#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.
Q5) I personally would want my colleagues to tell me the vulnerabilities they see in my teaching. Teaching is all about learning and improving oneself. #whatisschool
@deem_ellen@ShiftParadigm
Q1 and Q2 my strength is understanding and care for special needs students. I managed to help create a small learning program for a student while i was on practicum. I understood his needs and a helped him understand his new program. #whatisschool
@deem_ellen@ShiftParadigm
Q3 and Q4
Name pronunciation is something i am vulnerable too. I feel this especially with different culture names. I am trying to repeat names after they've said them or a parent has, does anyone have any other ideas? #lledchat#whatisschool
Hello #whatisschool family - have a great chat with the amazing @deem_ellen and @ShiftParadigm today. I am away for the next 2 weeks with my baby - have fun!!
Q5) I personally would want my colleagues to tell me the vulnerabilities they see in my teaching. Teaching is all about learning and improving oneself. #whatisschool
Definitely agree with you, there are many ways with learning to improve yourself for a positive reason and students could really benefit from your own self reflection #whatisschool#lledchat
I would like to think I am inclusive and think of others. I also like to learn along side my students, all in the same waka (boat in Te Reo Maori) #whatisschool
1) I work hard to be "tech savvy" and help others when they are stuck. It's an area that is always changing though, so I'm constantly in learning mode. #whatisschool
In reply to
@ShiftParadigm, @Dale_Chu, @deem_ellen
That is such a brave thing to say, i like your philosophy as its a great way to learn from students and parents/whanau and teach the students that it is okay to make mistakes #whatisschool
Hi all - Newbie Jennifer here :)
A1) I believe my unique strength is empathy. I can empathize with my students, allowing them to open up and connect with me and their fellow students. This can be a great challenge in a virtual learning environment.
@deem_ellen#WhatisSchool
I think it's something I've always been determined to do - to not be afraid to be wrong or not know something. It really empowers the Ss to take risks if you can model that and share the learning with them. #Whatisschool
Q2) Please share an example of how you recently used one of your unique ‘teacher strengths’ to fight for student learning or combat ignorance, illiteracy, and inequality. #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
Q2) Please share an example of how you recently used one of your unique ‘teacher strength’ to fight for student learning or combat ignorance, illiteracy, and inequality. #whatisschool
@ShiftParadigm@deem_ellen
A1. Teacher strengths:
1. Isn't afraid to be taught by their students.
6. Admits when they don’t know the answer.
9. Is always learning.
11. Greets every student with a smile.
15. Empowers their students.
#whatisschool
A1.I introduced STEAM Room Teaching with no https://t.co/Be3A57dqdv went from a concept to a reality and has revolutionised teaching and learning #whatisschool
I teach remotely once a week and need to advocate for those in the remote location to make sure they are included and feel part of the teaching/learning community #whatisschool
A2 when students get into arguments, I always spin it in a way they can all laugh about and nobody feels bad about arguing in the first place. #WhatIsSchool
A2) I recently had to take a stand for a student who is struggling. I’m grateful that I was given the opportunity to share my perspective. #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
Q2) Please share an example of how you recently used one of your unique ‘teacher strength’ to fight for student learning or combat ignorance, illiteracy, and inequality. #whatisschool
A1: My strength is to keep fighting for what I believe. If I see something not working, I’ll look for a solution. “That can’t happen” is a challenge for me to push harder. I’m pretty determined. As far as unique? I’m a bloke, and a food teacher. Not too many of us…#whatisschool
A2 because I always do paperwork ahead of time, it gives me more time to plan and make meaningful activities for my students. I get to cover all the bases. #WhatIsSchool
A2. I followed @mrkempnz great advice and setup a student Digital Leader programme giving Ss a voice and empowering them to make a difference in their school and community! #whatisschool
In reply to
@ShiftParadigm, @nathan_stevens, @cossie29, @Dale_Chu, @perfinker, @mrkempnz
A2. Positive Relationships w/ Ss and being involved with their interests..I love attending after-school evening performances and events. They ask and I go. ☺#whatisschool
A1: I think my unique strength is communication. It has taken many years and it’s a work still in progress but I feel that it’s important as an educator!🙏🏻 #whatisschool
