#whatisschool is an award winning edchat space where people can express an unbiased response to questions about schooling, where educators have a voice in shaping the future through their experience, recommendations and interests. Join us Thursdays 7pm ET / 11pm GMT / Friday 7am SGT/WA (Perth) / Friday 9am AEDT / Friday 11am NZT.
Wow, that's awesome Rachel! I am currently a college student majoring in early childhood education. Can't wait until I have been teaching for that long.
#WhatIsSchool
Kevin here a recently retired Teaching Principal with Irelands first and only Primary STEAM https://t.co/UOjSFgPXeJ is my 4 th day of retirement #whatisschool
Q1 Drawing from your experience, what advice would you give a new teacher about meeting the learning needs of her/his students? #WhatIsSchool@ShiftParadigm
A1 - It takes a LOT of trial and error. The blessing is that every day is a new day to try something different, or have that one-on-one talk with a kid. #WhatIsSchool
A1: have to get to know Ss first; build relationships with them (and parents/guardians)...Ss won't learn if they feel like you don't care #whatisschool
Hopping on to the #whatisschool chat for tonight. Loving the questions for tonight as a PhD student working in the gerontology/education area. Can't wait to see the advice responses in Q1
A1 Don't go thru the syllabus/rules the first day of school. If u have desks, create pods. Give Ss opportunity to meet you. Share some personal info w/ them so they know u want to create community. Ask Ss to intro themselves to their peers. Take it slow & breathe #whatisschool
A1: If you spend time building relationships with S’s, teaching the curriculum and meeting individual learning needs will be much easier. #WhatisSchool
A1: you first have to get to know them. Establish a relationship and talk to them about their learning. What do they think makes them successful? What challenges have they faced? They know themselves best! #whatisschool
A1 - I would tell the new teacher to not be afraid of jumping into instruction in the first few days and doing small formative assessments to gauge student understanding. These little glimpses can help make sure key students are on your radar from the get go. #whatisschool
Hmm thinking in terms of what would I say to the younger me starting out.. My throughline for this chat Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy! If you do they will. #whatisschool
A1: It takes time and patience. You cannot do it all right away, none of us can. Building relationships and talking to Ss is a priority for me! Establishing those connections and then moving into academics. #whatisschool
A1. Focus on these students and develop a relationship with the first. Explore their interests and scaffold according to their passions where possible #whatisschool
Q1: I think one of the most important things is to teach for all types of learners: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing. As a student, I know I do not learn best kinesthetically, so I wouldn't want any of my Ss to feel I teach towards one group.
#WhatIsSchool
A1 Create opportunities for 1:1 conf w/ Ss. Omit loaded lang: no more "struggling" Ss, instead use developing. No more "tests," instead use "check-ups." No more "rigor," instead use vigor. Ask Ss what kind of community of learning they want. The ? will surprise them #whatisschool
I also think it's important to talk about growth mindset especially if your class curriculum had proceed to be challenging to them in the past. #whatisschool
In finding out the learning needs of your Ss, I'd advise new Ts to not anticipate anything. Clear your mind...and listen. But then, DON'T LIMIT Ss TO WHAT THEY TELL YOU. Start there, but help/let them grow into multi-faceted learners. (Learning styles is a myth!) #whatisschool
Do you dedicate syllabus/rules to later on in the week or have it done outside of class (when able)? I'm still in school (PhD) and learning and would love to know! I'm all about the student-student and student-teacher connection! #whatisschool
So glad you mentioned this about learning styles! Students may prefer one instructional style to another, but highly effective instruction is the best strategy to implement when trying to reach all students. Show students they can learn in more ways than they think. #whatisschool
A1. Relationships are key. Get to know your students. Their strengths, weaknesses, interests etc. Show them that you care & that you ‘see’ them ☺️#WhatIsSchool
"Learning styles" is a myth, debunked by research. It may be true that a LESSON is better understood using certain styles, but SS are and need to be multi-faceted. #whatisschool
A1: talk about #growthmindset; reflect on your teaching everyday and ask Ss these 3 Qs once a week:
