tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62792619462728750972024-02-18T22:01:45.467-08:00iShiftThe musings of a life-long educator and mileage junkie.
There are many parallels between cycling and being an educator. In this blog, I'll be sharing my thoughts on embracing the positive and improving one's skill-set in order to keep moving forward.
Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-21450397572574939172017-10-25T02:00:00.000-07:002017-10-26T06:56:53.854-07:00#D100bloggerPD Book Study on Hacking Engagement: 50 Tips and Tools to Engage Teachers and Learners Daily<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Why is the name of my blog iShift? For me, thriving in the field of education and cycling have
many parallels. To do well on the bike, I need to stay in condition and
maintain focus. Flourishing in education has the same prerequisites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What works in one setting may not work in
another. Things change. You have to shift or you won’t make it up that hill, or
get through that storm, or impact that student.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">As an edu-lifer, currently on year 31 in my current
district, with 3 years prior to that in another, I’ve been blessed to work with
many amazing peers and students. Throughout my tenure, I’ve witnessed lots of
changes; changes in families, changes in what is taught, changes in teaching
approaches, changes in resources, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve
had to shift often, but one thing that has remained constant is the
fundamental need to engage students and forge relationships.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This is the focus of James Alan Sturtevant's book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hacking-Engagement-Teachers-Learners-Learning/dp/0986104965/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1508848979&sr=8-3&keywords=james+alan+sturtevant" target="_blank">Hacking Engagement: 50 Tips and Tools to Engage Teachers and Learners Daily</a>. As mentioned in previous <a href="https://literacylovinggals.blogspot.com/2017/10/schedule-revealed-for-upcoming.html">#D100bloggerPD posts</a> <a href="http://literacylovinggals.blogspot.com/2017/10/d100bloggerpds-book-study-on-hacking.html?m=1">here</a>, and <a href="https://seejaneblog1.blogspot.com/2017/10/hacking-engagement-hacks-6-10.html">here</a>, this book offers a
wealth of easily readable and applicable ideas for increasing student engagement
by </span><b style="font-size: 12pt;">relating</b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> to students. IMHO the author says it best when he states,</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I'm summarized Hacks #11-15 in this graphic. Note: this is just a snapshot (click on image to enlarge).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The author shares these great ideas in an easily readable (and reference-able) format. Are you passionate about connecting with your students and improving engagement? You really need to read this book! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Up next is <a href="http://talesofanicoach.blogspot.com/2017/10/d100bloggerpd-hacking-engagement.html">Tales of an iCoach</a><span id="goog_244078098"></span><span id="goog_244078099"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a> by Mona Towner!</span></div>
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Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-52616299981036906252017-04-04T03:41:00.000-07:002017-04-04T03:53:18.074-07:00From Going to Showing: Start.Right.Now. #D100bloggerPD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">I recently had the privilege of participating in a week-long ride in Sunny Arizona. This was a wonderful time to get some respite from both work and the midwestern weather. As I rode, I reflected on previous rides. When I first started out doing these trips, I was younger and very idealistic. A major ambition for me at that point was to be the first to arrive at the campsite. I was focused on applying everything my coaches had taught me, and considered maintaining the best possible form my main priority. I imagined I'd be viewed as a "leader". I typically did not interact much with the other cyclists on the road, nor did I slow down to take in the sights. I felt at that time that doing so would hinder me from applying what I had learned and interfere with reaching my goals of achieving fitness and building self-confidence.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">While I still have a passion for long rides, I clearly can see how my priorities have changed throughout the years as a cyclist. I’m now able to focus more clearly on the ride, as opposed to the destination. I stop to help change flats. I ride along side people and we share stories. We chat about our favorite rides, our worst crashes, the best nutrition, and secrets to preventing a sore butt. I sometimes ride at a slower pace, but I’m happier. My fellow cyclists hadn’t cared about my speed or form. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">The theme of this blog is all about the parallels between cycling an being an educator. I originally wrote the description several years ago, long before Start.Right.Now. (Whitaker, Zoul, & Casas, 2017) was around. The entire description (if you missed it at the top of this page) is, “The musings of a life-long educator and mileage junkie. There are many parallels between cycling and being an educator. In this blog, I'll be sharing my thoughts on embracing the positive and improving one's skill-set in order to keep moving forward.” </span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">For this particular post, I'm sharing my thoughts about the book Start.Right.Now. As indicated by the title, it's all about moving forward. Regardless of where we've come from, it's important to keep on moving. In cycling, if you don't move and you are clipped in, you will fall over. If you're just using regular pedals, you won't get anywhere. In education, we need to keep moving forward so that we don’t stagnate. I appreciate how the author's break down forward movement into the concepts of “Knowing the Way”, “Showing the Way”, “Going the Way”, and “Growing Each Day”. Here are some thoughts about the first part of how to “Show the Way” (chapter 3).