences and how we might consider different perspectives.
3) I’ve read this Article: “Distance Learning Isn’t Working:” (The Atlantic)
This article looks at “Hybrid Homeschooling” as a possible model to inform what it is that we do. It is a great read to uncover the homeschooling movement and the practices that are employed there, as well as considering the role that schools can play for parents:
Schools can still play a constructive role, even if they aren’t holdingonline classes for kids stuck in their homes. Instead of spending time on online lessons and hours of videochats, schools need to provide a crash course in education for parents, provide loose individual lesson plans and suggestions, and operate as a help line. When I chose home education for my children, I had the benefit of years of reading about educational theory and philosophy and best practices, in anticipation of teaching my children when they became school-age. Parents across the country have been thrown into the deep end of the pool, and they could use much more support.
I wonder about creating a “Learning Hub for Parents” for my school where parents can get micro-credentialed through a blended program, developmentally scaffolded and practice-oriented. I wonder…
Between these resources, as well as getting together with the Cohort 21 coaches and facilitators to design a virtual F2F, this week turned out okay!
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