All the time. Twitter gives me lots to ponder and try. I've found the majority of my education books on here. I would say my reflection journey really got going after reading some of the Pirate books. #WhatIsSchool and meeting my co-moderator. @ShiftParadigm
In reply to
@HHannalee, @clcsimon, @je16580, @ShiftParadigm, @ShiftParadigm
That is something i could learn from as i am always afraid to make a mistake especially if it was in front of my students. I love how learning from our mistakes can teach students it is okay and we can learn and reflect upon ourselves to help them, thats amazing #whatisschool
A2. I've often been challenged on how much I collaborate with Ss in planning their learning - it's pretty much 80% - 100%. I won't give in though. It's THEIR learning. I shouldn't be the one controlling it. #whatisschool
A1.I introduced STEAM Room Teaching with no https://t.co/Be3A57dqdv went from a concept to a reality and has revolutionised teaching and learning #whatisschool
Broke several “rules” w/ a s; trad schooling/curriculum/mandates weren’t working. Knew he was incredibly bright, best in the room, but did nothing. So I fed him books. He made a 4 on AP Lit exam 2yrs later. #whatisschool
#whatisschool Q2 Empathy (cautious empathy don't want to be a sponge and be an empath which can paralyze) ability to see struggles of #parents#students#teachers and negotiate solutions to problems which are obstacles for success
A2: Its hard to be specific…but I’m fighting for our students to be given opportunity to do the ‘right’ thing over assumptions they will do the ‘wrong' thing. #whatisschool
A1)to get our students to believe in themselves we as teachers need to lead by example. Let us turn those "I CAN'T!!" into "I CAN" and "I WILL"
#whatisschool
A1: My strength is to keep fighting for what I believe. If I see something not working, I’ll look for a solution. “That can’t happen” is a challenge for me to push harder. I’m pretty determined. As far as unique? I’m a bloke, and a food teacher. Not too many of us…#whatisschool
Try it once and you won't go back. Ss see you as a learner too and it really helps to gain their respect. Yes, it's scary and can make you vulnerable but it also makes you a strong teacher because you can relate to the Ss - empathy. #Whatisschool
We all should realize that we're all connected, like it or not, inside and outside the classrooms. And though on most of these chats we don't know each other, we are connected. TRUST ME. #WhatIsSchool
Wow thats awesome you found it tho, we are doing a discussion assessment at university and im finding it very helpful to learn about and read articles that help me understand schools today #whatisschool
He was planning on dropping out at 16. A validating anecdote screaming for our flexibility and strengths to get rid of the boxes and do what is best for the student. #whatisschool
Great question. Teach Like a Pirate by @burgessdave and Learn Like a Pirate by @PaulSolarz. I have Play Like a Pirate to read. These books led me to a whole bunch more helpful authors. I loved @PaulTough book on curiosity and grit! #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
In reply to
@HHannalee, @clcsimon, @je16580, @ShiftParadigm, @burgessdave, @PaulSolarz, @paultough, @ShiftParadigm
took me til retirement so all of you who are participating who have discovered power of ed #chats spread the word to your colleagues @mrkempnz#whatisschool was the hook for me #global and wonderful!
A2: The power of Twitter has been a wonderful tool to be able to use as an educator to fight for what we believe in...our students! I use it daily to communicate my beliefs in education and life! #whatisschool
Wow that is awesome, i love that. I feel this would help you achieve a lot personally and also help to teach your students a fantastic lesson not only in the classroom but for life #whatisschool
A2) Today had a pushing incident with a deaf student & another Ss. I took them out in the hall & had the roll play the other person. Then asked how they felt! Empathy lesson! #whatisschool
What years do you teach? As this could be a great tool to use for high school students on certain subjects/topics. This could also help you learn new ways around twitter/technology #whatisschool
In reply to
@deem_ellen, @PhilippaIsom, @ShiftParadigm
Our pupils forget most of what we teach them.They will however remember us their teachers forever.Lets be good and kind to them.A kind word or deed can last a lifetime #whatisschool
A2 going back to yesterday’s #edutopiachat burnout. Since I’m always on the go and always trying to be 2 steps ahead I forget that I have a personal life to take care of #WhatIsSchool
I don't give up on my students. It might seem like nagging, but I want them to keep trying. Some are not able to finish up at home due to other commitments or parents who are unable to help, I use my quiet stubbornness to encourage them to use every class minute. #whatisschool
A3: Other than being #disabled and only able to volunteer half a day one day a week at my ESL program? Pain. Pain is my biggest weakness.
