Over the scope of this pandemic, we have been put in an environment where we have to learn new skills, knowledge, and performances as we meet the challenges of our day-to-day practices.
As professionals, we sometimes forget how much we are learning and the impact it is having on our students, families, and ourselves. We often forget to celebrate the innovative and inventive ways we are engaging with teaching and learning. (Note: Self-Discovery is one of the (four attributes of personalized learning).
One of the critical ways to create a more inclusive culture is to help each individual recognize the strengths and talents they bring to the success of all of the students in the school.
REFLECTIVE PROMPTS:
- In what ways do I provide staff with the opportunity to reflect on their learning and recognize how significant their growth is on behalf of the students in the school?
- In what ways do I provide choices for self-directing their professional learning so that they discover how they learn best?
- In what ways do I offer feedback that is initiated by the staff in their desire to improve as professionals?
- How do I provide the time for reflection and celebration of our professional learning?
POSSIBLE ACTIONS:
Introduce and model for staff the Habits of Mind, specifically Applying Past Knowledge to New Situations, Thinking about Your Thinking, Remaining Open to Continuous Learning, Persisting, and Responding with Wonderment and Awe.
Restructure staff time to regularly reflect on classroom and professional development experience, monitor growth, and identify/advocate for next steps for future growth.
Create a public exhibition that showcases work and provides insight into challenges and discoveries when working on an initiative, idea, or problem. This can be done virtually (e.g., portfolio) and/or physically.
Looking to dig deeper? Download our Framework that combines the four attributes of personalized learning with Habits of Mind!