Ever since I read The Element by Sir Ken Robinson, I have been wondering about passion and teaching.
And now I just read this article on Edutopia:
Using Music in the Classroom
I have heard that teachers have a passion for teaching, but I think it might go further than this. I have been on a journey to understand how to integrate technology. I'm on a quest to understand how to truly get to a personalized learning environment. So let's see if I can articulate how all of these pieces fit together.
First. Technology integration is developmental. Nothing new. It's obvious - our whole education system is built on a process of development so why should it be different for adults? To reach a transformational level of teaching means there is growth and development. Transformation use of technology means a shift in thinking so that a personalized learning environment is achieved for each child.
Second. Designing a personalized learning environment is not what we grew up, so this is different, hence the word transformational. The key word is personal. I think that in order for a teacher to understand how to truly implement a personalized learning environment for each child, they have to understand how their own learning is personal and that means tapping into their own passions.
Third. Infusion is the step that happens right before transformation. This is the process of adding a new element so that there is something new. New instruction. New ways of learning. New ways of teaching. What happens when a teacher taps into their own passions and bring that into the classroom? I think this is that "new element" that will result in change and help us understand how to personalize learning for each child.
For example, I know a teacher that is passionate about the sensory features of the classroom, one that is passionate about exercising, one that is passionate about farming, one that is passionate about plants and music.
What if each of these teacher brought their own element into the classroom ? Imagine the change if each of us brings our own unique element to education!
It's not about the technology.
