Back in the Saddle

Wow...it's been nearly two years since I blogged last. Since I'm at ISTE and already have too many ideas swirling already (for those who are #notatiste15, it hasn't even officially begun, but the pre-networking opportunities are so rich), now's as good a time as any to get back on the proverbial wagon. So with that...

Photo Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/pabo76/11188238194

Inspired Educator: Pixar's Story Rules

As I was reading through recent tweets, I came across a Mashable article, "Pixar Story Rules Legofied". Legofy anything and I'm in.  

It occurs to me that connections with learning and teaching can be made, and I've included my humble thoughts below each image/Pixar Story Rule. 

The coincidences that get us into the most trouble or difficulty in teaching often creates the grandest learning opportunities.

'Nuff said.

If you can't make the learning meaningful, it's just words.

Challenge students (and yourself). It's the only way for anyone to get outside of their comfort zone and LEARN.

Just like real-life (you know, what we're preparing students for).

Just because a lesson is fun doesn't mean there is learning.

Don't procrastinate...start thinking about best methods and approaches NOW...by the time you get to the day of the lesson, the project,  the presentation, it will look nothing like your original idea, and that's a good thing.

Don't allow anyone (including yourself) to become passive. Opinions can and should change with new or different information, but opinions are NECESSARY for learning what works and what doesn't work.

Simplify your life. And find every way possible to streamline your workflow. Your psyche will thank you for it.

Give students a reason to care.

Focus on the meaning first and let the connections between units or projects evolve organically. Then, ask students to identify the themes and patterns.

Don't get bogged down in what's wrong with your students, classes, life - make a list of things that will not happen in the future as a result of your experiences so far. You just might be surprised at the result.