2011-05-19 Seedlings Show 116 with Dr. Carina Self

We are joined by Dr. Carina Self from The University of New Hampshire. Carina is the Assistant Coordinator of the Women's Studies Program and lecturer.

Geek of the week

Links from the Show

Chat

 cheryloakes~seedlings -> welcome connect2jamie
 connect2jamie -> Hi friends!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Welcome, this evening, we have Carina Self as our guest.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Hello PeggyG, welcome
 bobsprankle -> http://www.aschool.us/random/
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> audio check?
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Hi Jamie Hi Peggy can you hear us?
 connect2jamie -> yes! I hear you on A
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> great
 connect2jamie -> hi everyone!
 PeggyG -> hi hearing you great!
 PeggyG -> my chat log was slow loading!
 connect2jamie -> I had to load the page twice. Chat log acted funny
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> glad it is working
 PeggyG -> I think I just have too many tabs open :-) hoping I don't lose my connection!
 PeggyG -> we're so glad you're back Bob!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> I know what you mean Peggy! Ihad to restart my computer!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> We are glad he is back too. Although we heard that Zoe's concert was awesome.
 PeggyG -> It's a beautiful day here in Phoenix AZ! 72 degrees and windy :-) But it will be back to 85 degrees tomorrow
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Sounds so nice. I actually had a fire last night brrr
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> We have had about 10 days of rain, fog, clouds, but 62 degrees today was nice.
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Hasn't gotten to 60 yet. Garden beginning to rot
 PeggyG -> oh no! that's sad!
 connect2jamie -> 85* here in Houston today.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Oh,  Alice we had 62 today when the sun tried to appear.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Oh, Jamie, great report 85 degrees!
 connect2jamie -> It will be 110 soon though, and I'll wish I were in Maine!
 PeggyG -> maybe our cool weather is coming your way connect2jamie :-)
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Nice. Weird it was chilly for me!
 PeggyG -> Great to be hearing from another preservice educator!!
 PeggyG -> do you have a link for Carina?
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Yes, Peggy, we have  much to learn
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> yes coming
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> http://www.unh.edu/womens-studies/index.cfm?ID=784B61C4-0759-8EAC-C57E0F...
 PeggyG -> I haven't seen Waiting for Superman yet
 PeggyG -> thanks Alice
 PeggyG -> what's a date movie??
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> http://gradworks.umi.com/34/70/3470116.html
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Date Movie='s going out on a date to a movie
 PeggyG -> aha
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/Bridging-Differences/
 PeggyG -> can't wait to hear the solutions :-) talk about pressure!!
 bobsprankle -> lol, peggy
 PeggyG -> kids enter Kindergarten in that phase and then something happens!!
 bobsprankle -> "can't just change things by being a good person"
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Yes, Peggy, we make them line up to go everywhere.
 PeggyG -> exactly!
 PeggyG -> I think when preservice teachers are immersed in schools as they complete their courses is a great way to help them be realistic and idealistic
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> yes Peggy, and really helps them reflect upon their practice
 PeggyG -> Our Professional Development School program model for preservice education did that and I loved it!
 bobsprankle -> http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/Bridging-Differences/
 connect2jamie -> LOVE their blog!
 PeggyG -> it looks wonderful! can't wait to explore it
 connect2jamie -> I didn't know they've been doing it for so long.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> This is great it is like being a fly on the wall.
 PeggyG -> I remember and still own all of those books from the 70's and 80's mentioned in that first blog post (Holt, Kohn, Sylvia Ashton-Warner). They were all part of my university education.
 connect2jamie -> :)
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Peggy, so true.
 PeggyG -> That was a great Conversations webcast!! Miguel Guhlin asked hard questions. :-)
 connect2jamie -> That conversations podcast ep was really a good discussion. Wish I'd been there!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Miguel is so throughtful and he asks probing questions.
 connect2jamie -> He does.
 PeggyG -> the relationships are so important to building trust and community to work through challenging decisions!
 PeggyG -> teaching can be a very lonely profession if you limit yourself to your classroom, grade level and school. that's why PLNs and social media are so valuable to help you get things in perspective!
 connect2jamie -> Amen, Peggy!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> absolutely, Peggy. It still is a lonely profession for many. And then some people form groups and get stuck in the mire of schools.
 connect2jamie -> As the librarian, many times the things that I think are important are not even on other teachers' radar. It can be very isolating.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Yes Jamie! Then, also there comes a teacher who is excited about something that you have tried to introduce and promote and they are able to break through to other teachers.
 connect2jamie -> My PLN keeps me thinking and trying and helps me to reflect on how things are and how things can be.
 PeggyG -> When I retired as a principal I was beginning to see a trend with new teachers coming in that they weren't really interested in community building and taking on responsibilities outside of their classroom. This was in contrast to the veteran teachers who had worked hard to build community for many years.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Peggy, that happens with many new teachers until they get tenure.
 PeggyG -> you have such an incredibly important role as a librarian Jamie!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Anyone read this yet? A New Culture of Learning: Cultivationg the Imagintion for a World Of Constant Change.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> sounds good Alice.
 connect2jamie -> Yes. That does happen, and it is great when it does. I can't imagine how it would be though if I didn't have my online community to discuss and reflect with.
 PeggyG -> no Alice but the title is wonderful!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> yes, this online group is the best supportive network
 connect2jamie -> That does look good Alice.
 connect2jamie -> Yes it is Cheryl!
 connect2jamie -> Twitter has changed my professional life.
