#leadupchat focuses on school leadership broadly, culture, changing paradigms, and the growth mindset. It's an Ed movement focused on Leadership, Culture, Growth and Shifts on Saturdays at 8:30am CST, founded by Jeff Veal (@heffrey) and Nathan Lang (@nalang1).
Welcome to #LeadUpChat and our Summer Series! We are thrilled you have chosen to spend your Saturday morning learning with other thought leaders. Please take a moment to introduce yourself and where you are from.
Good morning tribe! Thrilled to be with you today as our Summer series welcomes Denis Sheeran. Jeff here, an admin and co-founder of #LeadUpChat. Today's tweets will come from @MathDenisNJ. Retweets will come from @leadupnow and me.
A1: School improvement is begins by creating relationships. These relationships help us determine what is relevant to the learner. Relevance helps us to achieve academic rigor with our students. #LeadUpChat
A1. Relevance has always been important. It makes learning be so much more personalized towards the students. However, we now have technology to add into the mix. Brains have changed and our Ss are used to having the virtual learning outside of the CR. EMBRACE it. #leadupchat
A1: Ss are surrounded by irrelevancy. Ts need to demonstrate the why for Ss to connect. Otherwise, S will likely think “I can just google this- not worth my time” #leadupchat#takemetotheotherside
A1: The WHY is important for all! We need to remember our WHY. We need to help others understand the WHY of the work or of change. And students need to understand they WHY of every learning experience we provide. WHY am I learning this? #leadupchat
A1. When Ss can embrace their learning and feel empowered, there's no stopping them. Their answers and work will begin blowing you away. If you want to go deep into learning, bring in their interests and watch them bloom. #leadupchat
A1: Students "need" to know what their learning matters. They need to see connections. "Because I said so" or "Because it's in the State Standards" isn't good enough #leadupchat
A1 Relevance creates sticking power, engagement, and intrinsic motivation. Relevance has always been important, but if we want kids to learn, we have to do better than "Learn it because I said so." #leadupchat
A1 #leadupchat Our Ss are submerged in information constantly. They need to see the importance of what they’ll learn in your classroom. The T isn’t their only resource anymore.
Good morning, school leaders! Kaitlyn from Frisco, TX, checking in for my Saturday morning "me" time :) Coffee is flowing and I'm ready to learn! #leadupchat
Too many educators teach like the world is how it was when they were in school. If it’s not relevant to the present and future, you are wasting students’ time. #LeadUpChat
A1.2: before, knowing irrelevant facts gave power. Today? Not so much. I have the repository of knowledge in the palm of my hands. #gotwhatyouneed#LeadUpChat
A1 When you can HOOK students or staff into a learning experience the atmosphere of the learning environment changes! Best way to HOOK them is make it relevant! #LeadUpChat#tlap
A1 Ss HAVE to see the relevance in their learning to actively take part. Rote memorization and surface learning can be achieved w/o it, but diving deeper demands a WHY? #leadupchat
A1) Without relevance, kids don't know WHY they're learning. Relevance is what allows them to understand the purpose of their work.
Everyone (not just students) who understands WHY they're doing what they're doing does a better job than the person who doesn't.
#leadupchat
A1: Learning isn’t memorizing facts students can Google. Application, reimagination, creation of something new is what makes student learning relevant. #leadupchat
#LeadUpChat A1)I think Ss learn (and I mean actually learn, absorb, be able to apply & teach) best when they connect with something/someone. Actually, I think we all learn best when we feel a connection.
A1. With the instant access to so much content there is more competition for their attention. Ss often believe that "we" don't really understand what they need either because the world they are growing up in looks very different than ours did. #leadupchat
A1 We cannot ignore the world our students live in and the skills they need. We need to continue to search out relevance for our students even though it may make us feel uncomfortable at times. #leadupchat
A1 The "second R" of relevance is necessary because classroom learning activities should provide a direct connection to Ss current lives. Relevance also addresses future job tasks, ways to contribute to their community, & practical critical thinking practice #leadupchat
A1: Relevance is the key to authentic student engagement. Once students can see the why & how the content/concept relates to them they are more likely to learn & grow. #LeadUpChat
Good morning #leadupchat I’m Heidi, an Ealry Childhood District Administrator in North Texas. Passionate about leading on behalf of our youngest learners.
Respectful push-back on “reliance” - we used to think that learning Fortran was the most relevant skill - students would have been better off studying classical logic.
#leadupchathttps://t.co/AsZHLSlxxT
Just wondering -- does everything have to be relevant in a student's mind? For instance, is there still value in challenging students with different types of literature, philosophy, etc., sharing the compelling why for those things? #LeadUpChat
A1. Relevance is important for a number of reasons:
1. Access to content is no longer limited by time and space. Students learn anytime & anywhere.
2. Simply possessing content knowledge isn’t enough.
3. The future belongs to those who can apply it & innovate. #LeadUpChat
A1) Gone are the days of irrelevant story problems about Johnny having 72 pineapples and wanting to share equally among eight friends. 1) I’ve never known a kid that goes by “Johnny” and 2) how in the heck would he ever get his hands on 72 pineapples? #leadupchat
A1 We cannot ignore the world our students live in and the skills they need. We need to continue to search out relevance for our students even though it may make us feel uncomfortable at times. #leadupchat
A1: Relevance has always been necessary. The truth is, society/tech has advanced, & teaching hasn't progressed quickly enough. We need to reflect & adjust, & consider different skills/experiences our Ss need. We also need to honor them & their cultures/experiences. #leadupchat
Connect our WHY to theirs. :) Understand our students--what motivates them, what interests them and help them see the connection between their interests and what we are asking them to learn. #leadupchat
Great point! There is so much competition now that schools no longer have an information monopoly. Our responsibility is to help kids know HOW to deal with all the info that's out there. #leadupchat
Another question, if learning and activities are only based on a student's perception of relevance, will they miss out on possible learning, career paths, etc.? #LeadUpChat
A1: Establishing relevance with students helps build relationships & increases learner engagement. It also helps learners make connections b/t the content & activities, ultimately creating a safer and more successful learning environment. #LeadUpChat
I think a good blend is fine but making every student in the class read the same boring book that you know kids have struggled to finish for years is just blah. #leadupchat
A1 The "second R" of relevance is necessary because classroom learning activities should provide a direct connection to Ss current lives. Relevance also addresses future job tasks, ways to contribute to their community, & practical critical thinking practice #leadupchat
Good morning #leadupchat! I’m Jess, 7th grade writing teacher in Texas.
I was swiping through my feed and noticed @Mrs_J_of_EAMS’s tweet in this chat! #SaturdayMorning
Like your note on sticking power, Cristi. Ss need learning experiences that will increase their usability toolbox and equip them to reference these skills over time @Mrs_J_of_EAMS#leadupchat
A1: Our kids can learn from so many different sources, so quickly! Relevant learning experiences now look like: something they can't get from a device alone, build collaboration, require critical thinking, and encourage creativity & leadership skills. #leadupchat
And I would add - not good enough for the teacher either. We also need to know the WHY behind what we teach. And it must be more than "because it's on the test!"
#LeadUpChat
A1: Relevance Matters. Today’s learner wants to have information in seconds and in sound bites. Teachers need to facilitate learning so students can become contributors. Contribution vs Compliance #LeadUpChat
#LeadUpChat A1)I think Ss learn (and I mean actually learn, absorb, be able to apply & teach) best when they connect with something/someone. Actually, I think we all learn best when we feel a connection.
