From the article, “Google targets children with free programs for schools”, "I feel like I am on the edge of something really exciting and perhaps classroom-changing," Wojcicki said. "Using this as a teaching tool, I will be able to look at students' papers and make suggestions before they even turn it in."
Google’s word processor and spreadsheet is another venture into the collaborative world of Web 2.0 technology. Does new educator support have an obligation to “keep up” with technology? If time has been identified a diminishing resource, do we need to approach our work differently?
Friday, December 15, 2006
Sunday, December 10, 2006
In the not too distant future
There are quite a few connections when comparing standards-based instruction, Schlechty Center’s Working on the Work (W.O.W), and Teachscape's Classroom Walkthrough (CWT) to the development of Web 2.0. The following statements come from the article “Futurist: To fix education, think Web 2.0”
Rather than treat pedagogy as the transfer of knowledge from teachers who are experts to students who are receptacles, educators should consider more hands-on and informal types of learning.
...he praised situations where students who are passionate about specific topics study in groups and participate in online communities.
… you have to change your teaching practices.
…"passion-based learning" that focuses on getting students more engaged with topic experts.
When planning your Orientation and monthly support meetings/ learning communities for New Educators at your school, do you prepare them for Yesterday or for Tomorrow?
How can you tap into the technological skills and experiences that New Educators bring to your school?
Rather than treat pedagogy as the transfer of knowledge from teachers who are experts to students who are receptacles, educators should consider more hands-on and informal types of learning.
...he praised situations where students who are passionate about specific topics study in groups and participate in online communities.
… you have to change your teaching practices.
…"passion-based learning" that focuses on getting students more engaged with topic experts.
When planning your Orientation and monthly support meetings/ learning communities for New Educators at your school, do you prepare them for Yesterday or for Tomorrow?
How can you tap into the technological skills and experiences that New Educators bring to your school?
Friday, December 01, 2006
Freshman
Finishing the season at 11-1 and approaching the goal of a SEC Championship, most of the media coverage this past week focused not on the present but on the future of the Florida Gator team. Articles did not highlight the record breaking career of Chris Leak, but of the freshman class.
“Coach Urban Meyer has allowed most of the freshmen time to develop before placing them in the season's most competitive situations.
‘I hear it quite often from family members and staff members and the athletic director how exciting they are, and let's get these guys (freshman) going,’ Meyer said. ‘But the reality is the normal development ... is you learn how to play the game your freshman year.’”
Does your Principal allow most of the New Educators time to develop before placing them in the school’s most competitive situations? What support can be provided in the areas of scheduling, planning, or management?
UPDATE: It's going to be Florida-Ohio State for the national championship. Florida's win over Arkansas in the SEC title game was enough to leapfrog the Gators to No. 2 in the final BCS standings and into the National Championship Game in Glendale, Arizona
“Coach Urban Meyer has allowed most of the freshmen time to develop before placing them in the season's most competitive situations.
‘I hear it quite often from family members and staff members and the athletic director how exciting they are, and let's get these guys (freshman) going,’ Meyer said. ‘But the reality is the normal development ... is you learn how to play the game your freshman year.’”
Does your Principal allow most of the New Educators time to develop before placing them in the school’s most competitive situations? What support can be provided in the areas of scheduling, planning, or management?
UPDATE: It's going to be Florida-Ohio State for the national championship. Florida's win over Arkansas in the SEC title game was enough to leapfrog the Gators to No. 2 in the final BCS standings and into the National Championship Game in Glendale, Arizona
Monday, November 27, 2006
Rockies Using iPods to Study
Professional development is the core business at HRD and there has been increased “talk” on the role of technology in the context and process of our work. This article touches on the same message and purpose. Here are few quotes:
“He watches frames of himself delivering the pitch, followed by the result of the play. Everything else is weeded out.”
“Teams have tons of film to help players study their opponents and their own quirks.”
"They can do it on their time”
"I think it's overrated personally, but that's just me," Randolph said. "I'm from a different school."
“Colorado's minor league hitting coordinator, Jimmy Johnson, has an iPod filled with video of players in the farm system. If a player is struggling, Johnson can compare his swing from the past with his current swing, and fix it accordingly.”
"Anything you can do to help yourself get ready for [games] is a good idea," he said.”
“He watches frames of himself delivering the pitch, followed by the result of the play. Everything else is weeded out.”
“Teams have tons of film to help players study their opponents and their own quirks.”
"They can do it on their time”
"I think it's overrated personally, but that's just me," Randolph said. "I'm from a different school."
“Colorado's minor league hitting coordinator, Jimmy Johnson, has an iPod filled with video of players in the farm system. If a player is struggling, Johnson can compare his swing from the past with his current swing, and fix it accordingly.”
"Anything you can do to help yourself get ready for [games] is a good idea," he said.”
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Begin with the End in Mind
If it was not for a friend I would have never heard of the show Dancing with the Stars (and I still have yet to see an episode).
