Wk4 - Publishing Leadership Project

I have decided that would publish my Action Research project because I had a difficult time attempting to find a conference that deals with my type of research. I have tried to look for examples of how Educational Technology Research and Development want me to write and have failed, but I did follow what Joe recommended in the Wimba session on Thursday night. I will continue to search for examples for the time being on how I need to arrange my Action Research so that it will be published. I do want to reach a wider audience and have other people try what I just did. Hopefully trying my Action Research in the beginning of the school year will prove to be more successful.

Link to Publishing Project:

http://web.me.com/thournheng/Action_Research_Home_Page/Publish-Leadership_Project.html

Wk4 - Comment on Nyssa Arcos Blog

(Microsoft Clip Art)

As students, we work hard and study hard to get to that end goal of graduating. In our case we have been diligently working for one solid year on a degree that will afford us new opportunity. This chapter makes perfect sense in our current reality. Where we are in life in the present moment is creating a world of possibility for our future. Whether it is a personal challenge or a pay raise, a higher education, we have each embarked upon this journey with an ideal goal in mind. In Zander's words, we have all been practicing this notion of framing possibilities. But for me, and maybe others, this has been a long and difficult 12 months. I almost succumbed to that downward spiral that Zander speaks of.

Nyssa,

That is so true that we are working to open up more opportunity of possibilities. By learning what we are learning in this program we are creating possibilities for ourselves, but more importantly (maybe subconsciously) we're doing this for our future students.

August 30, 2010 1:10 AM

Wk4 - Comment on Quinn Brown Blog

(Retrieved from http://web.me.com/qlbrown/MAC_11/Week_4/Entries/2010/8/28_Week_4_Reading__files/shapeimage_3.png)

“Don’t say anything that could not stand as the last thing you say”

When I read this quote in chapter 11, it put a lot of things into perspective as far as life and teaching. I plan to put this quote in a frame somewhere in my room so that I can see it everyday. I think that it is a great way to start the day. I believe that is is our job as humans to inspire and educate other humans. Living by this quote will will give people a chance to really live free without clouding their minds with negativity. The less negativity one lives with, the more possibilities present themselves.

Quinn,

That's a very good quote to live by. I felt really bad when I read this quote because sometimes I'm really sarcastic with my students and my comments can be really mean. After reading that quote, it convinced me to hold my tongue.

Monday, August 30, 2010 - 04:00 AM

Wk3 - Publish or Present

Currently I am leaning towards publishing because one of the links provided for us deals with publishing exactly what I did for my Action Research. My action dealt with using using technology as a means to completing homework. It was more about how to implement blogging as an educational tool more that if it increased student achievements. So, currently I am trying to contact Educational Technology Research and Development (ETR&D) get my work published.

There is still a possibility that I might do "share and tell." That is more my style than publishing, but I'll see if I can find any conference that deals with the research I did.

Wk3 - Comment on Natalie Howard Blog

(Microsoft Clip Art)

"This audio podcast is the response in my own words about where I stand in the continuum of the way things are."

Natalie,

I have to agree on the statement that attitude determines altitude. If your attitude is constantly downward spiraling, your altitude for achievement is very low. Downward spiraling is a human behavior that we learn, but we can also learn to correct it too.

Wk3 - Comment on Pedro Azcona Blog

(Retrieved from Pedro's Blog)

"On the first day of all my classes, I ask my students to stand up and reach up as far as they can. I allow then to reach for a few seconds then tell them to put their hands down. After they seem relaxed, I ask them to reach even further than before. They all then start to reach and their efforts, without question, are more intense than before. No matter how high you reach you can always reach a little further. The lesson behind that is very similar to the BTFI point as explained by Zander. Many times people need to reach the point of no return in order to reach their full potential. Although it may seem terrifying and extremely risky, with the proper guidance it can be incredible and a privileged to witness."


Pedro,

I like your reaching exercise, good stuff. Anyway, BTFI is a great way to see things because it kind ignore what you fear just for it. Well, whatever it is may be. BTFI is equivalent to my college shirt, "Go Hard or Go Home."

Wk3 Reading - Lit Sparks

My universe of possibility comes from my passion to help people in any way possible. That is why I chose to teach and coach. As the book mentioned, “Sometime the spark ignite and blaze; sometimes the pass quietly, magically, and almost imperceptibly, from one to another to another” (p.139).

At times, I do feel like my sparks ignites a blaze because I can see the fire in my student’s eyes when they understand what I am teaching or coaching them. Something that is comparable to what Zander did for Anthony. That smile and thumbs us is exactly what I feel like I am getting from my own students that I inspire.

Also, at times I feel like my spark passes quietly from one to another to another. For example, when I was a senior in high school, I coached a handful of freshmen Tae Kwon Do. One of them, who is like a brother to me, is a stunt man and coach a few people himself. It was wonderful to hear him say to me, “I want to pass it on.” That was one of the happiest and most memorable moments of my life. Another example is when I got a random Facebook message form another former student who thanked me for coaching him self-defense because it saved him from getting mugged in Texas.

