#WVEdChat Archive
The goal of #wvedchat is to provide educators an opportunity to connect, share, and learn from others by engaging in conversations around issues and topics in education.
Tuesday March 22, 2016
Finally home on a Tuesday and able to join in
Rachel, Hampshire County, TIS
Mr. G, Kanawha Co, 5th Grade Teacher
Sandra Adkins, Adult Education teacher, Braxton County
Hey y'all! Karla, AP Lit & Eng 10 T, Spring Mills HS Berkeley Co.
Hi , Jason - teacher/TIS/Mgr. in WV & lifewide learner I’ll be in & out this PM…dancing
KSearsTIS, TIS, Jackson County
Chrystalle Doyle TIS Mason County Schools
I'm pumped to see another passionate educator leading tonight! Derek, Math T, aspiring admin.
Shanda Lester, Wyoming County, Principal
Susan Eastham Science teacher Wayne county
Hi everyone! Jennifer/regional manager
Heather. Morgan Co, English
yeah! one of my participants from PLN
Hi! I'm really excited about this topic! Just like last time though, I'll probably be very in and out because of childcare.
holy cow ! There's so many tonight!
GIF dancing! I see new faces tonight.
Great to see the visitors tonight from class. Hope u come back! INVEST n connections!
Kelly Haynes. Principal. Lakewood Elementary Kanawha County!
Welcome Susan! Glad you could join tonight!
Michelle Burk, Technology Facilitator, Kanawha County Schools
Jaci GRIGSBY .. 5th grade teacher @ Lakewood Elementary
Hi Heather! Thx 4 joining
I know you! :P Hello fellow GSC alum!
Great to have another admin tonight! We don't get many.
We'll be using the Q1, A1 format. Don't forget to include !
And now, moderator extraordinaire! https://t.co/Ctb9UoLjSM
Michelle Burk, Technology Facilitator, Kanawha County Schools
Joan Barton Substitute, Wood County Schools
in new to chat what is that format?
Brooke Walker, first grade, Lakewood
Try to include A1, A2 to correspond w/the Q u r responding to. Make sense? Michelle will tweet the Qs.
I'm here at sheetz fixing phones keeping in the convo. Chem/Phys teacher Buffalo High School 🐂
I'll post questions labeled Q1, Q2. You'll respond with A1, A2. ;) https://t.co/B7AJZSZrWk
in new to chat what is that format?
WOW that's multitasking man!
We need photos to show this multitasking!
Yea! Yet another PLN folk! :)
Thanks for joining! Another of my new co-workers I haven’t met yet.
A1: that's easy contextualize the learning to student interests
A1: Stop thinking the lesson revolves around them imparting knowledge and instead facilitating so students find it instead!
A1: Start by allowing Ss to make decisions uv never allowed b4. Let go of compliance. Let Ss fail.
A1. Creating a student centered classroom starts with the students! Give them choices !!
Head down to He's the guy fixing phones & learning about classroom environment.
A1: Ask what they WANT to learn; Do not tell they what they NEED to learn.
Jimmy Frashier Ravenswood High
A1 Make teaching relevant to the students world. Let them speak and do! Ask them what they
A1 provide more than one learning option
Agreed! https://t.co/FQw37m9Pt3
A1: Stop thinking the lesson revolves around them imparting knowledge and instead facilitating so students find it instead!
A1. Create multiple ways for students to learn and grow and to show you how they know! # poet
I can say ditto what Rachel tweeted. Thx! https://t.co/tU6Eli3I2v
A1: Stop thinking the lesson revolves around them imparting knowledge and instead facilitating so students find it instead!
A1 giving Ss choice and voice. Opportunities to fail and reflect and succeed and reflect
A1: Besides the aesthetically pleasing, make it a place kids want to be -- T attitude and consistency set tone of student centered
Rebecha Catlett, ELA Collaborative and Resource Teacher, Spring Mills Middle, Martinsburg, WV
sail in the opposite direction!
