tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64662336895690603502024-03-28T20:29:57.913-07:00John Spencer Professor. Maker. Storyteller.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-58025942796451349922015-11-02T19:40:00.001-08:002015-11-02T20:50:10.492-08:00Ten Reasons Teachers Aren't Using Technology<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWMa4UQiG_9ne0cfGQK0UPGs2GPAr_PKww4N01_676jQnZuzSCZtwlzLW-n_omNEhzdQ0-R3lP2Kp2jKrAQnE7BBC4wTJlyCeai-o7abChKFueqGPfHtVPmI9qgrH2v1pVkwiOshOiRP0/s1600/0Y03HPQ7US.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWMa4UQiG_9ne0cfGQK0UPGs2GPAr_PKww4N01_676jQnZuzSCZtwlzLW-n_omNEhzdQ0-R3lP2Kp2jKrAQnE7BBC4wTJlyCeai-o7abChKFueqGPfHtVPmI9qgrH2v1pVkwiOshOiRP0/s640/0Y03HPQ7US.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">photo by <a href="https://stocksnap.io/author/532">Markus Spiske </a></span></div>
Last week, I met with a group of twenty-four candidates for our Masters in Arts of Teaching program. I loved the excitement in the room and the idealism of the group. They wanted to change the world. And they will.
However, I noticed a certain pessimism when it came to technology.
I spoke for a few minutes about why educational technology matters. I mentioned the power of the personal learning network and the value in not only learning from global peers but also making stuff together. The community isn't perfect but they have been a support group, a creative guild, and a cadre in an informal, ongoing professional development. I mentioned the way technology is reshaping the world and why it's important to understand these trends and think critically of the medium itself.
Yet, when asked about the importance of educational technology, only a few rated it as important. I'd love to say that this is because technology has become normal and ubiquitous. (I'd also love to say that I didn't just look up ubiquitous to make sure I was using the word correctly, but that would be a lie.) However, that doesn't seem to be the case. Many of the future teachers said things like, "technology is a great thing when it works," or "I did fine without technology" or even "I think it's distracting to real learning."
For years, ed tech folks said things like, "The younger generations will embrace technology in the classroom." But I'm not so sure. When I taught a technology workshop, I noticed many new teachers who viewed it as a nice bonus but not as transformative. I noticed many more who believed that technology was inherently distracting and addicting.
It has me thinking about why so many new teachers are so resistant to using the current available technology:
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<ol>
<li><b>They are worried about classroom management.</b> They view it as a distraction. How do you get kids to stay focussed on their work rather than posting things to Facebook or sending pictures on SnapChat? </li>
<li><b>They view it as a consumer device.</b> We live in a consumer culture. Our students are not digital natives so much as consumer natives. It's no wonder, then, that so many of them view technology as shallow and addicting. They haven't seen the creative potential of our devices. Few pre-service teacher candidates have created larger, edited documentaries or podcasts. Fewer still have used digital tools for modeling. </li>
<li><b>They believe technology is unreliable.</b> There's a weird double-standard here. Teachers will say things like, "The Internet always goes down," and yet I have seen nothing more unreliable at a school than copy machine. </li>
<li><b>They tend to teach the way they were taught.</b> There is a comfortable, "it worked for me" element, that dominates lesson planning. New teachers tend to look back fondly on certain learning experiences and then try to replicate it. While this often works, it can stifle change and get in the way of creative change. </li>
<li><b>They've experienced bad technology integration.</b> We've all experienced the text-vomit PowerPoint slides. Many of us have seen online classes that were nothing more than a book club on a 90's-style discussion board. It's uninspiring. We need to share more stories of the great things classroom teachers are doing in K-12 environments. </li>
<li><b>Techies have done a bad job admitting what isn't working.</b> In other words, we've oversold technology without adding a nice dose of technology criticism. Remember when the One Laptop Per Child initiative was supposed to spark an intellectual revolution in Africa? Many current pre-service teachers lived through the hype and are naturally skeptical of the snake oil solutions be offered.</li>
<li><b>We need to change assessment practices.</b> As long as we continue to use standardized tests as the metrics for student learning and teacher effectiveness, teachers will be risk-averse with technology. They won't experiment. They won't take the time to do a longer, deep-thinking global collaborative project. </li>
<li><b>Schools reward compliance.</b> There are many things that can go wrong with technology and teachers are scared, because schools tend to freak out when anything off-line happens online. For example, bullying is a student to student issue but cyberbullying is a teacher management issue. Many new teachers are terrified of students going to the wrong sites, seeing the wrong content, or not behaving well. </li>
<li><b>They still don't have access.</b> This is a very real thing. Many schools have policies that prohibit students from bringing their own devices. Most of these schools have failed to invest in technology. While many adults have a 3:1 device person ratio, many schools are still requiring teachers to reserve time in the computer lab. </li>
<li><b>They aren't connected.</b> When I talk to students about social media, they tend to view it as a personal place for a few close friends. There's nothing wrong with this. However, I believe in the power of a personal learning network. It has transformed the way I teach. It has opened up opportunities I had never even considered before. </li>
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What Is the Solution?</h4>
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I'm not sure that there is a single, easy solution. However, here are a few things we can do to change this trend:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Explore technology criticism. Allow students to share their valid concerns about how technology is reshaping community and communication. If we come off as techie fan folk, we lose the opportunity to explore the nature of technology. </li>
<li>Use technology for connective ways in higher education. Find ways to facilitate global collaboration projects. As it is, universities spend tons of money to go overseas. This is a good thing. However, what are we doing to allow genuine cross-cultural collaboration to happen afterward? </li>
<li>Push for content creation in undergraduate classes. In other words, go beyond the lecture and into the realm of multimedia creation. </li>
<li>When teaching lessons about technology integration, offer ideas about how to pull this off in schools with limited technology. </li>
<li>Include technology scenarios in courses on classroom management. Explore any double standards that students might have. </li>
</ul>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com66tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-18683916364535493962015-08-07T16:24:00.000-07:002015-08-07T16:24:16.001-07:00Life Is Meant To Be Epic - A Reflection on Fatherhood, Teaching and Life<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-nIsOMGgCdo?list=PLzDOGMsmDveuQW_jhCtRtI5xWDyYzpnS7" width="853"></iframe>
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<i>Here's the transcript of the video:</i><br />
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It was about eight years ago when the alarm woke me up at 3 in the morning. Except, it wasn’t an alarm. It was a newborn baby and I couldn’t calm him down. I remember turning to the computer and realizing that I still needed to finish an assignment for my master’s class.<br />
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I remember thinking, “Life will be better when this phase is over.” When we have more money. When the kids are older. When I have a master’s degree.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwl_ZJ9om16zyl-ZOkvL8-4ByzQVKBy3fZN2LiGcB0S8JsvDx_5JMZWtf5G_5mSq72Yv2yUv_K0uJpOEM2JbbfXrBiNuc5DscRB23rmoD-9M__2BLXVzPStvkqbBSCHk-enWqQKnrHAss/s1600/015d.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwl_ZJ9om16zyl-ZOkvL8-4ByzQVKBy3fZN2LiGcB0S8JsvDx_5JMZWtf5G_5mSq72Yv2yUv_K0uJpOEM2JbbfXrBiNuc5DscRB23rmoD-9M__2BLXVzPStvkqbBSCHk-enWqQKnrHAss/s640/015d.png" width="640" /></a></div>
But as my son calmed down and fell asleep on my chest, I realized something. Life wouldn’t get any better. Life couldn’t get any better. Easier, perhaps. More orderly, maybe. But not better. Because nothing could be better than this.<br />
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I’ve been thinking about that moment and that lie that sneaks into my life . . . the one that starts with “life will be better when ______.” I think it comes from this mistaken notion that a “better” life is the one with more comfort. It’s the idea that life is meant to be a vacation – and that if I just do the right things now I can relax later.<br />
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See, it works something like this: When you are in high school, you can’t wait until college and then you can’t wait to get married or start a career and then you can’t wait to have money or a house and then you have kids and you can’t wait for the kids to get older and then you can’t wait to retire and then, at some point, you grow older and you can’t wait at all. You’ve run out of waiting. <br />
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But what if that’s not how life is supposed to work? What if life is meant to be a story? Not just any story. It’s meant to be an epic story. The good life is one with a real conflict that requires courage. It’s meant to have characters that you love and couldn’t imagine losing. It’s meant to be grounded in a setting where you feel the grass beneath your feet and you know that you have a place where you belong. It’s meant to be lived with bold themes.<br />
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The beauty with epic stories is that they aren’t comfortable. They aren’t easy. They are forever riddled with conflict and with imperfect characters. But they are also filled with everything that makes life worth living: passion, love, courage, purpose.<br />
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Don’t get me wrong. Vacations are fun. There’s nothing wrong with a break. But life isn’t found there. Life is meant to be epic.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-79049400326277353422015-08-03T11:05:00.001-07:002015-08-03T17:05:22.059-07:00Design Thinking Videos<i>The following is a short video series explaining the ins and outs of design thinking. They are a part of the free course Getting Started with Design Thinking.
