Week 4: Response to Elaine Scott

Elaine,
Graham Chapman said:

"All ideas come about through some sort of observation. It sparks an attitude; some object or emotion causes a reaction in the other person."

I think although you may not see the direct and lasting effects of your "spark" and the love you have show these young men now they will surely present themselves in the future. You said yourself you take the stance of leading by example. I think both you and those young men are taking much more away from this experience with you than either of you realize.  You seem to be internalizing the "be the board" concept of the book and looking at this from a positive perspective, one that you cannot control, but one that you can guide. Your positivity and determination are a "spark" for all of us.

Week 4: Response to Jen Geiger

Forever the cynic Jen. I always respect your honesty and willingness to admit what many of us don't. We don't know it all and we're not even close. I feel the way you do sometimes in many situations. Your post reminded me, however, of something I read in the book The Four Agreements. I may have mentioned this in a previous post, but I'll post the quote here anyway:

"It is very interesting how the human mind works. We have the need to justify everything, to explain and understand everything, in order to feel safe. We have millions of questions that need answers because there are so many things that the reasoning mind cannot explain. It is not important if the answer is correct; just the answer itself makes us feel safe. This is why we make assumptions. We make all sorts of assumptions because we don’t have the courage to ask questions."

Maybe we are all trying way too hard to figure everything out. Maybe there isn't an answer to everything or maybe instead of assuming all we need to do is ask. I find myself forgetting to just straight out ask sometimes. Have you tried that approach with this young man?

By the way, I loved the bluntcard.

Week 4: The Art of Possibility - Be The Board

The culminating chapters of the Art of Possibility had me scratching my head at some points, particularly the chapter on framework while others had bells going off in my head. One of those "bell" chapters was about being the board.

"How Incredible!" 

The idea in Chapter 10: Being the Board changed around my entire way of thinking about a situation. Such a simple, yet complex idea. Being the board essentially means taking yourself out of the mindset of being a pawn played in a game, one that has no control over what happens to it, that tends to blame anything horrible on others because it supposedly has no control, into the actual board, not the game mind you or the opponent, but the board. In being a pawn you give away your power and your ability to control the situation and by control I don't mean to force others to do as you will. By being the board you keep your options open and continue to give yourself the ability to choose how you will react, how you will behave, what perspective you will take on the situation, and what your next move will be. 

I sat back after reading all this and thought to myself how many times I've done this..relented my power to a situation assuming I had no control over it and taking no responsibility for its occurrence or should I say at least feeling like I had only one way to react to it. I feel like I've been fighting things and being resistant and it has been holding me back. 

This quote makes sense to me:

Choosing the being the board approach opens the possibility of a graceful journey, one that quickly reinstates us on a path we chose before the fateful collision intervened. It allows us to keep on track. Grace comes from owning the risks we take in a world by and large immune from our control.

This makes me wonder. How much time have I really been wasting on fighting things I can't control? How much energy have I put into things "off my track"?

While I read this entire book, I tried to continuously think of ways I could relate it back to instances in my life.  I think this book has done a lot for  getting me to think in a different perspective about things. My big takeaways from these final chapters are two questions stated within chapter 10 and are ones that I will continue to ask myself.

1. How did this get on the board that I am?
2. How is it that I have become a context for that to occur?

These questions will allow me to pull myself back into the situation and really get perspective. I will no longer ask why me?, but How did this come about and how can I stay on track?


(picture credit: Tabuleiro de Ouija by elbragon)

Week 4: Publishing/Leadership Project

I chose social learning in higher education because of my current position at the University of Rochester. I work with large group of administrators and often find that the group as a whole produces more useful knowledge than the individuals themselves. I want to utilize this collective knowledge in social learning settings to create valuable resources for the University. I would like to submit to Edutopia and the AACE Journal. I chose Edutopia because it is a very well known site that isn't overly stuffy in their approach, they are very forward thinking in their approach to education and one of its core concepts is technology integration. I chose the AACE Journal because they are less theoretical and more focused on practical applications of technology, they operate on an international level, and approach technology in a multi-disciplinary way. Both of these choices fit with my thoughts and perspective on technology and the "shifting" of traditional educational paradigms and therefore I thought they would be a good fit.