A1 Relevance not only gives reason for Learning but it connects ideas to make it real for learners of all ages. Our learners need to know why Learning is important before they say “I don’t need this when I grow up.” #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
Yes! I took a class a number of years ago in visiting local businesses and then creating lesson plans around them - it helped me to bring in relevance and real-world situations! #leadupchat
A1. We no longer have the ability to predict what will be relevant for this year’s kindergarten students-Class of 2032. Knowing how to learn and being able to apply it and innovate to impact society matters most. We need to be focused on this. #LeadUpChat
A1) Students deserve learning experiences that matter and that they'll use again. When learning is relevant, it is purposeful and becomes important - even to kids who might not inherently be interested in the subject at hand. #leadupchat
A1 Knowing the why helps frame things for students. If they understand and buy into the why they are more likely going to take ownership of their learning. #LeadUpChat
A1: Relevance helps students (and teachers) connect with the content better and apply the skills to other areas in a more meaningful way. #LeadUpChat#makeitreal
If students don’t believe what you are sharing is relevant, not sure how that would change their access to those same areas #leadupchat#wecantrewritethestars
I'm thinking of a kid down the road who dances on the street, has learned how to edit videos of himself, and is learning how to make money on Youtube. He's 5th or 6th grade. #Leadupchat
A1) Relevance and relatability are closely tied. When teachers are able to relate a skill, idea, concept to students then there is a relevancy that did not exist before. Relevance is about "value." #LeadUpChat
A1 - When material is relevant/relatable, it is more likely to be encoded and stored...leading to a greater chance for retention of material. #leadupchat#makeitreal
Yes to PD! Great point. We often tell teachers to be relevant, give choice and differentiate, and then we don't model that in PD. Great point! #leadupchat
You're right, Steven. Learning experiences should also prepare Ss to craft their contributions in a way that increases and communicates the quality of what they have to say @curriculumblog#leadupchat
A1: I like to think about myself as a learner when planning for my kids. Someone gives me a Math PD book and I would stare at it like grew a thumb. IF I don't care why would I put in the effort. We need to make learning authentic and relevant. Engagement follows. #LeadUpChat
Si true! The “competition” we face when Ss compare the infinite individualized learning opportunities outside of school should definitely give us pause! #leadupchat
Because everything else is irrelevant! Education continues to pursue archaic practices & looking for quick fixes - relevance is authenticity, engagement & real - with a purpose! #Leadupchat
A2: Students are participating in active discourse. The students are excited and passionate about the task/discussion. You can see and hear the energy in the room because the students are empowered thinkers/learners. #MakeItReal#leadupchat
Is it good for students to be challenged with things from time to time even though they are not convinced of its relevance? I can share the compelling why, but maybe they don't buy in. Is there still a role for this? #LeadUpChat
A1 Knowing the why helps frame things for students. If they understand and buy into the why they are more likely going to take ownership of their learning. #LeadUpChat
I think it is possible to connect our WHY for what they are learning to their experiences. They may not immediately see the relevance because of their limited background knowledge, but knowing our students and their interests helps us help them find relevance. #leadupchat
A1: If a student does not truly understand why they are learning what is being taught, the chances of improving outcomes and success diminish significantly. #LeadUpChat
A2: engagement. Measured by who is speaking and asking questions in the classroom environment. If I’m talking the whole time? Likely not engaged in something relevant. #socraticmethod#gadfly#leadupchat#notasecretitrytohide
A1 Our goal is not only to prepare learners for life beyond their years in school, but provide experiences that support them in being active contributors where they're currently at. Relevancy engages and can lead to empowerment. #leadupchat
Let’s take care not to use “relevance” as a synonym for contemporary or new. Themes of justice, beauty, truth go back centuries and millennia - and are deeply relevant today.
#leadupchathttps://t.co/9td2zVw02X
A1: Each lesson should squarely address the why. What and how we assess carries little to no weight in the eyes of our students if they don’t understand and appreciate the value of the learning experience. #LeadUpChat
A2 Over the past several years, I have made huge efforts to rewrite my ELA curriculum to reflect what readers and writers do. Our content areas give Ss new ways to see the world. They may not naturally gravitate towards our "lens," but they can learn to appreciate it. #leadupchat
A2: It is evident at first when the teacher is engaged and excited about it providing a real world connection. The excitement is infectious! #leadupchat
A1. We no longer have the ability to predict what will be relevant for this year’s kindergarten students-Class of 2032. Knowing how to learn and being able to apply it and innovate to impact society matters most. We need to be focused on this. #LeadUpChat
A2: If it is rooted in student interest it will likely be relevant. Sometimes we need to connect the relevance dots though. Ss are hesitant to allow us into their world because it comes of as inauthentic. Working to connect life to learning is a good start. #LeadUpChat
A1 Our goal is not only to prepare learners for life beyond their years in school, but provide experiences that support them in being active contributors where they're currently at. Relevancy engages and can lead to empowerment. #leadupchat
Relevance creates buy-in. It also allows students to “see” themselves beyond their classroom and home. Relevant learning can be that glimpse into the future that gives a child hope & goals to attain. It can also provide experiences Ss may not otherwise be afforded. #LeadUpChat
I am not sure I agree with the premise that different types of literature and philosophy are necessarily irrelevant. It may be less about the content and more about the approach and connections made, no? #leadupchat
If there is relevance learners will be able to tell you:
1. What they learned
2. Why they learned it
3. How they will use it
Without relevance, learning many concepts don’t make sense to students. #leadupchat
A2: When students are leading the learning while teachers serve as facilitators. Also when students are asking questions beyond the scope of the lesson because they are making connections to prior or cross curricular knowledge #Leadupchat
a2: I'm always looking and listening to the kids first, from the moment I walk in! I know a lesson is relevant when students are asking each other questions, explaining processes and ideas to one another, and driving the lesson forward as they explore the content. #leadupchat
#leadupchat
A2: if students are actively involved in their learning, if the teacher acts as a facilitator and the learning target for the lesson matches the standards
A2: When is it relevant?
When students are excited.
When students want to dig deeper.
When students create.
When students solve problems.
When students drive learning.
When students are the focus and not the teacher.
#leadupchat
James from South Texas joining in late! Morning!
A1 Because sitting in a chair knowing instruction goes no further than the classroom can completely shape our present and future additude on education #leadupchat
Exactly! #fromnowon content isn’t as critical with how we engage with the content. That is what makes Ts different than Google. That’s where we need to live. #leadupchat
A2: Lessons cannot be relevant unless you know your students' cultures, neighborhoods, experiences, interests, families, etc. You know a lesson is relevant when you see a teacher connecting w students, valuing their stories & seeing that students see themselves in it. #leadupchat
A2: When is it relevant?
When students are excited.
When students want to dig deeper.
When students create.
When students solve problems.
When students drive learning.
When students are the focus and not the teacher.
#leadupchat
A2: Visible Thinking
You can recognize when a lesson or unit is relevant. You will see personalized learning, student voice, choice, engagement, passion, student ownership, and contribution. You won’t see 30 projects that look the same. #LeadUpChat
#LeadUpChat A2) I think the best way to see if my lesson is relevant is if I hear my Ss talking or arguing about it and even using important vocabulary.
