"Welcome to EdTechAfterDark! Our community was born out of discussions for a rich EdChat type gathering for those of us who are thinking about the digital edu-landscape long after the sun has gone down. For us night owls, when the clock strikes 10PM EST, you’ll find us on Twitter over at #edtechafterdark. All are welcome! Our discussions range from our philosophies about EdTech, digital best practices, and simply sharing our stories." --www.edtechafterdark.com
Tonight we're discussing FOMO and its impact on educators... Please introduce yourself via name, role in education, and favorite type of cookie! #EdTechAfterDark
A1: Deep question off the bat. Knowing when to get out of my comfort zone of Room 213 and take a huge leap. Right now I'm in mid-leap and thinking I should have done it sooner than now. #edtechafterdark
A1: I envy educators whose sole job is to work with and educate on technology. What I was told was a mindless hobby is now the future of our schools, and I wish I had a larger role in its implementation. #EdTechAfterDark
A1: At Times, I wish I had gone on to get my doctorate and teach at the college level. It’s still in the cards, but for now, I need to reflect on the blessing that is my here and now instead of reflecting/obsessing over what could be. #EdTechAfterDark
A1 Moving to new position often makes one miss the new that happens at the former school site ... I might want to be a part of #springboardpl Pre-AP program, but I’m also excited to be starting at a new school next year #EdTechAfterDark
I felt the same way about not getting my masters when I kept missing out on “dream jobs”. Now I am one class away from graduation and this degree has renewed my love for where I am right now!#EdTechAfterDark
Yes! Took a “work the contract” commitment to realize that being the “best” was over-rated when it came to balance - I was spending too much time at work & not enough at home 😔 now I leave every day as close to 3:30 as possible #EdTechAfterDark
A1. Leaving the classroom to become an AP. I miss the closeness I had with my kids. I had small classes because I was a behavior Adjustment teacher. #EdTechAfterDark
I understand this fully. What worked for me is integrating tech into basic things like email. Adding bit mojis or GIFs in my responses made my coworkers curious which led to trainings which led to a tech trainer position. #EdTechAfterDark
I so admire my AP. Her ability to build relationships and not rely of threat of consequence to build character has taught me so much about my own students. I am thankful for her example that leads the way for our school culture. #EdTechAfterDark
A2 Ask students for feedback about my class in general, being careful not to feed them a frame for answers. That will always tell me the most about the track I’m on because adolescents are awesomely honest! #edtechafterdark
A1: I had plans of continuing my education after earning my masters in 2011, but after being furloughed, my drive took a hit. It’s now 7 years later, and I still have the itch to go for my PhD in English. I’m just struggling to pull the trigger... #edtechafterdark
A2: At the heart of the decision is the students and how did it affect them in the learning process? If it was positive it stays. If it wasn't a good choice, learn from it and go from there. #edtechafterdark
A2: By starting with “Why?” If my decisions are rooted in improving student learning and discovery, I can justify those decisions despite the outcomes (or lack there of)... Start with “Why” #edtechafterdark
A2 mine was writing instruction, I have to keep checking both the quantitative & qualitative data ... step by faith that my planning was what was best for the end result (waiting for writing scores even now) #EdTechAfterDark
A2. As educators we have to make sure that our intent is to meet the needs of our students. If this is our true goal, we have nothing to worry about. #EdTechAfterDark
A2: As long as the decision started with instructional objectives - not with the tech tool or the trend - you're doing right by your Ss. It's about making the trend/tool work for you. #edtechafterdark
A2: honestly, I have OCD so the worry is always there. However, I’ve learned to communicate—with my coworkers, admin, parents, and students—to see if our growth and success is observable and long-lasting outside of the classroom. #EdTechAfterDark
I’m in Connecticut joining for a bit in the middle of #EdTechAfterDark. I’m #NotAtISTE and occasionally have a mild case of FOMO. Anything else you need to know? 😄
A2: I remain confident in all decisions I make regarding technology in the classroom. Some fail, some flourish. I just have to be honest with myself at the end when I ask myself.. did it really make a difference or is it just “cool”? #edtechafterdark
A2 Read the research and those writing about it. Then ask yourself how it can fit into your classroom. That’s where knowledge of the tools can pay off. #edtechafterdark
... if you’re curious where the deep dialogue is happening in edutwitter world @EdTechAfterDark never disappoints. My #fomo for the #edtechafterdark chat is rooted in sleep vs. being up chatting with the ruckus makers. I prefer ruckus over sleep.
... if you’re curious where the deep dialogue is happening in edutwitter world @EdTechAfterDark never disappoints. My #fomo for the #edtechafterdark chat is rooted in sleep vs. being up chatting with the ruckus makers. I prefer ruckus over sleep.