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> ME too Jamie
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> yes!
 connect2jamie -> And my husband's life, to some extent, b/c he gets to have dinner with all my Maine friends every Thursday!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> How nice is that!!! Welcome to your husband.
 connect2jamie -> My daughter, home from college, earlier said, "Bob Sprankle. I know that name. Who is he?" I laughed.
 PeggyG -> new teachers are discouraged for many reasons--whether they will even get or keep their job, and struggling with so much public criticism of teachers and schools.
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> How fun! Welcome Jamie's hubby!
 connect2jamie -> She knows Bob from me being on Twitter & in edtechtalk chat rooms! LOL!
 PeggyG -> love it Jamie!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> LOL! So Great!
 bobsprankle -> lol, jamie!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Keep spreading the word.
 PeggyG -> I like that point a lot!! we need to reframe how we talk about teachers!
 connect2jamie -> I certainly try to spread the word about online professional communities, but I think networks like Twitter are really hard for people to "get."
 connect2jamie -> At first.
 PeggyG -> what are some of the key words Carina would use to describe teachers in that way?
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> yes, it does require some modeling for some.
 PeggyG -> it's so sad to hear of "teachers of the year" who are exceptional teachers lose their jobs because of seniority and lack of funding!
 connect2jamie -> Haven't had much luck with anyone in my local district. Only one person--and she was wildly connected before she came to the district.
 bobsprankle -> http://www.saveourschoolsmarch.org/
 PeggyG -> what makes her feel that way--we're on the verge of something great...
 connect2jamie -> I hope "big and positive" is right!
 connect2jamie -> I don't really feel that way right now.
 PeggyG -> is it because of the public support for rallying around education? the grass roots movement?
 connect2jamie -> Tell us what makes you feel that we're in a positive place.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> we will ask her
 connect2jamie -> Things are fairly bleak in TX right now. But final decisions haven't been made by lege yet.
 PeggyG -> they're very bleak in AZ too!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> So discouraging right now for education.
 connect2jamie -> My district has done a good job of minimizing the problems that TX districts are having right now, but it is still not good at all, and it's not over. Many, many ppl have lost their jobs.
 PeggyG -> I think people/teachers want to be involved in a positive effort but don't feel like they can make a difference.
 connect2jamie -> I hope you're right
 connect2jamie -> @Peggy I think you're right.
 PeggyG -> yes we are losing many really great teachers!!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> I think so Peggy, we do the hard work every day. We need community and family members to take on the charge.
 PeggyG -> and those remaining don't feel they can say "I won't take it any more" because they don't want to lose their jobs.
 PeggyG -> I agree Cheryl!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> right Peggy
 PeggyG -> I love to imagine what it might be like if schools/districts were not allowed to spend money on standardized tests! :-) can you imagine how that might change things???
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> right on Peggy
 connect2jamie -> The road to something else...that's quite a concept. I hope you're right that we will go to a better place. For students and for educators.
 PeggyG -> think of all of the teachers we could bring back into teaching and all of the things we could buy to support education if we didn't have to spend all of that money on testing!!
 connect2jamie -> In my colleagues' discussions about the scary state of education in our state, I see a troubling disconnect between their views there and the way they vote when it comes down to it. I don't understand it.
 PeggyG -> we believe that so strongly as educators--critical to democracy! why don't politicians and legislators see that/believe that??
 connect2jamie -> @Peggy that is such a wonderful thought!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> I know I always wonder... The politicians have been through the system, why don't they want to make it better?
 connect2jamie -> I JUST had that discussion about education and democracy with my father in law last weekend! I don't think he really knows exactly what to do with me sometimes though! :)
 PeggyG -> exactly Alice!
 PeggyG -> they are more interested in being re-elected by people who want to lower taxes
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> but keep the conversations going Jamie!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> A lot is becasue of $$$$ and what is valued
 PeggyG -> yes! money!!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Lilly! Perfect timing :)
 PeggyG -> my parents never really understood the things I told them about education but they knew how important teachers were and always voted for teacher raises and supporting education!!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> JAmie keep those conversations going! YOu never know where it will come back
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Alice did you bribe Lilly?
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> NO not at all. She just sat up, barked and then laid down!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> She' a true SEEDling :)
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Good girl Lilly
 connect2jamie -> The disconnect that I see in my area is that the vast, VAST majority of my colleagues might be described as "neoconservatives." And they seem to be surprised that the ppl that they voted for are now creating a hostile environment for schools through legislation. And yet the politicians made it clear exactly what they planned to do!
 PeggyG -> curriculum has become narrowed by what is on the test
 connect2jamie -> That Lilly!
 connect2jamie -> It is scandalously narrowed, and it's scary.
 PeggyG -> teachers aren't being encouraged or rewarded for thinking--only preparing kids to do well on the tests.
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> @jamie It's really funny what people vote for and then expect. Of ten they hear what they want to and do the research (kind of like kids!)
 connect2jamie -> It is puzzling.
 PeggyG -> we have to hope and believe and keep working for change!
 connect2jamie -> @peggy I think that's why we're all here!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> IT must be starting to work... Look how many more people talking changes in ed on Twitter
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Yes Jamie
 PeggyG -> I agree Jamie!
 connect2jamie -> @least ppl are talking about education in the general population. Hopefully that's the beginning.