</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The authors begin this section by defining the standard of excellence for showing the way as, ”Establishing a clear vision of future success and enlisting others in the vision by showing how each individual and team member can get better at what they do”. Following the list of indicators and rationale on why showing the way is so important, the chapter focuses on what it looks like. What stands out to me from the list of indicators is the one that talks about “identifying and communicating what is working and what is not”. To me, reflection is a huge piece of any kind of growth. And rationale? Why is showing the way important? Because the best leaders/teachers feel a personal conviction, a calling, to make an impact. Our colleagues, students, and families need us to be risk-takers, change-embracers, and models of having growth mindsets. This quote, “What others believe the job demands and how they see it depends on those of us teaching and leading them” is so true! In our lives, both inside and outside of school, we need to make sure we are walking the talk, and remember that we cannot, not model. The reality is, whether we know it, or even want it, </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">leaders who teach also show the way</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. And the impact? Huge. In fact, an effect size of 0.84 was determined for the impact of leading teacher learning and development on student achievement (Robinson, 2011).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">I love that when the authors discuss showing the way, knowledge of self is discussed first. “What matters most is what you expect of yourself, not what you expect of others”. And then the 3Ps: passion, purpose and pride. And 3 more Ps: prioritizing people over programs. The goal? Collectively moving forward to a shared vision of future success. The authors break down what it looks like to show the way with sections (in pt.1) on: 20/20 Vision, Support Innovation, Future-Focused While Attending to the Present, Communicate Early; Communicate Often, and Radio Station WIIFM. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">The info for each of these sections merits a close read. I hope the word cloud piqued your interest. A part that I particularly enjoyed was the WaffleHouse paradigm. Scattered v. smothered v covered. You have to read it for yourself. Lemme just say, I’m all about #CoveredHashBrowns.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Showing the way depends on leaders helping their people to want to succeed and to believe that they can. In order to do this there must be a connection. #PeopleFirst. The challenge is to help our people find that sweet spot</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">between anxiety and boredom. Here’s a paragraph from </span><a href="http://ishiftbutler.blogspot.com/2014/05/flow.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">my blog</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> about the being in the ultimate sweet spot :</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Another name for this is </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Flow</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. The psychologist who developed this concept, Mihaly Csikszentmihaly, refers to Flow as “a mental state of operation that one enters when engaging in an activity – becoming fully immersed in a feeling of energized focus, involvement and success.” He goes on to say, “</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><i>The best moments usually occur when a person’s body or mind is </i></b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">stretched to its limits in a voluntary effort to accomplish</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">something difficult and worthwhile</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.” So being stretched to the max can give us energy and allow us to embrace success? Yes. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Isn’t this (energy and success) what we all want for those with whom we interact? We do not have to </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">be perfect in order to start showing others the way. “If the highest aim of a captain were to preserve his ship, he would keep it in port forever” (Saint Thomas Aquinas, c1250). When should we start sharing our vision and helping to empower others? Start.Right.Now.</span><br />
