Response to Reinventing Project Based Learning Chapter 2

2010, july 6th
PBL reading response pg 187 Question #2

What connections do I see between teacher collaboration and student learning.

I would guess that there are positive outcomes in student learning when teachers collaborate.

1. When several people work on a project less will be overlooked in terms of preparation and problem prevention.
2. The project will be richer since more teachers are contributing to the preparation. Each bringing unique skills and perspectives
3. What happens in leadership percolates down to followers. Teacher collaboration will set the trend for student collaboration.

Where do I find opportunities to collaborate with collegues

1. I collaborate with other RA’s to put together programs
2. I collaborate with other IVCF leadership to put together programs

How could I bring more collaboration into my teaching life?

1. By participating in education-themed social networks
2. I think there is an attitude of humility that a collaboration requires. One can’t say “I have all the answers” or “I need all the credit.” I am reminded of a quote I read online “It is amazing what we can achieve when no one cares who gets the credit.”

Who would I want to incorporate into my dream team for collaboration?

1. I’ve certainly met some innovative teachers this week up in Potsdam. I hope that I have to opportunity to work with such positively minded faculty. Educators who view their students as people not as walking labels.
2. I have a couple ideas for where and who I’d like to educate but I can’t really say that I have an educational dream. This being said I’m not sure who I’d ask to be a part of my dream team.

How am I using technology to connect with peers?

1. Well, I’ve started this blog as well as a wiki page: deansa.wikipages.com
2. I expect that I will also use flickr, diigo, facebook, and gmail to connect with peers