Sometimes educators and coaches can see the impact they make right way, but sometimes it takes years before results occur. But, if we enroll people into our universe of possibilities and be a little patient, we can reap what we sow, eventually.

Wk2 - Publishing vs Presenting

Right now I am struggling between presenting my AR or publishing my AR. I have a hard time deciding between the two because they both have pros and cons. For example, if I publish, I would just follow the guidelines and submit my project. It will be quick and easy. But, I like to do things face to face. Basically, I like to show, tell, and discuss. I like to meet people and take questions. If I do not have the answers, that means more opportunity for me to explore, learn and grow. However, if I present, it might backfire. I fear that if I present my work, it might not be completely ready and my colleagues might find me to be a big buffoon. I don't know, I really need some advice on this. Maybe my classmates can give me some advice. Yes, if you're reading this, it is a cry for help. Thanks. :)

Wk2 - Comment on Stacie Stoumbaugh

(Microsoft Clip Art)

I’m not positive that the logic in this chapter would work for everyone, but I do know that we all struggle with comparing ourselves on some level. If we can contribute and not compare, the fear is removed and the possibilities become endless.



Stacie,

That is exactly what I needed to read. Your last sentence is so powerful for me. This post is very connected to what I have been trying to master. I am very competitive and tend to compare myself to every just about everyone. At times I feel defeated and that drives me to work harder and to do better. I times I feel great because I am better at something than someone else, and that drives me to work harder to stay better. It's a vicious cycle. But, I will try, like you, to stop that kind of thinking and switch to contributing because it is less competitive and more cooperative.

Wk 2 - Comment on Kathy Kellen

(Retrieved from Kathy Kellen blog https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhiYqbtHQIsJXnd_UWrBD5mUvxG2mxhW9iBVbAtIxvfxzbRRr6AcqtQV2_BfjNqg4RpP-iV3DM57j8mMXPM-2ucZYt1wA-5_iONhyphenhyphenrfKpSgLv1eeDVp7Jw20UNjwyI5wF51S3PtOSQmgC/s1600/6491_1161394707979_1021146607_495088_5502807_n.jpg)

When I think of my present teaching position, I "play the principal flute role" in the elementary piece of my position, but in the middle school instrumental piece, definitely the supporting role of "2nd flute"! Piccolo is probably my least favorite chair, because of its high exposure...nowhere to hide...totally out there!


Kathy,

There is nothing wrong with being out there. I guess I would be a piccolo player because I do not mind standing out. Just from reading your blog, I can tell that you're pretty shy and likes to blend in without getting noticed. That's cool because there is a job for everyone and every seat is meant for someone with a different personality.

Wk2 Reading - "Leaders Can Follow"

(Microsoft Clip Art)

“How much greatness are we willing to grant people?” (p.73)

To answer this question from the reading, we need to give the people we teach, coach, lead, and/or conduct a voice. Good leaders are good listeners who are not afraid to admit when they are at fault. When followers see that their leader is not too proud to admit when they are wrong, they see the humility of that leader. A humble leader is not always directing his or her subordinates. He or she must also be a good listener and give their followers a chance to express what they observe through their eyes. Keeping an open mind is what keeps a good leader from being clouded by the things they experience and perceive. Also, good leaders let someone else shine a different light on the same situation.

When I start school, I set the expectation for my student’s behaviors. But, what we often do not allow is an opportunity for students to voice their opinion on how teachers should behave and educate. I do this exercise with my students at the end of the first semester because they have gotten a feel for my personality and teaching style. So, I developed this extra credit survey for my students with four simple questions. They are as follow:

What were two things that Coach2win did well last semester? Why was it good?

What are two things that Coach2win can do better? How can he improve, give him some suggestions?

What were two things you did well last semester in Coach2win’s class? Why was it good?

What are two things you can do better this upcoming semester? How can you improve?

Basically this survey boils down to how can improve as an educator and how can they improve as students. Giving my students this chance to evaluate me is the same as the Zander allowing his musicians to write on the blank notepaper. When the people we lead get to voice their opinions openly and freely, we all learn something. We learn about our self and the people we lead. That is how we grant people greatness, through listening to their suggestions.

Wk1 - Personal Reflection or Week One of MAC

(Microsoft Clip Art)

After camping for a whole week last week, I came into MAC a bit lazy this. I don't know whether it is I am lazy or I am getting old and tired from camping. I did not get the best sleep for a week and did not get to eat that well either. I am more rested now and week two of MAC should be better for me. I did not get to research on the publishing stuff, but I will get to it this week.

Also, I feel like I am mentally exhausted from putting so much though into my Lit Review. Writing has always been my week point and I struggle so much with it. But, after getting some encouragement from Roxanne, I feel better about my writing. I really look forward to finishing with the classmates I started this program with in September. I cannot wait until we celebrate in Florida together.

Wk1 - Comment on Sarah Hodge Blog

(Microsoft Clip Art)

I absolutely loved the concept about giving each student an A. The story that had a great impact on me was that of the Taiwan student. In his experience, he stated,

“In Taiwan, I was Number 68 out of 70 student. I came to Boston and Mr. Zander says I am an A. Very confusing. I walk about, three weeks, very confused. I am Number 68, but Mr. Zander says I am an A student…I am Number 68, but Mr. Zander says I am an A. One day I discover much happier A than Number 68. So I decided I am an A” (Zander & Zander, p.32, 2000).