1. What went well today? Why?
2. What didn't go well today? Why?
3. How can I support you as your teacher in your learning journey? #whatisschool
I love hearing this! I feel like, as a student, I continually hear how important it is to hone in on a learning style but as someone whose learning style is continually changing, I struggle with thinking about how I could be limiting students if I hone in #whatisschool
But it is also important to remember that part of building relationships is teaching in an "effective-enough" way that students feel success in your class. Don't feel like building relationships all has to happen in the first week! #whatisschool
A2 The more I’ve learned about student centered learning, the more I’ve been able to visualize how to meet individual needs in a diverse classroom. Asking my PLN questions has been very helpful, too. #WhatIsSchool@ShiftParadigm
A2 - Help everyone feel some sort of success every day. The more success they feel, the more confident they become, the more willing they are to participate and take risks. #WhatIsSchool
A1: Completing ice breakers at the beginning of the year is a good way for students to get to know each other and feel comfortable with each other. When students are able to work together, it makes it easier to learn.
#WhatIsSchool
Hi, Ellie! Have you met @DriesenLauren? You're both studying education. So glad you were able to make it. Please let us know if we can help in anyway. #whatisschool
A2: Completing ice breakers at the beginning of the year is a good way for students to get to know each other and feel comfortable with each other. When students are able to work together, it makes it easier to learn.
#WhatIsSchool
A2 More rules=more opportunity for disappointment. Focus on what you plan to master and help every student accomplish that goal through positive reinforcement and gentle coaxing
#whatisschool
A2 - Remember that building relationships is NOT the only part of managing a classroom (although it is very important!). You must also incorporate high/clear expectations and be consistent with your implementation of them! #whatisschool
A1: #inquiry based learning with an #equity and #socialjustice lens - goals are same so choice can be given - teach them how to ask good Qs....currently writing a book about this :) #whatisschool
I think the longer I have been teaching, it get easier bc I get better at it (I think, but honestly some days I feel like I am winging it) #WhatIsSchool
Oops, bit late. Hi everyone. Justine here, joining in from Auckland, New Zealand. Always a teacher but currently a full time PhD candidate researching gifted ed. #WhatIsSchool
A1. Find out what PDs the city offers to you. In NYC we are lucky to have #NYCSchoolsTech trainers. Attend conferences to learn and connect with colleagues such @EDxEDNYC@InnovateNYCedu#DrewTech. Join FB groups of teachers, join twitter chats like this one #WhatIsSchool
A2: Each and every student brings a story that adds to the richness of your classroom. Make sure each student feels valued and safe and give them the “why” for the goal and they will achieve at high levels. #WhatisSchool
A2 Within the first 10 minutes of class, share the Learning Intention/Success Criteria, but then give Ss to paraphrase it, reword it. Give them time to understand what they are doing w/ it. Then, show them how they can Achieve the LI & SC. #whatisschool (https://t.co/cJbmucT047)
A2 - Don't get bogged down by ultra-specific rules/too many rules. Focus on just a few that are critical to your classroom's flow and function. Choose ones that you can consistently reinforce. Give Ss a chance to share what rules they think should be implemented. #whatisschool
Ss are not so diverse that any of them don't wish to learn and succeed. Set a high bar, help each S see their individual path to getting there, and help them hold themselves accountable for getting there. #whatisschool
A2: you have to get to know them all year long not just in September...things change and it's important to constantly check in with them - do icebreakers, team challenges, community circles twice a week, etc... #whatisschool
A1: talk about #growthmindset; reflect on your teaching everyday and ask Ss these 3 Qs once a week:
1. What went well today? Why?
2. What didn't go well today? Why?
3. How can I support you as your teacher in your learning journey? #whatisschool
A2: I find building relationships personally with each student over the curriculum would be helpful. When you know each child on a personal level it. will help everyone reach their goals.
#WhatIsSchool
A2: if you create a safe and accepting learning environment, students will work as a team to help all succeed without any negative attention to th fact that not everyone will always being doing the same thing st the same time. #WhatIsSchool
A2: with #inquiry you can give them a big idea and driving Q and have them generate sub questions to investigate...always helps if there is a #socialjustice lens to the learning; helps to develop habits of mind as well. #whatisschool
A2. Design Thinking for students. Has a big focus on empathy at the heart. Great place to start. Inquiry fits brilliantly in here too. https://t.co/OI6tILpeLo#WhatIsSchool
Q2 Help students develop their learning goals and benchmarks for achieving them.