For those like me, this show pairs eleven celebrities like Jerry Springer and Sara Evans (who?) with professional dancers to perform a Ballroom or Latin American dance routine that is critiqued by professional judges and voters at home.
This season’s winner was former Florida Gator and Dallas Cowboy running back Emmitt Smith.
"From the beginning, he just wanted to be the best possible dancer he can be," commented Emmitt’s dance partner after his win.
Smith, ever the competitor, was determined to win, just as he had done so many times with the Dallas Cowboys. "You don't get into a competition unless you think you can win," he told AP Radio after Tuesday's dance finale.
When you hear, “Begin with the end in mind”, what strategies are planned and then implement that will lead to the end? Having a vision and a strong work ethic has produced another trophy for this 3-time Super Bowl champion. Do the New Educators and Instructional Coaches begin the year thinking that they will “win”? What has been prepared for teacher and student success?
For those like me, this show pairs eleven celebrities like Jerry Springer and Sara Evans (who?) with professional dancers to perform a Ballroom or Latin American dance routine that is critiqued by professional judges and voters at home.
This season’s winner was former Florida Gator and Dallas Cowboy running back Emmitt Smith.
"From the beginning, he just wanted to be the best possible dancer he can be," commented Emmitt’s dance partner after his win.
Smith, ever the competitor, was determined to win, just as he had done so many times with the Dallas Cowboys. "You don't get into a competition unless you think you can win," he told AP Radio after Tuesday's dance finale.
When you hear, “Begin with the end in mind”, what strategies are planned and then implement that will lead to the end? Having a vision and a strong work ethic has produced another trophy for this 3-time Super Bowl champion. Do the New Educators and Instructional Coaches begin the year thinking that they will “win”? What has been prepared for teacher and student success?
Saturday, November 11, 2006
RPS
Rocks, Paper, Scissors (RPS) is more than just a playground game; it is an institution of fierce competition. The world of “who goes first” has grown into its own that includes protocols, procedures, strategies, a Hall of Fame, and Awards for Excellence.
Do you find the world of RPS at the Foundation (people driven), Application (plan centered) or Accomplished (systems driven)?
Do you find the world of RPS at the Foundation (people driven), Application (plan centered) or Accomplished (systems driven)?
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Overkill
The Quadruple Bypass Burger has four slabs of beef weighing 2lbs, three cheese layers, four bacon rashers, lettuce and tomato. Customers can also order the smaller Triple Bypass Burger and Flatliner fries cooked in pure lard.
The Heart Attack Grill in Tempe, Arizona, provides support by offering wheelchairs to carry customers out of the restaurant. A nurse, an example of immediate site-based support, serves the burger.
For me, images like this reinforces a vegetarian lifestyle.
The Heart Attack Grill in Tempe, Arizona, provides support by offering wheelchairs to carry customers out of the restaurant. A nurse, an example of immediate site-based support, serves the burger.
For me, images like this reinforces a vegetarian lifestyle.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
'So Minute"
"I don't care what our record is or their record is. The difference between the best and the worst team in the NFL is so minute. It has everything to do with confidence and emotion and being a consistent team on that day."
This comes from current Dolphin Quarterback Joey Harrington when asked to comment on this week’s game against the Chicago Bears.
Since I have been sitting in data meetings all year, I could not help make the connection to our teachers. Grade level comparisons are constantly being made between classes regarding the demonstration of high levels of student proficiency.
Is the difference between the types of teaching (and learning) as “minute” as Joey compares NFL teams? Can a small modification of instruction lead to dramatic student gains?
What is common is that teachers must have confidence in themselves and in their students while remaining fair and consistent throughout the year.
There is a lot more at stake than a world championship.
This comes from current Dolphin Quarterback Joey Harrington when asked to comment on this week’s game against the Chicago Bears.
Since I have been sitting in data meetings all year, I could not help make the connection to our teachers. Grade level comparisons are constantly being made between classes regarding the demonstration of high levels of student proficiency.
Is the difference between the types of teaching (and learning) as “minute” as Joey compares NFL teams? Can a small modification of instruction lead to dramatic student gains?
What is common is that teachers must have confidence in themselves and in their students while remaining fair and consistent throughout the year.
There is a lot more at stake than a world championship.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
A Final Showcase
CBS has done it again and I am not referring to another CSI spin-off.
First it was CBS news anchor and 60 Minutes correspondent Dan Rather who announced his retirement leaving a large gap in the anchor seat. Since CBS did not bother to prepare a replacement, the network has yet to make progress in the news department.
From the Associated Press, “Her (Katie Couric) average audience of 7.3 million viewers left the CBS Evening News 1.1 million behind ABC's second-place World News. It was the biggest gap between the two broadcasts since the week of Feb. 6, according to Nielsen Media Research. NBC's Nightly News led the way with 8.9 million viewers last week.”
Now CBS seems to be in the same boat with their #1 game show, The Price is Right. After 35 years of dedicated service to the show Bob Barker will be offering his last contestant showcase this year. If the owners of the show commented that they have been “looking” for a replacement for two or three years, when does their plan become a bit more aggressive? Is just “looking” how CBS prepares for the future?