#WhatIsSchool
A3: When people misinterpret my drive for change as an indictment on them as people, rather than the situation we are facing. Student learning is always my focus and my goal. #whatisschool
A3 I let students know that I’m human too. That when a tragedy like Sandy Hook or Parkland occurs, it hurts me not only as a teacher but on a human level. We aren’t robots and part of building relationships is having Ss understand that. #whatisschool
A2 Teaching virtually, with many international students, we often have discussions on cultural differences, tolerance in our communities. Today's impromptu lesson was on English idioms - always difficult for ESL!
#whatisschool
A2: I'm ALWAYS fighting for my students to develop a GROWTH MINDSET, there's so much added confidence & joy from learning from one's mistakes! It may require a few lessons to master, but my Ss have flourished! @ClassDojo has some great lessons under Big Ideas #whatisschool
A3 Passion gets ahead of me sometimes. That is, I sometimes push too hard, my inner-self rooting for their love of the learning journey as much as I feel I love it. I need to slow down and bridle my enthusiasm sometimes 🤪 #whatisschool
A3: My vulnerability is I don’t want to disappoint anyone. We all know that we can’t be all things to all people. We WANT to be for our students #whatisschool and our colleagues but this can be tough!
I find it easier to say no, than to suck up and agree with things that cause you harm and no love. It's best to always do the best and what's right than what's popular. #WhatIsSchool
love this ? TOOK IT ALL 1. PERSONALLY which can be paralyzing had to fight 2. showing on my face 3. in my voice 4. in my energy level rest of day whether from #students#parents#colleagues#admin have to take that breath and say: ok this hurts a bit BUT... Q3 #whatisschool
Agree! The same is true for making mistakes. I let students know I'm human and make mistakes, how I will fix it, and what I'll keep in mind next time.
#whatisschool
A4) I’ve learned in preparing for this chat that facing my vulnerabilities head on has given me strength to ask for help when I need it. I’m not afraid to admit I don’t have all the answers. #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
A4. Reflection through blogging - a goal to blog more regularly. When I was teaching it was through Critical Friends and also through the Mindfulness course for the perfectionist procrastinator tendencies. :D #Whatisschool
TAKE IT FROM ME watch that! you want to be able to have energy health and good family friend relationships so pace yourself Great you are aware A3 #whatisschool
A4: For me its about communication. Its conversation. I can’t control what other’s think about me, but I can keep telling them why I’m doing what I do. #whatisschool
A3) I sometimes find myself burrowing into my classroom too much and not reaching out to other teachers as much as I could (especially those who work in other areas on campus). There's always so much to be done, but I know that they have much to share. #whatisschool
It's a great reminder to both our students and to ourselves, that yes we as adults are HUMAN! Like Hannah Montana sang "Everybody makes mistakes... No body's perfect!!" #whatisschool
A3 I let students know that I’m human too. That when a tragedy like Sandy Hook or Parkland occurs, it hurts me not only as a teacher but on a human level. We aren’t robots and part of building relationships is having Ss understand that. #whatisschool
A4. Don't be afraid to ask for help / let your students teach you AND don't be afraid to admit to your students when you don't know the answer - both important traits of being a good teacher! #whatisschool
A4) I’ve learned in preparing for this chat that facing my vulnerabilities head on has given me strength to ask for help when I need it. I’m not afraid to admit I don’t have all the answers. #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
It's honestly been great and I would have thought nothing would make a great impact on this brain of mine - or the habits - but it has. Through FutureLearn and Monash Uni - https://t.co/0rHylHYda4#Whatisschool
In reply to
@LEroomI3, @Math912Teacher, @ShiftParadigm
OH MY!!! EXACTLY MY PROBLEM AND LEARNED TOO LATE NOT GOOD! FIRST, SO ABSORBED WITH ALL HAD TO DO AND ENERGY EXPENDED FOR #STUDENTS DIDN'T SOCIALIZE AND IT WAS BIG MISTAKE! GOOD YOU SEE IT! SEE IF YOU CAN CHANGE THAT! A3 #whatisschool
A3) I sometimes find myself burrowing into my classroom too much and not reaching out to other teachers as much as I could (especially those who work in other areas on campus). There's always so much to be done, but I know that they have much to share. #whatisschool
A4 asking for help. I’ve been teaching since 2011 and I’m considered a senior teacher, but it’s still fun asking for help and getting fresh ideas from new teachers #WhatIsSchool
Get them to teach you and write the phonetic pronunciation down on a list and practice - or get them to record their names. I moved from Invercargill to West Auckland. You might be able to imagine the difference there. #Whatisschool