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<br />Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-14175725240014908082017-03-23T09:44:00.002-07:002017-03-23T09:45:41.162-07:00Rest<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">During a particularly arduous section once in my cycling class, my coach offered this advice, “If you blow up in the middle of the effort, take a minute to regroup, then carry on. Get your heart rate under control, then continue the effort” (</span><span class="s3">Kristen Meshberg <a href="http://www.pwppedalingwithapurpose.blogspot.com/"><span class="s4">www.pwppedalingwithapurpose.blogspot.com</span></a></span><span class="s1">). I did a quick self-assessment, determined that I could continue the interval, and kept going. </span><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">This episode got me thinking about the role of rest. Sometimes when I’m on the bike, I just need a microbreak - time enough to shift to an easier gear, coast for a minute to regroup my energy, and get back at it. Other times, the best thing I can do to maximize performance is to get off the bike and rest for an hour. In addition to the breaks I need while on a ride, there is another very important rest cycle that needs to be used periodically; the recovery week. It took me a while to really understand this. My tendency had been to believe that when I had reached my fitness level goal, I could ride as hard and as often as I wanted. I’ve since learned that this is not wise. </span><br />
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<span class="s1">The parallels of this to education are pretty glaring. As we go throughout our daily activities, there are brief moments when we need to reflect, regroup and renew our focus. I worked with a teacher once who, when he got frazzled, would step into the hall for 3-5 seconds and then emerge ready to carry on. Sometimes, our microbreaks can take the form of a deep breathing exercise or assigning a three minute free write. The point is, it allows us to “catch our breath”. During planning periods or lunch breaks, it’s really important that at least part of the time is spent on doing something that will renew our energy;</span></div>
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<li>Do something physical such as walking to the farthest point in the building and back (or even better, going outside)</li>
<li>Have a positive conversation with a colleague</li>
<li>Nibble on a bite of chocolate </li>
</ul>
Activities such as these can help shift us into a better place.<br />
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<span class="s1">I wrote recently about the February Funk. If that wasn’t enough, high-stakes testing follow soon after. Come spring, many educators are in need of a recovery <b>week</b>. Mental fatigue, stress, and/or physical exhaustion are all realities that many educators experience. Thank God that spring break happens when it does! Having a plan for renewal during this week is helpful for shifting us back to optimum performance. During this week, I believe it is helpful to reflect on performance and think about the following:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li>What are my priorities? </li>
<li>What do I waste time on? </li>
<li>What has been my greatest accomplishment? How can I build on this?</li>
<li>What am I doing to take care of myself physically? (Am I getting sufficient sleep? Practicing good nutrition? Exercising regularly?)</li>
<li>What am I doing to nurture my spirit? </li>
<li>What am I actively doing to build my PLN?</li>
</ul>
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<span class="s1">Reflection is a good first step, but developing a plan to be intentional about change is required to make the most of a “recovery week”. </span><span class="s1">The possibility of burnout occurs in education just as in cycling. It’s important to keep in mind that forward movement helps keep us fresh. Recovery weeks are meant to help us refocus on our purpose. “</span><span class="s5">We don't get burned out because of what we do. We get burned out because we forget why we do it. Purpose keeps you fresh” (@JonGordon11).</span><span class="s1"></span></div>
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Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-37606143798697164202017-02-03T06:23:00.000-08:002017-02-03T06:24:31.288-08:00The Bonk and the February Funk<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">There comes a point on long rides when one starts feeling exhausted. Experienced riders recognize the feeling and take precautionary measures - rest, hydration, a snack. Sometimes, however, especially on long rides when lost in the moment and divorced from the body, even the strongest riders experience <i>the bonk.</i> Bonking is when glycogen stores in the muscles and liver have been depleted and the body simply gives out. I’ve personally come micro-close to bonking only one time. The crackling cellophane of hundreds of twirling peppermints that invaded my senses of sound and sight [hallucinating!] snapped me into reality real fast. Bonking is frequently blamed on insufficient calorie intake, but the truth is, it is usually a result of insufficient training and lack of awareness. When it happens, there is only one result. You. Are. Done. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">In education, we call this burnout. Signs of this happening seem to most frequently occur during that dreaded period of the year know as <i>the February Funk</i>. Warning signs of this looming on the horizon are many, and include physical, emotional and interpersonal struggles. The good news is, that with awareness and proper support, you can overcome these stressors. First, one needs to recognize the signs. <a href="http://www.mindtools.com/stress/Brn/BurnoutSelfTest.htm"><span class="s2"><span style="color: red;">Here</span></span></a> is a tool that you can use for self-assessment. Next, allow yourself to feel uncomfortable. This is an important step if you are to move forward. This quote by </span><span class="s3">Charles Caleb Colton sums it up best, </span>"Times of great calamity and confusion have been productive for the greatest minds. The purest ore is produced from the hottest furnace. The brightest thunder-bolt is elicited from the darkest storm". Finally, be intentional about making changes to your thinking and practices. <a href="http://k6educators.about.com/library/weekly/aa072201b.htm"><span class="s2"><span style="color: red;">This article</span></span></a> does a great job of discussing these tips, and is summed up here:</div>
