In his blog, Mr. Couros describes how we are constantly faced with the challenges of change, not only professionally but also personally, and in order to not just adapt, but to thrive we must welcome and embrace these changes. He insists that while no one grows at the same rate if we focus on the positive aspects of change and show appreciation towards each other for the effort that has been put forth we can move the educational continuum forward in the life long learning process and strengthen the integrity of the profession at the same time.
Change is a natural part of life. Whether we realize or not, every living thing is drifting somewhere along the spectrum of change, positive or negative. If you develop an awareness of this, you can create a sense of control by taking initiative of what changes around you by identifying areas that could use improving. With that being said, it's important to not feel overwhelmed as educators and to grow steadily at your own pace, as there is no finish line when it comes accruing knowledge and improving your effectiveness as an educator. Very few things need to be accomplished immediately.
Finally, it's important as leaders that despite how unaccepting we may be of the change that we still find a way to embrace the positives and instill its acceptance amongst our staff so as not to diminish morale and negatively affect the school's climate.
George Couros, Division Principal, AB Canada
"Change is an opportunity to do something amazing"
http://georgecouros.ca
In Digital Leadership, Sheninger references how to approach the fear of change. He offers good advice for administrators on how to support teachers and encourage embracing change instead of directing "buy in". I agree that we must embrace the changes no matter our fear. That's why it's called trial and error. A mistake is only a mistake if we fail to learn from it.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Michele. I'll have to read up on that. Good point, buy in is nice but instilling a desire to embrace the change is better.
DeleteBrian, I agree recognizing change is constant is the first step to guiding change in a positive direction. Do you feel that blogging is a tool that can influence positive change in education? If not what tools do you think are helpful when trying to decided what direction to steer change, and how to influence those changes?
ReplyDeleteDear Jake, I do feel that blogging can be an effective tool in influencing change thank you for asking. Through blogs and other technological platforms that allow individuals from around the globe to collaborate in real time, educators can gain a sense of collective knowledge and identify patterns, trends, and other helpful practices that can be utilized to maximize instruction.
DeleteI think the most important thing about change is to use it to proactively to reach your goal. Change, whether good or bad, is useless if it doesn't move me closer to where I would like to end up. In technology, we see the world evolving around us each day and it is important to acknowledge this transformation. Using it in the classroom by showing our staff and students how to utilize it to our benefit and get the most out of it. We referred to the introduction of the automobile in the 1920s in class and how it took the world by storm with such an innovative technology. Along with this tool came dangers but most would agree this tool was more help than harm. I believe technology parallels this idea of embracing change and using it for your benefit.
ReplyDeleteExactly, change should move us forward otherwise life is nothing but a carousel ride. We drive around in circles but never get anywhere! Don't get stuck on the carousel!!
DeleteAnd yes, I agree, the world is changing and we have to change with it. Technology will only make a greater impact on our lives from here on out.
Brian, thanks for sharing your thoughts. I like your idea to take control of change by taking initiative. Embrace and own it. Would you mind going back into your post and adding a link to the original article from George Couros so we can see what prompted your thinking?
ReplyDeleteI have often resisted technological change because of my lack of knowledge. I like where it can be gradual and it may take more time for some to master sometimes even the simplest of tasks. Change takes time, and worthwhile change can make a difference for all.
ReplyDeleteIndeed, Mr. Bostic. change does take time and worthwhile change takes mucho time. As a judge, a cop, and a parole office all once told me, "Ignorance is no excuse!"
ReplyDelete