I see what you mean. I wonder if even in these cases we can create avenues that make the topic/content relevant by how we launch, facilitate, and engage learners in what they're doing. #leadupchat
Is education only about relevance in the student's mind. Or is there still a role for educational challenges that they might not specifically see as relevant at the time but that might stretch them? #LeadUpChat
A2) How do you know is a lesson is relevant when you see it?
1. There is a buzz in the room...extended conversation between T and S with...
a. High quality questions from both Ss & T.
b. Transference that is cross curricular or relate to something global.
#LeadUpChat
99% of the time, yes. I have, however, walked in and seen students sitting in rows listening, ready to judge the teacher, only to listen for a few minutes to the most gripping, relevant storytelling...in turn leading to active engagement just as I left. #LeadUpChat
A2 You can see Ss visibly engaged in the content. They are talking, debating, & questioning each other. The tasks involved give students practice in navigating complex issues, working collaboratively, & creating solutions to problems #leadupchat
A2 (part 2) How can you tell when it's relevant? When there's no difference between the work Ss are doing in the classroom and how the work looks in the world outside of school. #leadupchat
I agree! I think you can have students do a compare/contrast with a classical literature piece and an event or situation happening today - it's how it is framed. #leadupchat
A2 Student driven learning might bring us closer to relevance. Focusing on skill based processes that can move from situation to situation rather than teacher driven activities that focus on memorizing information or information sake. #leadupchat
A2) As a principal, I know a lesson is relevant when I step in the room and get bombarded with, “Hey, Mr Erickson, I better you didn’t know....” #LeadUpChat
A2: You can spot a relevant lesson by....
-a collective buzz
-excited chatter from the students
-high level of productivity
-reluctance to move on to the next task
#LeadUpChat
A2: Relevance is not always immediately visible. It is through talking with Ts and Ss as well as looking at what Ss are doing that relevance can be assured. #leadupchat
A2 when the lesson involves student discussion and problem solving, when there is purposeful time for students to struggle, when the result is a product or a solution, when students make connections without me pointing them out #leadupchat
Jon from Irvine jumping in late! A2: Relevancy is largely in the eye of the beholder, but when the lesson makes connections between theory (content) and practice (application in the world), you can be sure it’s relevant. #leadupchat
A2b) When kids come up to me in the atrium and tell me about what they did in their class earlier in the day or the day before, I know it had an impact on them and was either completely relevant or completely irrelevant.
#leadupchat
That is kind of what I was getting at. I think you expressed this better than I. My concern is that if we only cater to what a student sees as relevant at the time they might be missing out on possibilities for the future. #LeadUpChat
A2. I’d say a lesson is relevant if it is rooted in the enduring principles of learning and connected to what students can use in the future. A few more excerpts from my book: #LeadUpChat
A1. We no longer have the ability to predict what will be relevant for this year’s kindergarten students-Class of 2032. Knowing how to learn and being able to apply it and innovate to impact society matters most. We need to be focused on this. #LeadUpChat
@MathDenisNJ teaches math. In his book, Instant Relevance, he takes his current content and makes it relatable to the kids. It's still the same concepts, just being practiced with the students interests in mind. #leadupchat
A2 You know because learners are engaged in the topic and the work, and feel empowered to take it beyond the classroom or create extensions of their learning because they want to, not have to. #leadupchat
A2: Evidence? Students beg for more time to complete the learning experience. They don't want to stop. You have to encourage them multiple times to move on to their next class or to pack up and head for the bus. #leadupchat
You have to help them understand the why. If an S doesn’t see it, we have work to do as Ts. Or #fromnowon remove content because we can’t explain the why. Or #wewillcomebackhome to do more training on content to better explain the why. #leadupchat
A2. Several factors are present:
-High student engagement🤩
-Learning outcomes are met & exceeded📈
-Everyone is a teacher and everyone is a learner 🤝
-Hands on & experiential 💡
#leadupchat
We're on the same wavelength. Skills over content.
Communication over content.
Collaboration over notetaking.
Critical thinking over knowledge regurgitation.
Projects over tests.
And the list goes on.
#leadupchat
A2 Student driven learning might bring us closer to relevance. Focusing on skill based processes that can move from situation to situation rather than teacher driven activities that focus on memorizing information or information sake. #leadupchat
I couldn’t agree more! Ss want to be heard but they also need and want to be led and engaged, not entertained with meaningless drivel that they can find outside of school! #leadupchat
Could frame this as some sort of new exploration, connecting to the value of better understanding all that there is in our world. Also could help one see our world as integrated as opposed to segmented. #LeadUpChat
This is true, Amanda. Allowing Ss to see themselves beyond the classroom is key. We have a vision of the success that we want our Ss to achieve. It's important that they engage in relevant lessons that give them a chance to operate in that success @amandau27#leadupchat
A2: The students AND the teacher are making connections to their learning that extend beyond the walls of the classroom. The learning is organic, authentic and engaging. You might also here..."wow, this is awesome, what happens when..." as more questions are asked #leadupchat
Just wanted to chime on on the conversation-- To quote Hamlet, "The readiness is all." What we are doing should prepare Ss to jump into those conversations about classical lit and philosophy. But 1st- relevance preps them to think deeply about issues & connections. #leadupchat
A2: Visible Thinking
You can recognize when a lesson or unit is relevant. You will see personalized learning, student voice, choice, engagement, passion, student ownership, and contribution. You won’t see 30 projects that look the same. #LeadUpChat
I like how you included that the learner is engaged vs. compliant. Many kids will appear on task, but it's likely they've mastered the game of school and know that compliance is rewarded. However, doesn't mean they're deeply engaged. #leadupchat
A2. A lesson lacks relevance if the focus is on depositing as much information to the minds of students as possible. Teachers and students should be able to articulate a clear response to this question: Why are you learning this and how can it help you in the future? #Leadupchat
If the learning tasks are truly relevant to the student, you should see application in their world....so they are ultimately showing you through actions that the learning is/was relevant to them. #LeadUpChat
Love when those conversations continue at lunch or in the halls. Making sure Ts know that Ss continue to banter about the class discussion is important for leaders to convey to Ts. #LeadUpChat
A3: Too many times we see a great, relevant lesson and think "that was awesome." then walk away. Don't walk away without telling that Teacher how much you appreciate and value that! #LeadUpChat
A3: Recognize and affirm the work the teacher/team has done, recognize and affirm the work the students are doing, and look for opportunities for others to be exposed to what is happening in that classroom. #Leadupchat
A2) I get the students to tell me! I tell them at the beginning of the school year that they can always ask why we're doing something. If I can't give them a good answer, we stop it immediately. Holds me accountable! #leadupchat
R2: If the learning tasks are truly relevant to the student, you should see application in their world....so they are ultimately showing you through actions that the learning is/was relevant to them. #LeadUpChat
A2.2
There might be a day (beyond standards-based) where relevance means students
creating and making in ways that are
aligned with community need.
#Leadupchat#FuturEd
99% of the time, yes. I have, however, walked in and seen students sitting in rows listening, ready to judge the teacher, only to listen for a few minutes to the most gripping, relevant storytelling...in turn leading to active engagement just as I left. #LeadUpChat
I am learning so much right now... I can tell I'm learning because I am reading answers and thinking, "I never thought of it that way!" "That makes so much sense!" and "I wonder how that would look in..." Thanks, #leadupchat!
A3: We should be excited to bring that into the class because we know our Ss are passionate about it.