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Agree Jamie
 PeggyG -> how do we move people from only thinking about what's important for their child to why that's important for ALL children?
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Yes Jamie, even NBC has the little blips about education!!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> AH great question!
 connect2jamie -> How do we @Peggy?
 connect2jamie -> That is the central question, I guess.
 PeggyG -> I don't have the answer but I'd love to hear what Carina thinks :-)
 connect2jamie -> me too!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Hi Carolyn, welcom
 PeggyG -> Hi Carolyn!
 PeggyG -> information and facts are the last thing they need
 cstanley -> Hi, all - just checking in for a minute!
 PeggyG -> they can find it faster on google than they can get an answer from the person sitting next to them
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> especially when they have efficient searches, that is what we need to teach!
 PeggyG -> true
 connect2jamie -> Absolutely @cheryl!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> :-)
 PeggyG -> I participated in a 3-day food photography online workshop last weekend and was so inspired by how she modeled and taught us about taking photos that captured story, culture and setting--all about people
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> oh, a great one peggy1
 PeggyG -> her key points were all points that educators believe and know!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> How fun peggy! You are amazing! Always learning!
 connect2jamie -> storytelling
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Peggy is the ultimate life long learner.
 PeggyG -> "be inspired, have an insatiable curiosity, love what you're doing, listen, lead with your heart, trust/follow your instincts, be open" Isn't that what we want for our kids??
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> YEs she is! Such a great model Peggy!
 cstanley -> I participated in Shout webinar with a scientist in Panama - involving folks in sustainable agriculture - shade grown coffee and cacao - pretty passionate project.
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> YEs Peggy
 PeggyG -> what a wonderful conversation!!! I don't want it to end!
 PeggyG -> I would love to hear more from Carina!
 connect2jamie -> I'd LOVE to hear more about Carina's work!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Carolyn, my students are doing the Shout tree banding project.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> It is a great project!
 PeggyG -> Lilly was eager!
 cstanley -> @cheryl - cool - can you keep me posted?
 bobsprankle -> http://www.wbez.org/blog/achy-obejas/2011-02-07/how-and-why-those-rogers...
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> sure we are just getting ready to post information
 connect2jamie -> @Bob LOL! podcast retrivers!
 cstanley -> You were great on Classroom 2.0 last Saturday.
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> LOVE Podcast retrievers!!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Thanks so much Carolyn! It was stressful, but a fun stressful.
 PeggyG -> yes Cheryl did an awesome job on Classroom 2.0 LIVE!!! such a wonderful example for teachers!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2011/05/and-2011-us-doodle-4-google-winne...
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> OH, thanks, aw shucks!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> http://googleenterprise.blogspot.com/2011/05/connecting-educators-throug...
 PeggyG -> I mean it Cheryl!! I've listened to the session twice already and hear new things every time!!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Wow, I have to admit, I listened to it on Sunday  to see if I made sense.   :-)
 PeggyG -> those are always such creative designs!!
 bobsprankle -> http://mindshift.kqed.org/2011/05/its-flexibility-draws-one-family-to-vi...
 cstanley -> It's not new, crew, but I've been playing with Evernote. As I was trying to figure it out this afternoon, one of my students suggested I use Dropbox instead - said it was better. Any ideas on that?
 connect2jamie -> Of course you did @Cheryl! You were great!
 PeggyG -> they are really different Carolyn. I use both for different reasons
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> They are a little different. I use both. Dropbox for sharing my own stuff, Evernote for collecting work for students.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Thanks Jamie.
 bobsprankle -> http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2011/05/think-you-need-to-grad...
 bobsprankle -> http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2011/05/teen-takes-control-of-...
 PeggyG -> Dropbox is a place to drop documents/files/videos/photos to share with others to download or collaborate on
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> http://www.nmc.org/news/nmc/8540 K-12 Horizon Report
 PeggyG -> Lisa Nielsen!
 bobsprankle -> http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2011/05/think-you-need-to-grad...
 PeggyG -> I heard the CoSN webinar this week announcing the new K12 Horizon report. So glad it's out!!
 cstanley -> Thanks, Peggy. I do like the ability to use Evernote on the iPad. I imagine you can do the same with Dropbox?
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> http://www.pcworld.com/article/226522/chrome_adds_speechtotext_for_googl...
 PeggyG -> I like Evernote much better but need dropbox for sharing large files
 PeggyG -> both are in the cloud and also on your desktop
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> I agree Peggy
 cstanley -> I would like to convince our school to switch over to Chrome, but our administrator is dedicated to Microsoft and IE.
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> yeah Bob!!
 bobsprankle -> http://www.aschool.us/random/
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> IE doesn't work well with  Chrome.
 cstanley -> I have been following your pictures on Twitter, Bob.
 PeggyG -> There are still things I can't do on Chrome that keep me on Firefox as my first choice for a browser
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> I was presenting in a HS and IE was just not satisfying.
 connect2jamie -> Hooray Bob!
 cstanley -> @Peggy - glad to hear you say that - I still am using Firefox at home.
 PeggyG -> there was a really interesting discussion on EdTech Weekly last Sunday about the Chromebook
 PeggyG -> yeah! congrats Julianne Spang!!
 bobsprankle -> Congrats Julie Ann Spang!!!
 connect2jamie -> @peggy yes there was. $720/yr to rent a device is not going to happen in many, many districts!
 alice barr (SEEDLings) -> Rockin chat room tonight thanks guys
 connect2jamie -> It was GREAT as usual!
 PeggyG -> exactly!!!
 cheryloakes~seedlings -> Bye all, thanks for a great chat!!
 cstanley -> night
 PeggyG -> thanks to all of you!! lots of great things to think about!
 connect2jamie -> wonderful discussion and thanks CArina!
 PeggyG -> good night all!
 connect2jamie -> Night!
 bobsprankle -> thank you all so much!