It is a sad reality that we allow the world to place a label on us that defines us and who we are. I love that this young man was able to develop his own sense of self and realize that he was capable of more than what the world had told him. It is so easy to get caught up in what we are in comparison to our peers when we should be more focused on stretching and reaching for our best self. Just as Zander (2000) states,

“The Number 68 is invented and the A is invented, so we might as well choose to invent something that brighten out life and the lives of the people around us” (p.33).




Sarah,

When, I first watched your video from month one that you made in MLR, I thought to myself, what a wonderful person. I gave you an A right there because I figured you had good heart. After being in a group with you in month three, I found out that you have two hearts because you have lots of love to give.

I must agree with you that it is sad to see some people live their lives based on what other people label them. For example, when you told me about your classmates in high school, I think they might have been labeled wrong and that is why they did not try as hard a you did in school. You told me that you did all your work and that's how you got your good grades. Maybe your classmates just stopped trying because they were not label A.

Wk1 - Comment on Jodi Logan Blog

(Microsoft Clip Art)

I want to express my favorite chapter… Chapter number three, “ Giving an A”. This chapter touches my life drastically. I blame my mom for a lot. I feel like I trusted her with everything in my life and she let me down. She hurt me emotionally. Eight years later, my mom is doing better and seems to be getting her act together but I still cannot trust anything that she says or does. I finally had to say that “you can’t change someone” but this chapter proves me wrong. This chapter says, “however in the universe of possibility, you certainly can change people” (pg 50). I had to read this section over and over again just questioning myself about the word “change”. The relationship between my mom and I can change. I just need to open my mind and let it change. As it states in the book, “ An A radiates possibility through a family, a workplace, and a community, gaining strength, bringing joy and expression and a flowering of talent and productivity” (pg 52). I just need to think about giving her an A. I promise from now on I will change our relationship that we have.




Jodi,

That is very brave of you to bring up something so personal and dear to yourself. From what I learned from chapter two, try focusing on the possibilities of opportunities to improve your relationship with your mom. I know it is hard to do that when there was so many times your mom has hurt you. I wish you luck with your mom.

Wk1 - Comment on Nyssa Arcos Blog

(Microsoft Clip Art)

This chapter reminded me so much of myself and how I have approached my life and work. I feel that as educators working in the age of standardized testing, we get so boggled down with analyzing data and test scores and numbers that really have nothing to do with reality. As Zander mentions, grades do not reflect the amount of work that has been put into something. I have always felt this way and grading has really been a struggle for me. It is very difficult to grade students of different learning styles and abilities on the same grading spectrum. It is even harder to grade work of students who are in unfortunate home life situations and lack parental support.

Reading about Zander's practice of giving an A is quite refreshing. If I had the liberty of creating my own grading guidelines, I would absolutely consider taking this approach. I really believe that most students would be much more inclined to work hard to maintain the A they have been given. I say most because I know that the reality of the matter is that there will always be those few students that will refuse to work hard, no matter what kind of approach one takes.

And second fiddle is no joke. It is hard to feel like you are an asset when you are playing second to first. But the Second Violins support the melody, thus unifying the entire voice of the ensemble.







Nyssa,

I agree with you Nyssa. Having our own grading system is much better, but then we have to make sure that what our students receive from us is consistent with what the state test says about that student. Finding the balance is hard to do.

Wk1 Reading - Think of the Possibility and Not the Failures

My thoughts and actions are a reflection of the measurement world because I grew up very competitive. For example, what is the grade that every student wants to earn because it is the highest grade? Of course you already know the answer. We grow in a world where intelligence is measured by numbers (percentage) and richness is measured by accumulation of “stuff.” (I am referring to stuff as property, money, cars, etc.) It is very hard to step out of the competitive educational expectation, because it is “all invented” for us to be aggressive and competitive by nature.

Here is where it hurts me most because I have realized that I measure my expectations for my martial art students based on their ability to execute perfect techniques. I have been struggling to stop this way of thinking for many years, but it is hard to stop. I keep thinking that if I can do it, then my students should be able to do it too. So, in that sense, I am measuring my students to myself.

I coach martial arts for two different aspects: “martial” combative side and “art” the artistic side. Most people see martial arts for the combative side because of the increased popularity of mixed martial arts, UFC, IFC, etc. But, what most people do not see martial arts for is its beautiful artistic side. I coach my students the “art” before I coach them the “martial.”

Martial art, in my opinion, is movement with intent. But, what my students fail to see is why I show them certain movements. Here is where my thoughts are reflections of the measurement world, I judge my student’s ability based on how much intent they have based on their body movement compared to mine. I can see the intent behind their movements based on their position, precision, and power. I know I am better than my students, but what I compare them to is my younger self. That is where I am too competitive and need to stop measuring my students based on my achievements. I need to think more about the possibilities to teach when my students when they make mistakes rather than compare them to me.