MAC Week_4_Reading: Art of Possibility Chapters 9-12

This book has been a great read! I feel that I have rushed over it and look forward to reading it again.  Lighting the spark brought forth a great term “enrollment”. How many times have we been in a situation that a new idea comes forth from administration but it fails due to lack of enrollment on their part? Enrollment, engagement means nothing to our students if we will not enroll or engage. This principal can be applied to any relationship that we are involved in each day. We cannot expect people to achieve greater things if we do not enroll in their lives.

“Being the Board” is a difficult concept to wrap our minds around. I know we all have selfish tendencies that we believe that we are always in the right. A phrase that I like to say, “Stories are like pancakes, there are two sides”. Anytime that a relationship goes wrong we often are quick to blame the other side. Being the board concept is bowing down, but stepping up to what your role in the situation was or is. For me, I have read this chapter twice. I wanted to let it sink in, but there is a lot I need to still learn.

Creating frameworks of possibility. Vision! We set goals; we set our eyes to the goals. The goal was created on a vision of what can be. Vision is one of the most important steps in revealing what is possible. Behind every fulfilled dream is a vision. The sky is the limit; anything is possible once you set your mind to it...Vision!

We. A group of one or more. This is a team effort. Not to be led by one person, but for everyone to engage, enroll, be the board, spark the interest, to be a contribution and RULE NUMBER 6.  Great leaders understand the “we” concept. Allowing people that serve under them to give and unsurpassed effort that leads to success. More people need to read this book to be inspired to lead in greater ways. We have too many leaders that have the “Barney Phiffer with the keys” attitude

MAC Week_4_comment_on_Peer_blog_KlytiaBurcham

From Klytia Burcham post

 Week 4 – Blog #2 – Reading: the rest of The Art of Possibility

Be the board, not one of the pieces!

I have to start by saying that I love this book!  I have enjoyed every chapter and know that, although I am familiar with many of the themes in this book, I loved the way that they were presented in this book.  It also served to remind me that I need to live in the moment and give the situation I find myself in it’s due; it is what it is!  Judgement and bitterness over situations we find ourselves in serves nobody, especially me.

The idea of enrollment is very enticing to me.  You know it when you see it, but it is something that almost always is seen in person.  Zander writes, “ Enrollment is the art and practice of generating a spark of possibility for others to share.”  This is what we hope to share with our students.  I think enrollment is what launches a good teacher to a great teacher because they are able to launch their students into the mindset of possibility.

The chapter on being the board was the hardest for me to understand, but once I got the idea that it was really about taking the responsibility of being a part of the situation.  It isn’t about taking all of the responsibility for the situation or blame.  It is about seeing what part you did have in the situation and what can be done to alleviate the blame game.  What can be done to get the participants in the situation back in the same game.  By taking the responsibility of being the board, you are able to see the situation for what it is, minus any blame or resentment.  If both participants take the stance of being the board the situation is more likely to be solved in a mutually beneficial way.  It becomes a WE story instead of an I story.  What can WE do about this so that we can both find a suitable solution for everyone.

My Reply

Klytia,

Love this book! I purchased the hard copy for future reading. I have not adjusted to reading everything on a computer, I like the feel of paper. 

Being the board is a hard concept to digest. The chapter rings true. It made me look at a couple  situations that have gone awry. It also reminded me when I coached the girls golf team our motto "Be the Ball", now I can apply this concept to life "Be the Board".. 

MAC Week_4_comment_on_Peer_blog_ScottByrd

Scott Byrd
Week 3 post

This weeks Wimba forced me to think for the first time past Month 12. Before tonight I was looking forward to graduation and the end of the program, I was counting down the days till I could have some free nights and no worries. Now I am thinking about what did this all mean? where do I go from here and what will I do with all of this "stuff" in my head? At first this caused a peak in my anxiety that it will never end, but I then realized that all of this "stuff" will make me want to do more for my job and for others that I come into contact with. I was excited to think about how I might be able to make some serious changes in my school and in my career with the results and ideas that I now have from all of this "stuff".

