#edchat Archive
#Edchat is a hashtag, a movement—it is a weekly organized Twitter discussion of educators and people interested in education that meet virtually from all over the world. #Edchat serves as a conversation thread on Twitter and is also used for organized weekly discussions.
Tuesday January 12, 2016
student voice is an extremely important piece, why do we devalue student questions? lose their voice, lose their success
Today's first Topic of day: What does "student voice" look like in the classroom?
Teachers say art and play are disappearing from kindergarten, replaced by textbooks and tests https://t.co/NgGSnsuNPW
ACT Test Taking Tips: With March fast approaching and the statewide ACT assessment coming up, ... https://t.co/NYZuVQbpyu
NOW Topic: What does student voice look like in the classroom?
Educators of the world! Please say Hi too (and follow!) super teacher -
Student voice can take a lot of shapes. A classroom blog with students’ best work is one way to put it forward.
Does Student Voice have a place in your classroom? In your colleagues classrooms?
I like the idea of Ss brainstorming a question individually, and then as a group. Greater participation and .
It should be manifested through having students take part in decision making processes and having their takes count!
I think the voices of all students is more likely to come out in 1:1 classrooms.
A1 Literally that thinking and conversation is driven by Ss, facilitated by the instructor. Ss do the lifting
STUDENTS should have a say in all aspects of their education…all the time.
Ramping Up for the 2016 Mobile Explosion With Wave 1 and Wave 2: How two colleges are preparing for th... https://t.co/wqyBpi9St9
Thanks, Mark! It's a rare treat to catch the actual !
Writing an essay on talk and story sacks! Any one got some pearls of wisdom?
Student voice can come from asking good questions that inspire learners to ask more questions. https://t.co/KOBwVS7KQM
An excellent tactic to increase genuine engagement -> especially works well in Cooperative Learning Lessons.
Allowing students to spend some time on self-selected projects also gives them some voice.
that student choice is scary for so many Ts. How do we personalize for all? Must tackle this to be successful
YES start there, and grow ->
Ss definitely have voice in my classroom. Voice is usually led by a discussion of "What are your needs, wants, desires?"
LOOKS LIKE: Decisions being made by the students, not just the teacher. Looks like Ss sharing their ideas with the community.
If teachers don't recognize & support student voice in the classroom it will not exist. It was never part of 20th Cent learning.
ENGAGE and challenge students…watch their voice grow
Underway — Topic: What does student voice look like in the classroom?
Shouldn’t we shield all students from harassment?
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This is so true, Douglas. I want to think about embedding "Genius Hour" in my class more.
The questions can be more important than the answers.
Agreed. Ts must have mindset/determination to give up some control over their classroom/instruction first! https://t.co/28WXOmtnfU
that student choice is scary for so many Ts. How do we personalize for all? Must tackle this to be successful
Agree--today we talked about how to "navigate" the learning path, forge new brain paths.
Yes. And students need encouragement to voice their say. https://t.co/pQSVZX2Bdj
STUDENTS should have a say in all aspects of their education…all the time.
It looks like the teacher always say, "Don't be afraid to ask questions, that's what I'm here for."
TOM's Qs: Ss drive a lot of our activities, esp. on work. Their passion project, their voice. Won't speak to colleagues.
Genius hour or 20% time is a hot topic in the education blogosphere. Time to try it.
so Maureen... how's this happen in your classroom?
Student voice gives students some control over their own learning. That requires trusting & supporting kids to make decisions.
RT : you are the best !! Have a great day !!
I put lots of effort into it a few years ago, want to embed again.
Indeed, great starting point. Then where from there?
If a student has interests/passion turn her lose. If not introduce as much interesting stuff as possible.
Lots of ways beginning with a number of websites that host lots of resources, links, possiiblities.
In your school and district ARE STUDENTS PART OF THE HIRING PROCESS? Should they be?
