TNedchat is a way for educators in Tennessee to share thoughts, resources, and information. The weekly chat is moderated by Jessica Warner (@jessawarner) and Samantha Bates (@sjsbates).
We will use a Q1, Q2…format for Questions during #TnEdChat . Please use the A1, A2… format for answers and add a gif or meme to visually support your answer
A1 I have visited @STEMcha@VITALK12 and #PrescottSouth. Tons of info gathered from all. It is cool to see folks on the same wavelength at different steps in the process #tnedchat
Hey all- literally just pulled into the drive from attending @ASCD#Empower18 - thanks @tonydonen for helping tonight- I know it will be a great chat night! #tnedchat
A2: Similar to pros and cons of some liberal arts vs. specialized university programs—generalized, breadth vs. depth (in some cases), and I value both. #TnEdChat
A2) Allows for a common focus that helps capture content in a meaningful way. You can really bring the work to life! But with focus comes more limited options for students, especially in extra-curricular. #TnEdChat
Really need more schools with narrow focus OR schools within schools. BUT, I still think there is room for a variety of students in a specialized school because those Ss may not really know what their focus might be...rambling, I know...that's my specialization #tnedchat
A2: Similar to pros and cons of some liberal arts vs. specialized university programs—generalized, breadth vs. depth (in some cases), and I value both. #TnEdChat
A2b) Sometimes specialization as an option/choice within the school has greater value than predefined specialization, allowing students to own the choice of either. #TnEdChat
A3 I have been to a "specialized" school...not one mentioned earlier...that I did not think did a great deal to specialize. I think some get the name recognition and aren't very forward thinking which results the Ss not getting anything different than anywhere else #tnedchat
A3: sepcialized schools can increase engagement but that all depends if it is meaningful work. Students must believe in the work and take ownership. Otherwise, it's just going through the motions #tnedchat
A3: I think it depends on a child’s personal investment in the learning, the child’s interest in and affinity with the specialization, and the means by which the student is empowered to be engaged. #tnedchat
A3) A specialty school doesn't just engage a child because it has a focus. It must go above and beyond to connect that focus with a child's curiosity or it won't be any more engaging than anywhere else #TnEdChat
A3b on the other end, @WMS_BOBCATS does not have a specialized designation but I think we do a good job of providing enrichment opportunities that might be different elsewhere BUT I want to see those same opportunities during the day #tnedchat#westbobcats
A3 I have been to a "specialized" school...not one mentioned earlier...that I did not think did a great deal to specialize. I think some get the name recognition and aren't very forward thinking which results the Ss not getting anything different than anywhere else #tnedchat
A3: sepcialized schools can increase engagement but that all depends if it is meaningful work. Students must believe in the work and take ownership. Otherwise, it's just going through the motions #tnedchat
A3 All educators are challenged to engage their Ss; however, specialty schools are able to offer unique opportunities tailored for their Ss needs. Everything points back to personalization. #TnEdChat
A4) Well, I did ;-) @STEMcha vision - to develop a world class paradigm for schools where students critically think, collaborate and innovate in order to be self-sufficient learners that lead our communities. #TnEdChat
Q4: Is it weird that I'd want to ask my kids this question before answering? I'd want to know what the underrepresented kids I see every day think is worth learning and see how we can respond to that meaningfully. #TnEdChat@tonydonen
A4: @MickShuran and I have discussed this for our future school—“Fuhr Shur Academy.” What would our vision be? I think it would encompass choice, voice, and innovation and cultural diversity. What do you think, @MickShuran ? #tnedchat
A4: I'm not sure...I'd need more time to formulate a dream school. However, my current school is moving towards STEM designation to promote innovation and creativity #TnEdChat