A1. Let the students lead the learning as you facilitate..let them gain the ownership of the learning..😉
Are you gonna impart some knowledge on this chat tonight? :)
A1 Engage them! Make them active participants in their own learning
A1: Forcing kids to the right decisions isn't the same as teaching kids to make the right decisions.
Let's Ss do in class. Let them do activities labs, etc
Attitude is 90% of a classrooms success!
A1: Definitely let them fail; it helps them to achieve in the long run.
A1 sorry forgot to put that to my answer.
A1. As an admin I look for student ownership in a classroom- who is in charge?
A1 pretty easy the name says it all.
hooray for a fellow SM teacher!
Excellent! With no guarantee of success! Arrrgh
A1 DON’T GRADE EVER BREATH!
A1: Let the Ss have a voice in their environment, layout, seating etc...
Ts are amazing! Ss see this & will want to be a part of it. https://t.co/PlfrRVXrda
A1: Besides the aesthetically pleasing, make it a place kids want to be -- T attitude and consistency set tone of student centered
Tell us more about allowing students to fail.
A1 Teach, model, and insist upon "classroom family norms" of mutual respect, caring, and kindness
My team was just discussing this is our team mtg yesterday! We're doing a disservice by passing them thru
Good evening . I will be in & out but will be watching a great convo! Julie, Wirt Co High School LMS
If we don’t let them see that success isn’t a given; we are doing them a disservice
A1 Let students ts take ownership of their learning
A1: Also, make time for meaningful discussions in which students can show who they really are as individuals
We have to show them that failure isn’t a bad thing; it is a thing!
Amen....
https://t.co/7jzjllzCC1
My team was just discussing this is our team mtg yesterday! We're doing a disservice by passing them thru
Yes, who's talking, sharing, collaborating, etc. They are the learners! https://t.co/3FLFRjgXhH
A1. As an admin I look for student ownership in a classroom- who is in charge?
A1: What choices do students have? What choices do they make each day? R U giving opps 4 them to reflect on those choices?
A1: Also, what are the Ss doing? How are they demonstrating on their own with problem solving, thinking, and dealing with failure?
Q1 By having the classroom student friendly and age appropriate with out it being cluttered.
A1-Ss learn much from failing and persevering. It makes the lesson stronger
Also, student centered is a bit of a paradox. T must be highly engaged, & prepared to cultivate this norm.
A2: They can provide boundaries for students and a safety net for them. Too many though & students are stifled!
A2: I never had “rules” in my class because “Rules are made to be broken
A2: Allowing rules to govern the class, not dictate, students want rules, the don't want to be ruled
A2: My classroom had policies and procedures that we reviewed and rehearsed to ensure their success with them
A2 Most rules discourage creativity (which is problem solving) Get over the Power!
I'd like to finish this convo but really have LOTS of other work that needs done...I'll check the chat log
A2: Keep the rules simple and easy to follow.
A1: If students have an area where they know what to expect, they are more comfortable in taking risks on the unknown
A2: I had one Rule, "Rule is Respect, and Respect is the Rules!"
Totally agree -- S must feel safe & trust established for all to succeed
A2 Students respond better when they know what to expect. Rules help them stay focused on the task as hand.
A2 Provides Ss structure in the classroom, and everyone knows the expectations and consequences of rules and procedures
A2. You must have procedures in all environments with students. Set boundaries !!
Sorry that last was supposed to be A2!
A2 Procedures keep the learning flowing while working together. Rules?
I like sticking to 5 rules. The other procedures tend to be safety things
A2: I went as far as to rehearse procedures for exiting on a fire drill and passing in papers with high school students
Q2 anytime I see problems in a classroom most if not all the time goes back to classroom management.
A2: Rules and procedures establish the framework for the high academic expectations we want to cultivate.
Joan Barton Substitute for Wood County Schools
Two rules in my room: Work hard. Be nice. That pretty much covers it. 😊
I agree! Students respect those teachers more that have high expectations, rules included
A2: Always taught 8th or above, haven't coverd a rule n about 3 years. Older Ss need ME more than rules. https://t.co/PxVjgrlkY5
A2. Everyone wants to know their expectations. It defines success. Students and adults!