How is CBS preparing a replacement? Without any visible prospects of a competent host in the near horizon, will the Price is Right take the same downward spin as the news department?
First it was CBS news anchor and 60 Minutes correspondent Dan Rather who announced his retirement leaving a large gap in the anchor seat. Since CBS did not bother to prepare a replacement, the network has yet to make progress in the news department.
From the Associated Press, “Her (Katie Couric) average audience of 7.3 million viewers left the CBS Evening News 1.1 million behind ABC's second-place World News. It was the biggest gap between the two broadcasts since the week of Feb. 6, according to Nielsen Media Research. NBC's Nightly News led the way with 8.9 million viewers last week.”
Now CBS seems to be in the same boat with their #1 game show, The Price is Right. After 35 years of dedicated service to the show Bob Barker will be offering his last contestant showcase this year. If the owners of the show commented that they have been “looking” for a replacement for two or three years, when does their plan become a bit more aggressive? Is just “looking” how CBS prepares for the future?
How is CBS preparing a replacement? Without any visible prospects of a competent host in the near horizon, will the Price is Right take the same downward spin as the news department?
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Gator Nation
The University of Florida has moved beyond the common mission statement and has identified the Gator Nation, another vehicle designed to communicate the beliefs, actions, and successes of the University of Florida.
Here is the transcript from the Gator Nation television commercial (click to view)
GO GATORS
GO GATORS
GO GATORS
GO GATORS
GO start a Fortune 500 company
GO write the great American novel
GO cure cancer
GO to Mars
GO GATORS
There is no bond stronger than the one formed when you become a member of the Gator Nation. It identifies who and what we are, and this network knows no boundaries.
Here is the transcript from the Gator Nation television commercial (click to view)
GO GATORS
GO GATORS
GO GATORS
GO GATORS
GO start a Fortune 500 company
GO write the great American novel
GO cure cancer
GO to Mars
GO GATORS
There is no bond stronger than the one formed when you become a member of the Gator Nation. It identifies who and what we are, and this network knows no boundaries.
Act Boldly
"One thing the Marine Corps teaches is that it’s better to be doing something than doing nothing. If you stay where you are, you’re in the position where your enemy wants you to be. If you start doing something, you are changing the rules of the game."
This quote is printed in Mark Sanborn’s book, You Don’t Need A TITLE To Be A LEADER. Regardless if you are a NESS Liaison, Instructional Coach or even a New Educator, there are many obligations that happen everyday that can easily be turned around into opportunities.
Is it easier to watch or act?
- General Peter Pace, U.S. Marine Corps
This quote is printed in Mark Sanborn’s book, You Don’t Need A TITLE To Be A LEADER. Regardless if you are a NESS Liaison, Instructional Coach or even a New Educator, there are many obligations that happen everyday that can easily be turned around into opportunities.
Is it easier to watch or act?
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Questions Make Life Interesting
House on FX does a wonderful job of modeling the use of high order questions. Even with predictable story arcs, House does not accept the obvious, and is always looking for more. Throughout the show, Dr. Gregory House riddles question that would make any teacher proud. “What is the relationship between? What ideas justify? Suppose you could ___ what would you do? Can you predict the outcome if? Based on what you know, how would you explain? What information would you use to support the view?”
Not to put House M.D., out of business, but how can questioning skills lead to self-improvement?
Favorite “House” Quotes:
“You can think I'm wrong, but that's no reason to quit thinking.”
“I take risks, sometimes patients die, but not taking risks causes more patients to die - so I guess my biggest problem is I've been cursed with the ability to do the math.”
Not to put House M.D., out of business, but how can questioning skills lead to self-improvement?
Favorite “House” Quotes:
“You can think I'm wrong, but that's no reason to quit thinking.”
“I take risks, sometimes patients die, but not taking risks causes more patients to die - so I guess my biggest problem is I've been cursed with the ability to do the math.”
Monday, October 16, 2006
Greatness
“Greatness…consists of doing great deeds with little means and the accomplishment of vast purposes from the private ranks of life. To be great at all, one must be great here, now in Philadelphia.” Or in Broward County, Or in the Classroom.
Do we find our work as a collection of Good or Great?
--- Russell Conwell, pastor, founder and first president of Temple University
Do we find our work as a collection of Good or Great?
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Cheesecake Factory Cooks Up a Rigorous Employee Training Program
How do we compare to Cheesecake? Something to think about while waiting in line for your table.
Each candidate must go through a rigorous two-week certification process before becoming a full-fledged server. Candidates are assigned a mentor for on-the-job training. They observe how experienced servers interact with customers and navigate diverse situations in the restaurant.
At the end of the two weeks, candidates are given examinations and are required to attain a letter grade of A. They are given two attempts to qualify, and if they can’t get that A, they’re not hired.
Thirty days after becoming servers, employees receive follow-up classes. To maintain strict quality control, servers go through a recertification process once a year.