A3: WHAT A LOADED QUESTION! If the thought lingers, I research, read blogs, and ask questions on Twitter. I ask myself what will my students get from this program? #EdTechAfterDark
A3: Non-classroom related.. I deleted all of my personal social media accounts last week because I was spending way too much time on them. To compare that to the classroom, I never feel FOMO because I’m very quick to try things and adapt. Adapt or fail! #edtechafterdark
A3 Totally check the source of your FOMO. Did you implement one new thing well and you're bothered you didn't do 3? Be kind to yourself Slay the FOMO and focus on being better than yesterday. #edtechafterdark
Just stalking the #ISTE18 hashtag because I’m living in FOMO #NotAtISTE18 land and honestly wishing the #edtechafterdark voice was louder there. Hope you’re planning on shaking up and bringing the light of @EdTechAfterDark to the @iste daytime party next year!
... if you’re curious where the deep dialogue is happening in edutwitter world @EdTechAfterDark never disappoints. My #fomo for the #edtechafterdark chat is rooted in sleep vs. being up chatting with the ruckus makers. I prefer ruckus over sleep.
A3 For me, I try to find the source of the stress ... can ignoring it hurt me? Can accepting it help me improve my situation? How will it impact my balance? #EdTechAfterDark
A2: I TRY my best not to worry whether it was the right decision. Only reflect constantly and adjust when needed. How else am I going to learn without jumping in first? #EdTechAfterDark
A3: What a challenging question! There is good in questioning your practices, looking for space to improve. But to continually compare yourself is exhausting. You have to find a balance. #edtechafterdark
This is a useful observation about the roots of #FOMO, whether you’re in education or some other field. I’ve begun to recognize that my stature or lack thereof is most closely connected with whether I’m willing to do new things that aren’t comfortable. #EdTechAfterDark A1
First! I commend you for deleting your personal social media. That’s awesome. I wish I had the willpower.
I’m a lot like you in having a quick ability to adapt to new things! I love looking for things to keep the learning fresh. #EdTechAfterDark
A3: Have to look at the intent behind the FOMO. If it's causing me to miss what's happening in the moment, then it needs to go. I have to look at the intent and how it will overall impact either my life or my classroom. #EdTechAfterDark
A3: I find that the only way to get necessary perspective on my education FOMO is to phone a trusted friend. @danvkoch & @MrLeonard8 aren’t afraid to offer me unfiltered perspective on my blind spots. #EdTechAfterDark
A3: This is the time I ask WHY. Reflecting on the intention, the purpose, the reason behind the choice in question reminds me what my focus should be. Sometimes that means Pursuing a new path, sometimes staying the course. #EdTechAfterDark
This is a useful observation about the roots of #FOMO, whether you’re in education or some other field. I’ve begun to recognize that my stature or lack thereof is most closely connected with whether I’m willing to do new things that aren’t comfortable. #EdTechAfterDark A1
A3. I think having a good professional network would help. You could discuss concerns about FOMO & see that others may feel the same way. You could try to ensure no one is missing out as well. #EdTechAfterDark
A3: This is the time I ask WHY. Reflecting on the intention, the purpose, the reason behind the choice in question reminds me what my focus should be. Sometimes that means Pursuing a new path, sometimes staying the course. #EdTechAfterDark
Right on. I’m trying to stay rooted in my learning and growth as an ed leader happening in the world, not in a dated college classroom (most likely solely online). IMO don’t get another degree just bc the 🌍 hasn’t caught up yet... #EdTechAfterDark
A1: At Times, I wish I had gone on to get my doctorate and teach at the college level. It’s still in the cards, but for now, I need to reflect on the blessing that is my here and now instead of reflecting/obsessing over what could be. #EdTechAfterDark
A4:
* Collaboration — working with more staff to help them embrace technology in ways that work for them/ Ss collaborating through creativity.
*Embracing new challenges to grow as an educator.
*Beginning a new coding club! #EdTechAfterDark
And I find that Ss are so understanding if things don't work out like you plan if you're honest up front. They're willing to take risks with you, and everyone learns together! #edtechafterdark
💛 the emphasis on reflection and owning our actions rather than obsessing over the impact of our mistakes. #Jump first, worry option, reflection required. #EdTechAfterDark
A2: I TRY my best not to worry whether it was the right decision. Only reflect constantly and adjust when needed. How else am I going to learn without jumping in first? #EdTechAfterDark
A3 Totally check the source of your FOMO. Did you implement one new thing well and you're bothered you didn't do 3? Be kind to yourself Slay the FOMO and focus on being better than yesterday. #edtechafterdark
A4:
1) Giving teachers autonomy (getting out of their way)
2) Escaping my office to be closer to where the learning is happening
3) Carve purposeful time out for my family
#EdTechAfterDark
Speaking from outside the classroom...
A3) #FOMO is harmful when you feel resentful. It’s useful when it prompts action: “Why SHOULDN’T I do what they’re doing?” Just make sure it’s for a much more meaningful purpose than comparing yourself positively to others. #EdTechAfterDark
A4: Well this depends on the landing from the leap...lol!
