I think I could probably write a book (or a book series) as I reflect on this past weekend...instead I'll try to keep it short and sweet. I don't plan on writing about every session that I attend, just the most memorable. Feel free to comment if you're curious about hearing more!
WGEDD Openning Keynote - Todd whitacker
Todd's opening keynote was very motivating and set the tone for the conference. Here are a few key take-aways:
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Treat all people as if they were good. It makes the good ones feel good and the bad ones uncomfortable. If 2 students break a school rule and wear a hat, you don't have a hat problem. You have a 2 kid problem. Don't use blanket statements when it isn't necessary! |
Great Educators ignite the s.h.i.n.e. in all they do! - Lavonna Roth
LaVonna Roth was without a doubt one of the best speakers that I've ever heard. One of my favorite activities/lessons that I took a way had to do with the word "way." All too often, students say, "I can't do that." Teach the mindset, "I can't do that..yet!" We played a fun game in partners that helped make this idea sink in. I was reenergized in my belief that it is important to get to know our students on deeper levels and teach in a way that makes ALL students feel important.
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WGEDD un-conference
The second day started with an Un-conference. During this portion of the morning, participants signed up to lead different conversations. I led a conversation on Personalized Learning and met a lot of amazing educators.
You can see the schedule with links to documents from the different conversations by clicking here. |
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Great educators set up digital workstations - erin klein
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Erin Klein is a speaker, blogger and educator that I enjoy following. I frequently find that our visions of education are aligned and the posts on her blog are easy to understand.
This specific session pushed my thinking as it relates to students in our schools right now. She started out by reading us a short excerpt from a Curious George story. At the end, George ended up in prison! She pushed my thinking to wonder if we do this same thing to students. Do we punish students simply because they are curious? This was the jumping off point where she explained why these digital workstations can help engage students and foster creativity. You can read a specific post from her by clicking here. |
Great educators create passionate learning environments - pernille ripp
resources worth exploring
Schoology - A learning management System
Cast.Org
Showbie - "The Heart of your Paperless Classroom"
Hacking Leadership - This book was recommended by quite a few people at the conference!