With the thought of publishing my work or allowing others to post a presentation that I make on my findings and what I have learned as a result of research and experiences I get excited for what is to come. I get excited now to possibly expand my work and try out other methods on my co-workers and experiment with different types of programs to help teachers become better at what they do using technology.

I am still looking forward to free nights and no deadlines for assignments, but after tonight I am also looking forward to further pursuing my work and seeing what else I can do.

My reply post:


Scott,

I too have been counting the days down when I am not chained to the computer frantically trying to post assignments. This month has been a great time of reflection. A reflection of the hard work that has evolved into priceless rhythm of an energized teacher. Our students (in my case young teachers) will benefit from what we have gained.  

MAC Week 4-4 Free Post

The Thursday night Wimba session was a long one. I really enjoyed listening to everyone's AR. All our hard work has taken on very meaning shapes and information. It is hard to believe that a year ago, we were strangers all taking an important step to become better educators. Month twelve is on the horizon, it has been a pleasure to take this journey with you.

MAC Week 4-1 Career Education AR Presentation

This might be out of order. There was no question in my mind between a document and a presentation. I am passionate to teach students and teachers the importance of Career Planning. Sharing this data with other teachers may inspire them to embrace a little more time to assist their students in a life long career. We may not be able to offer a concrete measurement of success, but to give students an opportunity to find a career direction is priceless.

MAC Week 4-2 Career Education AR Presentation

https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B40IcaOndSAPNzRlMWI3N2UtZTAwNS00Mjg3LWJmOTItM2YzNWM1ZGQ1Y2Rm&hl=en&authkey=CPeN1qID

The journey of climbing this mountain is narrowing. The peak is in site. As I enter the final stages of the AR, this is a great time of reflection. God has granted me a gift of public speaking so presenting this AR excites me. I have been accepted to present the research FACTE (Florida Association of Career & Technical Educators) Conference. The next month the presentation will continue to evolve.

MAC Week 4-2DB Quickies: Dream Teaching Environment

Truly the only thing that stands in my way is a choice. While I am very committed to the appointment I have now, the thought does cross my mind from time to time. Being out of the classroom has allowed me to observe several teachers, a great opportunity to reflect on my teaching methods. The greatest asset is completing this program. I will have a great understanding and passion for new methods of delivery a subject I love dearly. Technology does not still me anymore, it moves the mind.

MAC Week 4-1DB Quickies: Dream Teaching Environment

"IF" I were to pick up my boots again to teach Agriculture, my environment would be one of ebb and flow. The technology to present the information such as (document cameras, roof mounted projectors). The computer resources for students to embrace the information ( mobile lap top lab).  A diverse land lab facility for students to physically engage the information (Greenhouse, garden area and animal facility). The trio union would enhance the other. Students would be able to see a wide spectrum of possibilities and would entice all learning styles.

MAC Week_3_Reading: Art of Possibility Chapters 5-8

"Don't Take yourself too Seriously"

This book continues to intrigue my imagination. I purchased a hard copy for easier reading.

 Leading from the chair can be very useful when working with any class or group of people. When ever you bring a group of individuals together there are predisposed perceptions. Using insight apathy to learn each of the group will assist in bringing the group together. No matter the size or the age each wants to feel a sense of purpose.

 The four chapters represented four different ends of the spectrum, but Rule 6, was by far the most useful. Sarcastic by nature and usually the one that can get other laughing. People who take themselves too serious have always got me going. I have found this type of personality runs rampant in the educational system, from principals to teachers. They seemed to want to tear a person down before they will ever see any good. Really do you think the world evolves around you, a simple science lesson should bring them back to the truth. Have fun, learn to play, laugh at yourself, giggle at a joke, smile at a stranger all can make this world a little brighter. The picture to the left was taken years ago on an ag teacher tour. It currently resides on my desk with the same caption.

"The way things are". The movie Babe was a favorite of my high school students. They loved that movie, yes I admit there were times when I needed a moment to finish grades. That was the movie they selected. The way things are, became our quote. Our classroom also involved an 16 acre land lab animal science facility.  Needless to say my classes were involved in producing a product. Beef, Pork & Lamb. When we look at the world or the cards we have been dealt or the classes we have been assigned. One can choose to waller in frustration or play the cards you are dealt.

