Wk 4 Publishing_Leadership Project

For my first choice, I am submitting my
action research project to Learning & Leading with Technology. As mentioned in my earlier post, this journal publishes articles that focus on integrating technology into the K-12 classrooms. I believe through the use of podcasts and blogging, elementary students are able to transition to middle school much more smoothly. If accepted, superintendents and administrators would see how effective the use of such technology addresses procedural, academic, and social concerns of students undergoing the transition.



My second choice will be Edutopia. This publication is filled with valuable resources for administrators and teachers in K-12. I am focusing on one of their founding core strategies, which is technology integration.


Here are the links to my "Think Out Loud" Posts:

Post 1
http://dialoguewithdianemilton.blogspot.com/2011/02/wk-3-entry-4-publishleadership-project.html

Post 2
http://dialoguewithdianemilton.blogspot.com/2011/02/wk-4-publishleadership-projectpart-2-of.html

Publishing Document
https://files.me.com/dianemilton/h18aid

Wk 4 Publish_Leadership Project_Part 2 of 2

After carefully reviewing my choices, I have decided to submit my work to Learning & Leading with Technology. I have chosen this journal because it promotes the effective use of technology within the K-12 environment. Most of the published articles are from those that are the leaders of school districts, leaders of the schools, or educators within the schools. Published articles bring attention to everyday practices and tips that are being used to integrate technology into the classroom. I believe my action research would be beneficial to the readers of this publication.

Wk 4 Comment to Scott

Scott's post:

I love being the enroller! I constantly am the one looking for the next big change, finding a possible solution that meets the requirements and then enrolling others in my new project. Or the flip side, I enjoy being the one enrolled. When I see a good idea, I am usually the first one to join the charge ahead. The one thing I am constantly aware of though, is not to get too far out there. A good leader must make sure that everyone's voice is heard and has enrolled in the new process.

Chapter 10, Being The Board was especially interesting to me, because I constantly love to sum up this chapter in a few words, "Quit your complaining, Man Up!" or more concisely, "Nut Up Or Shut UP!"

I find that building a framework for possibility is probably the most difficult of all. To constantly pushing into the realm of possibilities can be a very tiring experience, because you'll spend most of your time fighting the good fight. And you'll take a lot of kicks to stomach along the way. Keep your guard up!

For the past several years, I've had the pleasure to work with teenagers at my church. This has been sometimes a very trying process and sometimes a very rewarding process. When you see a extremely shy young man step out of his comfort zone, learn something new to support the ministry and then take it to the next level...that brings a big smile to my face.

My comment:

I wrote about enrolling others this week as well. However, I did not think specifically about being enrolled myself. As I reflect on your post, it is when I am enrolled that I catch the spark and am able to light the spark in others. I need to be enrolled to be inspired and motivated to continue to do that which I do everyday. May I enroll as much as I want to enroll others around me.

Wk 4 Comment to Brooke

Brooke's post:

My favorite passage from this weeks reading was in the first chapter. The story of the boy talking about his father going to meet with a man in person rather than talking to him over the phone. I think it was profound to me because I very much agree with the quote, “Certain things in life are better done in person”. I still personally believe there is something powerful that happens when you have that personal interaction with someone. So much can be said through nonverbal communication. Enthusiasm and showing true interest in what you are discussing, sharing makes a big difference when getting your students engaged and intrigued about a topic. When they can hear and see your excitement often they what to know more of what it’s all about. My students tease me now about how excited I get over paper samples...

In the chapter “Being the Board” I agree with the perspective of not playing the blame game because it tends to just put everyone on the defensive. However, I found my calculated self not fully agreeing with my central self when it comes to more drastic circumstances and situations and being the board. Perhaps yes being a victim of circumstance in a car accident you can accept the situation and move forward from it but I still found myself thinking what are the repercussions for this irresponsible person? Not to benefit me but to make sure they don’t make this same choice again... I’m thinking everyone should just read this book with an open mind...

To be cont.... I still have one more chapter to read..

My comment:

I also enjoyed reading about the author's childhood memory of his father going to talk face to face to the gentleman in Glasgow. It obviously impacted him in such a way that the memory caused him to fly from Boston to Washington to ask Rostropovich to play in an event that Zander was already told no to during a telephone conversation. I have always tried to make it a practice to communicate with people face to face. Not only when asking for help, but when discussing important personal matters or business. There is a lot to be said about personal time, connections, relationships, tones, facial expressions, that can only be captured in that face to face moment.

