Friday, March 12, 2010

Battle at Kruger - Shows Habits of Mind In Action

I saw this powerful clip recently, and wanted to share it with you. After reading about the Five Dimensions of Learning, I realised the clip showed a perfect example
of positive Habits of Mind(Dimension 5).

Jungle Animals practicing good Habits of Mind - (at least the buffalo do)

The buffalo showed critical, creative and self-regulated thinking.
  • They were accurate where they needed to be;
  • They were clear in their intentions and purpose;
  • They maintained an open mind;
  • They restrained their impulsivity;
  • They took a position when the situation warranted it and they responded appropriately.
  • They showed perseverance
  • and they raised themselves to their limits and capabilities.
We could all learn a lesson from this video , in terms of never giving up.

Reference:
Marzano, R. J., and Pickering D.J., et.al., Dimensions of Learning. Teachers Manual (2nd Edition)
(1997). Aurora, Colorado, USA:McRel & ASCD.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Battle at Kruger - The use of Video To Educate.

The Battle Of Kruger video is profound on so many levels. It introduces the student to many of life's lessons. It shows perseverance and endurance, overcoming adversity and never giving up hope. A teacher could use this video with a grade 7 English class. The task would be to write about what the student has learnt from watching the experience. It could also be used as a good introduction to a discussion of bullying. Particularly in a class where bullying is actually taking place and the teacher does not want to point fingers. This video could lead into a very interesting discussion on the bullying angle.

Saturday, March 6, 2010

Am I being Too Simplistic ? My View of Learning Managment.

I have been an avid lurker on the chat forums. Thinking I have nothing to contribute.
You see my concept of Learning Management is quite simplistic. "It's about having all the balls in place". As a Learning Manager you need to :
  • Know your learning theories and how/when to apply them
  • It is knowing your learner
  • Knowing the constraints in which you work eg resources, budgets etc
  • Aware of other stakeholders
  • Achieving a work life balance
  • Knowing what outcomes you need to achieve
  • Establishing good classroom discipline
  • Establishing a respectful 'two way' relationship with your learner
  • Understanding the differences amongst your learners
  • Realizing there is always something new to learn
  • Accept the need for change
  • Know your limitations
  • Realise the basics are important and get your learners to understand this too.
Is this too simplistic way of thinking? What do you think ?

Monday, March 1, 2010

The Wonderment Of Lectures

Today was the first time I have attended lectures for a long time. I am very pleased that I decided to avail myself of the opportunity to attend. Both Lecturers, set very good examples. Both were very knowledgeable on their topics, both appeared to love their job and their lectures were very student-focused. They set great examples, and I strongly recommend that if you can, attend these lectures.