We are joined by Dr. Carina Self from The University of New Hampshire. Carina is the Assistant Coordinator of the Women's Studies Program and lecturer.

Geek of the week

Links from the Show

Chat

Conversations Episode 101 - Should I Stay or Should I Go?

This week Miguel Guhlin joined Lisa, Maria, and Sheila to continue a conversation he had started in a chat room a few weeks ago.  His question: Do you bloom where you are planted or do you move to bloom?  We discussed the pros and cons of staying in a difficult teaching situation where you can do great work for children or moving where you are more supported.

Chat:

11:27:46 Sheila : Morning Peggy

11:28:05 Lisa Parisi : Hello

11:28:45 PeggyG : will you be streaming on ustream?

11:28:55 Sheila : yes

11:28:56 Lisa Parisi : ustream only today

11:29:22 PeggyG : Hi Miguel! So glad to agreed to come back to continue this conversation--brilliant topic suggestion!

11:29:42 PeggyG : Hi Amanda!

11:30:00 marragem : Hi Peggy!

11:30:06 Lisa Parisi : Hello Amanda

11:30:14 Sheila 2 : Hey Amanda!

11:30:15 marragem : Morning everyone!

11:30:25 Sheila 2 : Conversations will be starting in a few minutes.

11:30:48 marragem : I'm pretending I'm in your timezone and it's still Sunday

11:30:56 Sheila 2 : :)

11:30:58 PeggyG : good idea Amanda :-)

11:31:21 PeggyG : pretending is a good thing :-)

11:31:28 Lisa Parisi : ustream is starting

11:31:41 marragem : but in 29 days....

11:32:16 PeggyG : audio is great

11:33:20 PeggyG : I've been participating in a fantastic online food photography workshop most of the weekend. Amazing to watch a professional photographer teach us about food and culture!

11:33:42 Sheila 2 : Sounds very interesting!

11:33:42 marragem : sounds fun, Peggy

11:33:49 MGuhlin.org : aww

11:34:29 marragem : I found the song that reminded me of

11:34:31 PeggyG : http://www.ustream.tv/creativelive They offered this workshop for free :-)

11:34:57 MGuhlin.org : Hi, peggyG!

11:35:02 PeggyG : food photography with a professional photographer from National Geographic :-)

11:35:40 PeggyG : we need to establish your credibility Miguel :-) just teasing...

11:35:40 Lisa Parisi : HEllo Maureen

11:35:45 PeggyG : Hi Maureen

11:35:57 Maureen : Good morning Lisa and everyone

11:36:03 k_timms : good morning

11:36:04 marragem : Hi Maureen

11:36:35 Lisa Parisi : Good morning, K_timms.

11:36:44 Maureen : Goodness Amanda! Are you on holiday? Isn't if awfully early, or late for you?

11:36:45 PeggyG : I'm so grateful that you share so willingly, openly and frequently, Miguel! I learn so much from you!

11:37:02 PeggyG : Yes! M Scott Peck! Love his books!

11:37:58 PeggyG : I think this is such an important conversation because I'm sure all of us have considered this question for ourselves at one time or another

11:38:10 marragem : yes, it's after 1:30 am but I can sleep in -have an ICT network day later today

11:38:27 Lisa Parisi : WElcome to the chat, Maria.

11:38:29 PeggyG : this question led me to retirement :-)

11:38:36 MariaK : finally hardwired

11:38:38 Lisa Parisi : REally, Peggy?

11:38:43 PeggyG : :-)

11:38:54 PeggyG : yes

11:38:55 marragem : there was a Carey Landry song based on this back in the 80's. Big in Catholic schools

11:39:24 MariaK : hey amanda...yawn

11:39:40 PeggyG : in retirement I moved to bloom :-)

11:39:53 marragem : I napper earlier, Maria. Not tired...yet

11:40:32 PeggyG : would love to hear Scott McCloud's rationale for your decision Miguel

11:40:57 Maureen : It's a very hard decision. I love my school, but really don't see any change happening. But I am also too old to really pick up and move.

11:41:01 MGuhlin.org : Scott says, "Move to where you will bloom" (although that's a paraphrase, not a quote)

11:41:15 PeggyG : hard to make a decision to move in education because of salary schedules, tenure status, etc. may lost a lot

11:41:31 MGuhlin.org : @Maureen wow, that's how many folks feel! Me, too and I'm only 42! 8->

11:41:35 Sheila 2 : I had immediate reactions to this subject, but I think my reaction would be different when I was younger.

11:42:10 PeggyG : one of my teachers left to start a personal business after 25 years in education--business didn't work out and she had to return to step one of the salary schedule when she returned to teaching. Very sad.

11:42:31 PeggyG : interesting point Sheila! didn't think about age as a factor

11:42:33 MGuhlin.org : Is our inability to handle change/risk keep us in toxic environments? How can we better adapt to risk/change so we can move and bloom in non-toxic environments?

11:42:44 marragem : I've been pondering a move for a few years but can't find a school that will allow me to do what I do...so doing an exchange instead!

11:42:55 Maureen : @mguhlin I have a few decades on you... my house is almost paid for, and I like it here- except when I don't.

11:43:13 Sheila 2 : :) Maureen.

11:43:36 MGuhlin.org : how does blogging and social media provide an emotional safety net for us to endure toxic environments?

11:43:54 marragem : think I've still managed to bloom in what was a toxic environment. Just have to change your thinking, not let things bother you

11:44:02 Maureen : I can do whatever I want in my classroom, but I want others around me to change as well. I cannot change the culture of my school.

11:44:30 MGuhlin.org : great question...how can you work without investment?

11:44:38 McTeach (Karen) : You're lucky Maureen...I can't seem to do anything I want to in my classroom anymore.

11:44:39 Lisa Parisi : Having support among others, Miguel, definitely helps.  26 years ago, there was no social network.

11:44:42 PeggyG : an exchange is an interesting alternative Amanda!

11:45:38 PeggyG : I think having a PLN via social networking definitely helps but I wonder if we use what we learn to improve our own situation or if it's just a safe place to survive?

11:45:45 Maureen : Hey Karen... Didn't even see you sneak in. I have freedom to do whatever I want, pretty much- but nobody cares. The culture at my school is so very traditional.

11:45:48 Lisa Parisi : Hello John.

11:46:03 Lisa Parisi : Hello, Techyturner.

11:46:08 woodenmask : Good morning.

11:46:13 MariaK : Hi John

11:46:21 woodenmask : Morning, Ma'am

11:46:22 MariaK : good morning to you!

11:46:24 PeggyG : Hi McTeach!! So glad you could join us :-)

11:46:25 techyturner : Hi. trying to get the broadcast on so I can hear it.

11:46:41 PeggyG : Hi techyturner! Haven't seen you in ages! Welcome!

11:46:44 marragem : Peggy -I can't change the culture amongst my staff, can't change the the culture of my employer, too old to change systems, so an exchange will move me out of my comfort zone

11:46:44 Lisa Parisi : it's on ustream only today.

11:46:48 PeggyG : streaming on ustream

11:46:53 McTeach (Karen) : Hi Peggy! Somebody forced me to get out of bed! :P

11:46:55 techyturner : Thank you

11:47:11 MGuhlin.org : Wow, my heart is beating fast and I feel anxious as I listen to you all. anyone else getting emotional?