Wk 4 Reading Ch's 9-12

This week I enjoyed reading about "the life force" within the Ninth Practice, "Lighting a Spark". The author stated that it is, "nothing more or less than the passionate energy to connect, express, and communicate". It is through enrollment that we are able to light a spark with our students, families, or friends. We must allow them the opportunity to enroll in the task, contribute, and give in order for the spark to light. Then the spark can ignite and become a flame spreading to the families, friends, and coworkers of those we just allowed to enroll. It is easy to light the fire when we carry the spark. We must not let the negativity of budgets and teacher lounge talk water our spark and send us into the downward spiral.

Wk 3 Entry 4 Publish_Leadership Project_Part 1 of 2

Right now I am leaning more to publishing an article for my project. I have looked at "Edutopia" and "Learning and Leading with Technology." It has been a bit intimidating when looking at submission guidelines and requirements. I think back to the reading from this week though and remember Rule #6. This whole process has been a learning experience, and we are nearing the end. I look forward to the possibility of sharing my project with others and inspiring them to incorporate my ideas and research into their schools.

Wk 3 Entry 3 Comment to Gregg

Gregg's post:
Wow! As I read through chapters 5-8 in "The Art of Possibility," I couldn't help but think of two things: 1) teacher-talk in the staff room, and 2) the power of student- to-student learning. Allow me to explain.

The whole concept of the calculating self vs. the central self completely changed my thinking about how I view certain aspects of the teaching profession. I asked myself, "Self? Am I a person that tends to take things too seriously to where it effects how I interact and lead my students?" Fortunately, the answer from my "self" was a resounding "No!" But what my inner self was convicting me of was how I can somehow be effected by how others relate themselves to the calculating self analogy. In other words, I can at times get sucked in to a conversation at lunch with other teachers that revolves around the common complaints of standardized testing, state standards, decisions by administrators, micromanagement and a plethora of other topics that educators seem to find the time to rant about. I discovered that I will listen to these conversations and walk away wondering what good did that just do for any of our students, other creating a free therapy session for these teachers at my expense? My point is, and I think this is what Zander was getting at, was the fact that there will always be something to disagree with, something that doesn't go the way we want it to, or someone that doesn't do things the way I would do them. But the question is whether or not I choose to stay stuck in that rut or way of thinking, or do I choose this presence without resistance approach? Do I let the obstacles stand in my way, or do I allow myself to say that is the way it is and allow myself to be creative and open the pathway for possibility? Obviously my goal as a teacher is to do the latter, but I know I am guilty of allowing my calculating self shadow the central self and the possibility it can unleash.

Secondly, the whole idea of students teaching other students kept running through my head. After reading the story of the Cuban and American orchestras teaching each other how to play different and difficult pieces, I started thinking about how much power students have when teaching other students. I use this strategy in my own classroom to a certain degree, but this concept of the "silent conductor" really highlighted my thoughts on how I can enhance the learning by disappearing from the lead of the room, so-to-speak, and let the kids lead their own learning with each other. Automatically, my head began spinning with different ways to approach some of my lessons and how to implement a more centralized learning environment to where I enable or give students the freedom to learn from each other. By doing this, I think the dynamics of my classroom would completely change, and if nothing else, a great social experiment for my 6th graders who are mostly English Language Learners!

The photo used in this blog is from Flickr, under the Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.0 Generic License.

Photo attributed to:
"I Complain" - shtikl

My comment:
I reflected on my teaching as well this week after I read about the students in the orchestra teaching each other. I think often we don't give our students credit that they are able to do the teaching. The students get so excited when they have that opportunity to share with others what they know and are great at. How motivating that moment is to them as students and us as teachers. I am right there with you on looking at ways I can implement this "silent conductor" approach more often.

Wk 3 Entry 2 Comment to Pamela

Pamela Hickman wrote:
After reading this weeks reading the most valuable thing that I took away from it was teachers are enablers. We teach students skills such as reading, writing, math, etc. but it is completely up to the student what they do with it. The only way a teacher can be great is by the work produced by the students. I liked how the reading pointed out that a conductor cannot be great without the orchestra. The students we teach everyday are our orchestra we as teachers have to be willing to learn from our students in order to be great teachers. My mother has always told me "your leadership is only as good as how well you listen." If you don't listen to what your students are trying to teach you as an educator than how can we properly service our classrooms? When I became an educator I devoted myself to life long learning and sometime that means swallowing my pride and learning from my students.

