On Friday I presented at our Diocesan professional development day with my friend and colleague Ellen. The topic was Driving Math Data. We talked about different forms of assessment and how to use them to drive instruction, not just in Math but in all subjects. Now this is more Ellen's topic, not mine. First, I am not a math person-definitely at the bottom of my list of subjects. Language Arts, Social Studies and Fine Arts is where I fly. However, I think it is important to go out of your comfort zone so that you don't forget who you are at the core-an educator regardless of the subject.
Of course no presentation would be complete without technical difficulties. I was just happy it wasn't my fault-the school had a connection problem. So I still looked like a tech guru of sorts.
The presentation went well and when we got to explaining the apps and tech part I felt more comfortable. I actually realized I missed being in the classroom to just see how all this stuff I was preaching about actually worked. The audience was great too. The last part of the day was interesting as I moderated the Fine Arts session and we combined the music, theater and visual arts all into one room. We had a fun time because well, fine arts teachers have a sense of humor like no others and we are a bit odd!
Teachers in all areas must step out of their comfort zone. This is especially true with technology. If I can do it with math, then we all can.
Of course no presentation would be complete without technical difficulties. I was just happy it wasn't my fault-the school had a connection problem. So I still looked like a tech guru of sorts.
The presentation went well and when we got to explaining the apps and tech part I felt more comfortable. I actually realized I missed being in the classroom to just see how all this stuff I was preaching about actually worked. The audience was great too. The last part of the day was interesting as I moderated the Fine Arts session and we combined the music, theater and visual arts all into one room. We had a fun time because well, fine arts teachers have a sense of humor like no others and we are a bit odd!
Teachers in all areas must step out of their comfort zone. This is especially true with technology. If I can do it with math, then we all can.