Because many of the company’s workers do not hold predictable 9-to-5 schedules, creating deep, long-lasting company ties can be a tricky undertaking. With this in mind, the Cheesecake Factory gathers employees every day for a formal meeting—a ritual long practiced by Ritz-Carlton. The sessions serve as a platform for talking about a variety of issues—from the best ways to keep the stores clean to safety tips to celebrating special events.
One way the company measures its return on investment is by examining turnover rates, which are about 15 percent below the industry average of 106 percent.
How rigorous is your Orientation compare to Cheesecake?
Click here for the complete article : )
Each candidate must go through a rigorous two-week certification process before becoming a full-fledged server. Candidates are assigned a mentor for on-the-job training. They observe how experienced servers interact with customers and navigate diverse situations in the restaurant.
At the end of the two weeks, candidates are given examinations and are required to attain a letter grade of A. They are given two attempts to qualify, and if they can’t get that A, they’re not hired.
Thirty days after becoming servers, employees receive follow-up classes. To maintain strict quality control, servers go through a recertification process once a year.
Because many of the company’s workers do not hold predictable 9-to-5 schedules, creating deep, long-lasting company ties can be a tricky undertaking. With this in mind, the Cheesecake Factory gathers employees every day for a formal meeting—a ritual long practiced by Ritz-Carlton. The sessions serve as a platform for talking about a variety of issues—from the best ways to keep the stores clean to safety tips to celebrating special events.
One way the company measures its return on investment is by examining turnover rates, which are about 15 percent below the industry average of 106 percent.
How rigorous is your Orientation compare to Cheesecake?
Click here for the complete article : )
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Vampire Principle
Did you know…Vampires can enter a private residence only if invited; otherwise they will hit an invisible barrier. Once invited, the Vampire is always free to enter.
Vampires need to be invited. How thoughtful! Many actually believe that inviting Support is considered difficult. Granted Coaches are not Vampires, however Coaches are more effective if invited than forced.
Vampires need to be invited. How thoughtful! Many actually believe that inviting Support is considered difficult. Granted Coaches are not Vampires, however Coaches are more effective if invited than forced.
Prime Directive
You do not need to be a CSI fan to appreciate the following anecdote (borrowed fom CSI).
Gil Grissom: I was flying to a seminar in New Hampshire a couple of summers ago. I was sitting in the plane next to a Philosophy Professor from Harvard. He told me this story about how every morning he heads to the bathroom after his three-hour philosophy class. When he flushed the toilet there'd be this tiny brown spider fighting for its life against the swirling water. He came back the next day, flush. Same spider, clawing its way back from oblivion. A week goes by, he decides to liberate the spider. Grabs a paper towel, Scoops him up and sets him on the floor in the corner of the stall. Comes back the next day and what do you think happened to the spider?
Warrick Brown: Dead.
Gil Grissom: On his back, eight legs up. Why? Because one life imposed itself on another. Right then I realized, where we stand. For the first time I understood our role. We don't impose our will. We don't impose our hopes on the evidence.
This exchange reminds me of providing support. Support should always start with the New Educator’s Current Reality. If a teacher is unconscious and unaware, the introduction of new ideas (or in the case of the spider- a new environment) without proper planning might cause more harm than good.
Gil Grissom: I was flying to a seminar in New Hampshire a couple of summers ago. I was sitting in the plane next to a Philosophy Professor from Harvard. He told me this story about how every morning he heads to the bathroom after his three-hour philosophy class. When he flushed the toilet there'd be this tiny brown spider fighting for its life against the swirling water. He came back the next day, flush. Same spider, clawing its way back from oblivion. A week goes by, he decides to liberate the spider. Grabs a paper towel, Scoops him up and sets him on the floor in the corner of the stall. Comes back the next day and what do you think happened to the spider?
Warrick Brown: Dead.
Gil Grissom: On his back, eight legs up. Why? Because one life imposed itself on another. Right then I realized, where we stand. For the first time I understood our role. We don't impose our will. We don't impose our hopes on the evidence.
This exchange reminds me of providing support. Support should always start with the New Educator’s Current Reality. If a teacher is unconscious and unaware, the introduction of new ideas (or in the case of the spider- a new environment) without proper planning might cause more harm than good.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
NCAA Tradition
Florida Gators are 6-0! Two Quarterbacks!
Coincidence? Supernatural Phenomenon? Not!
Components of Induction? YES!
As reported from MSNC news, “Tim Tebow has accepted the role that he’s going to learn how to play quarterback from Chris Leak,” Coach Meyer said. “More importantly, Chris Leak has accepted the role that he’s going to teach Tim Tebow how to play quarterback. That’s how it has worked throughout the history of college football. The upperclassmen have an obligation to bring along the younger players and teach them how to play.”
Obligation or is it something else?
Coach Meyer provides opportunities for the Quarterbacks to play to their strengths, as a result passes are completed, yards are gained, touchdowns are made, fans go crazy and the TEAM is happy.
Perhaps administrators need to start thinking like the NCAA.
Perhaps teachers need to stop thinking like a STAFF and start thinking as a winning TEAM.
