Education Rules

Several years ago I came across the above image from @danhaesler who is a leader in education circles and student engagement. It was June 2014. As I look at Dan's "3 Rules" today, I still smile at his use of humour but I also cringe because these "rules" are just as relevant in 2017 as they were in 2014 and arguably since the inception of formal education.

Of course, there are exceptions to the...err...rule...and I've been fortunate to work directly with amazing colleagues like Suzanne Smart, @rchids, @mfleonard231, @missjessweber, @MrsGouett, @kraussfe and @seankritz who are changing what teaching and learning looks like; however, my current experience in education -- in many of the classrooms that I see -- is still mired in what might be called "traditional education."

Aside from a massive infusion of technology, including Chromebooks, wifi and projectors, some classrooms and what happens in them still looks a lot like this:

If information and knowledge couldn't be instantly acquired through technology, than this kind of learning environment might make sense; however, we know that our students need more than knowledge. They need to build character, develop critical thinking skills, be able to collaborate and work together with others, etc.

I've spent a lot of time over the past several years thinking about how I can change my practice as a classroom teacher. Honestly, at times, it sill looks like the above picture (I'm embarrassed to admit). But sometimes it looks different. When I've spent a lot of time thinking, collaborating with students and colleagues and planning, I've been able to create and help facilitate a teaching and learning environment that is more beneficial (in my opinion) to students than delivering content through a PowerPoint, textbook or note. In particular, I like the Genius Hour idea which has led to some amazing learning experiences for my students, their peers and me (e.g. 20% Talk: Disabilities).

The Ontario government's "foundation document for discussion" on 21st Century Global Competencies explores research on competencies and why we need to shift what teaching and learning looks like today. I'm hoping to develop ideas that stem from the conversation on global competencies and work with my colleagues to help change the "rules" and transform what education looks like at my school.