I remember the first time I heard Ewan Mcintosh speak. He invited the crowd to be critical of his talk and to feel free to disagree with anything he said. That was the first time I had ever heard a person of authority, in a public setting, invite criticism in such an overt manner. I've ...… Read the rest
On Friday I'm going to be offering a workshop at the Canadian School Boards Association's National Conference entitled, "Getting Serious About Culture": “Culture is not the most important thing, it’s the only thing.” – Jim Sinegal, Co-founder and former CEO, Costco Is this true for schools and school districts? Having worked with districts across Canada, Dean Shareski has ...… Read the rest
Imagine a school that makes students take the same courses at the same times as everyone else. Also, this school uses little or no technology. This school does not utilize contemporary texts and in fact, does not even aspire to contextualize these ancient texts to the modern world. You've probably dismissed this school as irrelevant ...… Read the rest
I'm noticing an unusual pattern of late. In education, there's a strong underlying message to bring back or maintain curiosity and wonder as the foundation of learning. Meanwhile the media, both mass and traditional and social is intent on killing curiosity. Whether it's politics, racism, environmental or a host of other modern issues, the message ...… Read the rest
"Innovation" might be the most used word to frame the current narrative of change in education. It's been used to drive the use of technology but also as my friend George done, used to change mindsets. It's difficult to argue against the idea that education was, or is still in need of change. For those who ...… Read the rest