Grading should not just be the responsibility of the teacher. Students can and should explain how they have grown #whatisschool
Super important topics! Will your book also involve some of your research interests with #edtech? I looked at your Twitter bio. That's one of my areas of interest! #WhatIsSchool
Building trust. If students feel valued and know you have their best interests at heart, you are capable of creating magic in the classroom. #WhatIsSchool
A2: My classroom is often a ‘choose your own’ adventure. Multiple recipes, ideas and plans trying to achieve the same goal. I you are safe, clean up and create a great food product. It works for me! #whatisschool
A2: respect for them as people, kindness, and their knowing (not you just telling them) that you have their back and believe in them. I've found that this really mitigates most problems. Being proactive, calm and talking with students (not at them) really helps too. #whatisschool
My Dept. Chair is good about asking students how they feel like learning "today." For example: "Today, do you feel like holding the marker or standing over someone's shoulder while they hold it?" Tomorrow, he might encourage them to try a different approach. #whatisschool
#WhatisSchool I believe it starts with Art-class room BELIEFS that the classroom agrees on . I use the term “Quality World Art Room.” By Dianne Gosin Canada . Hi Jill here late from Hanoi
A2: Each student is an individual and should be treated as such. We can all work towards the same goal, just may take different paths to get there. #whatisschool
A2: Ss need a say in how their classroom space is set up - flexible seating is great but it has to have a purpose - it's not about the classroom looking pretty - the setup might also change depending on needs - get their input! #whatisschool
A3. Prioritise and focus on the students and learning. If it doesn't directly have a positive impact on learning and teaching then we need to ask some serious questions about why we're doing it. #WhatIsSchool
A3: Not being a procrastinator is an important part of getting things done well and on time. It helps to plan ahead and work ahead if you can. Although you may want to get it done, still give it your best thought.
#WhatIsSchool
Secret for managing a classroom of diverse students to a common learning goal ... invest in them and they will invest in you. I want to know what country they are from not just that they are latino ... #whatisschool
A3: My calendar! I always map out the term, from there I go by month and then by week and then by day...it's a lot but I feel so much better when I have my goals and to do list mapped out in this way. #whatisschool
A3 Master the art of efficiency! This is the one thing that has helped me maintain sanity in my job. Make to-do lists based on urgency so you don't get bogged down by things due in 1 week, 1 month, etc. #WhatIsSchool
A3: Plan, plan, plan! I love my teacher planning book. Also, I think having a flexible schedule is great. Some days everything won't get done, and that is okay too.
#WhatIsSchool
A3: and if you do #inquiry and spiral the math curriculum you will save time and Ss will be learning in a deeper manner - just make sure it's relevant, makes sense, and has meaning. #whatisschool
A3 Use the time you have at school wisely so when you are not as school you can "disconnect" as much as possible. I use my plan period and my time before/after school to get as much done as I can. #WhatIsSchool
A3 About 4 years ago I started planning in terms of projects/assignments per week instead of per day. This allows students to work at a more comfortable pace, but we still accomplish our objectives. #WhatIsSchool@ShiftParadigm
A3: I’d like hack for making more time. Or a time machine to do stuff differently! All I can say is choose your priorities and stick to them, or else other people will choose them for you. Your time. Your choice! #whatisschool
I love how many people say be organised, I am the most disorganised person in the world but I am always able to think ahead and be prepared (even if it is only just) #whatisschool
Twitter has taught me the value of variety. I'm constantly evolving as an educator. Today I realized I needed to tweak something mid lesson. I told the kids they taught me today:) #WhatIsSchool
In reply to
@KatieAnthony1, @MWhitakerGood, @ItsAMrY
A3. I've always planned with the students - no matter what age - it makes for more powerful learning and helps manage time. Most importantly, it taps into their own passions and promotes student agency. #WhatIsSchool
A3. Working as a team! Sharing my ideas and best practices and implementing those of my colleagues. When we’re genuinely collaborating, the load is less and we have more time to focus on students. #WhatIsSchool
A3 Balance remains a problem. It is difficult to find the home/work balance. I'm not afraid to ask for help from my colleagues and from my Principal. In addition, our Ss need a break, too. Forego the homework and give yourself and your Ss a break #whatisschool