A2 Rules and procedures provide a framework for classroom collaboration and expectations.
Q2. Set expectations high in classroom and school wide
Nailed it! Ss will adapt & overcome the little issues. https://t.co/sEO2Bpc13X
A2 Most rules discourage creativity (which is problem solving) Get over the Power!
It's sad but true! https://t.co/mfy6kvDkCa
Q2 anytime I see problems in a classroom most if not all the time goes back to classroom management.
I have five basic rules, too. Then some turn in/paperwork types of routines.
A2: If student didn’t meet the expectation of the policy or procedure, I held re-training sessions with them to help them succeed
A2 Ss need to be respected to show respect and want to work for us..and clear expectations for behavior are part of that
Sounds like you've dealt with APL strategies :)
These are two rules that I live by! https://t.co/cHGZR2ckPH
Two rules in my room: Work hard. Be nice. That pretty much covers it. 😊
Hey there!! Awesome running into you here.
Q2: I do teach procedures and expectations for MANY things, but my coteacher can attest it is worth it!
I was waiting for it. Set expectations & Ss will meet & exceed them. https://t.co/Aapkb1xj4p
A2. Everyone wants to know their expectations. It defines success. Students and adults!
I know!! Love it!!! Hope all is well!
Me too! I prefer it over Kagan actually
A2: Clear procedures also make the tedious things go faster so we can get to the learning!
And management is follow through.. Agree totally! https://t.co/g3LFR7Yw3y
Q2 anytime I see problems in a classroom most if not all the time goes back to classroom management.
A2: Rules r for me. "Greet Ss w/respect & dignity 10 days out of 10. Listen. Provde FAST fdback (fair, accurate, specific, timely)
High expectations certainly lead to success!
Margaret, Berkeley County, My favorite APL strategy “If you want it, teach it.”
A2: S can't work to potential if they don't feel safe & respected. They need consistency and a level of predictability at all ages
You rock! That is true dedication on all fronts.
A2. Procedures can fix almost any situation. Rules not necessary when good procedures are in place!
Core beliefs of district and school carry over into classrooms: Accountability, Integrity, Respect.
A2 something I have noticed is that it's very difficult to have expectations if faculty don't stand strong and consistent 2gether
This is a HUGE issue at my one school. It's awful. Faculty & admin have diff ideas
Specific purpose! What is this school about? What behaviors align & which do not align? Stand firm n that purpose.
School-wide rules and procedures are a powerful force!
Q3 tech is great, but it needs to be for a purpose and not to just say 'we're using tech'
A3: Technology is a tool; not the outcome; be sure it is used for the correct purpose, not just to use it
so you are the Mr Black?! My students refer to you as their tech savior!
Work tech positively, know its pitfalls and work through it. teach it as a tool, not a toy. anyone can skill and drill...create!
teach Ss to be good stewards with technology. Have students complete videos!
A3: Tech should yield learning or create learning opportunities. The use of it alone not an end goal.
A3 Check all technology out before presenting it to the class. Don't be afraid to explore what is new.
Would love to be able to stay and chat, but have to read 2 acts of Othello for AP Lit tom. Will check the log. Thanks!
A3 Know what is going on in your room and why. You know. Like all successful Ts throughout time!
A3 digital citizenship has to be the foundation to any technology integration
A3: Teachers have to want to integrate it/be motivated to learn how first!
Q3-Technology needs to seamlessly integrate what your goal is
It's true. We have to keep the standards and learning goals in mind.
A3 technology is nothing more than a TOOL that he PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR uses to enhance learning.
PURPOSE!!!! https://t.co/9CiSF2GaLm
Q3 tech is great, but it needs to be for a purpose and not to just say 'we're using tech'
Q3 simplicity!! Don't over complicate.Use apps that only require a few steps to master.Avoids frustration
A3. Know your tech and be prepared. Do your research and practice with it first!
Q3-you can't just throw technology in, the teacher should have practiced it and be prepared to use it
A3: Be sure that methods r driving the tech, not tech driving the methods.
A3: Find new ways & go beyond doing the old pen/paper stuff with a computer...