My comment:
I too enjoyed reading about the conductor learning from the orchestra, and they are why he is great. I also appreciate you sharing your mother's advice with everyone, and how true it is. When we listen to our students and those around us, we allow ourselves to be open to see other viewpoints and possibly ways to improve ourselves and our practices. When we stop listening, I think we stop learning ourselves. Great post!

Wk 3 Entry 1 Reading Ch's 5-8

The seventh practice, "The Way Things Are" was a great reminder this week for me to view things in a different light. I am the world's worst at getting frustrated when things don't go the way I had planned or hoped they would be. I have come a long way in this area of my thinking, but it often becomes a conscious effort to look past my frustration and make the best of the moment. The author gave reference to the movie "Babe" and the reactions of the cow and duck when Roseanna had become the evening meal. He stated that they were hopeless and resigned in their reactions. I think it is safe to say that is the reaction of the majority of people. We view our situations as hopeless like the cow and walk toward our presumed destination, or we resist like the duck and fight our way to the presumed end. The author stated that, "being present in they way things are is not the same as accepting things as they are". When you are being present and not resistant you can then see possibility before you to make choices on how you want to move on. The key to me here is that you are moving on and not spiraling downward in your thought process to get stuck where you are.

Wk 2-Free Post-Reflecting

I have been taking a little time this week to reflect. Our reading assignment and the Zander video have really got me thinking. I am reflecting on my journey here at Full Sail. I am reflecting on my marriage ( my anniversary is tomorrow-18 years :) ). I am reflecting on my life. My birthday is next month, and I will be 37. I am reflecting on my career path, and I am proud of some things and see need for change in some areas. Life is all about choices, and we definitely live with those choices. I do my best to live a life that is pleasing to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I believe Deut. 30:19 “..I have set before you life and death, blessings and cursings, therefore choose life that you and your descendants might live.” We choose life everyday by obeying God’s word, which is found in Deut. 28. I want to encourage all of my friends and fellow travelers to choose life and choose to make a difference in this world. Share a smile, a kind word, a genuine concern, and a helpful hand. Bless you all!

Wk 2-Comment to Scott

Scott's post:
I loved the Zander video, he is helping us see that small changes in the way we look at familiar areas of our life (like the familiar strains of Chopin) from a slightly different perspective can lead to a wholly unique viewpoint.
In Chapter 1, the Zanders direct us to question the framework and the underlying assumptions of our environment. One important way I like to question the assumptions around me is to create a process flow diagram of the process in question. Prior to joining a media production team, I was a business process consultant to several companies, hired to look at a particular process, document it and then work with those involved to improve the process. I have taken this skillset to just about every aspect of my life. By critically documenting and analyzing a process, looking for areas of improvement and working to create those improvements our framework for a particular business process is constantly examined.
I completely agree with the thought of a world of measurements. If we don't measure it, we won't try to perform up to that measure. It's only the most important decision you can make...What to measure? I think this is the point to this chapter. Not only do we have to measure our world, but we must also make good decisions on what we are going to measure. I have attempted to come up with those "right" measurements for my life, not measures that always matter to the rest of the world, but correct metrics for me. My metrics typically revolve around church (involvement, attendance, leadership), family (provision, shelter, friends) and work (adding value to customer, improvement).
Dear Mr. B,
I received my grade of A because I worked hard and during my time in the EMDT program at FullSail and within the media production department at OfficeMax. It was at this time that an idea began to form in my mind. I began the formation of a production company and business plan to support that company. My idea was to utilize my media production resources and skills to help other small businesses in their growth goals. I have applied and received a small business grant from the federal government in the formation of this company, in support of the Small Business Administration. This decision has taken hold in both my church and work life. I have taken the AR project forward, extending it's reach throughout the youth group and adult membership. We are even in preliminary talks with the church-wide offices to push this project beyond Yorkville's boundaries. Thanks for the "kick in the pants" I needed...
As I have mentioned previously, my family is very involved in our church's youth group. This is where I am a contribution. The unfortunate fact is that there are a lot of teenaged kids dealing with all sorts of today's issues. In my small way I really enjoy helping them through these issues, especially through my actions. Hopefully by simply living my life , working hard, showing leadership at church and providing for my family, and extending my family beyond blood bonds, I can affect one or two of these young men's lives. Recently this came to a small token of fruition, one young man, dealing with an issue with a girlfriend issue, came to me the other night and we spent 3 hours simply talking. When he walked out of here, a confused young man had a clearer direction and a path that included "owning up" to his problems while steering his girlfriend down a better path. I feel that I may have contributed favorably to this young man's life and will continue to be in his life.