</i><br />
<h4>
Introduction: We Need Creative Classrooms</h4>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n7uvmoDqwTI" width="853"></iframe><br />
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<h4>
What Is Design Thinking? </h4>
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Stage One: Awareness
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Stage Two: Inquiry
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Stage Three: Research
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Stage Four: Ideating and Planning <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UzEBSCdkJUo" width="853"></iframe></h4>
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Stage Five: Prototyping
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Stage Six: Testing and Revising <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fte9Hb6PH6E" width="853"></iframe></h4>
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Stage Seven: Launch and Market
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fQ8d5UqTDGI" width="853"></iframe></h4>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-21079469923932697812015-04-26T09:12:00.000-07:002015-04-26T09:12:14.992-07:00Thinking Differently About Student Engagement<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcye7v1_l0xUlIbY6v_F1gRphEfhFE7D83S4w3YWg1l1iZg9ZOiwHYAMvGkx4TQhiPMgBRQOKZ09_5EsX3d9dh9FGdEg4G0uuka4LzfD3iUJetQ9Wutdc39KXDpMi_bb3X0pZQU0BCEVI/s1600/country-lane-filter-focus-1421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcye7v1_l0xUlIbY6v_F1gRphEfhFE7D83S4w3YWg1l1iZg9ZOiwHYAMvGkx4TQhiPMgBRQOKZ09_5EsX3d9dh9FGdEg4G0uuka4LzfD3iUJetQ9Wutdc39KXDpMi_bb3X0pZQU0BCEVI/s1600/country-lane-filter-focus-1421.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
I am not an expert on motivation. I'm still trying to figure out what works and what doesn't work. Most of my ideas have been shaped by Alfie Kohn's <i>Punished by Rewards</i> and Daniel Pink's <i>Drive. </i>Lately, I've gotten really into Flow Theory and the question of what allows kids to "get into the zone." Over the last few years, I have been asked to lead trainings and speak on the relationship between motivation and creative work.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Popular Posts on Motivation and Engagement</h4>
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/five-ways-to-create-state-of-flow-in.html">Five Ways to Create a State of "Flow" in the Classroom</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2012/07/15-ways-to-engage-reluctant-learners.html">Fifteen Ways to Engage Reluctant Learners</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/10/i-dont-use-rewards-but-my-school-does_15.html">I Don't Use Rewards -- But My School Does</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2012/06/classroom-leadership-rewards-are-like.html">Rewards Are Like Crack</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2014/04/if-you-want-to-build-grit-dont-focus-on.html">If You Want to Build Grit, Don't Focus on Grit</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/01/seven-reasons-to-ditch-participation_22.html">Seven Reasons to Ditch Participation Points</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/11/you-dont-always-have-to-do-your-best_15.html">You Don't Always Have to Do Your Best</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/09/the-upside-of-wasting-time.html">The Upside of Wasting Time</a><br />
<br />
<h4>
Resources</h4>
<i>Click on any of the links below and get the resource mailed directly to your inbox. </i><br />
Classroom Leadership<i> - Coming Soon! </i><br />
Interest Surveys for Students - <i>Coming Soon! </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<h4>
Presentations</h4>
<i>I have given numerous keynotes and workshops for new teachers, ranging from university-level to districts to conferences. If you're interested, please contact me at <a href="mailto:john@educationrethink.com">john@educationrethink.com.</a></i><br />
<ul>
<li>Zoned In to Learning: Maximizing Flow in Student Learning: Ever been "in the zone" while working on a project? You lose track of time. You focus on what's in front of you. There is a strange mix of calmness and excitement. Those moments are tied into something called Flow Theory. How do we create lessons, experiences, projects and spaces that maximize flow for students? This session is an interactive discussion with an end product of something tangible that would increase flow in learning (a space, a lesson, or a unit). Check out the Slideshare <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/johntspencer/maximizing-flow">here</a>.</li>
<li>Writing Should Be Fun: Teachers are often told to using writing across the curriculum because writing is a vital job skill. While this is true, there is another reality. Writing is inherently fun. Here we explore what it means to keep writing fun for students, including finding an authentic audience, using visual writing ideas, promoting student choice and pushing critical thinking.</li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-73582577757584415742015-04-26T09:00:00.000-07:002015-04-26T10:17:34.413-07:00Creativity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNf1mewWEx6C-0QzWP8-rRvZIHfTA4MirEmsTH7FKS-_0aLFxMGToFMG3TxYMgmkcZZs0IDEmRDGf3e2UJ3u9Y8WYL6BVVAu-90ssFE6rOzF8pOtEUQyg-6MkX8iV_N45-tNAPIzOUzWk/s1600/4376382196_3b3e469aef_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNf1mewWEx6C-0QzWP8-rRvZIHfTA4MirEmsTH7FKS-_0aLFxMGToFMG3TxYMgmkcZZs0IDEmRDGf3e2UJ3u9Y8WYL6BVVAu-90ssFE6rOzF8pOtEUQyg-6MkX8iV_N45-tNAPIzOUzWk/s1600/4376382196_3b3e469aef_o.jpg" height="398" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Photo by Andrei Niemimäki</span></div>
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I've always been a maker. I love making resources for teachers. I love creating slides for presentations. I love writing children's books, like <i>Wendell the World's Worst Wizard. </i>I co-founded <a href="http://writeabout.com/">Write About</a>. As a teacher, I've always been passionate about allowing kids to be creative. It's why we painted murals and made documentaries my first few years. It's why I enjoy the Create a Product and Make a Video Game project with my current students. So, here are some of my posts and resources connected to creativity.<br />
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<h4>
Popular Posts about Creativity</h4>
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/five-types-of-creative-teachers.html">The Five Types of Creative Teachers</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/02/seven-surprising-things-about-creativity.html">Seven Surprising Things About Creativity</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/thats-not-why-we-make-things.html">That's Not Why We Make Things</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/11/i-hid-my-art_6.html">I Hid My Art</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/originality-starts-with-being-unoriginal.html">Originality Starts with Being Unoriginal</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/06/being-unproductive-to-be-productive.html">Being Unproductive to Be Productive</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/think-inside-box.html">Think Inside the Box</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/07/the-motive-for-making.html">The Motive for Making</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/to-reach-larger-audience-you-have-to.html">To Reach a Larger Audience, You Have to Think Smaller</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2010/07/creativity-never-runs-out.html">Creativity Never Runs Out</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/what-if-passion-isnt-exciting.html">What if Passion Isn't Always Exciting?</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/phoenix-portland-and-creative-power-of.html">Phoenix, Portland, and the Creative Power of Limitations</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/09/why-we-take-pictures.html">Why We Take Pictures</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/01/when-creativity-isnt-fun.html">When Creativity Isn't Fun</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/10/your-first-draft-will-probably-suck-and.html">Your First Draft Will Probably Suck -- And That's Okay</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/consume-well.html">Why Consuming Is Necessary for Creating</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/how-do-you-measure-success-of-creative.html">How Do You Measure the Success of a Creative Work?</a><br />
<br />
<h4>
Resources</h4>
<i>Click on any of the links below and get the resource mailed directly to your inbox. </i><br />
Create a Product - <i>Coming Soon</i><br />
Geek Out Project - <i>Coming Soon</i><br />
Scratch Video Game Project - <i>Coming Soon</i><br />
<br />
<h4>
Presentations</h4>