That's great! You're practically halfway -- is it too soon to say it's all downhill from here? Probably but maybe it will help? That's one I'll keep an eye out for! #whatisschool
Yes! It can be easy to get bogged down with "learning styles." Instead, I focus on high-quality and engaging instruction that keeps all students interested and learning. #WhatIsSchool
A3: focus on the skills not the content - content is easily accessible - what skills will Ss develop based on the differentiated content? #whatisschool
A3 Great answers. I too prioritizes, made list, calendared in stuff and ALWAYS made sure to embrace this ah ha moments that encouraged me to let go and “go with the flow” #WhatIsSchool
A3 Asking for help. Also, prioritizing in way that avoids B- work....I want to be A+ on the most important work and apologetic for my F- on stuff that didn't get done (yet) #whatisschool
A3: Prioritize and execute. You will never get it all done when you want to. Be ok with that. And perhaps most importantly do something for self care daily. You need to take care of you so you can be best and fresh for your S’s every day! #WhatisSchool
Yes!! Ss work hard all day and have extra-curriculars to attend and they also need family time - HW is fine as long as its effective - for example, baking together instead of doing a worksheet on fractions or analyzing commercials on TV!! #whatisschool
A3 Balance remains a problem. It is difficult to find the home/work balance. I'm not afraid to ask for help from my colleagues and from my Principal. In addition, our Ss need a break, too. Forego the homework and give yourself and your Ss a break #whatisschool
A2. 2. That is a good question. It's challenging but it's worth finding ways to differentiate instruction based on student ability to do work, especially for math. Also engage in activities outside the classroom with them. #WhatIsSchool
I think that this also sets an excellent example for the students, as well. If their teacher is comfortable asking for help, they're more likely to be. #whatisschool
A3: I keep post it notes handy (office, classroom, home) and just jot things down as I think of them or you can use the voice recorder app on your phone :) #whatisschool
Twitter has taught me the value of variety. I'm constantly evolving as an educator. Today I realized I needed to tweak something mid lesson. I told the kids they taught me today:) #WhatIsSchool
In reply to
@KatieAnthony1, @MWhitakerGood, @ItsAMrY
Q4. Learning seldom plays out the way it is supposed to play out. What’s your trick for designing lessons that work for students AND meet standards, learning objectives and timelines? #WhatIsSchool
Q4 Learning seldom plays out the way it is supposed to play out. What’s your trick for designing lessons that work for students AND meet standards, learning objectives, and timelines? #WhatIsSchool@ShiftParadigm
A2 Simple answer: differentiate. Detailed answer: discover kids' interests, likes & dislikes and start with that to get to the common goal. This hits on relevancy.
#WhatIsSchool
I would like to think i could prioritize, but let's be honest Admin wants paperwork when they want paperwork ... lesson plans ... meeting notes ... emails answered ... two daily school news shows ... and someplace in there are students who want my attention. #whatisschool
A4 What I’ve learned is to be flexible. When we need more time on topics we take it. Planning by week instead of by the day helps, too also. #WhatIsSchool@ShiftParadigm
Q4. Learning seldom plays out the way it is supposed to play out. What’s your trick for designing lessons that work for students AND meet standards, learning objectives and timelines? #WhatIsSchool
A4 Always tweak and adapt during lessons based on student understanding. Design your lessons in scaffolded ways so you are setting as many Ss up for success as possible. Provide review opportunities as often as possible so the knowledge sticks. #WhatIsSchool
A4 - I love lessons that have an accessible entry for everyone and then gradually challenge kids. Every student gets the standard but I can continually challenge their thinking as the period progresses. #WhatIsSchool
A4: Flexibility can play a big part in this. I find days go by easier, when our schedules are flexible. Schedules can change day by day, and that is okay
#WhatIsSchool
Q3: #whatisschool Prioritize the must do, need to do, want to do. Getting others to support you. I read before about not doing anything that a Ss can do. Having Ss take ownership of their learning is important too.
A3. Working as a team! Sharing my ideas and best practices and implementing those of my colleagues. When we’re genuinely collaborating, the load is less and we have more time to focus on students. #WhatIsSchool
A4: Incorporating hands on activities relating to the topic taught in lesson plans are a good way to meet learning objectives. If something noticeably does not work in the classroom, it is important to try something new.