I tried this year and I have no regrets, it's all I want to do now! https://t.co/DYJg89Aoc2
This is so true, Douglas. I want to think about embedding "Genius Hour" in my class more.
Student voice helps in many ways: classroom management, differentiation and engagement are also at the top of the list!
Not every teacher will be comfortable allowing student voice in their classroom.
So Leslie, great place to start...what then?
Yes, Can be scaffolded depending on age. I love the idea of "limited choice" and "gradual release of responsibility."
HAVING VOICE involves more than talk… just saying.
Let students come up with examples. Read “Mathematical Mindset” by Jo Bader.
I have also been looking to add in my school as well!
Cool... any favs to share with us?
Ss drawing video games w/ isn't per se, but definitely related...what do you call it?
very true; I've encountered many teachers who view student choice in reading as a direct threat https://t.co/kmwMvJcQn7
Not every teacher will be comfortable allowing student voice in their classroom.
they are taught a demo lesson and then asked for feedback. I teach elem school.
Engaged students don’t tend to be discipline problems.
T's have to teach a lesson when they apply, Ss response a factor.
wow...great testimonial...
WHAT role do students play in technology decisions at your classroom? School?
This term I want their voices beyond our classroom. My vision is their products/ideas are public. Keep you posted.
exactly my point. Engagement>discipline referals!
Wow...thoughts? "Since 1993, average tuition has risen by 234 percent, far above the 63 percent overall inflation rate." - NY Times
If you can’t change all teachers to use student voice start by changing one.
TOO MANY CLASSROOMS lack the technology for enabling and amplifying student voice. Make access and connections an essential priority
So much positivity has come from letting Ss follow their passions with a purpose. Engagement soars!
Had an absent student use FaceTime today to still be involved in class. It was pretty awesome!
I've yet to try it but I've heard present and it intrigues me.
So many digital tools provide room for student voice
My school has 1:1 program but students don't have much say. Sad, really!
Student voice may sometimes challenge a teacher's authority or question a teacher's decisions.That will not be easy for many tchrs.
that's a fascinating question that I'd never thought of.
I'd put forth that all T's allow Ss voice. Challenge is that many only allow those that echo the adults'.
Today's first lesson to : This is your learning, your curiosity, where do you want to take it?
In talking about student voice, let's not forget about authentic audience and how technology and social media and be used.
A1 After reading book Drive, I started giving SS choice of "task, team, technique, time."
Visit our hub for resources to help create a supportive learning environment for all learners https://t.co/wXbYugn7u5
I suspect it's not seen as "allowing." Rather, adults unconsciously reward those whose voice matches own.
Great learning words, inspiring. Thanks for sharing.
They are not, I'm not sure if they should be. Mature enough to understand all the permutations of why?
I think students do not play a role in technology choices. Budget/money/what can be afforded plays the biggest roles
Districts say, "our people are our most important asset." Do they mean Ss too? They should.
HELP: What are the sources of resistance to greater student voice? Suggestions for reducing resistance?
Anyone have a Polycom unit and a makerspace? I'd love to do some virtual tours to get ideas.
Nice... are students part of the lesson demo? Do they offer feedback? Is this standard practice for interviews?
In teaching seniors there is a lot of student voice coming at you, it can make Ts uncomfortable, yes.
I saw poor school w/no tech that put students’ best work on tables in the hallway every month. They rocked the tests.
Student voice will always be harder to implement/listen to when state tests drive curriculum. '
This is so important. some of them haven`t discovered their passion yet!
My suggestion was student brainstorming, first individually and then as a group. Thx, https://t.co/DjR2zTXwL6
An excellent tactic to increase genuine engagement -> especially works well in Cooperative Learning Lessons.
I was worried they'd think I was lazy, but most of them were like, "Alright! Finally!"
What should a teacher do when student voice leads the class in a different learning direction than is laid out in the curriculum?
