Blog and table . . .

I usually do my post in word and transfer to Blogger, but tonight I was just about finished and the computer crashed and word will not open, you know the routine Windows checking for problems, the blue circle,and Microsoft Office has stopped working. It really ticks me off when this happens and I lose my work. I don't like trying to redo, because it never sounds as good, but here goes.

I was pleased to see the comments to my last post. They certainly provide us with differing views on what Classroom 10 might look and sound like in our classrooms. Though the sample is small, it does capture the difference of opinion and the need for continued conversation and learning opportunities as we continue our journey.

It is good to see that there is no disagreement on the need for the 10 characteristics. The disagreement lies in what a targeted thinking skill means when included in every lesson. We still have much work to do as we move toward a common understanding of this work in progress. It is an initiative unique to our school district and one that will continue to undergo refinement as we broaden the scope of those involved in decision making. Sharing private thoughts is important and can influence the decisions we will make on the what and how of Classroom 10. I believe that the sharing over the last few posts has already had a small influence on the thinking of some of us as it relates to a targeted thinking skill in every lesson.

I also received an e-mail about this post from someone who shared that this should be a skillful discussion at a table not on a blog. This is from someone who uses technology effectively and who will engage and influence the decisions made when the discussion moves to the table. I do not disagree that the discussion needs to be at the table, however, I think this becomes the venue when it is time to make decisions. While we are simply sharing thoughts and asking questions the blog and other less formal contexts serve to enhance the conversation. It provides opportunities for some to share in a safer environment and can promote dialogue as we read the thoughts of others and reflect on our own.

I believe that using the blog is one way of balancing advocacy and inquiry. In the comments to the previous post people share their thinking and beliefs about the work, but they also ask many questions. It feels different than being in the same room where many of these comments would be perceived as advocating for a particular position. In the blog I don't get the same feeling because I can only read what is being said; I am not influenced by the nonverbal behaviors, the timing of the comments, and the other human factors that influence my behavior. I think it is important to include the thinking of as many of us as possible before we reach conclusions and make decisions and this blog, other blogs, and social networking sites are one way to achieve this. Of course, I also encourage you to share your thinking with your colleagues at work, especially with building administrators as they prepare for the skillful discussions that will soon take place at the table.