In reply to
@HHannalee, @deem_ellen, @ShiftParadigm
A4 Interesting question - as I tend not to. And, especially under poor management, this can lead to people to exploiting vulnerabilities for political gain. #WhatIsSchool
A1: my unique traits are that 1) I am very open and honest with Ss which helps me to build relationships and 2) I have taught 4 grades at a variety of schools and levels over the past 2 years, so I have learned a lot from the variety of situations. #whatisschool
A4: I'm starting to use my kids as a way to help me say, "No!" Although, my words still come out as, "I'm sorry, I have to make my son's baseball practice..." #whatisschool
I love teaching and want all students to feel accepted and part of the classroom community so i would hate to pronounce they're name wrong and let them down on an emotional and trusting level #whatisschool
I read names at graduation for years! It was SO imp to me to get their names right as they walked across that stage. I would get them to help me, syllable by syllable until I had it as close to perfect as I could. Not one complained about my stumbles as I practiced #whatisschool
In reply to
@HHannalee, @deem_ellen, @ShiftParadigm
A4. Don't be afraid to ask for help / let your students teach you AND don't be afraid to admit to your students when you don't know the answer - both important traits of being a good teacher! #whatisschool
A4) I’ve learned in preparing for this chat that facing my vulnerabilities head on has given me strength to ask for help when I need it. I’m not afraid to admit I don’t have all the answers. #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
Thanks for the tip. @HHannalee and i live in South Auckland so we would totally understand the difference, especially since Auckland is so diverse. #whatisschool
Get them to teach you and write the phonetic pronunciation down on a list and practice - or get them to record their names. I moved from Invercargill to West Auckland. You might be able to imagine the difference there. #Whatisschool
In reply to
@HHannalee, @deem_ellen, @ShiftParadigm
It's crazy that we put that kind of pressure on ourselves. I pointed out to my first graders this morning that they taught each other about worms and soil because they shared their research at morning meeting. #whatisschool
Q5) Sometimes, a colleague sees a vulnerability of ours that we do not see. In such instances, what would you want the colleague to do? #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
A5) I have a teammate who knows I struggle with remembering deadlines and finding time to find new resources because of my extra jobs. She continually gives me copies of ideas she finds without me having to ask. #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm Her support does not waver.
Ok Teachers | I don't want to disrupt progress because of the lurkers I have | Please enjoy the evening and know we're all connected. | Okema, Parent #WhatIsSchool
A4: I am constantly asking others for help and hearing how they handle the different time constraints. I have learned to ask for help from those who know more than I do. #whatisschool
A5: Be honest enough to tell me. Let me know how it affects my role and how it frames how people see me. I might not like the conversation, but we need to have it. #whatisschool
Had privilege doing this for a senior class a few yrs back (they requested a T rather than Sup or P. I practiced those names for 2 weeks. #whatisschool
In reply to
@MmeBurgess, @HHannalee, @deem_ellen, @ShiftParadigm
Q5) Sometimes, a colleague sees a vulnerability of ours that we do not see. In such instances, what would you want the colleague to do? #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
Yep! I always did it with a partner in crime to prevent monotony, but despite the stress, it was so rewarding to have Ps & Ss thank you just for taking the time to get their name right.
#WhatIsSchool
In reply to
@Perapiteticus, @HHannalee, @deem_ellen, @ShiftParadigm
A5 Constructive engagement is welcome. I remember someone giving me some advice/criticism and wasn't sure how I would take it. My response was pretty much "Anyone who can't deal with this shouldn't be here." - He still respects me for it. #WhatIsSchool
A5: I appreciate when they are willing to tell me and have a conversation about things that need to be addressed. I know I'm not perfect, but hearing ways I can improve is always welcomed. #whatisschool
#whatisschool A5: Give me feedback. We're in the industry of growth and feedback. We dish it out all the time because we know it's valuable to not just S growth, but human growth. (Or do we?) If we can't receive it, we need to find a job that won't compromise our integrity.
A5 Honestly, if they see something I would like them to chat with me one on one before sharing with others. Don’t assume I want it shared during a meeting in front of everyone haha #whatisschool
I've had students do an art project where they illustrate their names (mandalas, stained glass, other). The combo of them telling me pronounciation & personalized visual illustration makes it stay in my mind.