<i>The following are workshops or sessions that I have given on the topic of assessment. Contact me at <a href="mailto:john@educationrethink.com">john@educationrethink.com</a> if you are interested in having me lead a training.</i><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Everyone Is Creative (Keynote): The phrase "creative type" and "Creative Class" suggest that creativity is something that only meant for a certain segment of our population. This is one of the many myths we explore together as we explore what it means to empower students to become creative thinkers.</li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-77938411393106667962015-04-26T08:45:00.001-07:002015-04-26T10:19:40.803-07:00Project-Based Learning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEZjjvBmYcYHf5cbFl0pQ6sfadgz2r6ltT5B-lBQUzXlZbX_mbkX9YUs6Jobfs32aPRFa8YJnpv0haSLiM6VvLb6JVCJfpqwvdNqQGBekG028MX5zz3EP2PaY6npwMD9fG_G15CuOq7Y/s1600/architect-carpenter-pair-of-compasses-3855.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEZjjvBmYcYHf5cbFl0pQ6sfadgz2r6ltT5B-lBQUzXlZbX_mbkX9YUs6Jobfs32aPRFa8YJnpv0haSLiM6VvLb6JVCJfpqwvdNqQGBekG028MX5zz3EP2PaY6npwMD9fG_G15CuOq7Y/s1600/architect-carpenter-pair-of-compasses-3855.jpeg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have over a decade of experience using a PBL framework in social studies, language arts, language acquisition and technology as well as experience in professional development and teacher coaching. This last year, I got the chance to speak at the White House Future Ready Summit for my work in a global collaboration project. I have experience leading trainings at the school and district level as well as at conferences and with other districts around the nation.<br />
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<h4>
Popular Posts about Project-Based Learning</h4>
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/08/the-epic-classroom.html">The Epic Classroom</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/02/what-makes-project-based-learning-work.html">What Makes Project-Based Learning Work?</a><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2011/04/10-ways-to-help-students-ask-better.html">Ten Ways to Help Kids Ask Better Questions</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2012/12/ten-things-ive-learned-in-going-project.html">Ten Things I've Learned in Going Project-Based</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/10/five-keys-to-collaboration.html">Five Keys to Collaboration</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2013/10/personalized-or-programmed.html">Personalized or Programmed?</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/eight-lessons-learned-in-doing-scratch.html">Eight Lessons Learned in Doing Scratch Video Game Projects</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/08/geek-out-projects.html">Geek Out Projects</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/08/layering.html">Layering</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/should-we-focus-on-process-or-product.html">Should We Focus on the Product or Process?</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/sometimes-quantity-is-better-than.html">Sometimes Quantity Is Better Than Quality</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/07/teaching-project-management.html">Teaching Project Management</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/05/ten-things-ive-learned-about-student.html">Ten Things I've Learned About Student Design Projects</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/why-i-do-same-student-projects-over.html">Why I Do the Same Projects Over Again</a><br />
<br />
<h4>
Resources</h4>
<i>Click on any of the links below and get the resource mailed directly to your inbox. </i><br />
Create a Product - <i>coming soon</i><br />
Geek Out Project - <i>coming soon</i><br />
Create a Video Game - <i>coming soon</i><br />
<br />
<h4>
Presentations</h4>
<i>The following are workshops or sessions that I have given on the topic of assessment. Contact me at <a href="mailto:john@educationrethink.com">john@educationrethink.com </a>if you are interested in having me lead a training.</i><br />
<ul>
<li>The Seven C's of Digital Literacy (Keynote): We live in a world where students can instantly connect with information. As a result, students need to create, communicate, curate, connect, collaborate, contextualize and critically think. Here we explore what this looks like both in the classroom and in our world.</li>
<li>It Is Personal (Keynote or Workshops): The term "personal learning" often conjures up images of kids sitting in isolation doing digital worksheets. What if it was different? What if personal learning involved leveraging technology to connect students relationally? What if personal learning was less about a program and more about the power of choice and creativity? Here I offer a framework for a more human version of personal learning and provide practical examples of what it looks like in action.</li>
<li>Defenders of Wisdom (Keynote): I first gave this talk to the ISTE SIGMS (media specialists / librarians) on the question of the role of a librarian in a digital age. Since then, I started rethinking about the role of teachers in an age of informational overload. Here I focus on how technology hasn't changed the role of the teacher. Instead, it has amplified something we have known for years: that great teachers inspire students to become creative, critical thinkers.</li>
<li>Epic Classrooms (Keynote or Workshop): Story-telling is a deeply human way of making sense out of our experiences. Using the lens of story, we explore how teachers can set up "epic" classrooms. The best lessons are the ones with a high level of suspense and profound character development. As teachers we can allow students to struggle through both internal and external conflict as they make sense out of themes rather than just ideas.</li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-27070595445748700522015-04-26T08:39:00.002-07:002015-04-26T10:16:49.118-07:00Creative Classroom Leadership<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2yEcXuat96eCcIYj8nsKCfInJT31sB550EG-g9lfknIBeC3dvfyLSXv6IZ73dL3AZYq-gfyJAT8a8S8kFSKPwE0GTTwopM_OCn2HFqp9Kx8G-LBtW3GZsdMOPnngyWo-Gfx4JNnjwS9A/s1600/architect-calculating-design-2097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2yEcXuat96eCcIYj8nsKCfInJT31sB550EG-g9lfknIBeC3dvfyLSXv6IZ73dL3AZYq-gfyJAT8a8S8kFSKPwE0GTTwopM_OCn2HFqp9Kx8G-LBtW3GZsdMOPnngyWo-Gfx4JNnjwS9A/s1600/architect-calculating-design-2097.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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At first it felt risky. I didn't want to use stickers or names on the board or any of that. I knew that leading a class required being relational. I knew that it started with quality instruction. I knew that it required thinking creatively about the space and the rules and everything else. And yet . . . I screwed up. I yelled at my classes. I shamed a few kids without even realizing it. But I grew as a teacher. Over time, though, I've learned what it means to lead a class well and I enjoy sharing those strategies with other teachers.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Popular Posts about Classroom Leadership</h4>
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/does-this-impact-student-learning.html">Does It Impact Student Learning?</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/the-difference-between-praise-and.html">The Difference Between Praise and Affirmation</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2009/08/dont-discipline-group.html">Don't Discipline the Group</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/08/four-ways-to-save-space-when-setting-up.html">Four Ways to Save Space When Setting Up a Classroom</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/08/questions-to-consider-when-setting-up.html">Questions to Consider When Setting Up a Classroom</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2009/04/it-is-personal.html">It Is Personal</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/07/confusing-safety-with-comfort.html">Confusing Safety with Comfort</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2011/07/sustainable-start-rethinking-why.html">Rethinking Why Students Misbehave</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2011/07/sustainable-start-rituals.html">From Procedures to Rituals</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2012/06/classroom-leadership-from-compliant.html">From Compliant Kids to Ethical Thinkers</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/06/what-should-classroom-look-like.html">What Should a Classroom Look Like? </a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/01/sit-where-you-want_12.html">Sit Where You Want</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/ten-reasons-to-laugh-in-class.html">Ten Reasons to Laugh in Class</a><br />
