It was an honor to work with a fellow educator, Tom Murray, at a recent professional development session earlier this month. For me, Tom's workshop provided an opportunity to connect with my esteemed colleagues and engage with thought-provoking resources that reinforced why I teach and how I can intentionally design my approach to help students grow. Key takeaways for me also included the importance of personalizing the learning experience for students. Transformative learning involves helping learners make emotional connections to their "what". Tom also shared a video clip from inspirational speaker, actor, and comedian Michael Jr. (see video clip ) who shares that "when you know your why, your what has more impact because you're walking towards your purpose." We strive to help students learn "their why." I know that my why has changed to some extent since I started teaching a decade ago. I believe it's important to always spiral back to why we teach.
This same "why" question can also help us design or redesign authentic assessments and personalized lessons for our students. Why do we have students use one tool or strategy over another? Educational technology can help students and teachers reach desired outcomes.
I found it helpful that Tom included his Tech Tools for Engagement resource page in his Keynote Info. The items offered here are vetted by teachers. Certain technology tools lend themselves as better ways to achieve learning goals.
I always appreciate Anne Reardon's Learn, Create, and Connect site for sharing various perspectives on technology integration.
What's something new from these resources that we can experiment with in our instruction and assessment?
Ultimately, you know what is best for your students. There is no better "silver bullet" in education than a relational and charismatic teacher devoted to empowering their students to love learning and do great things with their new found skills and knowledge. Technology can enhance the learning magic.
So what's your why? Will understanding your "why" help make your "what" have more impact?