Let's be real. Some of the things Ss like, we HATE. We should still embrace the learning opportunity, learn as much as we can about the "fad", and put Ss first. #Leadupchat
A3: Too many times we see a great, relevant lesson and think "that was awesome." then walk away. Don't walk away without telling that Teacher how much you appreciate and value that! #LeadUpChat
The kids OWN IT. My best example is watching groups of 5th grade Ss pitch their eco friendly business solutions in a Shark-Tank style format as their culminating #PBL experience. Student-driven & for that day they are entrepreneurs not students. It’s amazing to see. #LeadUpChat
Let's remember that just because something doesn't seem "current " doesn't mean the material isn't relevant. The concept may be enduring but the method/approach must be fluid. #LeadUpChat
A3: Too many times we see a great, relevant lesson and think "that was awesome." then walk away. Don't walk away without telling that Teacher how much you appreciate and value that! #LeadUpChat
That's true. I like hearing your insights as you teach HS, and I think these convos help us to foster better understanding of the work we all do for kids! #Leadupchat
A3: Feedback should be given immediately. Not just to the teacher but also the students. This way you encourage great instructional practices and build relationships. Everyone deserves to be celebrated #Leadupchat
A3: Relevance is an expectation in our department. We always plan our lessons to answer the “why” question. When we see it, we discuss how we can make it more relevant. #leadupchat
A3: I make it a practice to send a postcard home to the parents about how their S was actively involved in academic discourse - how proud I am of their scholarship & efforts. I do the same for Ts & send a note to their significant other(s) #leadupchat
A2 the lesson is student lead and students are an active apart of the lesson. Peer Discussions between ss are visible. Also asking feedback from the students! #leadupchat
There are no guarantees that all Ss will see it. Sometimes peers who get it can make your case for you. Ss can be a bit cynical based on previous learning experiences. #leadupchat
A3 My response is to join in if I can and make sure the teacher knows how much I appreciate the effort. Then provide opportunities to share ideas and lead others. #leadupchat
A3. A first response whether I believe the lesson shows relevance or not is to ask the following:
-How do you think the lesson went?
-Why this lesson?
#leadupchat
A3 Jump in! I LOVED one day last year when my AP walked in briefly to a lesson, and got so into it that he stayed for the rest of the period, listening and chatting with Ss as they created +/- Life Graphs. #leadupchat
A2: Relevance is different for each student. In order to know if it is relevant you need to have conversations with students about what they are learning, and why it matters. If they can do this, it’s relevant to them and their learning. #noteasy#leadupchat
A3: Every lesson should be relevant. Every lesson should incorporate principles of #UDL. Leaders need to model this in PD, shout out staff, support inter-visitations, share resources. By sharing w/ others, all staff can begin to incorporate & ultimately connect w/ Ss. #leadupchat
Praise the students and the teacher for their work and begin to self-reflect on whether your pd or actions are relevant to your stakeholders. #leadupchat
Right! And, it's critical that we don't become an echo chamber. Questions and convo make us grow. We have to embrace them to develop a better understanding. Always appreciate your thoughts, that's why I wanted to know more. #leadupchat
A3 As leaders, our response should be to encourage the continuous relevance connection. We can participate in the lesson with Ss - sharing in their dialogue and questioning. We can also encourage the Ts work through supporting leadership & sharing during PLCs #leadupchat
Q3: Be a keen observer of what caused Learning to occur and after acknowledging the Ss and T in that class, share what YOU learned with others. #leadupchat
Let's remember that just because something doesn't seem "current " doesn't mean the material isn't relevant. The concept may be enduring but the method/approach must be fluid. #LeadUpChat
A3 Recognize, acknowledge, and extend praise when you see engagement and relevant learning in classrooms and around your campus. #makeitreal#LeadUpChat
A3. FEEDBACK! Teachers want feedback and they want to hear specific examples cited “when they get it right”. Move beyond, “That was awesome” or “Good job”. Always affirm powerful practices with targeted & specific feedback & watch the practice spread like wild 🔥 🤓#LeadUpChat
A3: You should hit the brakes. Ditch the pacing guide, unit assessment, and tomorrow’s lesson. Let student questions, debate, productive struggle, student contribution, critical thinking, and transfer take place. #leadupchat
A3: Praise the students and the teacher for their work and begin to self-reflect on whether your pd or actions are relevant to your stakeholders #leadupchat
A3: There is so much we could be looking for during classroom visits. Narrow our focus to reinforce our goals. If our focus is relevance, reinforce that by leaving a note or sending a vox. I noticed ____ and this _____ is how it impacted student learning. Thank you! #leadupchat
A3: Love @AggieAmber95 's answer.
I'll add
--Let other teachers see relevance in their peer's classrooms.
--Create a culture of meaningful work.
#Leadupchat
a3: SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOF TOPS! Celebrate Ss and T for their hard work and commitment to learning, share it out with the community, and follow-up with T and Ss to ask questions about what worked & what didn't so the rest of the staff can learn about relevance too. #leadupchat
A1: Relevance provides context for the application of learning. W/o it, we’re compiling more information, but we do not know what is most important nor how to effectively put it into practice. #leadupchat#MakeItReal
A2: Relevance begins with students acquiring knowledge and applying it to multiple disciplines to see how it connects to the bigger picture. #LeadUpChat
#LeadUpChat A3) I think the teacher's role is now facilitator, offering support and purposeful questioning, letting the Ss struggle or even research info.
A3: You're all on point with your answers to this one! Praise, recognition, appreciation. B
But....DON'T WAIT TOO LONG!! Make it Instant Relevance...Tell them while it's still HOT! #leadupchat
A2 Relevance Filters 1)Do the Ss need to know this beyond the test? 2) WILL the students remember this beyond the test? 3) What connections will the Ss be able to make? 4) Where can this skill / content be applied? (“on the test” doesn’t count) #leadupchat
A3# Ask them to TWEET the lesson or a student using the school hashtag! Or ask if you can. We use #SchoolIsReal because we want relevant REAL experiences for students. So many Amazing Ts making it happen. #leadupchat
A3: Honor it. Drop a post it note on the teacher’s desk, mention it in weekly communication, ask teacher to share it at a meeting/PD/PLC, and/or catch them in the hallway - talk f2f with them about it. #leadupchat
Another element is that for me it is important that my #PLN students also learn to support classmates with their learning. They may not see the relevance for the work of another, but they can learn through supporting that work. #LeadUpChat
@heffrey a2: Relevance becomes even more embedded in the learning process when students apply what has been learned to real-world predictable and ultimately unpredictable situations, resulting in the construction of new knowledge. #LeadUpChat
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A3) Tell a student that you loved hearing their thoughts a few days after they shared them and watch their face light up with the thought, "Wow. They remembered me."
#leadupchat
#leadupchat GREAT Q. NO! If relevance is all that matters, then how do we provide a truly liberal education that broadens views and horizons BEYOND what appears to be immediately relevant to a child? It's our job to move them beyond their bubble.