#WhatIsSchool
A4: I ask other teachers what has worked for them and use idea to collaborate to find what works best for the students and meets the standards #WhatIsSchool
A4: a) design learning goals w/ success criteria & task requirements, b) identify a big idea based on curriculum, c) generate some driving Qs, d) generate discussions through a provocation (visual, video, a question), e) give Ss freedom to explore BI/DQ #whatisschool
A4: Its about time and using your time twice. We should be using our interdisciplinary learning (as an IB school) so much more to hit our objectives…but at times we are unwilling to budge on things. We need to work smarter! #WhatIsschool
A3. I love using google apps. I like google docs to prepare my lesson plans and use google/microsoft forms to create assessments for students, gather data and use that to put together resources in print and online students can complete. #WhatIsSchool
A4 - Plan scope but then leave the tweaking to the day of or day before, give you space to be reflexive and reflective, following students ideas and thoughts. #WhatIsSchool
A3: Since I put into place time blocking (thx @alienearbud), I have never been as productive as Inam now, all while staying pretty much on schedule. #whatisschool
Yes we can let our students know we make mistakes, we’re also vulnerable, but we’re here to help each other. We learn because we want to “know and understand” and that’s a great role model/mentor #whatisschool
Any time you make a plan for learning you also need to pack some off-road tires and a parachute. Listen and be sensitive to what your Ss are telling you. Know the shortcuts, the backroads, and when to abandon ship! #whatisschool
A4: I always found the most success building lessons that had relevance to my S’s lives. If S’s see the relevance, they will work harder at the task. #WhatisSchool
A4 I leave room in the lesson design extending it to 2 to 3 days, providing assessment options, anticipating the trajectory that kids will take. And if all else fails, reflect, plan again with the current results informing me. #whatisschool
standard HW should be outlawed but I see nothing wrong with giving parents suggestions about activities they can do at home to support their child's learning - it's not mandatory HW but giving Ps options #whatisschool
A1: Get to know them. Not only strat with WHY, but also with WHO. And don’t forget: you are not alone. Seek colleagues to bounce ideas off of. #whatisschool
Yes! I really feel like spiral review activities are not given enough credit. Our goal is for students to learn material for the long-term. We have to help them get there! #whatisschool
Twitter has made asking for help second nature to me now. I'm so glad you were able to join us tonight. Thanks for bringing your positive presence to #whatisschool
A4 No trick, just starting with the standards and learning objectives. Then making the lesson and activities end at the Ss and LOs. If the standards are the focus, then learning will take diff forms and ways, allows for side trips.
#WhatIsSchool
Q4. Learning seldom plays out the way it is supposed to play out. What’s your trick for designing lessons that work for students AND meet standards, learning objectives and timelines? #WhatIsSchool
For sure it helps you to be a very effective educator. I ask myself, what did I learn from/about my students with how they responded to the lesson?
Here's something I found on the web: https://t.co/DsCXnhDkmz#whatisschool
Q5. Most professional
development isn’t relevant
to the everyday realities teachers face in classrooms. What’s your best hack for continuously improving your teaching? #WhatIsSchool
A4. Uuuyyy! That is a really big question. It all comes with time and experience to meet all in this list. I think it's always work in progress. I tend to solid online sources such as PBS and Khan Academy. Also visit museum websites to see what they offer #WhatIsSchool
Q4. Learning seldom plays out the way it is supposed to play out. What’s your trick for designing lessons that work for students AND meet standards, learning objectives and timelines? #WhatIsSchool
There was a lesson I taught last year that seriously BOMBED. I was so bummed that it wasted a day, but I am glad I learned not to teach solving equations in that same way this year!!! #WhatIsSchool
Q4. Learning seldom plays out the way it is supposed to play out. What’s your trick for designing lessons that work for students AND meet standards, learning objectives and timelines? #WhatIsSchool
standard HW should be outlawed but I see nothing wrong with giving parents suggestions about activities they can do at home to support their child's learning - it's not mandatory HW but giving Ps options #whatisschool
Q5 Most professional development isn’t relevant to the everyday realities teachers face in classrooms. What’s your best hack for continuously improving your teaching? #WhatIsSchool@ShiftParadigm
Q5. Most professional
development isn’t relevant
to the everyday realities teachers face in classrooms. What’s your best hack for continuously improving your teaching? #WhatIsSchool
Q5. Most professional
development isn’t relevant
to the everyday realities teachers face in classrooms. What’s your best hack for continuously improving your teaching? #WhatIsSchool
So glad to hear! We wanted to balance giving practical advice without overloading Ts with information. Thanks for sharing : ) #YourFirstYear#WhatIsSchool
In reply to
@msiwanicki, @MissWhitaker294, @kathyiwanicki, @deem_ellen, @DriesenLauren, @ShiftParadigm
A5 - Working with other people. Watching others teach. Planning with someone else. Being with people who will help you think outside of your normal realm. They push your thinking and will always make you better. #WhatIsSchool
A5: If something goes wrong, it is important to admit that you have made a mistake. It is easy to improve your skills from mistakes. It is also important to not make lesson plans all the same with the same activities. Change is good.