11:47:17 Maureen : I sent the art teacher a Escher like tessellation that one of my sixth graders made this week. She wants to learn how to do it in SketchUp- wants to collaborate with me and math.  Little dreams... but not much action

11:47:19 MGuhlin.org : Kinda neat to reflect on this

11:47:28 PeggyG : :-) @McTeach--maybe it was somebody higher up forcing you to get out of bed??!!

11:47:35 Lisa Parisi : Maureen, run with it.

11:47:50 McTeach (Karen) : @Peggy...is Arizona "higher up"???

11:48:00 PeggyG : nope

11:48:11 PeggyG : just the messenger

11:48:28 McTeach (Karen) : :)

11:48:41 Lisa Parisi : Hello Jamie

11:48:47 PeggyG : I think this topic is less "emotional" when you've already made your decision and are at peace with it

11:49:01 Sheila 2 : True Peggy!

11:49:24 Sheila 2 : Do you reflect more when you are planted or looking to move?

11:49:27 MGuhlin.org : @PeggyG That may mean I'm not at peace with my decision.

11:49:30 MGuhlin.org : 8->

11:49:40 MGuhlin.org : Radioactive soil.

11:49:43 Maureen : I know that feeling Maria. I've lived here since '78.  Hard to even think about moving.  Been working at the same school since "91. I don't think I want to work in a public school and other options are very very limited- especially given my age.

11:49:44 PeggyG : I think so Miguel

11:50:28 MGuhlin.org : How can we ask questions that don't threaten people? Make environment safe for questions.

11:50:41 PeggyG : when you're struggling with a decision like this there is a tendency to think "the grass is greener" somewhere else but you bring your baggage with you

11:50:49 Lisa Parisi : Maybe we need to stop being defensive when people ask us questions.

11:50:51 MGuhlin.org : @PeggyG yes, agreed.

11:50:53 techyturner : Topic: Are we blooming where we are planted or do we need to move?

11:51:18 PeggyG : @Miguel- you can't control how others respond to your questions (feeling threatened, etc.) But it's still really important to ask them

11:51:22 McTeach (Karen) : @Peggy...yes..no matter where you go, there you are!

11:51:23 Maureen : @mguhlin  That's the problem- everyone always feels threatened just by asking questions. They feel like it's judgmental.

11:51:35 PeggyG : exactly McTeah :-) wise person said that!

11:52:19 PeggyG : consensus requires hard work!! easier to have someone tell you what to do and then complain about the decision (sic)...

11:52:32 Sheila 2 : Reflection can be uncomfortable for some especially when not feeling confident.

11:52:37 Maureen : At our last full faculty meeting- in response to some questions I asked- my boss said at least twice in his response "I;m not being defensive, but..." It was pretty clear that I was not supposed to ask these questions

11:52:37 Sheila 2 : Do you reflect more when you are planted or looking to move?

11:53:34 Maureen : @Peggy G I agree- At my school everyone complains, but won't work to change. It cannot happen magically

11:53:37 PeggyG : excellent points about asking questions @Miguel!

11:53:39 techyturner : @Sheila2 I reflect in both environments.

11:54:28 MGuhlin.org : You're so encouraging @PeggyG. Is that how the rest of us should be? Does that work to be affirming? You know what I'm saying?

11:54:47 PeggyG : I've been observing an amazing person in the professional photography workshop this weekend and she is a masterful person at giving feedback and challenging thinking in a constructive way. Very insightful for me!

11:54:53 MGuhlin.org : @PeggyG I admire that.

11:54:54 Sheila 2 : I found TET very helpful. Teacher Effectiveness Training. I pulled it out for another teacher this week.

11:55:02 Deya -> puentesalmundo: si o en el centro de la pantalla, la flecha grande

11:55:10 PeggyG : Yes I think it's important to find the positive in things and support them

11:55:12 MariaK : @sheila - I used to be a trainer for that! LOL

11:55:17 Maureen : I met with my boss and we talked about starting a PLC... to help move things forward. Then he pretty much said no to the people I wanted to invite. Kind of don't want it to be invitation only...

11:55:27 PeggyG : I think there is something positive in every experience

11:55:56 MGuhlin.org : @PeggyG yes...so how to handle the situation Lisa describes now?

11:56:30 Sheila 2 : You have to model and walk the walk yourself.

11:57:11 PeggyG : always interesting that people outside of your immediate network (school) think you are an expert and people in your own school don't want to listen--they want to hire consultants from the outside to do exactly what you are already doing

11:57:26 PeggyG : pant pant

11:57:33 Maureen : @Sheila I find it harder to model and have people see that they can apply the same model in MS than it was in lower grades, since everyone seems to think that their discipline is special, different and my model cannot work there

11:57:34 Lisa Parisi : Yes, Peggy.

11:58:08 Maureen : @Peggy- Yes- that prophet in your own land thing- it's true

11:59:02 techyturner : @peggy @maureen That has happen to me many times.

11:59:04 Sheila 2 : I had a teacher come up to me in front of others acknowledging how well I listen to everyone and try to compromise, just when I felt I was losing it! You never know your impact!

11:59:27 marragem : Peggy - you've just described the environment I'm in

11:59:40 Maureen : When I was in Boston last week at edcamp I listened to a HS english teacher explain how she uses google spreadsheets to grade- and give feedback on essays. She was so enthusiastic... wish my English teachers could catch some of that

11:59:43 Sheila 2 : I keep pluggin away, but I also look for people who will challenge me in my thinking.

11:59:48 woodenmask : I'm fortunate, but intimidated in that I work at a school with insanely talented colleagues, where most of them ARE better than me. It's still hard to bloom; my pot is irregular. #BeatingAMetaphorSenseless

11:59:53 PeggyG : I love the concept that Steve Farber promotes in his book "Greater Than Yourself"--To be a great leader you need to strive to make others greater than yourself

12:00:15 PeggyG : that's really true Sheila!! you never know your impact

12:00:56 Maureen : @woodenmask- I've used your blog and your examples of some of your projects and Paul's projects to show history teachers.. get the same reaction... doesn't fit with what they are doing..... I just don't get it

12:01:02 PeggyG : if you're working to make others "greater than yourself" you're not feeling defensive and threatened

12:01:43 McTeach (Karen) : That's what I'm feeling like I have to do. Just do what you're told so you don't get yelled at anymore.