A2: Thus, a relevant lesson or task empowers learners to use their knowledge to tackle real-world problems that have more than one solution. #LeadUpChat
A3: Recently learned to used the framework of “I noticed...& that made me wonder...” to give feedback. Using this rhetoric provides me a chance to be a learners and a leader. Convos are so much stronger. #leadupchat#GASL2018
A3: Take a picture or a short video to capture the moment, and then tag it with a specific curriculum objective or school hashtag. Now that it's archived, it can be accessed and shared for future reflection and extension opportunities. #leadupchat#hashtagwithpurpose#hashtag180
A2: An evaluative grid or rubric for 21st-century skills is helpful. Of course, you could just ask and watch the students, too. 😏 #Leadupchat#makeitreal
Understood. But I am not at the point of saying that just because a group of students does not see relevance always means it is something we should eliminate. #LeadUpChat
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
This is so #accurate: when learning truly overflows and spills out from the walls and the constraint of the schedule, we will know we have reached the elusive, often misidentified #21stcenturylearning#leadupchat
A3. Hilight your affirmation of the practice with feedback to the individual and feedback to the rest of the staff. Teachers need exemplars. We’ve got this crazy idea that students need modeling but teachers don’t. Go figure? I reject that. Exemplars matter for all. #LeadUpChat
This is a key piece, Paul. Capturing and sharing the relevant learning our Ss are experiencing not only celebrates the impactful learning in our schools but it helps craft the positive narrative that we are preparing Ss for the world @PrincipalPaul#leadupchat
A4 What a great question! This can be so difficult. Right now I feel like I am really struggling with some of my staff and would love to hear everyone's ideas. #leadupchat
A4 I try to lead by example, sharing lesson ideas and things that worked with others, but it's a fine line between leading and being bossy (not an admin, so it's not really my place to push). #leadupchat
I learned something at #LeadingSchools that has shifted my thinking a bit. Consider how a teacher would want to be recognized. Some want the rooftop shout out...others not so much. #leadupchat
Can't wait to see you tomorrow for our second #Path2Serendipity YouTube LIVE Book Talk! We will have fun, laugh & chat about the First Stop along The Path to Serendipity...CRAFT a Need-Satisfying Classroom.
Use this link: https://t.co/nTYJynZCyo@dbc_inc#LeadLAP#Leadupchat
Understood. But I am not at the point of saying that just because a group of students does not see relevance always means it is something we should eliminate. #LeadUpChat
Thanks -- that expresses well what I have been thinking on this -- and this comes from someone who works regularly in the #PBL and personalized learning environment and values this greatly. #LeadUpChat
A4) We have to engage folks in a conversation about why what they're teaching is important. If we can't come up with a good answer, we should probably teach something else.
#leadupchat
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A3. Highlight your affirmation of the practice with feedback to the individual and feedback to the rest of the staff.Teachers need exemplars. We’ve got this crazy idea that students need modeling but teachers don’t. Go figure?I reject that. Exemplars matter for all. #LeadUpChat
Relevance has always been something needed in the classroom. Students come in with a vast array of experience into our classrooms. In an age of instantaneous feedback at our fingertips what goes on in the classroom has to have relevancy to our students. #LeadupChat
A3: Take a picture or a short video to capture the moment, and then tag it with a specific curriculum objective or school hashtag. Now that it's archived, it can be accessed and shared for future reflection and extension opportunities. #leadupchat#hashtagwithpurpose#hashtag180
A4: Naysayers are always a challenge. My strategy is to work with them and create something with them to be positive about. Once they have a finished product... Give them a shout out... Give them credit and watch the tides turn! #leadupchat
Right!!! When you should shout...SHOUT. Check out the #LeadLAP Lead Like A Pirate book by @BethHouf and @burgess_shelley on ways to quietly appreciate teachers as well. #leadupchat
In reply to
@marcihouseman, @HeyMrsMathews, @BethHouf, @burgess_shelley
I need some clarification. When I think about relevance, I’m talking less about what the Ss thinks is relevant and more about what we as educators know is relevant. Ss have a voice in helping us see what they feel is relevant but it is our job to guide! #leadupchat
A4: Naysayers are always a challenge. My strategy is to work with them and create something with them to be positive about. Once they have a finished product... Give them a shout out... Give them credit and watch the tides turn! #leadupchat
A2: I know a lesson is relevant when S's ask deep questions instead of just T's. S's are intrinsically driven in the activity to find answers because those answers have meaning #leadupchat@heffrey
A4) This is where the power of collaborative learning SHOULD be happening in planning times w/ teachers & through peer observations. This has to be encouraged as a culture and held as an expectation. Teachers get better in the company of other teachers. #LeadUpChat
A4: you need to strategically engage these T’s and provide them with leadership roles. Make them part of the process and empower them to lead in order to reduce the negativity! #LeadUpChat
Sidebar: themes like today’s and questions like these are what separate #LeadUpChat from others. This is no Chicken Soup for the Soul for Educators. This is legit learning that pushes all participants! Thanks @heffrey and @MathDenisNJ
A4: PLCs are critical here. Celebrate successes of other teachers, provide resources to those who don’t have them, compare student experiences and repeat. When the results in your room are obviously superior, it becomes really difficult to resist change. #leadupchat
A4 Give ideas and be there to guide but not take over. Know the students’ interests and find new ways to make content and learning relevant for where you are. Ask other Ts “what do you need help with/how can I assist you?” #MakeItReal#leadupchat
a4: When anything is absent from the Ss' learning experience, leaders really have to walk the walk! If we want to see it in classrooms, it better be an integral part of our professional learning! When you do see it, you celebrate it loud for all to hear and say..(1/2) #leadupchat
A4: I would suggest #ForWhiteFolks by @chrisemdin and anything by @gjladson. Start a schoolwide book study or PLC/PLT. Get staff reading, reflecting, and understanding why they must begin with themselves. #leadupchat
A4: Administrators need to be sure they model relevance in staff meetings and PD. Remember or all the most compelling learning strategy is modeling and demonstrating and it’s the least used. #LeadUpChat
A4: Communicate the vision. Provide ongoing feedback that is specific yet constructive. Provide opportunities for Ts that are getting it right to ignite the fuse & serve as T leaders. Shift the culture by shifting mindsets #Leadupchat
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
We may know it is going to be relevant for them in the future but how do we make the concept relevant and engaging for them now, can you apply statistics to Lebron James, can you apply politics to rap lyrics, etc. #Leadupchat
I need some clarification. When I think about relevance, I’m talking less about what the Ss thinks is relevant and more about what we as educators know is relevant. Ss have a voice in helping us see what they feel is relevant but it is our job to guide! #leadupchat
Appreciate your perspective Paul! If we want our students to learn at high levels we have to push each other to do the same! Have to up our game for kids DAILY! #LeadUpChat
Sidebar: themes like today’s and questions like these are what separate #LeadUpChat from others. This is no Chicken Soup for the Soul for Educators. This is legit learning that pushes all participants! Thanks @heffrey and @MathDenisNJ
A4) When I see it missing , I ask one question to Ss in class and Ts in planning, "how does this benefit us today?" This will get us back on track to relevance #MakeItReal#leadupchat
A4. I believe that all educators are learners first. As a principal whenever there was a practice I didn’t see and wanted to see in classrooms, I taught the teachers the practice first. Simply telling a teacher to make their lessons more relevant isn’t enough. Model! #LeadUpChat
A3. This!!! Don’t let the moment pass! Give others have the opportunity to see and experience the lesson too. We can video and share it out in different ways. #leadupchat
A3: Take a picture or a short video to capture the moment, and then tag it with a specific curriculum objective or school hashtag. Now that it's archived, it can be accessed and shared for future reflection and extension opportunities. #leadupchat#hashtagwithpurpose#hashtag180
#leadupchat Thank you! It is good clarify what we mean by "relevance." My understanding of what the greater edu-community means is this: Ss understand how the learning applies to their lives. Maybe that is or is not what everyone means, but that's the meaning I'm addressing.