Coincidence? Supernatural Phenomenon? Not!
Components of Induction? YES!
As reported from MSNC news, “Tim Tebow has accepted the role that he’s going to learn how to play quarterback from Chris Leak,” Coach Meyer said. “More importantly, Chris Leak has accepted the role that he’s going to teach Tim Tebow how to play quarterback. That’s how it has worked throughout the history of college football. The upperclassmen have an obligation to bring along the younger players and teach them how to play.”
Obligation or is it something else?
Coach Meyer provides opportunities for the Quarterbacks to play to their strengths, as a result passes are completed, yards are gained, touchdowns are made, fans go crazy and the TEAM is happy.
Perhaps administrators need to start thinking like the NCAA.
Perhaps teachers need to stop thinking like a STAFF and start thinking as a winning TEAM.
Monday, October 02, 2006
CSI: Crime Scene "Induction"
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is becoming one of my favorite shows. Why? The style is unique, the technology is borderline Star Trek, the music is from The Who, and the characters are far from perfect. What is intriguing is the well-developed systems and protocols that focus the CSI team to investigate mysterious crimes and deaths.
According to the CSI website there are 59 documented procedures and 233 documented tools currently utilized by at least 8 positions including: Night Shift Team Supervisor, Swing Shift Team Supervisor, Day Shift Team Supervisor, Blood Spatter Analyst, Materials/Element Analyst, Audio/Visual Analyst, Hair/Fiber Analyst and Field Workers. With this many positions, tools, and procedures there is no doubt that CSI has in place a systems-driven Induction Plan.
Since a Plan is the HOW work is done, the WHO is just as important. Each analyst understands the characteristics of the team as a whole, each analyst understands the characteristics and traits of themselves and why they are chosen for the team, and each analyst focuses on his/her specialty. The team benefits since each member works towards his/her strength avoiding jealousy and competition. The success or failure depends on making sure the right people are on the right team doing the right job.
I am curious to know to and find how does one identify his/her strength?
According to the CSI website there are 59 documented procedures and 233 documented tools currently utilized by at least 8 positions including: Night Shift Team Supervisor, Swing Shift Team Supervisor, Day Shift Team Supervisor, Blood Spatter Analyst, Materials/Element Analyst, Audio/Visual Analyst, Hair/Fiber Analyst and Field Workers. With this many positions, tools, and procedures there is no doubt that CSI has in place a systems-driven Induction Plan.
Since a Plan is the HOW work is done, the WHO is just as important. Each analyst understands the characteristics of the team as a whole, each analyst understands the characteristics and traits of themselves and why they are chosen for the team, and each analyst focuses on his/her specialty. The team benefits since each member works towards his/her strength avoiding jealousy and competition. The success or failure depends on making sure the right people are on the right team doing the right job.
I am curious to know to and find how does one identify his/her strength?
Saturday, September 30, 2006
A Wrestling Coach
Professional wrestling, or better known today as Sports Entertainment has been entertaining my dad and I (and now my nephew too) for the past 30 years. What I did not know was that the Induction concept of “preparing your replacement” was embedded in the wrestling culture.
Vincent Kennedy McMahon, current chairman of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is not only a billionaire wrestling promoter and an onscreen wrestling personality, he is the coordinator of a highly visible coaching program. Vince didn’t invent the program, but his actions demonstrate a commitment to professional development.
Throughout the week and between live performances WWE Superstars practice wrestling moves, memorize lines, and stick to an intense exercise program. On the other side of the ropes, Vince and his staff is constantly recruiting younger talent and seeking the assistance of wrestling coaches in the form of “older” talent. When Vince develops the wrestling storylines it is common practice to put a newbie in a program with one of the experienced wrestlers. Once the bell rings, a wrestler is only as good as his opponent; in the wrestling culture it is expected that the WWE Superstars “put over” the younger talent. This is a great example of coaching on the job.
Just as I still cheer for Rick Flair and Hulk Hogan, my nephew cheers for their replacements, WWE Superstars Ken Kennedy and Paul London.
Vincent Kennedy McMahon, current chairman of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is not only a billionaire wrestling promoter and an onscreen wrestling personality, he is the coordinator of a highly visible coaching program. Vince didn’t invent the program, but his actions demonstrate a commitment to professional development.
Throughout the week and between live performances WWE Superstars practice wrestling moves, memorize lines, and stick to an intense exercise program. On the other side of the ropes, Vince and his staff is constantly recruiting younger talent and seeking the assistance of wrestling coaches in the form of “older” talent. When Vince develops the wrestling storylines it is common practice to put a newbie in a program with one of the experienced wrestlers. Once the bell rings, a wrestler is only as good as his opponent; in the wrestling culture it is expected that the WWE Superstars “put over” the younger talent. This is a great example of coaching on the job.
Just as I still cheer for Rick Flair and Hulk Hogan, my nephew cheers for their replacements, WWE Superstars Ken Kennedy and Paul London.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Being A Coach at Denny's
4:00 AM at Denny’s Restaurant was not the place where I would expect to find elements of Induction. A few items that demonstrated a Recipe for Success included…
1) A new waitress was teaming/shadowing with an experienced server in the middle of the night. The middle of the night is probably the best time to model, provide opportunity to learn, coach and provide feedback for a new employee.