12:01:45 PeggyG : sometimes they truly don't "get it" Maureen. They need to see it work for them to understand.

12:02:07 MGuhlin.org : @Karen Thanks for acknowledging that.

12:02:13 Maureen : @peggyG- how do you get them to even try something new?

12:02:58 McTeach (Karen) : @Miguel...wish I didn't have to. It's really killing me to not do what I think would work best in my classroom.

12:03:05 PeggyG : wonder what would happen if you took on your administrator/principal as a Greater Than Yourself project?? Is that too far fetched to think you could find positive in what they are doing and build on it?

12:03:14 MGuhlin.org : @Karen isn't it nice to admit it, though? Who could you tell at your workplace?

12:03:35 PeggyG : don't focus on the person--focus on what they do to support learning

12:03:46 Maureen : @McTeach- even our head of school knows that everyone is just keeping their head down... and grumbling- but making the culture change to a place where people feel valued and encouraged to try and talk- is not something that I can see happening. I think it has to be admin down... but he thinks it's a grassroots thing...

12:03:47 McTeach (Karen) : @Miguel...actually, everyone knows how I'm being treated, without me telling them.

12:03:53 MGuhlin.org : Does blooming always mean doing it your way and swimming upstream against the current?

12:04:08 Lisa Parisi : For me, it does, Miguel.

12:04:09 MGuhlin.org : @Karen yes, without speaking it aloud, it continues

12:04:25 McTeach (Karen) : @Peggy What if what they're doing doesn't support learning? What do we do?

12:04:26 Lisa Parisi : Doesn't mean it's right, just that it's what I need to bloom

12:04:49 Lisa Parisi : I would love for my way of blooming to be standard in the school.  Imagine the support I would have from colleagues.

12:05:01 Sheila 2 : @Karen I was in a situation like that several years back. I found other avenues to reflect and get support. Not a happy situation, but I was so focused in my classroom. Eventually, the staff started to voice their opinions too. It started to turn. Actually pulled staff together for a bit.

12:05:02 PeggyG : administrators definitely play an important role in establishing school culture but they aren't the only ones. Look at the example of Identity Day that George Couros started. Powerful way to build community

12:05:15 Maureen : @Maria- my daughter was asked to take 3 yr olds in to do some testing on the computers... she refused... and eventually won.

12:05:23 MGuhlin.org : Is the personal journey towards becoming a better person always involve swimming against organizational currents?

12:05:39 PeggyG : @McTeach--is there NOTHING they are doing to support learning? Who is telling them what to do? Board? Boss? Are they in conflict too?

12:05:48 Lisa Parisi : No.  Sometimes people agree with the organizational currents, Miguel.

12:06:34 Maureen : Why can't we have a PLN at our own schools- why does it come from outside? Or is it just me and my school? I feel far more supported by online PLN than I do in my school.

12:06:35 McTeach (Karen) : @Peggy She would prefer it if we taught like they did in the 1800's. Not sure how that can support learning.

12:06:36 PeggyG : probably that's true Miguel--at least right now in education!!

12:06:41 MGuhlin.org : So, if the org currents are aligned with not learning--as Karen suggests--and you need to align yourself with your org currents, should you move or persist as a rock being eroded?

12:07:07 PeggyG : those organization currents are everywhere--not just where you are now

12:07:27 MGuhlin.org : hahaha...love the frog story

12:07:38 PeggyG : me too :-)

12:07:39 marragem : I'm with you Maureen - far more support from my online PLN. Often feel an outsider at my school

12:07:43 MGuhlin.org : we keep hoping for the kiss to transform the frog, but we're the frog in the pot

12:07:44 Maureen : @Miguel is it always a rock being eroded? Or can it be a small dam affecting change in the stream?

12:07:46 MGuhlin.org : ;->

12:07:50 PeggyG : your secrets out...

12:08:03 McTeach (Karen) : @Miguel...last year, I decided to stay another year because I hoped that I could be a rock where others could gather around. Instead, I've been eroded.

12:08:12 techyturner : @miguel I don't think it always goes against organizational currents. I believe that people/organizations change and it may go against sooner or later.

12:08:14 PeggyG : changing grade levels and classrooms can often be a renewing experience

12:08:48 MGuhlin.org : We thrive on conflict and challenge to push us.

12:08:50 MGuhlin.org : 8->

12:09:13 Sheila 2 : If things were perfect, would we reflect?

12:09:24 Maureen : It seems like much of the conversation now seems to be around tech, but back before tech was an issue- didn't you always look for change? Ways to do things better?

12:09:36 techyturner : @shiela2 I would b/c that is what I do.

12:09:40 Lisa Parisi : I always do, Maureen, with or without tech.

12:10:13 Sheila 2 : Yes, Maureen. Nothing's perfect for me.

12:10:25 MGuhlin.org : @Maureen yes, of course. As a writing workshop facilitator, I drove the grammar teachers crazy. That's part of the point isn't it? Is this type of cognitive tension just normal to the human condition, perhaps, even necessary?

12:10:26 PeggyG : I personally think that if you are in a school environment that is caustic and detrimental to both students and teachers you shouldn't stay. Damage to kids and teachers is different than thinking we need to change/grow.

12:10:43 MGuhlin.org : Insight as a result of today's Conversation?

12:10:52 marragem : @Maureen - yes - always changing , constantly pruning

12:10:58 Maureen : @Lisa Yes, back when I taught K I always looked for ways to do it differently- always learning. I remember when I discovered KinderKorner- a listserv... was thrilled to be able to connect to others.