#whatisschool
In reply to
@cossie29, @HHannalee, @deem_ellen, @ShiftParadigm
A5: Their support! People are different so there's no easy way to let someone know you've noticed a vulnerability of theirs. But if you start positively and with support, IF they want to listen they'll engage you #whatisschool
I've had students do an art project where they illustrate their names (mandalas, stained glass, other). The combo of them telling me pronounciation & personalized visual illustration makes it stay in my mind.
#whatisschool
In reply to
@cossie29, @HHannalee, @deem_ellen, @ShiftParadigm
A5 - I think there needs to be an element of trust before saying something, otherwise it may not be received well. #WhatIsSchool@deem_ellen@ShiftParadigm
In reply to
@PhilippaIsom, @deem_ellen, @ShiftParadigm
#whatisschool A5: Give me feedback. We're in the industry of growth and feedback. We dish it out all the time because we know it's valuable to not just S growth, but human growth. (Or do we?) If we can't receive it, we need to find a job that won't compromise our integrity.
A5: If your dialogue always lends itself to being two-way and that you value opinions, they will naturally & respectfully come to you with their concerns. #whatisschool
Agree - trust is key and the environment should be one that has built this up. If trust isn't there then growth can't happen - for teachers or students. #Whatisschool
In reply to
@Math912Teacher, @PhilippaIsom, @deem_ellen, @ShiftParadigm
Q6) As a result of this chat, what will you do differently with your strengths and vulnerabilities, and those of your colleagues? #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
A6) I am determined to think before I speak, and always look for the positive when I mistake my vulnerabilities as a weakness or feel tempted to comment on the vulnerabilities in others. #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
A5 Tell me, nicely. I may not agree today or tomorrow, but once I've had time to reflect on it, I will most likely appreciate the feedback.
#whatisschool
A5: It is fearful. It is intimidating. But growth is like climbing Mt. Everest sometimes. It is the scariest thing for some of us. But, sometimes we are he last to know, were it not for a colleague telling us. #hurtssogood#whatisschool
I will remember that making mistakes is okay and i am only human. I will share my strengths and try to stay focused on my learning and my students learning. I feel very empowered right now #whatisschool
Learning to give feedback in a positive realm is an ongoing lesson for me. Thinking before speaking...This week has taught me to receive better and be grateful for their honesty. #WhatIsSchool
A6: the beauty of schools is that they are filled with such diverse voices, opinions, and talents. It's our job to use our strengths with other people's strengths (whether it's S's or T's) to do the best we can collectively. #whatisschool
Listen to what others have to offer, and don't be afraid to share your skills as well. No one person can master everything, we need to learn to rely on those around us. #whatisschool
Oh, I'm still going quietly mad studying for a PhD full-time. I'm just not driving others mad along with me - although there's always Twitter chats... #Whatisschool
A6 Just as I’ve attempted Joyce’s Ulysses 3 times, ahem, I am freshly reminded that not only do we meet them where they are, we must journey with them “where they are.” #whatisschool
A6 One of my weaknesses is providing honest feedback to colleagues. Seeing so many here that welcome feedback, I may be more inclined to share mine.
#whatisschool
Dear #whatisschool team. Thank you so much for embracing the teaching students in the house today. They are super excited about the support that is out there and the critical conversations that can extend them!
Her thoughtfulness is amazing. She's got a lot on her plate with her family, and she never forgets to help me out. Good to know I'm not alone. Thanks again for joining us today. #WhatIsSchool
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to co-moderate #whatisschool with @ShiftParadigm. I’ve learned once the chat starts, you become the teachers. I’m blown away by your genuine, helpful, and insightful responses every time. @mrkempnz
It's such a hard skill to master isn't it! I've been practising it for a while and I've really loved the change when I focus on what a colleague is saying and not thinking about what I want to say back. #Whatisschool
Thanks so much for joining us today and being an important part of our conversation. We appreciate your insights and your presence. #whatisschool@ShiftParadigm
Thank you so much @ShiftParadigm and @deem_ellen for another chat that's made me reflect deeply on what I do. Great to connect with more amazing educators too. #Whatisschool
It's such a hard skill to master isn't it! I've been practising it for a while and I've really loved the change when I focus on what a colleague is saying and not thinking about what I want to say back. #Whatisschool
I'm good. Hungry because I didn't get home in time for dinner before:) You will love them. Check out #bfc530. I'm making a promise to get there tomorrow morning:) Great to meet you:) #WhatIsSchool
In reply to
@inspire0818, @mrnesi, @iruntech, @mrfieldmanchs, @whalen, @AJBianco