<ul>
<li class="li3"><span class="s1"><b></b>Ask for help - find a mentor, add to your PLN, etc.</span></li>
<li class="li3"><span class="s1"><b></b>Learn to not sweat the small stuff - keep student learning your focus</span></li>
<li class="li3"><span class="s1"><b></b>Leave work at school - don't play the teacher at home </span></li>
<li class="li3"><span class="s1"><b></b>Make time for yourself - workout, eat a healthy diet, get enough rest, listen to music, engage in a hobby</span></li>
<li class="li3"><span class="s1"><b></b>Remember to keep the main thing the main thing </span></li>
</ul>
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<span class="s1">During a particularly unpleasant drill in my cycling class, the coach urged us to remember that when the body starts feeling done, to let the brain take over (thank you Kristen Meshberg <a href="http://www.pwppedalingwithapurpose.blogspot.com/"><span class="s2">www.pwppedalingwithapurpose.blogspot.com</span></a>). In fact, recent research suggests that the brain may actually anticipate glycogen depletion and begin slowing the body to conserve energy (</span><span class="s3">Bourne & Rapoport, 2010). Somehow, just knowing this helps me keep going. Hopefully, recognizing the stressors we face as educators and purposefully engaging in positive actions will strengthen our resolve to be the best we can for our students. </span></div>
Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-35308193396200762902017-01-23T08:49:00.004-08:002017-01-23T10:36:13.603-08:00PLNs and SAGs pt. 2<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14.49px; line-height: 17.388px;">Connecting with others is a prerequisite for successful learning and teaching today. As a life-long educator, I might be tempted to "coast" at times. However, in order to finish strong, I know that I need support (<a href="http://ishiftbutler.blogspot.com/2016/12/plns-and-sags.html" target="_blank">this</a>)!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fff2cc;"><span style="background-color: #93c47d;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14.49px; line-height: 17.388px;">Roll </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14.49px; line-height: 17.388px;">y</span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14.49px; line-height: 17.388px;"><span style="background-color: #93c47d;">our pointer/mouse over the graphic. Click on the icons to find resource links for ramping up your PLN. </span></span></span></span><br />
<img class="alwaysThinglink" src="//cdn.thinglink.me/api/image/493937412720820224/1024/10/scaletowidth#tl-493937412720820224;1043138249'" style="max-width: 100%;" /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//cdn.thinglink.me/jse/embed.js"></script>Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-24635012616281799532016-12-22T10:55:00.003-08:002016-12-22T11:05:57.028-08:00PLNs and SAGsWhether on the bike or in the educational setting, all of us can benefit from support. On large, group rides that involve distance such as a century (100 miles), a metric century (100km) or multi-day rides, cyclists are supported by SAGs. SAG is an acronym for <i>support and gear</i>. SAG “wagons” patrol the route and offer water, food, and mechanical or medical assistance to riders. Although the majority of cyclists on these rides stay alert to their surroundings and frequently conduct self-assessments, even the most experienced riders can experience a bike malfunction, get lost or crash (sigh). Having the confidence that SAGs are patrolling the route and can offer assistance is reassuring.<br />
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<span class="s1">Likewise, as educators in the 21st century, it’s critical that each of us have a personal support system. I love this quote (paraphrased by me), “Working toward peak performance is a little like [riding a bike or teaching a class] -- it may become routine and you may even flip on the cruise control every so often. But it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and adapt to them [shift] when necessary. Pay attention, ask yourself some questions, and take control of your success” (Garnett, 2014). IMHO, the best way for educators to do this is by establishing their own PLN. A PLN is a <i>personal/professional learning network</i>. Here is a 90 second video explanation of a PLN (Lalande, 2012).</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hLLpWqp-owo" width="560"></iframe><br /></div>
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By creating your PLN, you become part of a network of connected educators. Whether you remain a “lurker” - you view but do not contribute, or a collaborator, your PLN offers you a place to connect with other educators, share ideas, gather resources and ask questions. As you do so, reflection and ideas for more engaging activities occur frequently. Here are some ways that educators are using their PLNs:<span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">- Professional development – learn from content-area specialists</span></div>
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<span class="s1">- Locate resources for your classroom, such as free websites and software</span></div>
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<span class="s1">- Get lesson plan ideas from master teachers</span></div>
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<span class="s1">- Learn about new technology and how to integrate it into your teaching</span></div>
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<span class="s1">- Find collaborative solutions</span></div>