2) Regardless of who “owned” the table, the wait staff worked together to make sure our needs were met. One server directed us to our table and served drinks while the Mentee and her Server Coach took the initial order. Additional wait staff constantly surveyed the area and refilled our drinks.
3) Service/support did not end when the meal was delivered. The Mentee and her Server Coach stopped by AFTER the meal to offer additional assistance.
4) Being There. At then end of the meal, the Mentee and her Server Coach stopped by, smiled, and said “Thanks for coming by, we hope to see you again.” By all means it was us who should had offered them THANKS for being there and providing a friendly experience.
We were quite impressed for a place that is known for the Slam and its 4:00 a.m. Grilled Cheese sandwich.
1) A new waitress was teaming/shadowing with an experienced server in the middle of the night. The middle of the night is probably the best time to model, provide opportunity to learn, coach and provide feedback for a new employee.
2) Regardless of who “owned” the table, the wait staff worked together to make sure our needs were met. One server directed us to our table and served drinks while the Mentee and her Server Coach took the initial order. Additional wait staff constantly surveyed the area and refilled our drinks.
3) Service/support did not end when the meal was delivered. The Mentee and her Server Coach stopped by AFTER the meal to offer additional assistance.
4) Being There. At then end of the meal, the Mentee and her Server Coach stopped by, smiled, and said “Thanks for coming by, we hope to see you again.” By all means it was us who should had offered them THANKS for being there and providing a friendly experience.
We were quite impressed for a place that is known for the Slam and its 4:00 a.m. Grilled Cheese sandwich.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Responsibility In Less Than 60 Seconds
Liberty Mutual has produced a TV commercial with the message of Responsibility (along with a purpose of providing you insurance, but I can look beyond the fiscal function of the commercial). I am quite impressed with what you can say and mean within 60 seconds. If a 60 second commercial can reinforce a concept, can the same medium be used to teach a lesson? Click here to take a look at the clip.
Monday, September 18, 2006
An Induction (Football) Team
It is not my intention for this space to have a football focus, but as long as University of Florida head coach, Urban Meyer is the poster child for Induction, he will be here until he finds his replacement.
Just a few weeks ago, Urban was disappointed with the team’s opening win and publicly stated that improvement comes with individual performance and growth. As a result, a crowd of 106,000 plus received a clinic on Commitment, Collaboration, Communication, and Leadership.
"That was one of the finest team efforts I've ever seen," coach Urban Meyer said.
When the ball is snapped at the point of impact, the 3-0 Gators represent a union of great individual performances that reach the end successfully only as a Team.
Just a few weeks ago, Urban was disappointed with the team’s opening win and publicly stated that improvement comes with individual performance and growth. As a result, a crowd of 106,000 plus received a clinic on Commitment, Collaboration, Communication, and Leadership.
"That was one of the finest team efforts I've ever seen," coach Urban Meyer said.
When the ball is snapped at the point of impact, the 3-0 Gators represent a union of great individual performances that reach the end successfully only as a Team.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Why an Induction Blog?
Her silence had me thinking. I had the chance to catch up with one of my mentors and as always she questioned the direction of my current work and my approach. When it came to sharing this Blog to her she simply asked about its purpose, I stated without hesitation, “the relationship of Induction to real life events”. Her silence had me thinking. “To show Liaisons that the components of Induction go beyond our work.” Her silence had me thinking. “To teach others about Induction.”
Her silence had me thinking about the generational differences, from Boomers to Generation Xers, and now Gen Y. New Educators unlike most of the NESS Liaisons, spent at least half of their life with a home computer and Internet access, and lately these teachers use the Internet as a tool for socialization more so than previous generations.
Why a blog? Reflection is an honored practice of learning from your experiences, the generational difference is sharing with a click of the mouse. I walk away knowing it's not that one generation is better than the other, it's just what can we do to understand and appreciate the differences. Her silence had me thinking.
"Steve Greenberg for Editor & Publisher magazine; posted here with artist's permission"
Her silence had me thinking about the generational differences, from Boomers to Generation Xers, and now Gen Y. New Educators unlike most of the NESS Liaisons, spent at least half of their life with a home computer and Internet access, and lately these teachers use the Internet as a tool for socialization more so than previous generations.
Why a blog? Reflection is an honored practice of learning from your experiences, the generational difference is sharing with a click of the mouse. I walk away knowing it's not that one generation is better than the other, it's just what can we do to understand and appreciate the differences. Her silence had me thinking.
"Steve Greenberg for Editor & Publisher magazine; posted here with artist's permission"Thursday, September 14, 2006
Do the Dolphins have an Induction Plan?
Miami Dolphin Head Coach, Nick Saban has a responsibility to develop his football team. This involves cutting (firing might be a more appropriate term) dozens of players until his team is at the NFL approved roster number of 53. I did not pay much attention to this process until I heard Coach Saban describe his team.