Bigger problem then resistence in my opinion is training for both Ts and Ss
Students won’t discover passion/interests if we only introduce them to boring stuff.
Watching & tonight? Follow us, & for live tweets!
Always make sure to foster your students' opinion giving process. Bear in that you are e mentor not a leader!
Today I tweeted out the patterns Ss found as we worked with divisibility, then made a Storify. Motivated more response
they are the ss the teacher is doing the demo lesson to. after candidate leaves ss are asked for feedback. yes for ts
Some students made an epic, Star Wars infused video about Edorble and 3D learning environments! https://t.co/qxrFWNV64k
I never under-estimate the power of Ss. Their voice should count.
of course they will, just not necessarily in school :P
So powerful to unleash student's passion, enable voice...
No reason why any absent student with Internet access at home can’t attend class.
Students are natural learners --- they're curious.
this is a common practice at many charter schools
Every voices matters, not all voices heard ->
So true, making mind maps can help in this regard.
The best worksheet is a blank sheet.
At what age should a student be when student voice is to be introduced into the classroom?
T fears: loss of control, chaos, more challenging role, more work. T's who want to try anyway start, share. https://t.co/OMhim6Pu93
HELP: What are the sources of resistance to greater student voice? Suggestions for reducing resistance?
perhaps create a NO BORING ZONE...
A powerful tool for Ss voice AND teacher growth is when Ts allow Ss to evaluate them!
That's true to a degree, but I've been teaching 35 yrs and this has always been present in some classes
I wish I could get into video games--we need a teacher who loves video games in this school.
Right you are. Acknowledging students who suck up isn’t promoting student voice.
Protected class time for research, sharing, goal setting, presenting. Once per week or every 2 wks.
You won’t find much student voice in one-size-fits-all classrooms.
In hiring, I give more weight to some Ss than in some parents. It's their learning.
Agreed--but I have seen off-and-on headway in HS (where I teach)
I say to Ss, Don't let anyone tell you that you can't learn, or can't be what you want to be.
Mark, I am sure you already know some of the possible answers to this! haha
Nice... How's that working?
my first experience as an HS parent these days. :) (hit and miss)
No concern of popularity contest instead of best candidate being chosen?
we're just about to start a new tech purchase process. need to consult students.
Resistance resides in 1-size-fits-all lessons. Real student voice needs to be designed in. Leadership is needed.
Ss are more likely to ask Qs about the learning environment. It's their reality.
Leslie, you have so many great ideas. Thanks for the share.
If it's up to universities it's too late. This is a responsibility at all levels of education. https://t.co/4Wj1FURTUg
Ss at our school participate in feedback after candidate completes 2nd interview-teaching a lesson to a class
IMHO that comes from confusion over educational goals: cover material to prep for higher ed OR create readers & writers
Let us know if you find makerspace schools to virtually visit so we can visit with you.
I bet schools with maker spaces use student voice more.
Same concern about some Ts "voting" for a T they like or can manipulate.
I definitely wish I could include more of this--will in time.
quite typical…we can (and should) do better…
STUDENT VOICE actions and perspectives…and so much more. What else?
If you have engagement, screw the curriculum. Leaders need to support this.
Indeed, design is key… What role for technology?
Ss need to be showing off creations to the community, Ss voice will grow when they see others appreciating struggle
When I left my principalship I asked that a group of my Ts form the interview committee.
What systems are in place to ensure that all selectors of candidates are doing so objectively?
I am in favor of a balanced approach in this regard. As some knowledge building profits from direct teaching
What specific things can Administrators do to support student voice in their buildings or Districts?
I like the "guide on the side" philosophy of tech--use it as part of the learning/creation.
This really hits on how we can create student voice opportunities, culture of creativity or constraints? https://t.co/ecAp5R4ZfQ
Thanks Andrew. Keen insight -> How else to foster genuine voice?
I’ve seen schools that have student help desks and repair rooms. I did that in the ‘80s with Apple II+s.
