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.