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<span class="s1">- Find interesting links to education news (Smith, 2009)</span><br />
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<span class="s1">I like to think of my PLN as continuous, personalized professional development. The network you establish can be thought of as your educational SAG - always there to lend a helping hand.</span></div>
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Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-3139286241615430762014-07-01T19:05:00.000-07:002016-09-08T15:19:41.448-07:00Newbies<br />
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<span class="s1">I recently completed a couple of week-long, cross-state rides. I dream of doing these all year long. Ride all day. Explore small town America. Camp overnight. Repeat. Sigh. Folks outside of the cycling cult rarely understand how such activity can be enjoyable. I just smile in response to their incredulity. It’s one of those things that has to be experienced to be understood. On these rides, I invariably end up chatting with folks that are participating on their first “long” [multi-day] ride. Most of the time, these “newbies” have finally chosen to personally experience the adventures they’d only previously read or heard about. Frequently, they become hooked. There is a sense of accomplishment, a filling of emotional and mental bank accounts, and the realization that one’s body - although perhaps temporarily uncomfortable - will benefit. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Today in my district, Literacy Coach Michelle Brezek held PD on blogging. As a result, seven new </span>blogs were begun. In addition, the BigTime Blogging Challenge was started<br />
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<span class="s1"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9C5D5g4qn18TJi7s4_bK8qoSM-rBAI9x-D6CUMg0YaBLhCpPhDXfDuFhOZpHr4gWr1i3RvHXVPiyQngV-LMFl_suy2lffBwTW8DEfV03tPDp_Vkd1eP7G56TvR6SRKcg5XbAESHuE_0fV/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-01+at+9.02.43+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9C5D5g4qn18TJi7s4_bK8qoSM-rBAI9x-D6CUMg0YaBLhCpPhDXfDuFhOZpHr4gWr1i3RvHXVPiyQngV-LMFl_suy2lffBwTW8DEfV03tPDp_Vkd1eP7G56TvR6SRKcg5XbAESHuE_0fV/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-01+at+9.02.43+PM.png" height="197" width="200" /></a></span></div>
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(<a href="http://bigtimeliteracy.blogspot.com/"><span class="s2">http://bigtimeliteracy.blogspot.com/</span></a>). Many blogging newbies have followed blogs in the past, yet held back on starting their own. Personally, I procrastinated beginning this blog for a variety of reasons, the main one being a fear that what I had to say would be inconsequential to most. Maybe it is, but what I have discovered is that blogging allows me to reflect on what I do and why I do it. This reflection then leads to determination to change things, which results in actions to improve. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Just as in cycling where one’s enjoyment, endurance and form improve as more miles are completed, the educator’s mindset and practice improve through the reflective benefits of blogging. So ride on. Write on. The rewards are abundant.</span></div>
Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-2629500354954879812014-06-17T02:38:00.003-07:002016-09-08T15:19:41.443-07:00Construction Ahead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuR6ZyVbdX6UfLeYV_5Mbdn8nYLjoU-tveO6QnX-HjPeBX2YMGzVa8JWqYENdZdDpcKeZagplUKKn_2b7meoeUoOpWD-_wUOPFQp9YN_wjxDnr9-dDYbhJw7Pqu5cMJ43TXUAMu-_jUAo1/s1600/construction.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuR6ZyVbdX6UfLeYV_5Mbdn8nYLjoU-tveO6QnX-HjPeBX2YMGzVa8JWqYENdZdDpcKeZagplUKKn_2b7meoeUoOpWD-_wUOPFQp9YN_wjxDnr9-dDYbhJw7Pqu5cMJ43TXUAMu-_jUAo1/s1600/construction.jpeg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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Most times when I head out on the bike, I know where I’m going. Whether it’s a short jaunt, a century, or a multi-day ride, I have a planned route. Sometimes the plan is in my head; other times I carry a map. Every once in a while, however, I encounter bright a orange sign reading, “Construction Ahead.” Honestly, this tends to annoy me. I hadn’t planned on making a detour, and when I find myself being lead into unfamiliar territory I experience a sense of unease.</div>
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<span class="s1">Recently, I ran into “construction” on my job. The “detour” I’d need to navigate would lead through unfamiliar, potentially uncomfortable terrain. At first, my response was, “I am not doing this. Period.” Since then, I’ve had a change of heart. Although not an easy decision, it’s one that I know is right. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">When faced with the need to make unplanned or life-changing choices, what are some of the factors that can help one make the best decision? Personally, the shift in my thinking occurred as I spent time:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li>Seeking wise counsel - King Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived said, “In the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Prov. 11:14). This does not mean that one should depend on others to sway decision-making in one direction or the other. Rather, by seeking input from family, respected peers and even God, one can get a sense of direction. As I did this, I sensed a “calling”, and became compelled to “take the detour”.</li>