#WhatIsSchool
A5 Twitter has been my go to the last four years for relevant professional development. It has also resulted in many learning opportunities for my students that wouldn’t have happened otherwise. (Mystery Skype, service projects, etc). #WhatIsSchool@ShiftParadigm
A5: A good way to keep improving your teaching is what we are doing now! I find myself learning so many awesome techniques and teaching tools on twitter. But more generally, discussing with other teachers works wonders.
#WhatIsSchool
A5: Trying new things and not sticking to what I would normally do, so I don't get stuck running through the motions but actively investing myself to be the best teacher I can be. #WhatIsSchool
Take and OFFER PD that is given by teachers, requested by teachers, and gives Ts a lot of time to discuss and develop the ideas. It helps to have a community of help centered around kindness and vulnerability. #whatisschool
A5. Be involved with online discussions and never be afraid to ask questions. Twitter chats and FB groups can be invaluable for keeping up-to-date with learning and challenging your thinking. #WhatIsSchool
A5 I use the Internet SO MUCH. I don't get caught up in the "cutesy" stuff though - I sift through blogs, free TPT lessons, Twitter chats, etc., to find the high-quality material that most applies to my classroom and standards. #WhatIsSchool
A5: I have grown so much as an educator from these twitter chats. The ideas are amazing and it’s great to connect with like minded educators. #WhatisSchool
#whatisschool I plan out a scope and sequence based on the standards. My lessons are standards based to start. I have been lucky enough to see when something is working and know when it’s not and I learned to pivot.
Q4. Learning seldom plays out the way it is supposed to play out. What’s your trick for designing lessons that work for students AND meet standards, learning objectives and timelines? #WhatIsSchool
Great example. My class and I were just talking about this in a communication for youth course. Especially for those who's first language is not English, our way of asking questions can be confusing.
#WhatIsSchool
A5: Twitter is great, but so is working with other teachers in a collaborative manner. We achieve more for our students when we work together. I see them differently to a Maths/Science/Hums teacher. Together we are better! #WhatIsschool
A5. Teachers have to be selective to the PD sessions they go too. In NYC and NJ we have a few that have work for me and I keep attending them because I always learn something I can use to my advantage. Joining teacher groups and asking Qs helps #WhatIsSchool
Q5. Most professional
development isn’t relevant
to the everyday realities teachers face in classrooms. What’s your best hack for continuously improving your teaching? #WhatIsSchool
A4: a great lesson is designed from the Ss perspective, builds on existing understanding & has a foundation of great rapport within the classroom #whatisschool
A5 As a retiree who subs my PD is Twitter, chats and reading blogs. Some FB groups. It is amazing how much one can learn when it’s ones own interest, initiative and focus. #whatisschool
A5 Read, take classes, join Twitter chats. One of the best is finding at least one other like-minded to "talk shop" with (over coffee is best). Iron sharpens iron.
#WhatIsSchool
Tonight I listened to a webinar from @FountasPinnell. I learned from them FOR FREE. I just couldn’t have imagined that 10 years ago. So cool @KyleneBeers is also known to hope on FB and go live. Priceless learning! #WhatIsSchool
A5: there's a difference b/w PD and PL - PD is dictated by your school/district and PL is personal - schools/districts need to focus on PL and let Ts choose their learning journey for the year... #whatisschool
A5... Late to the game I know! I think the most powerful way to improve teaching is to 1.) ask kids how things went... what could go better and 2.) brainstorm with your colleagues!!! We have the 2 most valuable resources with us EVERYDAY!! #whatisschool
I wrote my Masters' thesis on this. There's such a disconnect and we're still doing it in some cases. One-off PLD and workshops don't work. The research is there but still gets ignored. Frustrating! #WhatIsSchool
A5: there's a difference b/w PD and PL - PD is dictated by your school/district and PL is personal - schools/districts need to focus on PL and let Ts choose their learning journey for the year... #whatisschool
A5 (2.0) We developed a personalized PD program to avoid the drudgery of irrelevant PD. Modeled after college course catalog. Online, workshop, group, and individual opportunities. Ends with share-out and product learning. Per semester.