"We have three kinds of guys on our team," Saban said after conducting a practice in preparation for Sunday's home opener against the Bills.
(1st Type) "We have guys that get it; they play good; they understand how to play winning football.”
(2nd Type) "We have some guys that are trying to get it, and they are working hard every day. ... We are supporting them, and we want the guys that have it to support them.”
(3rd Type) "Then we have some guys that don't get it and don't know that they don't get it. We are trying to replace them."
One of the Dolphin players added, "That's how the program works, try to find the best players to win."
Are these TYPES of players found in our schools? Are there three types of teachers? Are there three types of Instructional Coaches? Are there three types of NESS Liaisons? Are there three types of NESS Program Facilitators? Are there three types of HRD Producers? Are there three types of Directors?
What do you do when a peer is unconscious and unaware? What is our role as support for the 3rd Type of player?
"We have three kinds of guys on our team," Saban said after conducting a practice in preparation for Sunday's home opener against the Bills.
(1st Type) "We have guys that get it; they play good; they understand how to play winning football.”
(2nd Type) "We have some guys that are trying to get it, and they are working hard every day. ... We are supporting them, and we want the guys that have it to support them.”
(3rd Type) "Then we have some guys that don't get it and don't know that they don't get it. We are trying to replace them."
One of the Dolphin players added, "That's how the program works, try to find the best players to win."
Are these TYPES of players found in our schools? Are there three types of teachers? Are there three types of Instructional Coaches? Are there three types of NESS Liaisons? Are there three types of NESS Program Facilitators? Are there three types of HRD Producers? Are there three types of Directors?
What do you do when a peer is unconscious and unaware? What is our role as support for the 3rd Type of player?
Monday, September 11, 2006
Instructional Coach Jedi Master
I was only nine when I first learned the way of the Jedi, and almost thirty years later there seems to be a lot more to learn. As I discovered the Jedi mentoring principles (see below), I wondered if George Lucas participated in HRD’s Induction Site-based Professional Development event.
1) Though some small Force abilities may be instinctive or learned from experience, to become a powerful Jedi you must train. For a student to learn skills at a more advanced level, he/she must be trained by a mentor. Training with a Jedi Knight or Jedi Master is the fastest way to learn and a Jedi trainee may also have multiple mentors in their lives.
2) A Jedi Master is extremely experienced in the ways of the Force. A Jedi Master can function as a teacher or a mentor. A Jedi Knight, although he knows the Force, still has much to learn.
3) When training with a teacher, the student gains the benefits of the experience and insight, which that teacher has to offer. The teacher knows what works and what doesn’t. He/she knows a proven method of learning because he has already been a student. Without a teacher, a Jedi student is at a severe disadvantage.
If you missed Star Wars on the big screen, from September 12 to December 31, the original Star Wars trilogy is available on DVD.
1) Though some small Force abilities may be instinctive or learned from experience, to become a powerful Jedi you must train. For a student to learn skills at a more advanced level, he/she must be trained by a mentor. Training with a Jedi Knight or Jedi Master is the fastest way to learn and a Jedi trainee may also have multiple mentors in their lives.
2) A Jedi Master is extremely experienced in the ways of the Force. A Jedi Master can function as a teacher or a mentor. A Jedi Knight, although he knows the Force, still has much to learn.
3) When training with a teacher, the student gains the benefits of the experience and insight, which that teacher has to offer. The teacher knows what works and what doesn’t. He/she knows a proven method of learning because he has already been a student. Without a teacher, a Jedi student is at a severe disadvantage.
If you missed Star Wars on the big screen, from September 12 to December 31, the original Star Wars trilogy is available on DVD.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Double or Nothing with Continuous Improvement
I perceived the Plan, Do, Study, Act process as four equal parts…until today. Planning is a major part of the Continuous Improvement Cycle and is appropriately represented in this graphic with Planning as no less than 50% of the time. Makes sense when W. Edwards Deming preached, "We should work on the process, not the outcome of the processes."Do we double the amount of time in planning our actions? For example:
What planning was involved in determining the class list of a New Educator? What planning and considerations were involved in preparing the class lists?
What planning was involved in designing the monthly NESS meeting? If the meeting last an hour was two hours of planning invested?
What planning was involved in developing the Instructional Coaches? If coaches are asked to meet the New Educator at least once a week, who meets with the coaches?
Here are few of my favorite Deming Quotes:
“It is not enough to do your best; you must know what to do, and then do your best.”
“The emphasis should be on why we do a job.”
“If you do not know how to ask the right question, you discover nothing.”
Click here to find your favorite Deming quotes
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Chain of Events from Video to Practice
A NESS Liaison shared with me a chain of events today that involved sharing and communication.. Follow this:
1) On the 6th day of school I videotaped a New Educator utilizing Response (Dry Erase) Boards during Writing instruction (to be used as a New Educator podcast).
2) A few days later I emailed the video clip to the NESS Liaison for feedback.