But currently for Room 213, 1) adjusting from a traditional to 4x4 block schedule, 2) learning to say "no" more, 3) more inquiry/PBL #EdTechAfterDark
A4. 1. Preparing kids for future & not just to pass a test. 2. Emphasize some of Maslow’s lower levels. 3. Help kids have fun & have fun myself. #EdTechAfterDark
1. Model mistakes and ruckus making.
2. Meet people where they are and celebrate where they are (+ a kind nudge to try a little more).
3. Empower students to model the way. I want fomo from the level of awesome my students are innovating! #EdTechAfterDark
Q4:
1. Minimize everything from an organizational standpoint. I got rid of traditional desk.. sitting at kidney bean shaped one.. just a laptop &office supplies.
2. Organize class via the state standards - but add my own flavor.
3. Back to passion. More raps. #EdTechAfterDark
A4
1. Queen of #ar#vr
2. Badgify information literacy
3. Gamify techspert certification
But just maybe this isn't the focus you meant 😂😂 #edtechafterdark
Q4:
1. Minimize everything from an organizational standpoint. I got rid of traditional desk.. sitting at kidney bean shaped one.. just a laptop &office supplies.
2. Organize class via the state standards - but add my own flavor.
3. Back to passion. More raps. #EdTechAfterDark
Our Ss deff take notice. I told my Ss at the EOY I hope your next teacher(s) allows you to be as innovative and creative. Their response "probably not; you teach us so differently". ☹️ #edtechafterdark
A4
1. Queen of #ar#vr
2. Badgify information literacy
3. Gamify techspert certification
But just maybe this isn't the focus you meant 😂😂 #edtechafterdark
...I wonder if you’ve empowered them to inspire their teachers next year to do more. They can raise the bar & hopefully nudge stuck educators to try something new. Fear has a lot to do with it. #EdTechAfterDark
Our Ss deff take notice. I told my Ss at the EOY I hope your next teacher(s) allows you to be as innovative and creative. Their response "probably not; you teach us so differently". ☹️ #edtechafterdark
Students are getting angry with traditional teachers.... rightfully. #edtechafterdark all it takes is that one crazy innovator and the whole factory system starts to crumble.
In reply to
@MrsVClass4, @theteachingcurc, @Stella_Pollard
Q5: I don’t know if I can answer this question. My focus is better organization, so if “fun” falls through the cracks.. so be it. I try to have fun everyday, but this year, that might not be the primary goal. Anyone relate? #EdTechAfterDark
A5: Look at you using an Econ term...lol! My econ students would be like "wait, you can use that outside of class?"
For me personally, it depends on what happens with this landing of my leap. That will shift and change my focus for the upcoming school year. #edtechafterdark
A5: I’ve had to come to grips with the fact that facilitating multiple chats weekly stripped my family of some important Daddy time... therefore, I will be moderating 2 a month between #WokeEd and #edtechafterdark and allow guest moderators and my ETAD boys to cover the rest...
A5: Some system changes are being made that I think will create more time, but also I'm working at streamlining my practices. If I'm more intentional overall, space should open up (hopefully). #edtechafterdark
A5 I’ve changed from teacher/coach to full-time coach ... focusing on teachers this year ... S1 is teacher S2 writing conferences with small groups of sts #EdTechAfterDark
1. Books, books and more books everywhere and at Ss fingertips at ALL times.
2. Continue to make relationships with my Ss.
3. More STEAM. #edtechafterdark
A5) So... Twitter has expanded my professional horizons, but it hasn’t yet explicitly changed my career path. I feel like I’ve reached a sort of stasis. So I’ve been thinking that I should reduce (*gasp!*) my Twitter time (nooooo!) for other exploits. #EdTechAfterDark
I dig that work/life balance jam. We can care 💯 to stay woke and shake others awake while still getting time to chill & sleep. It’s okay to turn off sometimes. There are enough of us to keep the 🔥 lit. #EdTechAfterDark
A5: I’ve had to come to grips with the fact that facilitating multiple chats weekly stripped my family of some important Daddy time... therefore, I will be moderating 2 a month between #WokeEd and #edtechafterdark and allow guest moderators and my ETAD boys to cover the rest...
Q6: Already answered this! Unplugged all personal accounts. Reading more. A lot more. 1-2 books per week more. And working out. I’m all over the place. #EdTechAfterDark
A6: Debating deleting the apps from my phone and only check on my laptop. Purposely go somewhere with no wifi and back cell service (#thefarm) and plug back in my family & friends. And just read more. #EdTechAfterDark
A6: When I’m with these guys, my phone will be away. Literally. In the other room. It’s my commitment to keeping time with them sacred... #edtechafterdark
A6: I need to get my time down on FB, but really struggling with how. I admire the people that go cold turkey. Planning to do more reading and reflecting this summer. I've been running more, goal in July is to add in yoga and/or meditation. #edtechafterdark
Right! I discounted my work e-mail from my phone then had an anxiety attack because I didn't have access to info and added it back! #Fail#TryAgain#EdTechAfterDark
Ha! I do take breaks from this account, but that’s different than unplugging entirely! Still, it feels like unplugging when you’re focused on vacation pictures. #EdTechAfterDark A6
A few years ago I was able to keep up a daily yoga practice for a full school year. Fell out of the habit, but it was the best year for my mental health! #edtechafterdark
