Reflection on Chapter 3 Activity

This activity seemed like a big challenge at first! However, my team was excellent. The easy part was deciding how we would present the information. The hard part was taking the information we had read and relating it to education. As we discussed the the parts of the message that stood out to each of us, we were able to draw parallels between Pinks writing and education today. During this activity, we learned to listen to each other, accept others views, and take a risk to try something new. These are important life skills our students need to understand to succeed in today's workforce.

Thoughts on Chapter 3

I was intrigued by the idea that a master of fine arts is now one of the hottest credentials and that corporate recruiters have begun visiting the top arts grad schools. It makes sense that in order for manufacturers, like GM, to compete with the world market their products need to be aesthetically pleasing as well as functional and who better for this than a graphic designer or an artist.

I had to smile when I read Daniel Goleman's research on IQ testing. This is the second time lately I have read about the unjust use of IQ scores to define a person's ability. Just because one cannot easily measure a persons imagination, joyfulness and social dexterity doesn't mean these qualities are just as important to the success of a person. I appreciate Pink's acknowledgment that " the capacity for compassion, care and uplift are becoming a key component of the Conceptual Age." These are much needed qualities in today's teachers.

What I have taken from reading the first three chapters of Daniel Pink's, A Whole New Mind, is that we, as educators, must begin to understand the value of both sides of the brain and how to help our students use their "whole brain" so they can compete in the 21st century.

Thing 4

I like being able to comment on my fellow bloggers blogs. I was excited to receive comments from them, too. I think this is important to form collaborative bonds with each other. To hear each others thoughts, fears and celebrations. I believe student will feel that their thoughts and ideas do have real value and relevance when people other than their teacher comments on their writing. I am a member of a mailring that was created by teachers who wanted to discuss the book Mosaic of Thought. I have enjoyed hearing teachers from all over the world talk about what is happening in their schools. Many times the author herself puts in her 2 cents worth. I was so excited the day Timothy Rasinski wrote on the mailring. I just realized some of these teachers probably have a blog now! I will have to check that out.

Thing 3

I felt many emotions while trying to figure out widgets. At first, I was totally lost. I decided to begin simple. I began with editing my profile. Then I decided to be more like my students and just explore. I put a picture on my header and copied a favorite quote underneath my header. Then I discovered putting a picture to my profile and took off! I can hardly wait to get home and add more pictures to my blog.

Thing 2

As I reflect on all I have learned today about Web 2.0 tools, I realize my professional practices may never be the same! I will no longer be satisfied with the same old way of presenting material. I see endless possibilities. I can use a blog to create communities for book talks, I could improve my professional development trainings for teachers using video clips, interacting polls using cell phones and wall/wisher to display comments and thoughts. I want to use these tools to make learning for teachers, students and parents differentiated and engaging.