<li>Looking at the big picture - I tend to be a detail-oriented person, which is not a bad thing. At times, however, it’s important to take a break from analyzing individual pieces of the puzzle, and refocus on the entire collage. Reminding oneself of the destination/vision is critical. “A vision begins with talk, but it will only become reality with action” (Sheninger, <i>Digital Leadership</i>, Corwin, 2014, 33).</li>
<li>Reflecting on life goals - why do I do what I do? What do I want to accomplish <i>for the greater good</i>?</li>
<li>Waiting - Although my inclination might be to jump right in and begin problem-solving, I’ve learned that when it comes to making big decisions, sometimes the best thing to do is to step back and wait.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyd_WRYN9SE68jIjXIgO-YKaX5MUwDFiXyGluTwXzPr1G6ISE3Rt2TQTs93YR05CqbOLrwlAf_ukijWqccJmqWZwNh2snfbbhoKFX6VsDU7IOqe3Htl6KRKdrfgXJH5Z8A9UVvLzt4Kaz/s1600/construction2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyd_WRYN9SE68jIjXIgO-YKaX5MUwDFiXyGluTwXzPr1G6ISE3Rt2TQTs93YR05CqbOLrwlAf_ukijWqccJmqWZwNh2snfbbhoKFX6VsDU7IOqe3Htl6KRKdrfgXJH5Z8A9UVvLzt4Kaz/s1600/construction2.jpeg" /></a><span class="s1">So I’m off into uncharted territory. By focusing on supporting teachers and students in the best possible learning experiences, I’m embracing the construction and taking the detour. The destination is the same, but I’ve shifted to a different route. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">I believe that whatever “construction” lies ahead for each of us is not an accident, and can offer great potential for growth. There may be bumps ahead, but "the bumps are what you climb on" (Wiersbe, Baker, 2003).</span></div>
Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-31478669833775620212014-05-17T11:42:00.001-07:002016-09-08T15:19:41.453-07:00RainWoke up this morning to yet another rainy day. Sigh. This got me to thinking of similar days when I’m on the road. To me there is nothing as soothing as falling to sleep in a tent as the sound of falling rain. Waking up to the same sound is another story, especially when I know that I must ride 50-80 miles in it to get from point A to point B. I remember the first time I encountered this situation when on a cross-state ride. I knew that there was no other option than to get on the bike and head out: my gear (luggage, tent, etc.) was being transported by truck to a town 63 miles away. Several people stood around just looking at the rain, while others hopped on their bikes and headed out. I remember thinking, “I am going to get wet. Might as well just get going." When riding on rainy days, there’s really no point in trying to stay dry: all the rain gear in the world is useless after the first couple of miles. The main thing is to focus on the destination and be safe along the way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4H0sNdesWH7D8y06OdqIcNC78577qhCeqba3OYEZOnRobbanjntM7Dlp90XJlvUdfPzwsGgPLXxl9MzsP2t5klpdjQUb0Znq70Dzcdj-GTWm3oKj3Ngdin82vpWrJUK2UDh3MBgu-hLTh/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4H0sNdesWH7D8y06OdqIcNC78577qhCeqba3OYEZOnRobbanjntM7Dlp90XJlvUdfPzwsGgPLXxl9MzsP2t5klpdjQUb0Znq70Dzcdj-GTWm3oKj3Ngdin82vpWrJUK2UDh3MBgu-hLTh/s1600/photo.JPG" height="200" width="149" /></a><span class="s1">In education, there will be “rainy days”. Sometimes for weeks at a time. As much as we might want to stay snuggled in our comfort zones, our students need us to keep moving forward. Changes in teaching facilitated by the advent of Common Core and growth in technology call for continuous learning on our part. In the words of <a href="http://hiawathaliteracyforteachers.blogspot.com/2014/05/justin-timberlake-is-going-to-make-me.html?m=1" target="_blank">+LeahO’Donnel</a>l, “</span><span class="s2">There is always something new to learn, and that can make us great.”<b> </b></span><span class="s1">Our students deserve our very best effort. Looking out the window and commiserating about the “forecast” does a disservice to them. We cannot afford to waste a single day. When clouds loom large and winds of change blow, carry on: the sun will shine again.</span></div>
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Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-59322669556050826252014-05-07T02:13:00.000-07:002016-09-08T15:19:41.484-07:00Flow<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">As the school year continues to wane and summer looms large, I find myself dreaming more and more of pedaling through the countryside and sleeping under the stars, day after day, for weeks at a time. It is when I’m doing these rides, many of them across states I’ve never traveled, that all the training I’ve done and coaching I’ve received allows me to escape into hours of serenity. I seriously lose time on these rides, and have gone for hours in that <a href="http://ishiftbutler.blogspot.com/2014/04/sweet-spots.html" target="_blank">sweet spot</a>. I have a zeal to be in “the zone” - that place where one doesn’t notice the effort being expended, the pain, the aching muscles or saddle-sore butt. It’s a place of untroubled delight, of being in harmony with my bike, fully immersed in the moment, and loving every second of it. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Another name for this is <i>Flow</i>. The psychologist who developed this concept, Mihaly Csikszentmihaly, refers to Flow as “a mental state of operation that one enters when engaging in an activity – becoming fully immersed in a feeling of energized focus, involvement and success.” He goes on to say, “The best moments usually occur when a person’s body or mind is <i>stretched to its limits in a voluntary effort to accomplish something difficult and worthwhile</i>.” So being stretched to the max can give us energy and allow us to embrace success? Yes. </span></div>