My comment:
I like your letter to Mr. B. :)
Thank you for your contribution to young people in the world today. I have a quote hanging in my classroom that says, "A child may never remember what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel." Our young people want to know that what they feel matters. They want to know that someone loves them enough to listen and that what they have to say is important. Thank you for taking the time to listen to these kids. Thanks for stepping into the universe of possibility and giving compassion and having passion for people in order that they may feel joy and grace and awe.
Bless you!

Wk 2 -Comment to Saray

Saray's post:
I was touched in so many levels by the first four chapters of this book. And, I feel like sharing this personal anecdote.

In 1996, my whole family moved to the U.S. from Mexico because my dad was getting his master's degree. My sister and I did not know any English and this was the day before school. Our parents called us to the living room and told us something that went like this: we want you to know that to us you are the most beautiful, intelligent, funny, and amazing daughters in the whole world and nothing or no one will make us think differently of you. We know that you don't know any English. We know that you will struggle, and when you get a failing grade, we want you to know that we will see an A because we see the effort you put in, because we see you growing, because we see you becoming women of outstanding character. Don't worry about grades, go live and enjoy our two years here. Make the most of it and if in the way, your grades happen to be A's, so be it... That evening, a huge weight was lifted from my shoulders, I was no longer scared, I was ready to take over the world!

Needless to say, my sister and I did extremely well. Due to language immersion, we were proficient in English within 4 months. I went on to tutor in Spanish, French, and Chemistry after school and took some extra courses to graduate a year early. My parents believed in me and that made the difference. I was given an A and the rest was history.


My comment:
Wow, your post was so inspiring. Your visual collage was beautiful. I am glad to see that someone else was touched by this week's reading as well. It sounds like you have awesome parents, and I believe it is the love and support of parents that cause children to soar and strive for excellence. As teachers, we see students everyday who long for such approval and acceptance. Unfortunately, many parents today are so self-absorbed that they don't see this longing in their children. May we always take the time to reach out to these students and show them love and support. Your post made me want to remind my two beautiful daughters (ages 12 and 16) of how much I love them and will always be there for them to support and encourage their growth and efforts.

Wk 2 Required Reading

I am truly enjoying our required reading from Art of Possibility. Wow, I have been so encouraged and inspired. I look forward to reading this book each day and have already shared some of the things I have read with my husband and friends. Who doesn’t want to transform their life and make an impact on others along this journey? There have been some gentle reminders for me, as well as “lightbulb” moments that are causing me to reflect on how I act and react in situations. One “lightbulb” moment for me came when looking at the second practice, “Stepping into the Universe of Possibility”. Within the world of measurement we all fail and fall short of our own expectations or the expectations placed upon us by others. We determine whether or not we are successful based on measurement tools defined for us. I felt such stress relief after reading, “In the universe of possibility, you set the context and let life unfold”. Enjoy the journey and don’t get caught up on the little things. Flat tires, bugs on the windshield, and critters in the road, are all a part of the journey…laugh and let the moment be perfect without the world measurement of how the moment was supposed to be.

Wk 1-Entry 4-Free Choice-The Journey

It has been a long journey to get to month 11. There have been many sleepless nights and many cups of Vanilla Caramel Latte by General Foods International. I have enjoyed the journey, but I am glad to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I have been extremely discouraged, as I have realized that my state and district does not recognize this degree program for the advancement of my teaching certificate nor a pay raise. I am hopeful for a solution to my dilemma, although it's not looking bright.

I am proud of the work that I have completed along the way, and I am thankful for the opportunity and experiences that I have gained through this program. The professors have been so encouraging and helpful, and I have met people that I will never forget. I have enjoyed implementing the things I have learned with my students, and I have been thrilled watching them get excited about learning.