#WhatIsSchool
I LOVE this. There's no way to completely explain this to someone who hasn't experienced it. Social media, when used correctly, is a powerful tool that should be harnessed across the board. I could be biased though since social media is my research area, though #whatisschool
Q6. Teachers are called to teach. What tip would you give a new teacher about sustaining the ideals, hopes and dreams that drew her/him to teaching
during challenging times?
#WhatIsSchool
Q6. Teachers are called to teach. What tip would you give a new teacher about sustaining the ideals, hopes and dreams that drew her/him to teaching
during challenging times?
#WhatIsSchool
Just like our students' learning, our own learning needs to be owned, real and relevant. Also needs to be anytime, anywhere (asynchronous). #WhatIsSchool
A1: Students don’t care what you know until they know you care. Build positive relationships with your students. Ask them questions, listen, encourage, support, celebrate. Open doors to positive learning outcomes through these relationships. #WhatIsschool
Q6 Teachers are called to teach. What tip would you give a new teacher about sustaining the ideals, hopes, and dreams that drew her/him to teaching during challenging times? #WhatIsSchool@ShiftParadigm
Wish I could chat but I'm exhausted and am going to sleep soon. (YES, I know it's not even 8pm yet 😂). Hope to catch up with you & @ShiftParadigm soon! #whatisschool
In reply to
@deem_ellen, @MrsMurat, @ShiftParadigm
A6 - Remember that no matter what gets thrown at your or is asked of you, you were called to teach because you love students. They are your number one, they are your happy place, they are your reason. #WhatIsSchool
I didn't really understand how Twitter worked until I started trying to talk to some of my favorite baseball players. Then I learned Twitter could help me in the classroom. It combines two of my favorite things:) I can't believe I taught for 16 years without it. #whatisschool
I also changed my language. I have 1-2 "mandatory" Qs after each chunk of the lesson (they must be asked or I won't move on!). This way, when a S asks a question, they are "helping" the class get to move on. I can tell it has made so many of my Ss more comfortable. #WhatIsSchool
A6: Go back to the Ss. They ground me when the going gets tough. They are the reason I am there and went into the profession in the first place. #whatisschool
I think so...it's something I want to talk to my principals about this year in terms of staff meetings (I have 4 schools I support)...I will keep you posted :) #whatisschool
A6. Definitely find your tribe. Find others who are as passionate as you and don't let them go! Share and talk. Always go back to the students - keep them at the heart of everything you do. #WhatIsSchoolhttps://t.co/mcp8LTQf4B
A6: Go back to the Ss. They ground me when the going gets tough. They are the reason I am there and went into the profession in the first place. #whatisschool
A6: Teaching is a hard profession but in the end it is so rewarding. You will be able to touch so many students lives and hopefully leave a positive impact on them. #WhatIsSchool
#whatisschool a1 Clarify expectations as per @gilmour_mike also check do you have a sits still ss or fidgety class. Check with #brain breaks or start looking up kinesthetic ways to learn. As a fidgeter I'd appreciate it, big time
A6. Continuous professional development to stay fresh and advance the work. Connect with like minded individuals who will share tricks and shortcuts to continue growing as a teacher. #WhatIsSchool
Q6. Teachers are called to teach. What tip would you give a new teacher about sustaining the ideals, hopes and dreams that drew her/him to teaching
during challenging times?
#WhatIsSchool
A6: When you get frustrated, take a step back. If you are overwhelmed, take a deep breath. You were made to be a teacher because of your love for kids and it is important to never forget that.
#WhatIsSchool
A6: At the end of the day, through challenges or not, we are all teachers because we love helping children and we want to see them succeed. So, if I was able to make a Ss day easier, or I helped them learn something new the challenging times are worth it.
#WhatIsSchool
A6 Remember that some classes will bring out the best in you, while others will work to bring out the worst. Focus on always staying calm and positive, yet firm when necessary. This way, you will always leave school knowing you handled every situation appropriately. #WhatIsSchool
yes! And to make it more safe, have Ss #turnandtalk to a partner and jot down questions on a mini white board and then popcorn them out to the rest of the class! #whatisschool
A6: My mom always said there are 3 types of people in the world regarding teaching: those who can learn to teach, those who should never teach, and those who were born to teach! Remember that on the hardest days! You were BORN for this! @awright55#WhatIsSchool
I was so fortunate in working at a school that focuses more on PL opportunities for faculty and staff. PD available as needed or desired. #whatisschool
Love your thoughts, totally agree. On the most challenging of day, put all your focus and attention on the Ss and the day will get better.