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I strive to experience Flow in my job as well as on my bike. Some might wonder why I’d want to stretch myself, voluntarily, to work harder. In a word: joy. Seriously. By pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and having a resolve to master some new thing, I’m able to develop a sense of control, which in turn leads to feelings of peace. This is not easy, and I don’t always succeed, but as my skill-sets improve, I am more productive and my stress decreases. Once one goal is accomplished, I’m eager to set the next one. I’m actively seeking new approaches and tools as I coach my peers to better leverage tech to facilitate increased engagement and student learning. And loving it. <span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">If this concept intrigues you, give yourself permission to shift to this mindset. Begin by identifying a challenge, set your goal, and then go for it. <a href="http://blogs.psychcentral.com/thrive/2014/04/how-to-experience-flow/" target="_blank"><span class="s2">Here’s</span></a> an article that sums up the process. As with many new endeavors, this will require focus and resolve (and time). Practicing positive self-talk is necessary - be intentional about nurturing your inner coach and squelching your inner critic. Flow cannot happen by being passive. In the complex worlds of education, technology and assessment, this is a difficult task. But by choosing to embrace the challenge and stretching ourselves to succeed, we can find ourselves getting energized.</span></div>
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Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-68676845517688479712014-04-14T19:34:00.001-07:002016-09-08T15:19:41.486-07:00Sweet Spots<br />
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<span class="s1">After completing periodization workouts with the bike up on a trainer all winter, I’m ready to hit the open road. The strategic and systematic classes I’ve struggled through all winter (with coach Kristen Meshberg) have hopefully prepared my body for the upcoming season. By working on various heart rate zones (bpm) and cadences (rpm), I’ll be able to maintain my desired speed (mph). My goal is to have my brain be in control, rather than my legs, and to shift my mental focus as needed. I’ve learned to seek that perfect combination where my bpm, rpm and mph are in perfect harmony. Being a mileage junkie, I love turning over mile after mile after mile in that “sweet spot”. This is my goal on the bike.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">As an instructional coach, I try to help those I collaborate with find that “sweet spot” in their teaching. </span><span class="s2">As I work with teachers to make the shift to merging the use of digital devices into traditional methods of teaching, I’ve recently started using the TPACK model (along with the SAMR model) as a way of</span><span class="s1"> illustrating the complex interaction of content (CK), pedagogy (PK), and technology (TK). As a “recovering math teacher”, I’ve always known that deep content knowledge is critical for effective teaching and learning. Having that knowledge in one’s head is useless, however, if the students don’t understand the concepts or cannot apply what has been shared with them. Sound pedagogical knowledge is critical for learning to take place. We need to fully understand how particular groups of students best learn, which approaches are best for the given content, and how to assess for genuine understanding. Content knowledge is </span><span class="s2">necessary but insufficient for lasting learning without sound pedagogy. Integrating technology to teach specific content has vastly expanded the ways we can differentiate learning experiences to facilitate deeper engagement for all students </span><span class="s1">The beauty of this model is that it allows us to visualize where the heart or “sweet spot” of teaching and learning is. I’ve begun encouraging those I coach to view the model and to ask themselves: how can I leverage the technology that is available, along with the use of best practices, to facilitate deep and lasting understanding for this specific class (or student)?</span></div>
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<span class="s1">I love this quote! “Effective technology integration for pedagogy around specific subject matter requires developing sensitivity to the dynamic, transactional relationship between these components of knowledge situated in unique contexts. Individual teachers, grade-level, school-specific factors, demographics, culture, and other factors ensure that every situation is unique, and no single combination of content, technology, and pedagogy will apply for every teacher, every course, or every view of teaching” (<a href="http://www.tpack.org/"><span class="s3">http://www.tpack.org</span></a>).</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><i>Reproduced by permission of tpack.org, © 2012 </i></span></div>
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Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-19370766682624861802014-03-07T05:55:00.000-08:002016-09-08T15:19:41.438-07:00It’s Not About the Hill/Tech