Our society is media driven. Our students are immersed in it. Taking the knowledge that we have gained over the last 10 months and putting it into action within the class has been a joy. I walk away knowing that all of my invested time and energy has been worth it.

Wk 1-Entry 3-Comment to Bryan Antos

Bryan's Post:
Every day I work, I create video for my company that is seen by millions of people. But that video is protected by copyright that my company owns. I cannot post my work on youtube or anywhere. And that's a personal problem as I want as many people as possible to see my work. At the very least, I want my friends to be able to see it.

Additionally, not every piece is saved by my company. The best thing I ever produced (and was copied by Nike and NBA Productions, poorly, except for getting Marvin Gaye's version of the National Anthem, which is awesome) is gone forever. That is sort of devastating to me.

I understand the point of copyright but there will always be pirating. The trick is to embrace the new techniques and create a legal version of that. 5 years ago I suggested making shows available for download and I got laughed at. Every single person laughed at the idea. And now it's one of the biggest priorities of the company.

You just have to wait for the younger generation to get in there and try and change these laws. Like I said in a comment, the musical genius of an album like Paul's Boutique cannot really happen nowadays. That needs to change.

But you really have to give the law some credit. Being able to use any copyrighted work for parody or education is great.


My Comment:
Bryan, I can sense your frustration, and I understand why you would feel this way. I agree with Catherine. It looks as if your company would let you create some type of portfolio, and I can't believe that some of your creations are forever lost. Even though you work for them, it just seems as if you would have some rights as well. Also, it's too bad your company shot down your ideas.Now that this idea seems to be the biggest in the company, do you wish you would have been more persistent initially? Sometimes we give up too easily. (I'm not saying you did...just asking.)

Wk1- Entry 2- Comment to Andrea Shike

Andrea's Post:
Oh, the world of copyright. To be honest with you, it scares the crap out of me. As a teacher, I make my kids cite all the sources they use in research and creating presentations. As a student, I use things that are mine personally (pictures) to be sure that I am not violating copyright laws. It's easier for me to use my own images, than to try and use something from Creative Commons and use it wrong. If I need music, I'll create my own GarageBand loops or find something from freeplaymusic.com. I know I am not distributing my work for profit, but I still freak out to think I am possibly violating some law.
Good Copy, Bad Copy was interesting to watch. It's eye opening to see so many artists and producers out there sampling from each other. I am not sure if I think it's right or not. I can't imagine music without other music. So many times, you hear a song on the radio that sounds like another song, or has been redone by another artist. This is more exposure for the artists, but at what point does the song writer get credit for this. Some recording artists are mega millionaires, but what about the song writers, the behind the scenes people, producers, mixers and so forth. When do they get all the public recognition and mega millions?



My comment:
I agree with you, Andrea. It is scary, and when you care about doing the right thing, abiding by the law is important. I think what might help us both is what Gregg mentioned, simply understanding and following the guidelines for Fair Use and Creative Commons. For me, it's finding the time to sit down long enough to read and try to get an understanding of those guidelines.

Wk 1-Entry 1-EDM613-Copyright Issues

Copyright....the word itself can be scary. As a teacher, I have always tried to teach my students what is correct when citing sources. In addition, I have always tried to follow those guidelines myself. After all the videos this week, I don't know if I have a better understanding, or if I am even more confused.

As a singer/songwriter...so much for mailing yourself the lyrics or music. That is what I was always told by family and friends. In one of the videos Nathan, with Expert Village, said, "get visual proof". So, I'm guessing you need to film yourself singing and send it to yourself. lol

"Good Copy/Bad Copy" reminded me of all the guys you see at the local flea market selling illegal movies. You see them getting busted one week, then two weeks later they are right back at it. I am beginning to think it is all about the money with the law enforcement. Lawrence Lessig with Creative Commons spoke of the cost associated with copyright and how it "inhibits" creativity. I believe this to be true. People become afraid that others will steal their ideas or work because they can't afford to have it copyrighted, so they don't create to the fullest potential knowing their funds are limited. Yet, an individual may have the lyrics and music for a number one song in mind or an invention that could change the way we do something. But, it merely stays in the mind and is never fully developed.