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<h4>
Resources</h4>
<i>Click on any of the links below and get the resource mailed directly to your inbox. </i><br />
Procedures Grid - <i>Coming Soon</i><br />
Preventative Classroom Management Guide - <i>Coming Soon</i><br />
Setting up Classroom Expectations - <i>Coming Soon</i><br />
Checklist of Procedures to Teach - <i>Coming Soon</i><br />
22 Time-Saving Ideas - <i>Coming Soon</i><br />
Discipline: Before, During, After - <i>Coming Soon</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h4>
Presentations</h4>
<i>The following are workshops or sessions that I have given on the topic of assessment. Contact me at <a href="mailto:john@educationrethink.com">john@educationrethink.com</a> if you are interested in having me lead a training.</i><br />
<ul>
<li>Creative Classroom Space (Workshop): How do we take the limited space we have and turn it into a place where creativity and project-based learning thrive? Here we focus on developing plans to maximize the space and resources we have in a way that will allow creativity to thrive. </li>
<li>The Indie Teacher (Keynote): Students aren't looking for rockstar teachers to entertain them. They thrive on relationships of trust based upon the humility of teachers. The best classrooms look less like rock concerts (with the teacher putting on a great show) and more like jam sessions where students are experimenting, making mistakes and ultimately triumphing together.</li>
<li>Classroom Leadership (Workshop): As humble leaders, teachers have the chance to create clear expectations, logical procedures and engaging curriculum while still dealing with discipline in a relational way. Here, we focus on the before, during and after elements of leading a class. </li>
<li>Preventative Behavior Management (Workshop): Often behavior management is treats student behavior as merely external, denying the motives behind why students misbehave. What if we took student motives into account as we developed our expectations and procedures? In this session, we focus on practical strategies teachers can use to prevent behavioral issues before they happen. </li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-56151925126972994422015-04-26T08:05:00.000-07:002015-04-26T09:14:07.277-07:00Student-Centered Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4CajgFoeAbsSAzocrc5rfEdOwkKZwRuQj-gJyI3yoqVfBhSx7stFv68aii2b48Y4S4MqdlI9AzftgjiDhyphenhyphenfPBzO8nt27lOXi8YscvczhjMx9Cce-qJb1JHVj3mwOMnTHCcZrpMQ9DPs/s1600/96724309_985b8acd3f_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4CajgFoeAbsSAzocrc5rfEdOwkKZwRuQj-gJyI3yoqVfBhSx7stFv68aii2b48Y4S4MqdlI9AzftgjiDhyphenhyphenfPBzO8nt27lOXi8YscvczhjMx9Cce-qJb1JHVj3mwOMnTHCcZrpMQ9DPs/s1600/96724309_985b8acd3f_o.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Creative Commons <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/moriza/96724309/in/photolist-9xJLv-FH44k-chcDm-65W9K5-ciyUUy-k9CJv3-6kFRLu-o8u7ja-4rGioF-a2FFGm-a4VWED-7HJx1Z-m8KMN9-kS7MVB-o1ZnHD-h2MT45-dEXFN4-kQbuFv-Fa6wm-dRpekF-kqsPuW-8HUH4r-pcgzp-8jH4eb-adwcMk-6ozJcT-8oUH34-rmMs8P-5zo8kf-ecXWbk-6Uccv-d3CdXm-adgypB-63DndZ-q4dz8r-pr7NcE-5JNnEK-7ceJ2X-hZyg6F-aSeEyH-eNamDx-bvRkiE-pZ7HeQ-qGUz4M-iDoy2h-dEpG5A-71UN8-kVKFpt-4G9TCp-dXDrCi">photo by Mo Riza</a></span></div>
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I'm passionate about seeing kids fall in love with reading. I have taught all core content subjects, along with reading and reading intervention. I encourage informational reading in my photojournalism class. I'm also an author who gets excited when kids fall in love with a fictional world I created. In the last few years, I've gotten to share this passion with other teachers through workshops and trainings on this topic.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Popular Posts on Reading</h4>
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/01/off-road-reading_21.html">Off-Road Reading</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/09/six-alternatives-to-book-reports.html">Six Alternatives to Book Reports</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/08/seven-shifts-in-how-students-do-research.html">Seven Shifts in How Students Do Research</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/02/five-ways-to-fix-close-reading.html">Five Ways to Fix Close Reading</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2013/01/fix-it-five-ways-to-fix-book-report.html">Fix It In Five: The Book Report</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2012/03/eleven-ways-to-engage-reluctant-readers.html" target="_blank">Eleven Ways to Engage Reluctant Readers</a><br />
<div>
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2014/01/11-things-i-wish-i-had-known-before.html">Eleven Things I Wish I Had Known Before Teaching Reading</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/12/seven-myths-about-informational-text.html">Seven Myths About Informational Texts</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2014/07/seven-ways-to-keep-informational-text.html">Seven Ways to Keep Informational Text Engaging</a><br />
<br />
<h4>
Resources</h4>
</div>
<i>Click on any of the links below and get the resource mailed directly to your inbox. </i><br />
Ten Alternatives to Boring Book Reports - <i>Coming Soon!</i><br />
Differentiated Reading: A Framework - <i>Coming Soon! </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h4>
Podcast Episodes</h4>
<a href="http://classroomquestions.com/ep-005-how-to-make-close-reading-work-and-not-bore-our-students/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ClassroomQuestions+%28Classroom+Questions%29&utm_content=FeedBurner">How to Make Close Reading Work</a><br />
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<h4>
Presentations</h4>
<i>The following are workshops or sessions that I have given on the topic of assessment. Contact me at <a href="mailto:john@educationrethink.com">john@educationrethink.com </a>if you are interested in having me lead a training.</i><br />
<ul>
<li>Defenders of Wisdom (Keynote): I first gave this talk to the ISTE SIGMS (media specialists / librarians) on the question of the role of a librarian in a digital age. Since then, I started rethinking about the role of teachers in an age of informational overload. Here I focus on how technology hasn't changed the role of the teacher. Instead, it has amplified something we have known for years: that great teachers inspire students to become creative, critical thinkers.</li>
<li>Off-Road Reading (Keynote, Session or Workshop): When I first began teaching reading, I stuck to a rigid curriculum guide. I asked the questions. I required students to use the strategies that I modeled for them. It was a rigid route where I was the conductor. Eventually, I took my students off-road and allowed them to explore the terrain on their own. Here's a brief blog post exploring some of the ideas in this keynote.</li>
<li>The Seven C's of Digital Literacy (Keynote or Session): We live in a world where students can instantly connect with information. As a result, students need to create, communicate, curate, connect, collaborate, contextualize and critically think. Here we explore what this looks like both in the classroom and in our world.</li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-17913789498911249352015-04-26T07:51:00.001-07:002015-04-26T07:51:21.555-07:00Thinking Creatively About Technology<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMOf_kQtgmRDqqjfl7m2I2vNZXrKbRl7Y1a2H4n6LASklVPn81tsb7gdhzXCSHujcffGyTPiO4yBkfslX_m3IZfylTatYRmSOoy0R9rHYmzG5U-5TmVGSpIWJceZETxVn2jW0V9gYk9o/s1600/tech.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMOf_kQtgmRDqqjfl7m2I2vNZXrKbRl7Y1a2H4n6LASklVPn81tsb7gdhzXCSHujcffGyTPiO4yBkfslX_m3IZfylTatYRmSOoy0R9rHYmzG5U-5TmVGSpIWJceZETxVn2jW0V9gYk9o/s1600/tech.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm kind-of a techie. I am the co-founder of <a href="http://writeabout.com/">Write About</a>, a digital publishing platform. I teach computer programming and photojournalism. I was a tech coach for a year. And yet . . . I have a real Luddite streak. I believe that technology criticism is vital.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Popular Posts on Technology</h4>
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2012/07/11-reasons-teachers-arent-using.html">Eleven Reasons Teachers Aren't Using Technology</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/eight-lessons-learned-in-doing-scratch.html">Eight Lessons Learned in Doing Scratch Video Game Projects</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/p/digital-journey.html">The Phases in the Digital Journey</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2013/07/if-this-is-blocked-try-this.html">If This Is Blocked, Try This</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/07/media-criticism-questions.html">Media Criticism Questions </a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2012/05/digital-citizenship-from-nice-to.html">Digital Citizenship: From Nice to Ethical</a><br />