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A4: Administrators need to be sure they model relevance in staff meetings and PD. Remember or all the most compelling learning strategy is modeling and demonstrating and it’s the least used. #LeadUpChat
A4: Take a picture or a short video to capture the moment, and then tag it with a specific curriculum objective or school hashtag. Now that it's archived, it can be accessed and shared for future reflection and extension opportunities. #leadupchat#hashtagwithpurpose#hashtag180
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
a4: "Our kids deserve this! This HAS to be part of the experience for ALL students in order for their learning here to endure, and to mean something." (2/2) #leadupchat
A4: Start where they are. Ask questions. Tell stories. Speak to the heart AND the mind. Model. Give them an experience-allow them to feel what relevant learning feels like. Invite reflection. Ask them to take one step closer to the desired state of relevance. #leadupchat
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A4: Administrators need to be sure they model relevance in staff meetings and PD. Remember or all the most compelling learning strategy is modeling and demonstrating and it’s the least used. #LeadUpChat
YES!!!! And T’s so get this! I make it a goal to capture pix of new initiatives and resources in action. Multiplier effect AND it shows stakeholders we’re serious about their investment in us! #leadupchat
A4: give them time and space to see more relevant lessons. Ask them to try and build in some S choice into their activity. Have them change one element of the activity nex time. #leadupchat
A4: Ask the T. If you were to teach this lesson again, what would you do to increase relevancy for your students? Reflect together but be prepared to offer support #leadupchat
A4: Part of the TN evaluation framework is a lsn’s relevance. More than an eval, kids like learning when it relates to them. @NicMil15 hooked her 10th grade English class w DRAKE & THEME analysis. Ss were hungry for more. #leadupchat#NCTE
A2 The amount of genuine engagement as opposed to student complacency. The energy that students are giving off and the feedback that the instructor is giving in return. Coupled with a general knowledge of the curriculum. #LeadupChat
A4: I appreciate the phrase "systematically absent" Regardless of whether a student always sees relevance, it is our responsibility to think deeply about the relevance of a lesson/activity and do all we can to communicate that and listen to our students. #LeadUpChat
Completely agree with @PrincipalPaul ! I have experienced some discomfort, knowing that I didn't know the answer to all the questions right away. It wasn't an easy homerun for me. That's okay thought, that's how I know I'm growing! Bring. It. On. #leadupchat
A4 Tough one as a T. My teaching team is my tribe. We grow and push each other through discussion and a focus on #alwayslearning. PLC time is great for discussions about relevance. No teacher rows the boat alone. EVER. #leadupchat
Yes. But, there's a component that takes into account what matters to us and to kids NOW. That's the Instant Relevance piece. We can use what students are already passionate about to engage them deeply enough that they'll take it with them. #leadupchathttps://t.co/azHQBOnJsS
A4) It only takes a spark to ignite a flame. CELEBRATE & share the relevant learning you find in your school. Find opportunities to provide learning and professional growth in this area through book studies, speakers, other classrooms, etc. Share the excitement. #LeadUpChat
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A4: co-teach a lesson with the teacher - communicate directly what your goals (relevance) are within the lesson. P teaches 1, P and T teach together and then T teaches. Reflection, question, and share afterwards. Lead. #leadupchat
A4: Educators are responsible for designing systems that support student understanding. Build a system using teacher leaders, administrators, and other resources. #LeadUpChat
Side note: I see lots of responses about engagement. I agree that we all do better work when we are engaged in it. What I’m not sure about is that it can truly be measured. Would love to hear how you assess this in your school/district? #LeadUpChat
Last year, we created a "best practices" committee who was responsible for leading faculty meetings modeling those practices. Ts learned the information but also learned best strategies to engage Ss. #winwin#leadupchat
A4: give them time and space to see more relevant lessons. Ask them to try and build in some S choice into their activity. Have them change one element of the activity nex time. #leadupchat
A4:
1) check the culture, "What triggers r present that inhibit risk-taking?"
2) check the capacity, "Does the pro have the tools to do this?"
3) check the clarity, "Is the pro clear on exp. 4 relevance?"
4) check the cues, "Cue to change behaviors."
#leadupchat
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
Affirmation to the teacher that what they did in that particular lesson or moment was the type of activities that allow for students to perform at their optimum level. #LeadupChat
Q5) Share one recent experience you had when you were AMAZED by how relevant a lesson or experience was for students. What do you think made it so amazing? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A4. Modelling and Clarity about what relevance is and what it isn't. Many may think they are doing it and are really just missing the mark unintentionally. #leadupchat
A4) This is where the power of collaborative learning SHOULD be happening in planning times w/ teachers & through peer observations. This has to be encouraged as a culture and held as an expectation. Teachers get better in the company of other teachers. #LeadUpChat
You know you have reached a healthy place when you see your team as a tribe! Every team must form, storm, norm, and THEN Perform. Here is to your tribe blowing the doors off for kids! #LeadUpChat#alwayslearning#atplc
A4 Tough one as a T. My teaching team is my tribe. We grow and push each other through discussion and a focus on #alwayslearning. PLC time is great for discussions about relevance. No teacher rows the boat alone. EVER. #leadupchat
Side note: I see lots of responses about engagement. I agree that we all do better work when we are engaged in it. What I’m not sure about is that it can truly be measured. Would love to hear how you assess this in your school/district? #LeadUpChat
A4: Ignite a desire for more by promoting opportunities for professional learning that are relevant to the needs of educators...such as edu Twitter chats, virtual conferences, and global connectedness. #LeadUpChat
A4: I like to look at data results and share then ask questions as a team. What took place in this environment that resulted in less discipline referrals? Why did this class achieve significantly higher than another class? Show the benefit of relevance #leadupchat
A3) I immediately thank my teacher for intentional work to reach transfer for Ss! I capture the conversations with Ss and with teacher permission invite other school family members in to see and celebrate. #LeadUpChat#makeitreal
Q5) Share one recent experience you had when you were AMAZED by how relevant a lesson or experience was for students. What do you think made it so amazing? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A5: Students were doing #geniushour projects and we had a student raise money for a battered women's shelter and actually went to one to present the money she had collected. Awesome experience for her and for the shelter. #LeadUpChat
Got it. It is a little tricky because I think some Ts confuse engaging Ss with activities and experiences that matter with letting young minds be in charge of determining what is relevant. #leadupchat
PLC’s are the perfecttime to address these concerns. Be specific in your questions and lead teachers to share ideas of how to make specific lessons more relevant for students. Be prepared to model! #LeadUpChat
A4: This is when coaching is needed and modeling. Engage the students by asking questions and issuing challenges. Connect the dots and make connections!#LeadUpChat
A3. Highlight your affirmation of the practice with feedback to the individual and feedback to the rest of the staff.Teachers need exemplars. We’ve got this crazy idea that students need modeling but teachers don’t. Go figure?I reject that. Exemplars matter for all. #LeadUpChat
Building the capacity of all and utilizing teacher leaders to impact change is a powerful practice. Evaluating folks into doing it right/working to make them uncomfortable in hopes that they shift their practice doesn’t work because both practices are rooted in fear. #Leadupchat
A4: Educators are responsible for designing systems that support student understanding. Build a system using teacher leaders, administrators, and other resources. #LeadUpChat
A5: I lead PD for staff. After an intro, instead of teaching teachers about a new concept, I give them 15-20 minutes & a bunch of options to explore, such as videos, articles, fact sheets, examples, websites on the topic. This way, they can learn how they want & need. #leadupchat
A5) Each semester, our Civics/Econ Ts and counselors partner with the State Employees' Credit Union to do, "The Reality of Money Simulation." Students are given fake lives and are expected to make monthly ends meet different credit ratings and salaries. Powerful!