#WhatIsSchool
I used to think that, too. But then I started to see all teachers are hesitant to admit their weaknesses, and that we can help each other grow through our strengths. #whatisschool
In reply to
@Mr_H_Teacher, @SenorG, @ShiftParadigm
Trends come and go. Days are hard. It is important work. Keep going. Bad days go away. After 31 years, I still feel teaching is the greatest profession of them all. #WhatIsSchool
A6 Focus on all of the positive things that happen every day. Most students will fill your cup in so many ways. Appreciate the ones that do! #WhatIsSchool
maybe once you are done your PhD we can collaborate b/c I'm interested in the intersection b/w teacher PD and the use of tech to make it happen. #whatisschool
A6: Start a “rough day folder”. Collect in it all the thank you cards, pictures and momentous you collect during your career. Reading it during a rough day is always helpful in remembering your “why”. #WhatisSchool
A1: I think as a new teacher it is very important to be kind and nice. Also before they meet their new students they can talk to their parents a little bit to know some more about the student. #WhatisSchool
And if this was done more often and was widespread, rather than discussing SMS with a tone of fear of use, I can only imagine the change that we would begin to see. One teacher and one classroom at a time. #WhatIsSchool
Q6. Teachers are called to teach. What tip would you give a new teacher about sustaining the ideals, hopes and dreams that drew her/him to teaching
during challenging times?
#WhatIsSchool
A6 Look to the inner child in you. Look at those classes, those teachers, that Learning that made you feel on top of the world. Then see if you can to be that teacher. #whatisschool
I didn't really understand how Twitter worked until I started trying to talk to some of my favorite baseball players. Then I learned Twitter could help me in the classroom. It combines two of my favorite things:) I can't believe I taught for 16 years without it. #whatisschool
Please thank my co-moderator @ShiftParadigm for all he does daily to help us grow as educators:) #WhatIsSchool I’m grateful to Mark and @mrkempnz for the opportunity to learn with all of you.
That would be fantastic! My research was around online communities of practice as a way to change teacher prof learning. I was the community manager for @TeachThought and this was the platform we used. @bleidolf67 and I ran the community and it was very successful. #WhatIsSchool
In reply to
@raspberryberet3, @TeachThought, @bleidolf67
For students who are part of the #WhatIsSchool chat - you can start this now. I have a folder in my email for this very reason - "For the bad days." Emails from mentors, student teaching, funny emails, classmate support -- start now and let it grow. Best pick me up there is.
A6: Start a “rough day folder”. Collect in it all the thank you cards, pictures and momentous you collect during your career. Reading it during a rough day is always helpful in remembering your “why”. #WhatisSchool
A5: I think the best way to improve my teaching is to communicate with students which can get some feedback from them. Because this class is for them to build their learning skills and knowledge #whatisschool
Thank you so much for participating in “Teacher Talk” #WhatIsSchool today. We really appreciate you bringing your best stuff. Please keep the conversation going. @ShiftParadigm
A6: Seek positivity
Attempt to identify + avoid toxicity
Dream big *and* focus on the 'A' in SMART Goals
Save the good news stuff in a place you can go back to when you need a lift
Give yourself permission to breathe/sleep/exercise
Find a tribe
#whatisschool
A1: Some advice that I would give to a teacher meeting the learning needs of his/her students is to be patient. It is easy to get frustrated when a student does not understand something but it is important that you are willing to help your students success.
#WhatIsSchool
A4: This is a great question. The key to planning my class is before the class started I would like to know about the students' level and the thing I will teach will be best to fit them. #whatisschool
We've been getting a lot more education students for our chats, so I knew you both would be able to encourage them. Thanks again for everything:) #whatisschool
In reply to
@MWhitakerGood, @MissWhitaker294, @ToddWhitaker, @ShiftParadigm
A1. Getting know more about your students and find their advantages and weakness. Telling them some what are you looking forward to him or her.#WhatIsSchool
It's always incredibly heartwarming and encouraging to spend this hour with #whatisschool. We're really glad you were able to join us today:) @ShiftParadigm