Think Out Loud Post #1

Think Out Loud Post #2


My Paper:
Social Learning Theory and Technology: Changing Traditional Educational Paradigms in Higher Education Settings

(photo credits: edcampomaha and AACE Publications)

Week 4: FREE POST - Publishing/Leadership Project Park 2 of 2 - Where and Why

I touched on this in my previous post, but I will talk more about it here again. I think the idea of a presentation is great. I think of all the TED videos I watch and think, wow, I wish I could do that. That being said I found myself drawn to the paper for two reasons:

1. It allowed me to show the world my lit review that I feel I worked very hard on.

2. I am continuing the challenge as a part of my position at work now and I wanted a solid paper to submit to my University's Technology Roundtable group for funding to further expand the online policies and procedures manual and mentoring program.

I will definitely be focusing on publications that emphasize the application of technology and not so much the theoretical background of it. While I think that the theory behind it is important, my interests lie primarily in making things happen through active change.

(photo credit: Davide Restivo on Flickr)

Week 4: Publishing/Leadership Project - Part 1 of 2: Thinking Aloud

Unfortunately being so busy at work and volunteering has caused me to write this post rather late. I must say that the thought of doing a presentation enticed me at first glance. In reviewing the requirements, it seemed much simpler to me. After reviewing the requirements, I went back and read through my capstone project site pages and blog posts and I realized that a presentation would not do my project full justice. I thought about the amount of time I spent on my literature review and I wanted it displayed in its fully glory and I wanted the chance to write out exactly how well the challenge went.

Being a visual person however, I'd love to see my data up there on the screen. I'd love to do a combination of a paper and presentation or maybe just a paper and presentation (minus those speaker notes). My only concern with doing a paper is that it is not as visually engaging, but I hope my words capture my excitement and the overall success of the challenge.
(photo credit: SMJJP on Flickr)

Week 3 - Response to Tania Shavor

Tania,
I loved your post. The Four Agreements is one of my favorite books and I keep it on my nightstand to look back on every once and again. The way you conduct yourself at work shows a lot about you as a person. I'm sure your supervisor greatly appreciates that you are aware of her situation and show support for her in your own way. You are indeed putting "leading from any chair" into practice. I respect your courage in goal setting and it seems that you have very strong convictions and are sure to do great things in the future.

Week 3 - Response to Mike Skocko

Mike,
I too pulled the same exact inspirational passage for my blog post from the reading. I think what you have accomplished in the Mac Lab is and will continue to be great. I know you have a lot invested in your students and the resources you create for them. I appreciate your candidness about the posts this month as I too wish I could be focusing more on the mentoring taking place where I work. I think it is a matter of them (FS) trying to find an outlet for us to discuss the reading. I think I much rather have preferred a discussion post in which we all went back and forth on one page relaying our thoughts. There's always room for improvement right. I hope all goes well for you at Adobe's HQ. Good luck!!!

Week 3 - The Art of Possibility: Lead by Example

Chapters 5 through 8 have been my favorite thus far. I highlighted much of the text for my own personal use to reflect on again later and I even stole a quote and put it on Facebook.

"Being present to the way things are is not the same as accepting things as they are...It doesn't mean you should drown out your negative feelings or pretend you like what you really can't stand. It doesn't mean you should work to achieve some "higher plane of existence" so you can "transcend negativity." It simply means, being present without resistance: being present to what is happening and present to your reactions, no matter how intense."- The Art of Possibility

What I read resonated with me and I know that I will be able to put it all into practice.Two items stood out to me the first being the story in Chapter 5 regarding the National Youth Orchestra of Cuba and the Youth Philharmonic Orchestra. It mirrored a story of my own that actually came about while doing my Challenge Based Research project. The story in the Art of Possibility talks about two orchestras coming together and having difficulty with each other's pieces of music. Each orchestra struggles to follow the conductor leading the pieces and all seems to be failing until one conductor suggests letting the students who know the piece lead the students who don't. This takes the pressure off of the unknowing students and allows the other to become natural leaders.