12:11:13 PeggyG : I agree with you Maureen! Good teachers were always looking for ways to improve their teacher (both before and after technology integration)

12:11:42 PeggyG : I was on the KinderKorner listserv too Maureen!!

12:12:18 Maureen : @peggyG... that's funny... my old user name used to be ecdivco... probably talked to you back then too

12:12:27 PeggyG : as a principal, I joined teacher listservs for almost every grade level so I could learn what the issues and teaching strategies were around the country and not just in our school/district

12:12:54 Sheila 2 : If you have too many people to reflect with, challenge you, do you then feel discouraged?

12:13:14 PeggyG : I still follow quite a few teacher listservs and the conversations there are often different than they are in ed tech PLNs

12:13:26 Maureen : @peggyg I find that at an independent school that our school leaders are looking much more to NAIS and their publications- and yes, it's an echo chamber for them

12:13:51 PeggyG : @Sheila--interesting question. Maybe you just have to think of it as "one at a time"??

12:14:17 Maureen : I find that my online PLN there are lots of people who push and challenge my thinking... even Lisa :-)

12:14:53 Lisa Parisi : It's always my goal, Maureen. LOL

12:14:56 PeggyG : @Maureen-did you know the KinderKorner list is still active? I still receive their digests

12:15:34 MariaK : good ol' KinderKorner listserve!

12:15:51 PeggyG : you definitely don't have to agree with everyone or have everyone agree with you to feel rewarded and renewed

12:15:55 MariaK : @peggyG me too - still receive the digests

12:15:59 Sheila 2 : Small victories!

12:16:01 PeggyG : I like that perspective Miguel

12:16:05 Maureen : @PeggyG I kind of dropped it when I had to switch jobs to teaching science and computer- I had waaaay to much to learn in a very short time. I also really wish I was still in K...so I tend to stay away from it- easier for me.

12:18:10 PeggyG : that white/black laptop makes me smile and remember how little things can change our perspective--how often do you sharpen your pencils and rearrange your room to try to motivate yourself to write something (yes writing without a computer) :-)

12:18:54 Sheila 2 : Validation

12:19:01 McTeach (Karen) : Can't wait for ISTE!! Need to be around like-minded people!

12:19:03 Maureen : Do you think that as women (mostly here) in a school that you don't get the audience that the male teachers get. It feels that way in my school... the guys get listened to- the rest of us- the vast majority- don't.

12:19:04 MGuhlin.org : Yes, @PeggyG exactly!! You mean, that happens to others, too?!? Re-arranging pencils, writing with a new pen on a different notebook (digital or otherwise) gets me going.

12:19:05 PeggyG : I get those looks too Lisa but you can still share--your enthusiasm is contagious even if your specific suggestions aren't followed

12:19:22 PeggyG : all the time Miguel!! it's how I operate!

12:20:00 Sheila 2 : Allowed to take risks

12:20:07 MGuhlin.org : @PeggyG haha

12:20:11 PeggyG : I don't think so Maureen--audience for male teachers. Really may depend on the administrator and their style.

12:20:14 Sheila 2 : And admit if it didn't work and think about how to fix it.

12:20:30 PeggyG : that's the really hard part Sheila!! admit it didn't work

12:20:51 Sheila 2 : True! Need the safe environment.

12:21:01 MGuhlin.org : rejoicing!

12:21:02 MGuhlin.org : hehe

12:21:09 Sheila 2 : Stepping out of your comfort zone.

12:21:32 Maureen : I get encouragment from individuals at school and I know that I help people- but it's more me fixing something on their computer, or showing them how to upload something, etc... not curricula stuff

12:21:36 PeggyG : those are the naysayers--the ones who say why change--we just keep recycling old things and if we wait long enough this trend will pass too

12:22:08 PeggyG : we have to keep focusing on the kids and what they need for learning and future success as life-long learners

12:22:15 MGuhlin.org : do you have to retire to achieve a well-balanced perspective? 8-> don't get mad at me. 8->

12:22:25 woodenmask : waves

12:22:25 PeggyG : no I don't think so Miguel

12:22:31 Maureen : @peggyg I heard the jump on the bandwagon statement at the last fac meeting... Like using tech in schools is a bandwagon... jeez!

12:22:34 marragem : you just have to be the best you can be

12:22:35 Lisa Parisi : Peggy, I hear that all the time.  And as THE senior teacher in the school, I resent when younger teachers say it's not worth trying because this, too, shall pass.

12:23:10 PeggyG : very easy to resent those kinds of comments!! I do too!!! We should brainstorm some responses for when we hear those comments :-)

12:23:36 MGuhlin.org : What is the secret of being content in every situation? (that's a loaded question)

12:23:46 Maureen : content?

12:24:01 Maureen : I hope that I don't ever feel content Miguel

12:24:05 PeggyG : retirement doesn't have to mean leaving "education"! I think I am busier, have learned more/done more and influenced more with a renewed focus--just no paycheck...

12:24:24 Sheila 2 : You are busy Peggy!

12:24:31 MGuhlin.org : What does contentment mean to you, @Maureen?

12:24:38 Maureen : @peggyg I hope all the appreciation you get from all of us is a paycheck

12:24:45 PeggyG : not content Miguel because that means you've stopped trying to grow/change

12:24:45 woodenmask : That's a hard call, Maria. I'm not sure how you judge when you've stopped having an impact.

12:24:53 PeggyG : it is a HUGE paycheck!!!!!!

12:24:55 MGuhlin.org : @Maureen amen! @PeggyG you are great.

12:24:56 marragem : retirement?  I have to keep working to pay for my overseas trips!

12:24:59 Maureen : Content means satisfied... haven't gottent there

12:26:15 PeggyG : I don't think we can ever be satisfied with where we are and what we are doing but we can celebrate each accomplishment and each small step (whether ours or someone elses)

12:27:08 Sheila 2 : I'm starting to get 2nd generations and people are starting to ask when I'm going to retire!! I have the years but not the age! They think I'm old! :(

12:27:39 PeggyG : it's the paperwork and documentation that drains us and takes time away from the creative teaching process

12:27:59 Maureen : I want to work in my garden all day....