A3 Tech needs to be seamless & reflect meaningful use, hopefully mirroring real world NOT an add-on
we're tryin 2 define grey area w/cell phones. Many young teachers love the Cell phones but sum prfer only cmputer.
Enjoy!! Just took my AP Lit kids to see Othello at . It was amazing.
Yes. https://t.co/kzNtBoNBGv
A3 technology is nothing more than a TOOL that he PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR uses to enhance learning.
Concern should revolve around learning, in my opinion. But ur issue is likely an issue nearly everywhere else in WV.
oh that sounds awesome! Jealous!
A3: it has to be a valuable tool for the S to want to use and learn it.
A3: Consider if the tech is being used in process vs product sort of way, or even better a hybrid,then give SS time to share/colab
That is great advice for Ts who are a little nervous getting started!
Definitely! I like that Ron!
Someone seems to be doing job sharing
Simple apps are also much better for classrooms that are not 1:1 https://t.co/EUsAQMhhhP
That is great advice for Ts who are a little nervous getting started!
A3 Driven by instruction; powered by technology
Happy to say I'm lucky enough to have the best of both worlds -at school & in the Twittersphere. Makes a difference.
A4: Always! If students don't feel respected they don't do their best work
Agreed! I have learned so much from the educational world on Twitter
I love this!! My WVLearns PLN class has us joining in on chats! Very informative!
A4 YES YES YES YES YES!!!!
A1: Yes, does it need to be explained?
A4: A good leader respects their followers, good teachers respect their students learning YES!
Q4 Respect = Success (enough said) :-)
A3. Start with end in mind What do you want your students to learn? Create tech experience based on that
Between Twitter, trainings/conferences, and my blogging I have become a far better educator
Hey, guys! Just popping in late for
A4: Yes! Does it require any explanation?
A4: most definitely! Ss need to know u respect them and like them. They r my kids.
A4-Definitely, without respect the quality goes out of student work. Students who feel respected and valued reach higher
A4. Without it ..... There is NO learning!
A4 Yes! Learning grows exponentially when this happens. Ss & Ts work together for positive outcomes. https://t.co/uUvmtAIlMA
It really is. I was lucky enough to have an influential mentor early on & realized I couldn't live without collab
You're more than welcome Jamie! We appreciate it! Don't forget n ur tweet :)
A4: From an ELA perspective, a student who doesn't feel respected, won't let you in. Kids that trust write AMAZING and raw poetry.
A4: You get... What you give!
A4 -- Absolutely! Respect is so crucial to gain student trust and buy-in.
A4 absolutely! Ss and Ts working together produce the best outcomes!
Jumping in.. Jessica Blake, 2nd grade teacher.
Goes back to procedures to start - Ss know expectations & build from there
Q4: Mutual respect among administrators, teachers, students key to school culture & learning environment for student achievement.
Nice personal perspective. Thanks for sharing how respect makes a difference in your classroom!
A4 yes, and the worst part is, it's always hard to come back if respect is lost. Has 2 start from day 1. Your reputation counts
I bet we've shared many students!
Yes...being empowered as a T is crucial & meaningful.
I heard this one recently Tim: You get the culture you deserve. https://t.co/K5LbqO0VbT
A4: You get... What you give!
This is 43 minutes old? Great chat tonight! Amazing Ts in WV
U can always lighten up but u can't get harder.
Q5 Everything you do has a purpose. Even creative on your own time! There is no down time!
A5: All the ones that do not involve yelling...nothing good has come out of yelling at your class...
say what you mean, mean what you say
Q5 no matter which techniques are used, the key components are consistency and fairness
It is an oldie but a goodie!
A5: Consistent ones where the teacher does not give in to yelling. Reteach ones as well & FOLLOW THROUGH/NO IDLE THREATS
A5 There is always a beginning Middle and end. Follow through and make even minute count
A5: Is it to ambiguous to say anything that does not include yelling and screaming? I think we have our own styles of management.