In conducting my Challenge Based Research Project, this situation occurred with my administrators. I had both experienced and inexperienced/newly hired ones in the same meeting. We were discussing the merits of creating a handbook and training manual for all administrators. Through discussion emerged a brilliant idea to start a mentoring program in which more experienced administrators could train and give guidance to new administrators while also allowing new administrators to bring some creativity and change to many of the processes. Needless to say it all worked out very well and we are continuing the challenge based research I conducted continuously into the future as a group of administrators working to make change within the University.

The other main "Ah-ha" moment that resonated with me was the Rule Number 6. I often have a problem of taking my self too seriously and reading this chapter put that "practice" into context for me. It allowed me to examine further how I take myself to seriously and when/if it does happen again how to diffuse it. I wish I could make copies of this chapter and give it to everyone I know, not to force it on anyone as the book says, but just to give others the chance as I have to realize that we all at one point or another take ourselves too seriously and this does us all no good in the long run. Live and let live, right?!
(photo credits: 1. Chair by misbrzi  2. Flickr

Week 3 Wimba

Class was great. I am a bit jealous of Jason and his outing, but soon I will be on vacation myself in sunny Orlando with all of you. After watching the session, I am more clear on the abstract assignment. I can at times be long winded so this will pose a great challenge for me. I am also now less worried about the final project. I had much trepidation before watching this Wimba. It seems my fears were shared with others and in turn soothed by Jason's explanation and the pre-Wimba videos.

I found everyone's comments' on the Art of Possibility fascinating. We all seem to be taking at least one "Ah-ha" moment from the book. It still amazes me how I feel I've heard much of what I've read in this book before, but I feel like it is hitting me for the first time. Looking forward to expanding in this week's post.

(photo credit: Nolan O'Brien - Flickr)

Week 2 Wimba

Another week and another missed Wimba. I really hate that I have meeting after work on Tuesdays. After reviewing the archive, it became apparent just how confusing copyright law is, especially when seeing the answers to some of the quiz questions. I went back and reviewed my notes after viewing. I really appreciated the question and your response on photography and copyright as well. I do agree with your statement that modification of my photographs is breaking copyright. Your chart was an excellent review of creative commons.  While some parts of copyright law are still a little fuzzy, I think I have a good handle on it. 

(Image credit: TilarX from Flickr)

Week 2 - Response to Jennifer Geiger

(Photo credit: The most beautiful rose possibly ever by Joy Coffman on Flickr)

Dear Daughter in law to Mrs. Sunshine and Roses,

Your post is hilarious. I appreciate your candidness. I think your perspective is an interesting. I too am a skeptic of much of this kind of writing, but I read it anyway. The reason being is because it does give me insight in looking at things in different way. I don't necessarily believe what is being said, but I do take away a different perspective, which I think in and of itself is valuable. I am glad you did take a practical thing from the reading..that being not assuming the worst. I find myself automatically doing the same thing you mentioned sometimes. Your P.S. was indeed timely and something I mentioned in my post as well. I'm happy to see you thinking as many of our classmates do about what is really going on in education today. Thanks for your post. 

Week 2 - Response to Elaine Scott

Elaine your post was thoughtful and reflective. It is clear to me that you care greatly for the young adults you work with. I am super impressed you read the entire book already. I really enjoyed it myself. Your post inspired me and touched me as well. I too feel in similar ways in terms of "holding my passions for life in a box". I am so glad you are moving into a new phase in your life and letting things happen for you. It is apparent through your hard work throughout this entire program that you hold yourself to high expectations and are serious about pursuing your dreams. You are a positive influence on us all. Thank you for sharing such a personal side of yourself. We may not get to "see" each other in class, but your "true self" definitely shines through in your writing and work and for that I am greatly appreciative. 