Giving way to passion. It is obvious when someone is passionate about a hobby, subject or a career.  When we are doing what we  love, time is lost. Finding what drives us or sparks our passion can be difficult for some. They may have never ventured out to find or sometimes they are looking to hard. We are born with desires, through life experiences we have opportunities to fan the flames.

MAC Week 3-2DB Quickies: Difficulties starting new programs/breaking the norm

The thought that rises to the top is comfort level. If a teacher does not feel comfortable with the technology they are less likely to use it. The largest fear would be the unknown, "What If... it doesn't work, or I don't know" To most teachers it just awkward. Some would like to place blame as being incompetent, I disagree. We need to encourage change in small steps so they feel a sense of accomplishment, just as we encourage our students.'

Business handles technology at a faster pace than education. The business has to keep in tune with the competition. Some small businesses refuse to "change", but that keeps there customer base more intimate.
In the end, there is no right or wrong way to embrace change. It just has to be done.

MAC Week 3-1DB Quickies: Difficulties starting new programs/breaking the norm

When I took the position that I am currently, I had to learn the role of the Career Center Specialist. Seven high school reside in my county. Each specialist works closely with guidance counselors and all students to assist them in a career path. The specialist were required to turn in a paper calendar of activities each nine weeks. To me that was a waste of paper, so I set up a public calendar for each center that they could place activities in. You thought I was asking them to pull teeth. Finally after individual trainings and demonstration how they could utilize the features, they appreciate how easy to use. Bonus, they don't have to make copies each nine weeks.

MAC Week_3_comment_on_Peer_blog_MarkPopejoy

"Clearwater"

Blog post by Mark Popejoy

 I am definitely feeling we are on the downhill side of this journey. After all the hard work and effort I put in during the early months are paying off and showing it's worth. I am very excited to be booking my flight this week to come in for the ceremony, bring my son and take him on his very first vacation and also the importance of an education. This will be a new start for me in a lot of ways that I am both scared and excited to embrace.

So, here's to all the hard work and hopefully I will meet some of you in sunny Florida!

My response:

I have to agree. The reality came when I started getting the graduation emails... I am looking forward to meeting classmates and placing names to faces. I hope that you enjoy your stay in our wonderful state, there are many beautiful places to see off the beaten path..

MAC Week_3_comment_on_Peer_blog_TorreyProctor

Blog Post by Torrey Proctor

Some educators are resistance to change because it requires them to exert extra effort.  This group sees their profession as a paycheck, a three-month summer vacation, and an eight-hour workday.  The de-motivated educator that resists learning new technology has lost their thirst for new knowledge.  Why should an educator that lost their interest to learn anything new be a teacher?  Another type of teacher that is resistant to change is the “save-me-save-me-teacher.”  This type of teacher will put the responsibility of their learning in the hands of their administration.  The “save-me-save-me teacher” is always looking for others outside themselves to do their work for them.  Often you here these teachers say “why learn how to do it when I can find someone smart to do it for me.”  Lastly, some educators refuse to learn new technology because they don’t get extra pay to learn it.

Businesses learn new technology to improve customer service, product quality, and efficiency.  Businesses are highly motivated to stay in business.  If company “A” has a better service than company “B”, then company “B” will become extinct.  The better a business does, the more bonuses are given to their employees.  Public education does not have bonuses tied to achievement or does it have to worry about going out of business because of its competitors.  

My response:

Torrey,

You brought forth some very true statements. To add to that, the majority of teachers will teach the way that they were taught. Lecture and notes until the hands cramped or death by transparencies. It is like they have lost touch with that student they were, the one that wanted to learn concepts in a different way.

MAC_Week_3_Post4_Wimba_Comments

"Friends"

Now, I really feel overwhelmed and lost!  I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, but I am also hearing the train bear down. Some much to cover this week. I just keep blogging away hopefully checking off all required task. A refreshing side of the week is the reading of the Art of Possibility. I actually purchased the real book, with real pages. There are many life lessons that I would like to revisit. My favorite so far... CONTRIBUTION.. Puts a new spin on mundane task.