A4. Ts must build respect daily - always practice respect and don't fall into traps when frustrated
I bet you & I could discuss yelling versus loud voice. Completely different! https://t.co/VOdZD36jsT
A5: Consistent ones where the teacher does not give in to yelling. Reteach ones as well & FOLLOW THROUGH/NO IDLE THREATS
A5: Positive Requests! Let them know what is expected, and expect what they know!
Yelling is not a classroom management strategy.
A5 Do you know what your students are doing now? () Most teacher only THINK they know what Ss are doing
And the ELA teacher manages to make a spelling error on Twitter. Geesh. 😳
A5-yelling works once but does more harm than good. Then you have to rebuild https://t.co/eu0EmnbaP7
A5: Is it to ambiguous to say anything that does not include yelling and screaming? I think we have our own styles of management.
I don't know... million dollar question? Start by modeling and reinforcing respectful interaction https://t.co/wj4B8Ss9pJ
When it comes to classroom management, is fair always equal?
It's 1st for learning to take place. Who doesn't want to feel respected. set the expectation. Students will follow your lead.
A5. Praise, feedback, praise, feedback, praise,praise, and praise!
To borrow from "Be supremely focused and supremely relaxed at the same time."
A5: consistency! What ever you decide to do has to be 💯% evrytime and this can set social norms in your class and = expectations
Don't tolerate the disrespect of others. Don't laugh at it. Don't use sarcasm.
A5 is your classroom and teaching interesting to THEM - know your audience. Purpose every minute of your class
A5 mostly be present. Walk around. Interact with kids. Experience with them, don't just observe.
Handwritten notes are a great way to build relationships!
Do use humor once you know your Ss well enough. https://t.co/lbKsJya9xj
Don't tolerate the disrespect of others. Don't laugh at it. Don't use sarcasm.
A5. Know your students! And be with them when learning. Build relationships !
A5.. Consistently, fairness, positive reinforcement. A sense of community.
A5: 9 days out of 10 isn't good enough. That stdnt won't forget that 1 time.
I need to write that down! That's good.
Gotta run, but thank you! Great chat & great Qs. Good job. Night & thanks all!
Ts and Ss are actively engaged!
I have a weird obsession of collecting edu-images :) Have a Google folder full of them!
A6: An open classroom can cultivate a 4C's learning environment. Choice and Voice and Flexible Environment
Good night, Great discussion. Time to pack my lunch and lay out my clothes for tomorrow.
Students can be very forgiving of that 1 time if you've built good relationships. But it goes both ways 1/2
I also see that from class to class and school to school, you can always tell...sad really https://t.co/xeY5J7qbsU
I hate yelling. I teach pullouts and I can tell which classes are accustomed to it and which have a positive classroom culture
A6: A positive environment that promotes flexibility, voice, and problem solving can go a long way
A5 There is some interesting research from Yale's Dr. Marc Brackett on Emotional Intelligence. Building supporting relationships!
It's true! When leaders ignore undesired behaviors, the behaviors become acceptable.
Great job Loved every minute!! 💗
You've got to be willing 2 cut them slack when they have an off day-shows you care about them more than behavior.
A6. Engaging environment would produce the 4 Cs of learning. Engaged students want more!
If you own it. I think that's imp. Some Ts have never made mistake n front of kids ;) But own it, be transparent if u do.
A6: Room needs to be inviting. Ss need to feel comfortable in the environment. They have to know that they are valued.
Thanks! Great Tweeting with you!
A6: students need to feel safe and comfortable to take risks. Build a growth mindset and give students choices.
Agreed! Agreed! https://t.co/hWdGYgnHSD
If you own it. I think that's imp. Some Ts have never made mistake n front of kids ;) But own it, be transparent if u do.
Thanks you for joining tonight!
A6 I think you can build anything into your classroom climate by making it a shared goal or value & consistently reinforcing it.
Thanks all! Busy chat tonight!
Big crowd for us tonight I was a lousy wingman! Struggled keeping up with all the newbies. Gr8 Qs tho!
I left the # off my last couple tweets. Oops!
Great discussions and ideas! Thanks to everyone for sharing ideas tonight!
Thanks for allowing me to join tonight. It has been a pleasure chatting with you all! Can't wait to do this again!