Week 2 Reading - Reflection on the Art of Possibility

(photo credit: I A M A U-M-N-B-N from Flickr)

The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander was quite an interesting read. I have read many of these kinds of books before and this one struck me as taking a slightly different approach. The authors work their way through different scenarios, approaching them from different angles, exploring the idea of pushing limits and thinking “outside the box”.

Reading this book allowed me to begin to think more deeply about my role as an individual and the significance my thoughts, actions, and beliefs play in the whole of the human race as a connected collective group. Many times, especially in Western culture, we tend to stress individuality, but ironically in reality, we tend to think alike, stuck in similar patterns without looking at things with fresh eyes. The authors in this book work to get the reader to understand that there may be opposition or differences of opinion in what you believe is right or the right way of doing something and that you must push on because what you think and bring to the table is important.

Several things struck me in the reading and I’d like to touch on them and the significance they had for me. 

Week 1: Blog Post Response 2 - Tracye Salters

Tracye your post resonated with me in that I too never thought twice about grabbing work offline. The main reason being not because I do not value the work of others, but I was never taught the ins and outs of copyright. I think Creative Commons is one of the best things to come along and I have been using them for my photographs. I think you are right about accountability. If we as educators/administrators hold students accountable for their work, we as educators must be accountable for ours and what we provide to students. Leading by example is the only way. Although the line of what is fair and not fair is quite a blurry one, you are absolutely right that we must at least make the effort. 

Week 1: Blog Post Response 1 - Michael Chapple

Michael, I really appreciate your thoughts on how you teach with also trying to follow copyright law. I think there is a fine balance that you have touched on between reaching your students by teaching them using content that they are familiar with versus obeying the "law" and possibly excluding students. I do think there is a generational difference and that many students as you mentioned although saying they know what they are doing is considered "stealing" do it anyway. I think this is because that generation (as wel las our own) have a different view and definition of how we learn. As said in may of the videos, this generation (I myself am included in) think differently about how to use and create content. I think using the professor's lesson on copyright would be breaking it so..here's a site I mentioned in another post that may be of some help: http://www.teachingcopyright.org/  Enjoy!!

Week 1 Wimba

Week 1 Wimba was jam-packed with information. It's a busy time of year at my place of work and I wish I was able to attend class that night in person. After careful review, I feel I've taken away a lot from the session. I now better understand how the pieces fit together and I must admit I am a bit intimidated by the Publishing/Leadership Project to come. I think it's a great challenge and a way for each of us to really show what we've learned and it forces us to put ourselves out there in a place out of our comfort zones. I must admit however, that I am a bit disappointed because I was looking forward to the photography section of the course, which from what I understand now will not be offered. 

There are a lot of details to pay attention to in this course, but also a great deal of freedom and flexibility has been given to us which I appreciate. 

The CBR discussion with Roxanne was helpful in better understanding the final touches I need to put on my Lit Review. I must say it is comforting to see others struggling with the same frustrations. The clean-up of the CBR site will take some time, but I understand the importance of presenting a cohesive final project that can be presented to multiple parties. 

I'm looking forward to the weeks ahead and really grasp the importance of pacing my work in order to get it done. I work better under pressure, but will continue to try to space out my work in order to be more efficient.

(Graphic created using www.wordle.com)

Week 1 Reading: Shared Culture

"Our best thoughts come from others." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

The reading, videos, and other media this week explained copyright, fair use, and creative commons. The one common thread that wove all of these topics together was the idea of shared culture and the effects that technology has on it. What implications does the kind of technology and the way we use it effect our culture? 

Copyright, fair use, and creative commons have been referred to by many as moving targets. This too could be said about the cultural implications that technology has on us as a people. Previous generations have dealt with the fixed forms of content in which users traditionally consumed it in comparison to the way the current generation learns and operates today in which consumers have become the creators (or remixers) of the content.

CONSUMERS = CREATORS