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<span class="s1">Each October roughly 5000 riders converge upon south central Indiana to participate in a ride called the Hilly Hundred for two days of breathtaking cycling. Literally. The fall foliage is exquisite and the hills, epic. The climb that is most discussed among riders is Mt. Tabor. At a steady 24% grade for a third of a mile, it is formidable. In the six times I’ve participated in this ride, I’ve only walked Mt. Tabor once. At the time, I attributed my inability to conquer this hill to recovery from several broken ribs. Upon further reflection, I admitted to myself it was more likely due to a lack of determination and confidence, and fear that I wasn’t in good enough shape.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">When I think about times in the classroom that my students did not learn what I’d thought they should have, I sometimes felt like a total failure. This frightened me. Did I have what it took to be a good teacher? Upon honest reflection, I sometimes was ill-prepared. In other instances, I was out of tune with student needs. Too often, my focus was on <i>my teaching</i>, rather than on <i>their learning</i>. When the digital device initiative began, I was challenged - it required a major shift in my thinking about student learning. Fortunately, I chose to embrace a new mindset, with a new skill set developing as a result. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">When one is afraid or intimidated, they’ll never be able to fully succeed. Whether this refers to conquering the colossal Mt. Tabor, or integrating technology into your teaching, it doesn’t matter. The point is, your <i>attitude</i> can make a huge difference in your willingness to attempt great things. One key to accomplishing this is the use of reflections. Ask yourself, “What really matters? What will it look like when I succeed? Am I prepared? How can I improve?” Then, shift your energy to accomplish those things. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">It’s OK to be concerned about those hills we face. I believe a bit of healthy respect for the task in front of us helps to prevent complacency. A tinge of cognitive dissonance</span></div>
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<span class="s1">can motivate us to try to reduce our fear by taking action. If I have to walk my bike up a hill, I’ll get back on at the top and keep riding. If the awesome lesson I’ve planned flops, I’ll try again tomorrow. The point is to choose your attitude so you can keep moving forward! </span></div>
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<span class="s1">“In times of change learners inherit the earth, while the learned find themselves beautifully equipped to deal with a world that no longer exists.” </span></div>
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Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-41918406344623946152014-02-11T09:51:00.003-08:002016-09-08T15:19:41.463-07:00Training<br />
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<span class="s1">Whether planning for a long bike ride, or looking at the weeks and months ahead in the classroom, in order to have endurance and success one must build a base. On the bike, this might involve cardio workouts and/or saddle time on the trainer through the winter months. The disciplined rider knows that the payoff will be worth it. The shift from indoors to outdoors is <span style="color: purple;">manageable and eagerly anticipated</span> because the body has been conditioned and the mind knows how to focus. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>For optimal performance in the classroom, educators also need to engage in active, purposeful training. Traditionally this took the form of a one-size-fits-none institute day by an “expert” who was from out of town and out of touch. I have the pleasure of working in a district that no longer subscribes to that model. South Berwyn D100 has been exemplary in making the shift to relevant, useful, and personalized PD. At our January 20 Institute day, following “Ignite” sessions in which several teachers shared cool resources for leveraging our 1:1 technology, we could choose from over 60 workshops <i>all presented by D100 staff</i>. Check it out at <a href="http://tinyurl.com/D100-1-20PD"><span class="s2">http://tinyurl.com/D100-1-20PD</span></a>. Each week we also share “Tech Tuesday Tips” in which teachers are encouraged to check out useful apps, websites and resources. Additional examples of <i>personalized, ongoing learning</i> that is accessible can be found at <a href="http://tinyurl.com/WPSMiniCon14"><span class="s2">http://tinyurl.com/WPSMiniCon14</span></a> and <a href="http://tinyurl.com/DGPlaydate"><span class="s2">http://tinyurl.com/DGPlaydate</span></a>. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>Let’s just remember that, whereas as no one else can prepare you for a challenging ride on the bike, no one else can prepare<span style="background-color: cyan;"> <span style="color: purple;">you</span></span> for the classroom. The shift to owning your classroom “training” has occurred and each of us needs to gear down and move forward. Using a<span style="color: purple;"> personal learning network</span> (PLN) for ongoing support will be addressed in an upcoming blog.</span></div>
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Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6279261946272875097.post-43499811203311440192014-02-08T12:22:00.001-08:002016-09-08T15:19:41.467-07:00Great QuoteWayne Gretzky once said, "<span style="color: blue;">A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be.</span><b>"</b> Cyclists know this is true: for success on a steep climb it is helpful to know the length of the climb and the max grade, and then shift before it is too late (read: walk bike in humiliation, or worse, fall.) Educators need to know what the future (immediate and long-term) holds for our students, and prepare them for that. Doing what worked in the past or what one is comfortable with is a disservice to today's students. This shift requires honest reflection and a willingness to change. It also requires learning from others and taking chances. Extending the metaphor, give yourself permission to fall. "You can't fall if you never climb" (Dr. Seuss).Sue Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06618703093405489957noreply@blogger.com1