<div>
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2012/04/we-cant-define-social-media.html" target="_blank">Why We Can't Define Social Media</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/09/we-cant-predict-effects-of-technology.html">We Can't Predict the Effects of Technology</a></div>
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/02/do-we-really-need-to-augment-childs.html">Do We Really Need to Augment a Child's Reality?</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/01/sometimes-vintage-works-best.html">Sometimes Vintage Works Best</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/04/ten-myths-about-technology.html">Ten Myths About Technology</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2014/07/what-were-missing-with-digital-footprint.html">What We're Missing with Digital Footprint</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/10/when-schools-ban-tech_27.html">When Schools Ban Tech</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/03/when-kids-craft-byod-policies.html">When Kids Craft BYOD Policies</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/01/want-faster-internet-try-jazz-hands.html">Want Faster Internet? Try Jazz Hands.</a><br />
<div>
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<div>
<h4>
Resources</h4>
</div>
<i>Sign up for my blog list and get access to free resources. Simply click on any of the links below and get the resource mailed directly to your inbox. </i><br />
<a href="https://gumroad.com/l/digitaljourneyquestions">Coaching Questions for the Digital Journey</a><br />
<br />
<h4>
Presentations</h4>
<i>The following are workshops or sessions that I have given on the topic of assessment. Contact me at <a href="mailto:john@educationrethink.com">john@educationrethink.com </a>if you are interested in having me lead a training.</i><br />
<ul>
<li>The Seven C's of Digital Literacy (Keynote or Session): We live in a world where students can instantly connect with information. As a result, students need to create, communicate, curate, connect, collaborate, contextualize and critically think. Here we explore what this looks like both in the classroom and in our world.</li>
<li>It Is Personal (Keynote or Workshop): The term "personal learning" often conjures up images of kids sitting in isolation doing digital worksheets. What if it was different? What if personal learning involved leveraging technology to connect students relationally? What if personal learning was less about a program and more about the power of choice and creativity? Here I offer a framework for a more human version of personal learning and provide practical examples of what it looks like in action.</li>
<li>The Digital Journey (Session or Workshop): Often schools push technology integration (in this case digital technology) into classrooms without thinking about each teacher's personal journey. We forget that digital tools are also digital spaces and that navigating your way around them takes time. This sessions focusses on what that looks like and what it means to help guide teachers through the phases.</li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com160tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-26583931421989224172015-04-25T09:36:00.000-07:002015-04-26T10:12:25.292-07:00Thinking Creatively About AssessmentAs a teacher, I have pushed for creative formative assessments. Initially, I simply pushed back against standardized tests. However, over time, I began researching better alternatives and trying things out on my own.<br />
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<h4>
Popular Posts about Assessment</h4>
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/the-power-of-student-conferencing.html">The Power of Student Conferencing</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2008/04/assessment-assessing-as-we-go.html">Assessing As We Go</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2013/02/assessing-learning-versus-taking.html">Assessing Learning Versus Taking Assessments</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2012/09/14-reasons-multiple-choice-tests-suck.html">Fourteen Reasons Multiple Choice Questions Suck</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2010/01/paradigm-shifts-on-assessment.html">Paradigm Shifts on Assessment</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/01/seven-reasons-to-ditch-participation_22.html">Seven Reasons to Ditch Participation Points</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2011/04/ten-paperless-math-assessment.html">Ten Paperless Math Assessment Strategies</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2014/03/the-real-reason-i-hate-testing-week.html">The Real Reason I Hate Standardized Testing Week</a><br />
<br />
<h4>
Resources</h4>
<i>Click on any of the links below and get the resource mailed directly to your inbox. </i><br />
Standards-Based Assessment Grid - <i>coming soon</i><br />
Standards-Based Grading in Project-Based Learning - <i>coming soon</i><br />
Student Portfolios - <i>coming soon</i><br />
Student Conferencing: Teacher-Directed - <i>coming soon</i><br />
Student Conferencing: Student-Directed- <i>coming soon</i><br />
Student Self-Assessments: - <i>coming soon</i><br />
Rubric: Blogging- <i>coming soon</i><br />
<br />
<h4>
Presentations</h4>
<i>The following are workshops or sessions that I have given on the topic of assessment. Contact me at <a href="mailto:john@educationrethink.com">john@educationrethink.com </a>if you are interested in having me lead a training.</i><br />
<ul>
<li>Assess As You Go: Assessment doesn't have to be something a student "takes." Instead, it can be a normal part of the learning process. With the use of digital platforms and the shift toward a more authentic approach, we explore how teachers can use formative assessment on a daily basis. </li>
<li>Top Ten Tech-Integrated Alternative Assessments: Here we explore ten different technology-integrated assessment methods that combine the best platforms with the best pedagogy. </li>
<li>Blended Student Conferencing: By blending together digital tools and face-to-face interaction, teachers can maximize the one-on-one time spent with students. After exploring a framework to make this happen, teachers create individual plans to meet the needs of their classrooms. </li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-30013189468105099232015-04-25T08:26:00.002-07:002015-04-26T10:22:51.742-07:00Start Here<div>
If you're new to this blog, welcome! I'm a dad, husband, teacher, speaker, author, tech developer, meandering thinker, incessant doodler, and perpetual bender of paperclips. I'm passionate about seeing <span style="font-size: 16px;">classroom spaces become </span>creative places.<br />
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Here are some of the topics I geek out about:</div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.johnspencer.me/2015/04/as-teacher-i-have-pushed-for-creative.html">Authentic Assessment</a>: I want to think differently about how we assess, why we assess, what we assess and what it means to bring students into the conversation</li>
<li><a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/studentblogging.html" style="font-size: 16px;">Beyond Blogging</a>: As the co-founder of <a href="http://writeabout.com/">Write About</a>, I want to think creatively about what it means for kids to fall in love with digital writing and publish to an authentic audience </li>
<li><a href="http://www.johnspencer.me/2015/04/creative-classroom-leadership.html">Classroom Leadership</a>: I want to create spaces where creativity thrives. I believe this starts with humble teachers thinking differently about classroom space, structures and management. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.johnspencer.me/2015/04/creativity.html">Creativity</a>: I love making stuff and I love geeking out about what makes creativity work both in the classroom and life.</li>
<li>Design Thinking: <i>coming soon! </i></li>
<li><a href="http://www.johnspencer.me/2015/04/project-based-learning.html">Project-Based Learning</a>: I first got into PBL about ten years ago. Slowly, I've worked toward making my class project-based in all content areas. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.johnspencer.me/2015/04/student-centered-reading.html">Reading</a>: I want to see kids fall in love with reading. Whether it's getting lost in the world of a novel or geeking out over a new idea, I see reading as a critical part of growing in creativity. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.johnspencer.me/2015/04/thinking-differently-about-student.html">Student Engagement</a>: I love thinking about the nuances of student engagement and motivation.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.johnspencer.me/2015/04/thinking-creatively-about-technology.html">Technology</a>: As a teacher, coach, and platform developer, I have worked toward using technology to inspire creativity. However, I also see value in thinking critically about technology and how it's shaping our world.</li>