#leadupchat
Q5) Share one recent experience you had when you were AMAZED by how relevant a lesson or experience was for students. What do you think made it so amazing? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A4: I envision a global resource library where educators can archive/access specific hashtags to see what other educators around the world or just down the hall, are facilitating similar learning experiences with relevance. #LeadUpChat#Hashtag180#GridCulum#HashtagWithPurpose
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A4 Tough one as a T. My teaching team is my tribe. We grow and push each other through discussion and a focus on #alwayslearning. PLC time is great for discussions about relevance. No teacher rows the boat alone. EVER. #leadupchat
A2: The lack of clear expectations for school initiatives. Leadership must be knowledgeable, organized, and set a clear vision for the staff. Disorganization and lack of a clear vision effects school climate in a non-progressive way. #leadupchat
Last year, we created a "best practices" committee who was responsible for leading faculty meetings modeling those practices. Ts learned the information but also learned best strategies to engage Ss. #winwin#leadupchat
A4: give them time and space to see more relevant lessons. Ask them to try and build in some S choice into their activity. Have them change one element of the activity nex time. #leadupchat
A5: I think our @osidekulture company which was started by our @RWScholars classes. Not only did they accomplish over $5000 in sales the donated over $140. to a local charity. All from 2 amazing Ts and 240 awesome Ss! #leadupchat
#LeadUpChat A4) Share, share, share! Share what is happening in your classroom. Sometimes you have to do a sales pitch with energy and excitement to get other Ts to join in. Then be there to offer support and help.
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
I agree. Wiggins and McTighe discussed Activity-Focused Lessons and Coverage of Content or Standards. Engagement is not the same as activities. I also like Schlechty’s research on student engagement. #LeadUpChat
Got it. It is a little tricky because I think some Ts confuse engaging Ss with activities and experiences that matter with letting young minds be in charge of determining what is relevant. #leadupchat
A5: saw an 8th grade lesson on using formulas in excel, students had to research and compare cost of a family vacation to various amusement parks of their choice, but also rank the scariest rides they found. They loved it! #leadupchat
A5: I am always amazed when we move from engagement to empowerment. Recent lessons observed have included student designed and built aquaponics systems, student created and debated resolutions and empathy based community service genius projects. #leadupchat
Q5) Share one recent experience you had when you were AMAZED by how relevant a lesson or experience was for students. What do you think made it so amazing? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A5) We regularly do performance tasks instead of tests. I see everything from passion projects, to debates, to original creations. What is consistent about all of these...KIDS ARE SOLVING PROBLEMS with real solutions. We don;t ask enough of kids, they are amazing. #LeadUpChat
A PBL unit led to a recycling program starting at our school. The Ss asked the question why we were not recycling and would not stop until we had the capability to recycle. It was a classic example of putting the bad and the students hands! #LeadUpChat
A3: Seeing relevance in a lesson is an opportunity to acknowledge the moment...and all of the hard work that leads to that moment...show teachers you are invested supporting relevance! #LeadUpChat
A5 It ever amazes me how book tastings create engagement. We did them for Ss and for Ts at a faculty meeting. If we give our people great books, everyone responds! Check out the #ProjectLITbookclub reading lists- that's where we got a lot of our ideas. #leadupchat
Thanks for bringing the word "curiosity" into the discussion. I am wondering if it is more important to instill this curiosity than to be hyper-focused on relevancy. Hmmmmm...... 😀 #LeadUpChat
#leadupchat A5: Statistics provides a great platform for relevant learning. I gave Ss a thread from tweet-article-cited research and they debunked how the article and tweet could conclude what they did from the research. For a very relevant social-political topic.
Q5) Share one recent experience you had when you were AMAZED by how relevant a lesson or experience was for students. What do you think made it so amazing? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A5 I have been inquiring with students about ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’. In Australia, the recent phasing out of plastic bags in supermarkets, a money collection scheme for bottles & cans and a city trash & recycling audit report have meant we’re swimming in relevance! #leadupchat
a5: I was amazed by a T @VandeventerMS who led her Ss in action research on the impact of "fidget objects" on their learning! She wanted them to see how & why scientific research is generated by letting them DO it - it was AMAZING! They drove the whole process. #LeadUpChat
I love it when a lesson that matters turns into an action! I've got a story like this one from my students in Instant Relevance!!!! #leadupchat#MakeITReal
Q5) Share one recent experience you had when you were AMAZED by how relevant a lesson or experience was for students. What do you think made it so amazing? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
Not yet, but that is the hope for this year. We want to start out with "This I Believe" speeches at our faculty meetings. Start from the WHY! #leadupchat
A4) This is where the power of collaborative learning SHOULD be happening in planning times w/ teachers & through peer observations. This has to be encouraged as a culture and held as an expectation. Teachers get better in the company of other teachers. #LeadUpChat
A5 Scale Model lesson: Ss watched a video about the use of miniatures for special FX in movies. Later, they made their own miniatures using a toy to determine the correct scale. Example: used a toy dump truck to determine scale to create a clay bear #leadupchat
A4: We have the tools, tech, power, & expertise for educators to share ideas, strategies, & learning experiences with each other w/o having to physically be there. We just need to leverage the opps at our fingertips. #Hashtag180#GridCulum#GridCulumElem#LeadUpChat#makeitreal
Q4) When you don't see relevance in lessons and know that it's systematically absent from some classrooms, what do you do to ignite a desire for more and to cultivate the spread of relevance to that classroom? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A5: @Flipgrid is a tool that amplifies student voice. This year, I saw student engagement increase when middle school students used @Flipgrid to share their individual perspective to the Essential Question. #LeadUpChat
A5. We led a Community of Practice professional learning series in our offices for many schools in our state. It was rooted in the workshop model. We didn’t just deliver content. School Improvement Teams worked on their work w/us as their guide & support. Feedback⬇️#LeadUpChat
A5 @Academicoach pairs fiction & nonfiction with A Separate Peace & articles about friendship. Ss reverberate this text set applying the story to self/world/additional text & I hear remnants of this literature all semester. #LeadUpChat#NCTE
Curiosity is a step towards relevance. Relevance isn’t a thing. It’s THE thing. It’s a process. Curiosity, dissent, dissonance, acceptance, it’s all connected towards understanding relevance #leadupchat#comealive
Thanks for bringing the word "curiosity" into the discussion. I am wondering if it is more important to instill this curiosity than to be hyper-focused on relevancy. Hmmmmm...... 😀 #LeadUpChat
Q6) Now that you've heard more from others about what Relevance looks and feels like, and what it's not as well, what can you change about your leadership next year to make your school environment more relevant for your TEACHERS? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
So many Ts assume that YA looks just like it always did from back when they were in school. There is some truly amazing literature out there for our kids and our Ts! #leadupchat
A5 Hands On, STEM, & PBL makes relevance quick. I loved walking in on a kindergarten group making animal habitats with no guidance except a few teachers. #makeitreal#LeadUpChat
A5 one of our teachers actually had the @HungerGames going in her classroom (in a classroom safe approach). This was done in an effort to cultivate teamwork amongst the students as well as engage them in their reading. #LeadupChat
A5: Relevance is often evident when students are deeply invested in the creation of learning opportunities...thinking Genius Hour, inquiry-based learning, play! #LeadUpChat
A positive school culture does not occur by chance. It begins & ends with leadership. Empathy, encouragement & enthusiasm are key!