Respect it, encourage it, open channels of communication and encourage ALL students to participate https://t.co/NPozwI1uYF
What specific things can Administrators do to support student voice in their buildings or Districts?
So true, when your work is published you think very differently about it, greater ownership, care, focus.
VERY proud to of our client becoming 2016 Ohio Superintendent of the year: Dr. Thomas Tucker of Princeton City Schools!
Teachers would each have a personnel PD plan and be responsible for it with admin support and oversight
ALL EDUCATION STAKEHOLDERS deserve a place at the table and a voice in the process…rarely the case? Why?
Our State has strict ethical guidelines in this regard--important.
I think you're right. Elem has shifted to second (I hope).
Nice.... how's that working for you? School? Ss?
Hard to say in 140 characters. The building culture is a key.
we have to find out Ss passions, as young as Kinder so that we can develop that voice!! , it's a big issue!
Emperor’s New Clothes is a good metaphor for current corporate/political reform movement.
We haven't moved from factory mindset that permeates education in many (most?) places.
it does NOT look like David Coleman's vision in Common Core--the infamous "nobody cares what you think" quote
Yes, I think you are spot on with this. Culture of competition and playing favorites = no.
Part of developing the voice is honoring the voice and not paying lip service.
develop Ss voice is through Ss seeing Ts care about their creations, their wonderings, create a wonder wall or passion wall
A culture is a network of relationships so focus on them.
There's so much more to learn about learning--we're on the cusp of some brave new ideas I believe.
if we allow for Ss to see how their questions lead the next days lessons, that's honoring their voice
We don't focus on culture enough.
I know, I feel these are exciting times in education!
You screw up the culture you have no hope.
Please VOTE for St. Clare's Class Blog in the https://t.co/ceNElzU0f2 … We're up for Best Education Blog Award! Thank you!
Yes, and times that require responsibility, focus, humanity, collaboration.
exciting if we get policy makers etc to notice the amazing possibilities,not just choosing answer A
Is there a school population size that is too large for this focus to work?
As I write there are a multitude of children's voices making indoor recess choices--nice.
What's the saying, "Culture eats strategy for breakfast?"
Montessori ed does a great job of introducing and empowering early on with morning meetings.
We don't pay attention to the research on school size. Bigger is not better.
I hope there are many policy makers interested in this topic, children often given last consideration.
about community and relationship, and it can be really challenging when it changes year to year in a bldg
student voice also comes through in how Ss give feedback, talk to each other, its a huge CULTURE shift for many to make!!
I think it’s easier to get the culture right in smaller schools.
I like that :) - humanity will make that breakfast nourishing too.
Things like and that let students explore their own curiosities also encourage/empower
Agreed. My school is so big I wouldn't know where to start to massage culture.
FEEDBACK is the way a successful school talks with itself. Everyone with a voice…
I’ve yet to see a k-12 building that didn’t have a good culture. It’s like family
and all staff - students and staff both need to know that they`re listened to. https://t.co/6rVXllqKGQ
Respect it, encourage it, open channels of communication and encourage ALL students to participate https://t.co/NPozwI1uYF
What specific things can Administrators do to support student voice in their buildings or Districts?
Yet culture evolves including history, current days, future. . .
Build the culture of a team and then another and another. Hard work but good.
. Golden rule - the people with the gold (or who control it) want to make the rules. Teachers don't control money.
Agreed. Even thinking about how to make a change I am overwhelmed. Too big.
Indeed, students deserve voice, but…SO DO TEACHERS. Too many students and teachers are mute.
Start with one relationship at a time and encourage others to do the same.
Be the change you want to see in the world (or your school) - Ghandi
What's the largest population size on this sample? Curious.
How are you using social media to enable student voice? Examples please?
My point is that I am here, trying new things. How to share it out? No structure.
You are so right about that.
