Top of the 4th Quarter: Gather Feedback and Evaluate

I have been on Twitter for 8 months and spent some time this weekend evaluating the experience.  I am a firm believer in evaluation and using feedback to improve and refine practice. Recently, I forwarded a brief survey to faculty to use at the end of 3rd quarter.  They were asked to administer this survey to all students in each of their classes.  The feedback received was helpful and for some, rather surprising.  

The questions are:

Rating Scale

The classroom is a positive evironment in which to learn:

Class discussions, activities and projects are well organized

The material covered is interesting or relevant to the students' lives

Free response

How could this be a better course for you? Please list at least one item

What for you is the best part of the course and should continue. Please list at least one item

Additional comments

As far as my own evaluation, Vince Day’s most recent post was tremendously helpful as I considered my role on Twitter.  He mentions three key methods of using Twitter: watch, talk, produce.  Since my start on Twitter 8 months ago, I have done significant watching.  Looks like my personal 4th quarter will focus on talk and produce.  I better get going!

9 Indicators That You Love Your Work

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There is a remarkable difference between someone who loves what they do for a living from someone who works for living.  If you love what you do:

1)   You believe that your contributions make a difference

2)   Your inspire the morale of your team and those around you

3)   You are passionate about learning

4)   You look for solutions rather than focusing on the problem

5)   You don’t stay comfortable in your role and you continue to network

6)   You willingly and enthusiastically take on new challenges

7)   You are comfortable working alone but you are like a magnet

8)   You are busy creating your own destiny and unique talents while at the same time you are helping others to find theirs

9)   You know that your job doesn’t define you. Instead, you know how you do your job does.

The Pursuit of Normality is the Ultimate Sacrifice: Jegede's Lament

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I recently viewed Faith Jegede’s TED Talk What I Learned from My Autistic Brothers.   

She recalls her days growing up with two autistic brothers and the powerful lessons she has learned.

Some students arrive to school each year and make futile attempts to fit the mold of what “normal” kids should look like and how they should behave. There are students, despite their efforts, who will never be included in this group. Jegede laments that those who pursue normality and who become consumed with this endeavor sacrifice their potential of being extraordinary.  They are so lost in their efforts to blend in that they miss the opportunity to shine as individuals.  As educators, we have the opportunity to recognize the strengths and contributions of our extraordinary students.   Teachers set the tone of classrooms and students follow our lead.  When we make a habit of recognizing the contributions of all students, the "normal" and the "extraordinary," we establish an inclusive culture.  This culture can be transformative in the lives of students.

As a parent of an autistic child, I have learned over the years that my daughter’s differences are what make her truly extraordinary.  Her unique way of looking at the world, at people, and at life’s challenges has provided my family countless moments of levity, framing and insight.  It wasn’t always easy.  There were times along the way when I would wish for her to be something that she wasn’t.  I have learned never to make that wish.  Instead, I find ways to celebrate the unique workings of her mind and her indelible spirit.

One time, when she first attended high school, I remember working with her for hours on the art of making small talk with peers.  Diagnosed with Aspergers and understanding the challenges of social interactions, she knew that this might be something worth trying.  We practiced and we role-played.  I thought for sure that she had it mastered.  Sitting with a group of classmates as they discussed the upcoming school dance, I overheard the group planning their wardrobe for the big event.  Finally, she took her turn in the conversation and inserted her thoughts.  The group fell silent.  My daughter began to discuss every last detail of who wore what at the last Oscars.  From designers to jewelers, she recalled it all.  Every. Single. Detail. Her peers were patient and finally one interrupted and called it a day.  She didn’t notice that she was dismissed.  In fact, she was thrilled to have contributed to the conversation. 

Four years later, most know that if they have a question about fashion, historical fiction or phone numbers, my daughter is the go-to person.  She has learned to celebrate her differences and so have those close to her.   This celebration is the result of a group effort.  Her teachers were steadfast in their efforts to recognize her extraordinariness through their ongoing subtle yet intentional dialogue in their classes. In turn, her peers have learned to them recognize as well.