MAC Week 2-2 DB Quickies: Podcast

http://www.farmerfeeds.com/cgi-bin/farmerfeeds.cgi?section=2

Farmer Feeds. As an agriculture teacher by trade, agriculture education is near and dear to my heart. While the role of agriculture education has changed from teaching farmers to educating consumers. Every person daily discusses or thinks about agriculture: What am I going to Eat? What am I going to wear? This is a great learning tool for students to learn what is facing today’s farmer

http://www.digitalpodcast.com/?ax=list&sub=20&cat_id=20

Digital Podcast is a great library for students to find pod casts on specific subjects. Perfect for science fair projects, debate research or research papers.  The scince and technology would be a great library to tap into.

http://www.discovery.com/radio/podcasts.html

The discovery channel has a wealth of knowledge available in pod cast.

http://www.horse-podcast.com/

The horse podcast offers students  a great place to learn about all aspects of a horse, from digestive tracts to breeds of horse. The site is older, but still useful.

MAC Week_2_Reading: Art of Possibility Chapters 1-4

Is "Raising the bar"
Lowering the Possibilities

What a refreshing read. So far fetch from the mundane educational jargon.   We often forget about the power of possibility. This book speaks volumes to me. Recently a friend told me “you are the master of reinventing yourself”. At first I was taken back by the comment, but as I have gone through this program, a new side business and looking at new opportunities that are presenting themselves. 

While in the classroom, all the students would start with an A. That is what is given to them, keeping it they needed to earn. The standards of grades were often based on “Hands On” demonstrations, class participation and teamwork. Multiple-choice test had no place in my classroom. Often I had students with learning disabilities; they would excel in my class due to the platform that they would learn.  We can change the world by evolving our thoughts to get of the square box of education. Most teachers would feel uncomfortable to giving an unearned “A”. I think some are on a vengeance to fails as many as possible. They thrive on the power.

If we look at why most teachers entered the profession, most would say the love to help children. The isolated thoughts of some teachers may stem from standardized testing, merit pay and measuring every child.  Teachers have lost the ability to teach their subject the way they would like. Imagine if our states gave every school an “A”. What a trend of possibility that could lead too.

A bright future is on the horizon; you just have to look in the direction of the sun.

  

MAC Week_2_comment_on_Peer_blog_MikeColletti

Mike Colletti 

Wk 2 Free Choice Blog

The EMDT program cannot work without the tireless efforts of those who share a common goal:  becoming better at what we do using the tools that are available for us to bring into our work environment, whether it be a school or corporate situation.  While I have a Free Choice Blog available, I would like to commend all of you who have been a part of this journey, whether it be tech support or Full Sail staff, course directors or mentors, and, of course all the students whose paths crossed mine over the past 300+ days. 

I am sure all of you share this sentiment.  While we may not have had any close connections with everyone, we still shared many experiences through Wimba sessions and discussion posts.  We have read each other’s blog posts and checked out those AR websites, whether out of curiosity or necessity.  In doing so, we have seen the future of education, beyond the restrictions that school boards and government programs attempt to place on the frontline men and women, the classroom teachers.  To me, that future holds the potential to inspire our current students to succeed and exceed the goals we might set for them.

So, before we all get caught up in the final push to the end of this month and then this program, I wanted to say thanks to every one of you, my colleagues and classmates, course directors and mentors.  You make me proud to be one of you, a teacher.

My Response:

Wonderful post!! Rarely do people take the time to really say "Thank You". Two words that mean so much, but cost so little. I know as a student, it has been difficult to really have the connections with other students. We are so focused on the end product and the next deadline. Hopefully this has been a life changing experience for you. I know it has for me. "Thank You" for posting a genuine gift.