Ontario, interview is by principals only; very strict guidelines created w/union
so what do teachers control?
Preschool age...learned about Easy Blogger, Jr today at
Be a champion, take credits through our program and see where it can take you.
Many of the diplomas aren’t worth much as schools pressured to graduate more lower standards.
I think that's valid. Leadership makes a big difference.
“I am the sum total of everyone I’ve met.” Sylvester Stallone.
Great Time to return to teaching. See you at tonight's at 7pm
Leadership can snuff out the best ideas or get out of the way.
going to need my Kleenex soon. This is missing in my space right now.
is a matter of space and time — teachers and administrators must be mindful of how much they are taking up.
I have been tweeting in from Orlando, FL, while at
I share via blog. American Ts on Twitter are my audience. Few here read it.
If no one cares, why bother? Speaking/writing is about me getting what I want; that's why we teach it and voice matters
Keep up what you are doing. It will build over time. My audience grows daily.
At what age are they capable of expressing their preferences and ideas? I think that one. https://t.co/YHpW9x5xmW
At what age should a student be when student voice is to be introduced into the classroom?
Each is a level of privilege...
Administrators: create space/time to hear teachers.
Teachers: create space/time to hear students.
Combing through dozens of resources to create YOU an amazing guide how to pay for . Can't wait to share it!
How might we place harmless design in a way that both nurtures and assists?
Ss should be given choices very early. Pre-k is not too soon. Give 3 viable options and let them pick one.
Kids can express preference before they can talk if we pay attention. Don’t assume K’s can’t do something.
Before we end, Great Thanks to today's team of moderators, & and all who participated in today's Chat
Creating space for also requires a close look at the dichotomy between engagement and control (1/2)
Why are we forcing kids out of high school so they have to pay for remedial courses at colleges? That’s immoral.
Yep, pretty sure I said "express" and not "speak" intentionally! Completely agree & wasn't assuming a thing https://t.co/To5BzBZj7f
Kids can express preference before they can talk if we pay attention. Don’t assume K’s can’t do something.
It is difficult to create space for when the focus is on control instead of engagement (2/2)
Congrats to my former boss, Bobby Dodd, for being selected NASSP Digital Principle of the Year! pride!
Agreed. Although I don't teach little ones, I have a god-daughter and have watched her stages of learning to express!
I challenge states to avoid the testing frenzy. Don't add a civics test, incentivize civics engagement in your schools.
I think we are in agreement Howard & Douglas. My tweet was meant to imply all that you are stating.
if a blog feels overwhelming, start with a picture and some text on Tumblr
Principals w/super’s support are key.
K`s can do tons! using iPads with our k`s allows a lot of choice on how they want to share work.
Forum Fellow examines "What are those w Student Loan Debt Saying about Debt-Free College Plans?" https://t.co/2DwzVFM2rW
Agree that when the system is aligned like that magic happens.
Love when technology empowers student voice! Have seen this in many examples.
Co-design, co-delivery, & co-validation meaningful partnerships to raise college readiness & success. https://t.co/7CWgyj9ZkF
Co-design, co-delivery, & co-validation meaningful partnerships to raise college readiness & success. https://t.co/5HwQs2Y914
thanks for the reminder. I really want both. :)
I woke up too late to get breakfast before my first class. Teaching online has one great occupational hazard: sloth.
THANK YOU so much for participating in where voice always matters. Join us tonight at 7:00 PM…new topic/
it can be really hard to feel like a "stranded evangelist". don't give up.
Praise Vs Specific Feedback
just in a training session, talking about kids being able to have multiple modalities to share.
K’s are all geniuses according to Sir Ken Robinson. My favorite audience as they aren’t jaded.
#1578 I am always ready to learn although I do not always like being taught. — Winston Churchill
Exactly and totally related to our topic today - student voice. https://t.co/9tToD8ofWv
#1578 I am always ready to learn although I do not always like being taught. — Winston Churchill