12:27:59 PeggyG : I'm with you Sheila!!! Have fun!

12:28:29 PeggyG : Miguel is asking some great questions for us to reflect on!!

12:29:25 PeggyG : Let's go to dinner with Paul and find out what he meant :-)

12:29:40 MGuhlin.org : @PeggyG on your own! I'm not ready yet!!!

12:29:41 PeggyG : don't you wish you could go back in time to talk with wise people?? :-)

12:29:48 woodenmask : Thank you for the conversation - The Boy is demanding a sandwich.

12:29:59 PeggyG : Feed the boy @woodenmask

12:30:25 PeggyG : content is an interesting word...

12:30:48 PeggyG : I'm not sure toxic environments help bring out the best in us

12:31:12 PeggyG : challenging, questioning, frustrating environments maybe but not toxic

12:31:21 Lisa Parisi : YEs, Peggy.

12:32:24 PeggyG : has anyone developed a list of guiding questions to explore this topic individually?

12:32:35 Maureen : Reading A Daughters Walk... back to it now. Interesting historical novel.

12:32:43 PeggyG : this has been a great, thought-provoking conversation!!

12:33:03 PeggyG : thank you Miguel and the Conversations team!!! every week is a great conversation!

12:33:08 techyturner : Thanks for pushing my thinking today. Back to trimming the landscape.

12:33:30 PeggyG : so sorry you can't go to ISTE Miguel!!

12:33:31 McTeach (Karen) : Thanks everyone!

12:33:51 Maureen : I met Miguel - maybe in San Antonio... didn't realise he was so famous :-)

12:34:15 MGuhlin.org : @Maureen, I'm not famous, but when you haven't met the big mouth next door, there is some notoriety!

12:34:19 Lisa Parisi : Bye

12:34:25 PeggyG : Miguel is famous because he so willing shares and explores and questions with everyone!!!

12:34:30 techyturner : bye1

12:34:37 Maureen : bye

12:34:38 marragem : thanks everyone. I'm off to bed. Catch you all in a few hours!

12:34:40 PeggyG : bye all!

12:34:45 tekteech7 : thanks, bye

 

This week Miguel Guhlin joined Lisa, Maria, and Sheila to continue a conversation he had started in a chat room a few weeks ago.  His question: Do you bloom where you are planted or do you move to bloom?  We discussed the pros and cons of staying in a difficult teaching situation where you can do great work for children or moving where you are more supported.

Chat:

EdTechWeekly #195

EdTechWeekly #195

May 15, 2011

Regular hosts: Dave, Jen, John

Guest host: Eric Curts

This week's links:

EdTechWeekly #195

May 15, 2011

Regular hosts: Dave, Jen, John

Guest host: Eric Curts

This week's links:

Chat Log:

2011-05-12 Seedlings Show 115 with Chris Bugaj

We are joined by Chris Bugaj, a fellow podcaster who produces the A.T.Tipcast and has just published the book The Fun and Practical Guide to Assistive Technology in Public Schools  He has some great ideas for using Universal Design for Learning methods in school. WE also hear about Chris' other project, Night Stories

We are joined by Chris Bugaj, a fellow podcaster who produces the A.T.Tipcast and has just published the book The Fun and Practical Guide to Assistive Technology in Public Schools  He has some great ideas for using Universal Design for Learning methods in school. WE also hear about Chris' other project, Night Stories

Geek of the Week links

 cheryloakes~Seedlings -> Welcome, getting ready for Seedlings with Chris Bugaj, Assistive Technology, the practical guide in public schools!

EdTechWeekly #194

EdTechWeekly #194

May 8, 2011

Regular hosts: Dave, Jen, John
Guest hosts: iJohn Pedersonmayor of the Internet

This week's Links:

iJohn's Links

  • Seth Odell's "Higher Ed Live" - http://higheredlive.com/ Higher Ed communications, student affairs, etc. A community of higher ed web professionals.
  • Dan Benjamin's "Back to Work" w/ Merlin Mann - http://5by5.tv/b2w Dan Benjamin is, IMO, the biggest thing in podcasting since Leo Laporte's TWiT Network. http://twit.tv/
  • Related: Merlin Mann's "Cranking" - http://www.43folders.com/2011/04/22/cranking  Not quite "edtech" related, but "Back to Work" is heavily focused on creativity, particularly writing, and how to scratch that itch of balancing work and creativity.
  • http://ds106.us/ Radio. What is it? "It is a free form live streaming station that has been setup for this course, and it is being used as a platform to broadcast the work being created in the class, and a space for live broadcasts as well as for programming shows."
  • Julia Fallon would kill me if I didn't mention Shifted Learning. http://www.shiftedlearning.org. Focus: ? :)

EdTechWeekly #194

May 8, 2011

Regular hosts: Dave, Jen, John
Guest hosts: iJohn Pederson, mayor of the Internet

This week's Links:

iJohn's Links:

  • Seth Odell's "Higher Ed Live" - http://higheredlive.com/ Higher Ed communications, student affairs, etc. A community of higher ed web professionals.
  • Dan Benjamin's "Back to Work" w/ Merlin Mann - http://5by5.tv/b2w Dan Benjamin is, IMO, the biggest thing in podcasting since Leo Laporte's TWiT Network. http://twit.tv/
  • Related: Merlin Mann's "Cranking" - http://www.43folders.com/2011/04/22/cranking  Not quite "edtech" related, but "Back to Work" is heavily focused on creativity, particularly writing, and how to scratch that itch of balancing work and creativity.
  • http://ds106.us/ Radio. What is it? "It is a free form live streaming station that has been setup for this course, and it is being used as a platform to broadcast the work being created in the class, and a space for live broadcasts as well as for programming shows."
  • Julia Fallon would kill me if I didn't mention Shifted Learning. http://www.shiftedlearning.org. Focus: ? :)
Chat Log:

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