Warner Update
Sept. 9th - 16th
Art or Skill?
For example, I began to wonder...
- If you teach reading, how valuable and important is it to know current authors and books?
- If you teach math, should you be up to date on current techniques, tools, and strategies to help students master concepts?
- If you teach science, how important is new research? Science is ALWAYS evolving, is it critical to stay current?
I think you see my point.
This string of thinking then got me to reflect on other professions. What I began to deduce is that anyone interested in improving oneself is likely to be continuously learning.
I find that my learning comes in a variety of manners. I take classes and attend conferences. This type of learning is sufficient, but it doesn't feel completely continuous.
What I have found is that continuous for me means these three approaches:
- Reading blogs, articles and books. This type of learning often expands my perspective and pushes me to try new things.
- Listening to podcasts. I have a few podcasts that I really enjoy. I find myself connecting with the show(s) and often times I'll reflect during my runs.
- Participating in twitter chats and voxing with other educators. Personally this is the "doing" part of my learning. When I share on twitter or voxer I'm putting myself out there and I'm opening myself up for all forms of feedback. This is a type of learning I can't replicate.
So the question is, is continuous learning an ongoing skill or more of a dedicated art?
Why does it matter? If you believe continuous learning is more of an art it may simply come down to motivation, inspiration and drive. If you believe continuous learning is a skill then it is safe to say you need to practice it often.
See the difference?
As we prepare for our first 5 day week, I would challenge you to answer these questions:
1) Is staying relevant in your career important and/or valuable?
2) Do you view learning as an Art or Skill? Your answer may determine how you approach improving.
Podcasts Worth Hearing:
Next Week At A Glance:
Tuesday, September 12th: Happy Bday to Kristy Soper
Tuesday, September 12th: 9am Admin Meeting
Wednesday, September 13th: Grades 3-5 Assembly at 8:45am
Wednesday, September 13th: Early Release (Alaina Sharp will be helping with technology and any projects you are wanting to dive into.)
Thursday, September 14th: 1st Grade Grandparents Day
Thursday, September 14th: PTO Meeting at Harmony Park 6:30pm (Meet & Greet Families)
Friday, September 15th: Fun Night 5:30 - 8pm
* I hope everyone will begin using Move This World this week. The sooner we dive in, the quicker we can establish building wide common language to help our Warner students.
* As a grade level, please decide what color your grade will be wearing for Spirit Week which is the 18-22nd.