I found out last week that I had been successful in gaining a place at this year's GTA in Sydney #gtasyd . The process of applying included making a 1-minute video talking about how I was an 'Ambassador for Change' in the field of education. The process was personally challenging; I usually hate putting myself 'out there' in a visual sense. However, it also made me engage in those '21st century skills' that I believe are crucial for today's students: taking risks, stepping outside of my comfort zone, being creative. If we as teachers are not willing to get a little 'uncomfortable' and try new things, how can we expect our students to do the same?
Recently I began a collaborative project with some interstate schools as a result of a tweet I had seen asking for expressions of interest. Many people had responded to the initial tweet, but when it came to the crunch, most said they were not ready, not experienced enough, too busy... In fact, I nearly did the same thing. I didn't know if I was going to be as 'tech-literate' as the other participants, I didn't really need an 'extra' thing to do, I wasn't sure if I was ready to engage in this kind of a project... But I jumped. I dove in and said yes, and am so glad I did. I have made new friendships with online colleagues, strengthened my Twitter PLN, engaged my students in exciting ways, and even learnt about and signed up for virtual excursions (this week my students are visiting the Mawson Base in Antarctica to talk to the scientists). I'm so glad I took the risk of trying something new. Try it. Jump in.
Recently I began a collaborative project with some interstate schools as a result of a tweet I had seen asking for expressions of interest. Many people had responded to the initial tweet, but when it came to the crunch, most said they were not ready, not experienced enough, too busy... In fact, I nearly did the same thing. I didn't know if I was going to be as 'tech-literate' as the other participants, I didn't really need an 'extra' thing to do, I wasn't sure if I was ready to engage in this kind of a project... But I jumped. I dove in and said yes, and am so glad I did. I have made new friendships with online colleagues, strengthened my Twitter PLN, engaged my students in exciting ways, and even learnt about and signed up for virtual excursions (this week my students are visiting the Mawson Base in Antarctica to talk to the scientists). I'm so glad I took the risk of trying something new. Try it. Jump in.
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