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Enjoy what you've read so far? You can get each post delivered straight to your inbox, along with one free resource a week. Click <a href="http://tinyletter.com/spencerideas">here</a> to subscribe.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-5254305369450133602015-04-24T15:10:00.004-07:002015-11-05T20:37:33.514-08:00Have Me Speak<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikojaEc89O9NJZnfmerLuINMZIlR5MNhSq0v-k7u3dTk1aNTHByS_EtXDr8xV5apUajwzUldAviCWTJ_Iaaa3pXgEEOd2ltiefr-9xp2ad5KQ4mNSx2H-GP2pqmiwYq7yu4emWojvIK2s/s1600/photo+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikojaEc89O9NJZnfmerLuINMZIlR5MNhSq0v-k7u3dTk1aNTHByS_EtXDr8xV5apUajwzUldAviCWTJ_Iaaa3pXgEEOd2ltiefr-9xp2ad5KQ4mNSx2H-GP2pqmiwYq7yu4emWojvIK2s/s640/photo+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>A snapshot of when I delivered a breakfast keynote at the largest education conference in the nation.</i></div>
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For speaking inquiries, please email me at <a href="mailto:john@educationrethink.com">john@educationrethink.com</a> or scroll down to the form at the bottom.<br />
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<h4>
My Passion for Creative Classrooms</h4>
I want to see kids embrace creativity. As a teacher, this has included murals, documentaries, STEM camps, and coding projects. As a dad, this has meant elaborate pillow forts and home-made pinball machines. This is also why I co-wrote <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GJWISDO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00GJWISDO&linkCode=as2&tag=educarethi03-20&linkId=Z3LRY2IHX2MGQ7QZ">Wendell the World's Worst Wizard</a></i> and co-founded <a href="http://writeabout.com/">Write About</a>. Now, as I begin my career as a professor of instructional technology, this means inspiring and empowering new teachers to use technology for creative reasons.<br />
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Over the last three years, I have had the opportunity to share practical this vision for creative classrooms with a variety of audiences. I've been honored to work with schools, districts and organizations through keynotes, workshops, sessions and coaching on the topics of design thinking, digital literacy, and student engagement.<br />
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I offer the unique perspective of being a published author, the co-founder of a successful startup, a classroom teacher for over a decade, and now a college professor. In other words, I am not only passionate about creativity. I am someone with extensive classroom experience, industry experience, and research experience.<br />
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As a facilitator and speaker, I believe teachers need to be affirmed for the great things they are doing while also being challenged to grow in their craft. My approach blends practical skills, best practices, and reflective thinking with a style that is both humorous and conversational. I always include a set of practical resources that participants can access online at any time.<br />
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<h4>
My Areas of Expertise</h4>
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I am in the unique position of having industry experience, classroom experience, and research experience in the following three areas: </div>
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<li>Creativity and Design Thinking</li>
<li>Technology and Literacy</li>
<li>Student Engagement and Flow Theory</li>
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<h4>
What You Can Expect </h4>
<ol>
<li>Prompt response when you call or email me. </li>
<li>Plenty of personal attention so that I can tailor the press kit, biography, keynote, and sessions to the context of your audience.</li>
<li>An engaging delivery that includes practical strategies, storytelling, humor, and inspiration. </li>
<li>A free resource customized specifically for your audience. </li>
<li>An ongoing relationship after the talk. I want to build a partnership and continue the conversation with your organization. </li>
</ol>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F-Wm0glaZ7E" width="640"></iframe></div>
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<h4>
Frequently Requested Keynotes and Workshops</h4>
<b>The Creative Classroom: Design Thinking in Every Content Area</b><br />
Despite the myth of "digital natives," most of my students have very little experience using technology as anything more than a consumer device. It doesn't have to be this way. By using a <a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/05/what-is-design-thinking-can-it-work-in.html">design thinking</a> framework, teachers can foster creative thinking in every content area. I walk participants through the <a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/05/what-is-design-thinking-can-it-work-in.html">design thinking cycle</a>, offering practical tips and specific examples. Participants leave feeling inspired, challenged and empowered to create spaces where creativity thrives.<br />
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<b>In the Zone: Maximizing Flow for Student Engagement</b><br />
Ever been "in the zone" while working on a project? You lose track of time. You focus on what's in front of you. There is a strange mix of calmness and excitement. Those moments are tied into something called <a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/04/five-ways-to-create-state-of-flow-in.html">Flow Theory.</a> How do we create lessons, experiences, projects and spaces that maximize flow for students? This session is an interactive discussion with an end product of something tangible that would increase flow in learning (a space, a lesson, or a unit). <br />
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<b>It Is Personal</b><br />
Personalized learning has become a buzzword in education. However, too often, "personalized" simply means an adaptive program, where students are passively moving through curriculum. What if we empowered students to own their own learning? In this keynote, I share a personalized learning framework that begins with the idea that learning should be relational, social, and creative.<br />
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<b>The Future of Literacy</b><br />
We live in a world where students can instantly connect with information. As a result, students need to create, communicate, curate, connect, collaborate, contextualize and critically think. Here we explore what this looks like both in the classroom and in our world.<br />
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<b>Epic Engagement: Lesson Planning Through the Lens of Story</b><br />
Story-telling is a deeply human way of making sense out of our experiences. Using the lens of story, we explore how teachers can set up "epic" classrooms. The best lessons are the ones with a high level of suspense and profound character development. As teachers we can allow students to struggle through both internal and external conflict as they make sense out of themes rather than just ideas.<br />
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<b>Engaging Reluctant Writers</b><br />
Teachers are often told to using writing across the curriculum because writing is a vital job skill. While this is true, there is another reality. Writing is inherently fun. Here we explore what it means to keep writing fun for students, including finding an authentic audience, using visual writing ideas, promoting student choice and pushing critical thinking.<br />
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<h4>
Other Popular Sessions / Workshops</h4>
<i>The following is a list of my most requested sessions and workshops:</i><br />
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<ul>
<li>The Five Types of Creative Teachers</li>
<li>The Seven Stages in the Technology Journey</li>
<li>A Beginner's Guide to Design Thinking</li>
<li>We Want Kids to Be Creative But How Do We Assess That? </li>
<li>Ditch the Test: Ten Tech-Integrated Alternative Assessment Methods</li>
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Sample Slide Deck</h4>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="485" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//www.slideshare.net/slideshow/embed_code/key/NieDXsOfPsJBbl" style="border-width: 1px; border: 1px solid #CCC; margin-bottom: 5px; max-width: 100%;" width="595"> </iframe> <br />
