Collaboration . . . Buzzword Everywhere

I am presently taking an online grant writing course . . . what an EYE OPENER! The instructor stresses the importance of identifying "buzzwords" of the potential donor and if your organization is an appropriate match. In my research of a variety of Corporate Foundations "Collaborative Partnerships" appear buzzing throughout their message. Once again reinforcing that collaboration is a key that can open many doors.  Whether it's a door to funds or a student's mind use that key and just wait and see.

Creating Synergy

As an educator it has always been important to me to be a part of and create a collaborative learning environment. In the classroom . . . among my peers . . . with parents.  In this month's issue of Reading Today, the publication from International Reading Association, they discuss the results of effective committee work to create standards for reading professionals.  "Creating synergy among the instructional staff can help achieve that goal and foster a greater sense of shared responsibility."

Synergy is when the result is greater than the sum of the parts. Synergy happens when things work in concert together to create an enhanced combined effect.  Now let's take this directly into the classroom. We are beginning a new school year and what an opportunity we have to foster this sense of shared responsibility with our students. As you get to know your students ask for ways they can be a contributing member of the class.  Create a list and post it. Begin to promote the synergy . . .challenge your students and yourself. . . . . . and then assess the results.

Posting . . . My First

I have read blogs . . . of all shapes . . . sizes . . . topics . . . and now it's my turn! I have been in education for over thirty years. What is the role of an educator?  The definition of education below states:

ed·u·ca·tion (j-kshn):
The act or process of educating or being educated.
The knowledge or skill obtained or developed by a learning process.
A program of instruction of a specified kind or level.
The field of study that is concerned with the pedagogy of teaching and learning.
An instructive or enlightening experience.

ENLIGHTENING . . . So then what is the role of an educator or teacher?

In the past it was referred to as " a second Mother" . . . one who through daily challenges of a school day, month and  years develops into an expert in their field.  The responsibility of a teacher is large and changes as our population and environment changes. A teacher can be looked upon as a guide understanding each and every students' needs and pathways to a meaningful educational experience.  However, a true educator is always learning and growing in the field.

A number of years ago I read, The Hero's Journey, How Educators Can Transform Schools and Improve Learning by John L. Brown and Cerylle A. Moffett.  I will be using references from this book to spark thoughts and develop conversations. 

•      What exactly are we searching for in modern education?
•      What is the vision that is driving our quest?

There is a vast and untapped source of professional knowledge within each school in the form of the collective craft knowledge of its teachers.

This area of collaborative learning will also be something I will focus on.

For now . . . let's continue to stay involved in Advancing Educators.

Check out my website: http://www.advancingeducators.com/