MAC Week 2-2 DB Quickies: CD Ownership, Music Sharing or Spontaneous Listening

Do you remember when audio CDs were introduced? Do you remember how the record companies said that the $15 – $19 price for audio CDs would drop when CDs became more popular (LP prices being around $10 at the time)? Are you tired of buying the same songs more than once? Please discuss…




My Response:
I received my first record player when I was five. Eight track tapes came out shortly after that. The first eight track that I remember was the Beach Boys. Growing up in Florida, it was always on when we were headed to the beach for the day. By the time I was in middle school cassettes were hitting the stores. Sony Walkman was on every teenager's wish list. Then came the CD. Prices were high.  Again, everyone had to change the machines to play the tunes, another added cost. I feel blessed to grow up in such a great music time period. Many transitions and diversity.

MAC Week_2_comment_on_Peer_blog_SandraNoack

Sandra Noack

I enjoyed our Wimba session.  I feel glad it was not just to follow the videos but Professor Bustillos gave us different tips fro the course and beside some ideas were clarified.  One of them is the way the course is presented.  I am still trying to get used to it.  My fear is that by mistake I may miss any of the assignments or readings for each week. 

I am glad there is the website http://jbbsedtechplace.com/ It has been much easier for me to follow the different assignments I need to complete.  It seems we will keep working hard, but it is worthy especially getting close to our graduation!

My Response:
I felt the same way about missing an assignment.  This week has flown by and I feel that I am really behind. We are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I just hope I don;t get run over by the train.

MAC Week 2-AR-Project

This has been a wild week, but good. Reality is  here! The past ten months have been a whirl wind of activity. "Drinking water out of a fire hose." I am reloading my data for the third time hopefully it sticks. It would have been much easier if the survey monkey site was not blocked. Documenting open ended questions can be frustrating, but hilarious at times. What goes through a mind of a middle schooler, amazing.

MAC Week 2-1 DB Quickies: CD Ownership, Music Sharing or Spontaneous Listening

I love music! As I walk through my day there is a beat in my head, remnants of a drive into work. My collection is broad from George Straight to Metallica and every old house techno to Jars of Clay. Ninety percent of my collection is on CD. I purchased my first MP3 player four years ago. I never download music until my MAC. Very cautious of what could happen. iTunes is great, expensive but worth it.

MAC Week 1 Post 4 Wimba Comments

Intense Wimba session! The anxiety is beginning to well up for all that is due this month. At this point, I wish I had Screenflow the session to use as reference. Great job of presenting all the materials, keeping the pace on topic and answering student questions. My one question that I have is "Will we have a chance to fix our AR in the class if it does not pass?"

MAC Week 1 Reading Part 2: What the heck is Fair Use

My thought on Fair Use, the term seems to be an oxymoron. I believe the fair use police will be knocking on my door for all my infractions. Very enlightening, will spend more time placing value on the  media that I use in education. Imagine how many slide show you put together to highlight a trip or event. Scary.

By the way. If I am copying a peer's post and placing into my blog, should I receive their written permission before posting? Just a question.

MAC Week 1-2 DB Quickies: DIY Classroom/Presentation Solutions

Our department, Career & Technical Education,(aka Vocational Education) has placed Carl Perkins dollars in many technological advances to the classroom. Ceiling mounted projectors, engaged classrooms, lap top labs to share within department classrooms and document cameras. The running joke, if you want a great classroom, you need to be a CTE teacher. Many of the academic teachers do have these great tools.

MAC Week 1-1 DB Quickies: DIY Classroom/Presentation Solutions

As an employee of our school district I travel to all middle and high schools to work with students. Our school district is infamous for having more blocked sites than unblocked. This particular day I arrived early made my way to prepare the computer lab. Turning all the computers, noting which would not allow log on. Five out of twenty five. Class that is attending 28. Pull out four extra lap tops. Only to find out the site that we needed to be working on was blocked. Open the week before, recent system upgrade blocked it. Plan B- I went to the classroom and taught the old fashion reliable way. A skilled teacher and A Chalkboard. Student interaction was great, discussion was fun.

MAC Week 1 comment on peer blogs

@ Angela Alipour

The copyright laws are not built to always protect the large companies, but also to give the individual creator a little protection as well. Imagine if you place your heart and soul into a project just to realize that somebody else is going to take credit for it or better yet sell your idea to make money.