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I strive to create slide decks that look minimal, modern, and memorable. So, it was cool to see this slide deck as the featured presentation for a full week on Slideshare! </div>
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Places Where I Have Been a Featured Speaker</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7a0ySldIKPFWpfbwkD_YIrHrvap-XVXFCy_ssfkX03i7pEFF-qlshxOCfUpdibpYrRmKYUngAOKgj6BqvQm39dYOQrQ6XfFlanPm4mAN7aT9P6-8E9Ozer7V1u9TP_nVrUe2itXcQsoY/s1600/social+proof+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7a0ySldIKPFWpfbwkD_YIrHrvap-XVXFCy_ssfkX03i7pEFF-qlshxOCfUpdibpYrRmKYUngAOKgj6BqvQm39dYOQrQ6XfFlanPm4mAN7aT9P6-8E9Ozer7V1u9TP_nVrUe2itXcQsoY/s1600/social+proof+2.png" /></a><br />
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<h4>
What Educators Are Saying </h4>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
John's classroom expertise on project based learning, design thinking, and writing allow him to offer realistic and practical suggestions to move teachers forward. John's amazing creativity can be seen in his humor, writing, drawings, and visual writing prompts that he creates for Write About. If you are looking for someone to go beyond the "50 Apps in 50 Minutes" style of professional development to a practical, student centered pedagogy then John Spencer is who you should call. <i>- Mike Kaechele, Teacher at Kent Innovation High School and Renowned Expert on Project-Based Learning </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
John Spencer is a fantastic speaker. He will inspire you and push your thinking to new heights. His mixture of content, storytelling, and humor makes for a great keynote. <i>- Brett Clark, Director of Technology at Greater Clark County Schools</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I went to John's keynote last summer at a conference in Indiana. He made me laugh. He made me think. He left me with a practical set of resources that I could actually use. Afterward, I went to all three of his sessions. This day of learning changed my approach to teaching. <i>- Amy Thompson, Middle School Teacher </i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
John spoke at our TEDxPennsburgED event and was as dynamic off the stage as he was on it. Throughout the day John had conversations with our students and teachers about creativity, and learning in general. His talk focused on the creative power of limitations, and it was so exciting to see our students congratulate him after the talk because they had already formed a connection. If you are looking for someone to inspire your staff and students, John does so in a personal and creative way that has people talking about the message long after it has been shared. - <i>A.J. Juliani, Education and Technology Innovation Specialist</i></blockquote>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-45453725492085222332015-04-24T15:06:00.001-07:002015-04-24T15:06:33.900-07:00ResourcesLook here soon . . .Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-70733372069169033562015-04-24T15:03:00.001-07:002015-04-24T15:03:04.819-07:00BooksEver since I was a child, I have had the dream of being an author. Now, as an adult, I feel fortunate at the opportunities I've had. I have had the chance to write a regular column for <i>Kappan Magazine, </i>write a chapter in a technology textbook and independently publish both fiction and non-fiction books that have climbed up to the top ten in their respective Amazon sales categories. My work has been featured in <i>The Answer Sheet, </i>a <i>Washington Post </i>blog.
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UUMAJQS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00UUMAJQS&linkCode=as2&tag=educarethi03-20&linkId=ZAF5BD62JSYUD2TW"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUT5SCfu35TnyZfK9Aptb22OUW3jjM8DoArCZRJdzWmwWHEEr3E75eaz7AsB9vu13IecQJgnkqRJ8obOEfAWm7kx3rtE0pEn9SGKZT0bjktohmaLeltoao5xuaUOOdAJd2wwtUMqkBzhU/s1600/front+side.jpg" height="400" width="261" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://gumroad.com/l/fireproofteacher" style="font-size: 100%;">Audio Version</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UUMAJQS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00UUMAJQS&linkCode=as2&tag=educarethi03-20&linkId=ZAF5BD62JSYUD2TW" style="font-size: 100%;">Kindle Version</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0692410546/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0692410546&linkCode=as2&tag=educarethi03-20&linkId=WWP4BKDYOVTW5ZWB" style="font-size: 100%;">Print Version</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wendell-Worlds-Worst-Wizard-Drackenberger-ebook/dp/B00GJWISDO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1403323145&sr=8-1&keywords=wendell+the+worlds+worst+wizard" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC01a-ZHmT8a7u795a7YJkXRg2jbUGI6VtPQsKp8ZmAxDKMlAeDb2KJBE65M2udRPkTfLayB5TEq1UkmeuAXSGRMounY0NT8j7xE_q0sJFbSS7P5rayumcFmEKtNnwF9xGoL9B2OSzmxs/s1600/cover+-+final+one.jpg" height="400" width="260" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Wendell the World's Worst Wizard</i></span></div>
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Wendell Drackenberger has a suspicion that he is different, but nobody in his life wants to admit it. When the truth is made embarrassingly public, Wendell is faced with some difficult choices for a thirteen-year-old. Dubbed the world's worst wizard, he is forced to pave his own way. The future seems bleak until one little lie launches this comical adventure of errors, uncertainty, danger and courage. Teaming up with new friends, robots, a gnome and a brain-intolerant zombie, he discovers how a secret skill might just make him the perfect wizard to save his village.</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1493658808/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1493658808&linkCode=as2&tag=educarethi03-20&linkId=6MQMER6MOENYV43Y">Paperback: $11.99</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=educarethi03-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1493658808" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GJWISDO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00GJWISDO&linkCode=as2&tag=educarethi03-20&linkId=V5EG3MKJ7B2CAHK7">Kindle Version: $4.99</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZrsKGHhya0Nl3TdSloU1tW-olU3WysSPslR6QD9wZph34hqRk8yeyCrLaQKnt6zgTVIAzKKhF87onXhU5U_xPlwyLpqYYyrw87laWOq0w3OdZjMFR55OKvJ9BPQ0cD4PV44T-Zd2x_g/s1600/FRONTIMAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZrsKGHhya0Nl3TdSloU1tW-olU3WysSPslR6QD9wZph34hqRk8yeyCrLaQKnt6zgTVIAzKKhF87onXhU5U_xPlwyLpqYYyrw87laWOq0w3OdZjMFR55OKvJ9BPQ0cD4PV44T-Zd2x_g/s1600/FRONTIMAGE.jpg" height="400" width="313" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>A Sustainable Start: A Realistic Look at the First Year of Teaching</i></span></div>
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Instead of providing a list of rules, formulas and steps that new teachers need to follow, the author tells stories, makes observations and provides practical advice. In a style that is both deep and conversational, the author provides insights often neglected in books aimed for new teachers, including the role of shame in teacher identity, the use of professional learning networks for professional growth, the need for paradox, increasing a sense of awareness, the need for humility in classroom leadership and how to build a better relationship with students. The result is a book that is practical, philosophical and personal. It also includes a New Teacher Toolkit with 45 resources for teachers entering the classroom for the first time.</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sustainable-Start-Realistic-First-Teaching/dp/1466247134/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1403322646&sr=8-1&keywords=a+sustainable+start">Print Version</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sustainable-Start-Realistic-First-Teaching-ebook/dp/B005I0FQ74/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1403322646">Kindle Version</a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEFO_fZTZ0GjnndUo2Suiy1FxM8Qf4hZk-zBlZ31kdnIWsG8qUUXR-Xp4ACZ1GIBel83zwZ7cxmYywqSd53-DwYeBJM8lWNF4Hlw6Dj9zZFOnvHP-eS2xZXwbbnYWMg5yQlcdRkRdufQw/s1600/pencil+me+in+gray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEFO_fZTZ0GjnndUo2Suiy1FxM8Qf4hZk-zBlZ31kdnIWsG8qUUXR-Xp4ACZ1GIBel83zwZ7cxmYywqSd53-DwYeBJM8lWNF4Hlw6Dj9zZFOnvHP-eS2xZXwbbnYWMg5yQlcdRkRdufQw/s1600/pencil+me+in+gray.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Pencil Me In</i></span>
Written as an educational technology allegory, it tells the story of Tom Johnson, who fights to integrate pencils into his classroom and faces personal, political and social challenges. Fusing together satirical scenarios, thought-provoking dialogue and a compelling narrative, it is a story that many will relate to.