#edchat#leadupchat#joyfulleaders
A5: How about a time when learning was relevant for school leaders? #LeadingSchools provided school leaders with time/space to consider a challenge and then follow a design process (relevant learning experiences & conversations) to craft an innovative plan. So great! #leadupchat
Q5) Share one recent experience you had when you were AMAZED by how relevant a lesson or experience was for students. What do you think made it so amazing? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A5) We started engineering strands in our curriculum and it is amazing to watch students plan, build, test, analyze, and rebuild. Problem solving and creative thinking all wrapped up in one lesson! #LeadUpChat
Q6) Now that you've heard more from others about what Relevance looks and feels like, and what it's not as well, what can you change about your leadership next year to make your school environment more relevant for your TEACHERS? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A4: We huddle as a full staff every morning. We decide on a current gap (theme), say relevance, take videos of Ts nailing it, and show vids in huddle to inspire other Ts. Never gets old. #leadupchat
A5: Students created websites, blogs, slides, etc. according to preference to display collection of different types of pens they wrote. My favorite was "Ode to Takis". Students wrote about what they knew and loved 😊 #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
Q5) Share one recent experience you had when you were AMAZED by how relevant a lesson or experience was for students. What do you think made it so amazing? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A5: When I am able to tie in news or nature into lessons, they become more relevant. #leadupchat
I have been thinking a lot about Enviro. Ed. and getting students outside in our gardens. https://t.co/Cqwwnr35ZO
@MathDenisNJ One of our students’ favorite units is 4th Grade Marketplace. Students work hard to earn market money and then create their own goods to sell to their peers. It is practical, relevant and engaging! #MakeItReal#LeadUpChat
A6: Would you want your own child in the classroom? If the answer is no, then you must coach the teacher, go on Learning Walks, visit other schools, and transform teaching and learning. #LeadupChat
A6: So many options for PD - have a teacher-led #edcamp style PD, have teacher-led PLCs on topics of people's own choosing, allow teachers to have choice of workshops to attend, etc. Teachers need to be part of the planning & facilitating, & choice of what they need! #leadupchat
A6: increasing opportunity for teachers to see relevance in action, making time for peer observations or using technology to increase access to successful instruction in other classrooms. #leadupchat
Passive learning - For me, if a T uses precious time to view a video clip - everyone should know the purpose of the clip and be an active learner with the clip. I am always observing my What Ss are doing. Agreed - this wheel may serve as a starting point. #Leadupchat
a6: Hearing others' perspectives on relevancy gave me clarity about what it can look like, and how it is driven by curiosity. As a leader, I need to always seek Ts' curiosity to drive their PL as I model relevancy, and continue to celebrate & share their greatness! #leadupchat
A6:It comes down to continuing to be supportive, encourage risk-taking, celebrate when lessons go great, reflect when things can be improved.I'm going to share more of what happens with other teachers/schools so that the learning is not done in isolation but together! #leadupchat
A6 I think I have to make a better effort to be patient with teachers who find changes more difficult. Frustration on my part only breaks down relationships. Start with the positives and hopefully move forward. #leadupchat
A5. This lesson on The Hero's Journey using Star Wars & how Ss could apply it to their own creative writing. The Ss were SO engaged & really shocked at how this fit w/ so many other movies they named. They quickly connected with why planning for writing mattered. #leadupchat
Yes!!! Seeking their curiosity to drive their learning is the perfect model for having them seek their students' curiosity and drive student learning!!! #leadupchat
A6) More co-teaching, more feedback, being in classrooms more, asking Ss more questions, issuing challenges, following-up on convos....walk it! #LeadUpChat
A6) I’m hoping that a few teachers will begin to embrace our focus on PBL and STEM and lead the initiative towards relevant and real world learning #LeadUpChat
A6: I think it’s important to personalize professional growth opportunities for Ts, provide Ts with greater opportunities to serve as leaders, provide ongoing feedback, be visible to see the greatness happening & model what you expect from others #Leadupchat
Q6) Now that you've heard more from others about what Relevance looks and feels like, and what it's not as well, what can you change about your leadership next year to make your school environment more relevant for your TEACHERS? #LeadUpChat#MakeItReal
A6 From a Ts perspective, more personalized PD / PD choices. There are rock star educators out there freely sharing their ideas. Give me time to learn from them! #leadupchat
Well-said, @rbreyer51. Phrases like STEM or STEAM are not separate learning experiences or processes--they can be integrated across disciplines. #leadupchat#makeitreal#4Cs
Yet there are times when students come back and say, "I didn't understand the importance of that at the time, but I am sure glad we learned ___________." In my view, relevance is important, but we cannot on that student's perception 100% of the time to guide us. #LeadUpChat
A6: By partnering with @techcoachjuarez to lead PD at #ISTE18, varied experience made it easier to answer participant questions, relate to varied needs. We will continue job embedded, in classroom coaching w/teachers to make sure it is relevant to personal context. #LeadUpChat
A6.1: #theotherside create an environment that allows dissent so curiosity can be rooted for Ts to grab hold of relevance. If Ts don’t feel freedom to engage they won’t find it relevant #leadupchat
A6. A notice: a lack of common language and common understanding regarding relevance. Some defined it as engaging for students,others applicable to the real 🌎, others as the involvement of student voice. Would be interesting to ask your staff to define it & review?..#LeadUpChat
A4: That means they need more PD. But it has to be motivational, even inspirational or they will tune out., ThoseT's need to see how it is relevant, too! #leadupchat@MathDenisNJ@heffrey
A6) What gets the light grows. Shifting a culture takes time but making "relevancy" one of your culture priorities is about making it visible and heard EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. This isn't an initiative, but how we work. #LeadUpChat#KidsDeserveIt
A5. #lisdpk EC Summer School program, Camp-N-Pals, has been off the chain! K & 1st gr bound ELL s’s have had experiential learning, created immersive environments showing evidence of their learning & aquired new vocabulary all in playful, hands-on ways! #leadupchat#LISDCulture
In today’s landscape, things are different. If they can google it in five years, they won’t come back to you in the classroom. We need to be teaching things you can’t google. The paradigm has shifted. #leadupchat#thisisme
A6: Would you want your own child in the classroom? If the answer is no, then you must coach the teacher, go on Learning Walks, visit other schools, and transform teaching and learning. #LeadupChat
I'd love for you to check out some of my other resources at https://t.co/JmvfnZECrl! I've got blog posts, leadership, activities, math stuff, desmos and more! Thanks for connecting with me today #leadupchat
A6. A notice: a lack of common language and common understanding regarding relevance. Some defined it as engaging for students,others applicable to the real 🌎, others as the involvement of student voice. Would be interesting to ask your staff to define it & review?..#LeadUpChat
Thank you to @MathDenisNJ for being our guest today at #LeadUpChat and to everyone who joined into a dynamic conversation about building a culture of relevancy in our schools.
Well-said, @rbreyer51. Phrases like STEM or STEAM are not separate learning experiences or processes--they can be integrated across disciplines. #leadupchat#makeitreal#4Cs