3) Through the NESS Liaison, the Principal heard of the podcast, and found additional Response Boards for the rest of the New Educators.
4) The NESS Liaison shared the clip and the new Boards with her New Educators.
5) A week later, I videotaped a different New Educator practicing a new skill: Utilizing Response Boards during Math Instruction.
The NESS Liaison was quite impressed on how fast her teachers are implementing new ideas.
It was a thrill to hear everyone tuned into the same frequency!
"Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there." - Will Rogers
1) On the 6th day of school I videotaped a New Educator utilizing Response (Dry Erase) Boards during Writing instruction (to be used as a New Educator podcast).
2) A few days later I emailed the video clip to the NESS Liaison for feedback.
3) Through the NESS Liaison, the Principal heard of the podcast, and found additional Response Boards for the rest of the New Educators.
4) The NESS Liaison shared the clip and the new Boards with her New Educators.
5) A week later, I videotaped a different New Educator practicing a new skill: Utilizing Response Boards during Math Instruction.
The NESS Liaison was quite impressed on how fast her teachers are implementing new ideas.
It was a thrill to hear everyone tuned into the same frequency!
"Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there." - Will Rogers
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Your Gut Feeling
Just watched The Sentinel. Not the edge of your seat thriller that I was expecting, but then again what should I expect lately from Hollywood? One could even describe the current trend in Hollywood as “banal”.
However there is a shining moment, something that makes you go, “Hmmmmmmmm”. Early in the movie, when David Breckinridge (Kiefer Sutherland) and Jill Marin (Eva Longoria) arrive at the scene of an agent's murder, Breckinridge lectures a police detective: "The problem with a gut feeling is that the only evidence you see is the kind that supports your gut feeling."
Hmmmmmmmm.
However there is a shining moment, something that makes you go, “Hmmmmmmmm”. Early in the movie, when David Breckinridge (Kiefer Sutherland) and Jill Marin (Eva Longoria) arrive at the scene of an agent's murder, Breckinridge lectures a police detective: "The problem with a gut feeling is that the only evidence you see is the kind that supports your gut feeling."
Hmmmmmmmm.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Gators 1-0! Is this good data?
The final score had Florida Gator fans thrilled, the clock ended with a 34-7 victory, however the post game interview with head coach Urban Meyer told a different story. Said UF coach, "I was disappointed after that game because I felt like we could play so much better."
Disappointed?!?! Did we just watch the same game?
I realized that as we looked at the final score, we JUDGED the performance of the football team and we were pleased. However the score did not INFORM us on how well the football team performed. Granted the Gators performed better than Southern Mississippi, yet in the language of Assessment and Accountability Coach Meyer and his players believe that improvement comes from looking at individual performance and growth.
Offensive lineman Drew Miller expressed next actions perfectly, "We've got to get better. We've got to watch film, make adjustments, and be better."
Unlike Drew, what film do I have to gauge my growth as NESS Program Facilitator? When looking at the performance of our New Educators, Instructional Coaches, or the NESS Liaison - what film is available?
Disappointed?!?! Did we just watch the same game?
I realized that as we looked at the final score, we JUDGED the performance of the football team and we were pleased. However the score did not INFORM us on how well the football team performed. Granted the Gators performed better than Southern Mississippi, yet in the language of Assessment and Accountability Coach Meyer and his players believe that improvement comes from looking at individual performance and growth.
Offensive lineman Drew Miller expressed next actions perfectly, "We've got to get better. We've got to watch film, make adjustments, and be better."
Unlike Drew, what film do I have to gauge my growth as NESS Program Facilitator? When looking at the performance of our New Educators, Instructional Coaches, or the NESS Liaison - what film is available?
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Pooh and NESS
My cousin sent me an email today with the following “Pooh” message. Her intentions were to prompt my thinking and not necessarily NESS related, yet the relation to our current New Educator Support connect…well, what do you see?
"...it's a very large Forest, and there's plenty of room to bounce in it. But I don't see why he should come into my little corner of it and bounce here." --AA Milne
Your future doesn't just "happen" to you. You co-create your future with the other people who are in your life. (One of many reasons that it's important to have good people in your life!)
The people around you are in your life precisely to help you create the life you came here to experience and precisely to have you help them create the life they came here to experience. They are here to help you, to challenge you, to test you and to inspire you.
And you are here to help them in the very same ways. No one in your life is in your life "by accident.”
If you want to change what your life looks like, you must change. It's really that simple...and that challenging.
"...it's a very large Forest, and there's plenty of room to bounce in it. But I don't see why he should come into my little corner of it and bounce here." --AA Milne
Your future doesn't just "happen" to you. You co-create your future with the other people who are in your life. (One of many reasons that it's important to have good people in your life!)
The people around you are in your life precisely to help you create the life you came here to experience and precisely to have you help them create the life they came here to experience. They are here to help you, to challenge you, to test you and to inspire you.
And you are here to help them in the very same ways. No one in your life is in your life "by accident.”
If you want to change what your life looks like, you must change. It's really that simple...and that challenging.
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