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pencil-Me-In-Journey-Graphite/dp/1461043425/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1403323368&sr=8-2&keywords=pencil+me+in">Print Version</a>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pencil-Me-Journey-Fight-Graphite-ebook/dp/B004V094U2/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-2&qid=1403323368">Kindle Version</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-22403486355091556322015-04-24T14:57:00.002-07:002015-08-03T16:30:51.048-07:00Getting Started with Design ThinkingFill out this form to receive instructions on how to join the free course.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="512" scrolling="no" src="https://madmimi.com/signups/145884/iframe" style="max-width: 400px; width: 100%;"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-48769681169164754782015-04-24T14:54:00.003-07:002015-04-26T07:42:44.508-07:00About Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7f-NtNuhWPsjmn_w-TpFH70gmmAtrz_nADVq9v-McNGLiCa2ouH4B9tr2Kr-Y7rCxXrmkooANlmPqXNoyhARxBOzFWCJoMtbYHOykTTJiWcxNk75ippBn4GjmJU8nK3lUfPKCOznDCc/s1600/john+spencer.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7f-NtNuhWPsjmn_w-TpFH70gmmAtrz_nADVq9v-McNGLiCa2ouH4B9tr2Kr-Y7rCxXrmkooANlmPqXNoyhARxBOzFWCJoMtbYHOykTTJiWcxNk75ippBn4GjmJU8nK3lUfPKCOznDCc/s1600/john+spencer.png" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
I am currently a middle school photojournalism and computer teacher in urban Phoenix, Arizona. I have over a decade of experience in social studies, language arts, language acquisition and technology as well as experience in professional development and teacher coaching.<br />
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This last year, I got the chance to speak at the White House Future Ready Summit for my work in a global collaboration project. My research experience includes writing a chapter in <i>The Nature of Technology </i>textbook and winning an NAU Education Technology Graduate Award for my work and research around transforming professional development.<br />
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I am still learning, still thinking, still dreaming. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10956056168256756705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6466233689569060350.post-87248380602282305812015-04-10T07:54:00.000-07:002015-04-26T08:49:39.246-07:00Professional GrowthSome people put teacher health (or avoiding burnout) in a separate category as professional development. I see them as intertwined. It's why I did research on teacher self-efficacy and teacher time when creating blended professional development. It's why I included coaching and self-reflection in the differentiated professional development framework for my school a few years back. I want to see teachers grow and thrive in the profession and I think it requires a holistic approach.<br />
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<h4>
Popular Posts about Professional Growth, Professional Development, and Burnout</h4>
<i>For more posts on instruction, check the pages on assessment, digital literacy, creativity, motivation, and reading .</i><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/01/dont-wear-busy-like-badge-of-honor_29.html">Don't Wear Busy Like a Badge of Honor</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2014/03/12-alternatives-to-boring-professional.html">Twelve Alternatives to Boring Professional Development</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2014/02/five-reasons-edcamps-work.html">Five Reasons Edcamps Work</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/02/why-professional-development-should-be.html">Why Professional Development Should Be More Like Edcamp</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2014/01/why-professional-development-is-failing.html">Why Professional Development Is Failing</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/01/confessions-of-forty-hour-week-teacher_12.html">Confessions of a Forty Hour a Week Teacher</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2014/07/five-strategies-for-surviving-hard-year.html">Five Strategies for Avoiding Burnout</a><br />
<a href="http://www.educationrethink.com/2013/11/how-to-survive-as-introverted-teacher.html">How to Survive as an Introverted Teacher</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/02/teachers-need-genius-hour-too.html">Teachers Need Genius Hour, Too</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/01/how-teaching-became-fun-again.html">How Teaching Became Fun Again</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spencerideas.org/2015/03/why-perfectionism-is-career-killer.html">Why Perfectionism Is a Career-Killer</a><br />
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<h4>
Resources</h4>
<i>Click on any of the links below and get the resource mailed directly to your inbox. </i><br />
A Framework for Fixing Professional Development - <i>Coming Soon! </i><br />
Twenty Alternatives to Boring Professional Development - <i>Coming Soon!</i><br />
Professional Growth Plan - <i>Coming Soon!</i><br />
Student Evaluations - <i>Coming Soon! </i><br />
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<h4>
Recommended Book</h4>
<div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UUMAJQS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00UUMAJQS&linkCode=as2&tag=educarethi03-20&linkId=ZAF5BD62JSYUD2TW"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUT5SCfu35TnyZfK9Aptb22OUW3jjM8DoArCZRJdzWmwWHEEr3E75eaz7AsB9vu13IecQJgnkqRJ8obOEfAWm7kx3rtE0pEn9SGKZT0bjktohmaLeltoao5xuaUOOdAJd2wwtUMqkBzhU/s1600/front+side.jpg" height="320" width="210" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Check it out: <a href="https://gumroad.com/l/fireproofteacher" style="font-size: 16px;">Audiobook </a>- <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UUMAJQS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00UUMAJQS&linkCode=as2&tag=educarethi03-20&linkId=ZAF5BD62JSYUD2TW" style="font-size: 16px;">Kindle</a> - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0692410546/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0692410546&linkCode=as2&tag=educarethi03-20&linkId=WWP4BKDYOVTW5ZWB" style="font-size: 16px;">Print</a></div>
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<h4>
Podcasts</h4>
<a href="http://classroomquestions.com/episode4/">How to Make It On a Teacher's Salary</a><br />
<a href="http://classroomquestions.com/ep-003-do-teachers-get-sabbaticals/">Do Teachers Get Sabbaticals?</a><br />
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<h4>
Presentations</h4>
<i>The following are workshops or sessions that I have given on the topic of assessment. Contact me at <a href="mailto:john@educationrethink.com">john@educationrethink.com </a>if you are interested in having me lead a training.</i><br />
<ul>
<li>The Fireproof Teacher (Keynote or Workshop): In many places, we don't have an issue recruiting teachers. We do, however, have a real issue retaining teachers. Instead of thriving, they are burning out. Together we explore the seven strategies to prevent teacher burnout and promote teacher success. I also offer practical, time-saving ideas so that teachers can avoid "busy" and find balance in a forty hour work week.</li>
<li>Differentiated Professional Development (Workshop): I focus here on creating choice-driven blended professional development. We talk about the options, the tools, and the timing as each participant develops a framework for his or her school or district. </li>
</ul>
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