"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." --Margaret Mead
What happens when 8 passionate educators distanced geographically (U.S., Canada, and Australia) meet in an Elluminate room or in threaded discussions in Ning to engage in conversations around coaching in online communities?
They grow and develop expertise to transform online professional learning.
Through text, images, encouragement, support, videos, sharing ideas and experiencing a collective joy that comes from participation in a group whose sole goal is to improve learning for teachers and students, we grow. Through an appreciative approach which leads to deep and sometimes difficult collegial conversations this new and unique model evolves as each coach brings their talents and gifts to the table.
A vision, initially only on paper, becomes reality and Powerful Learning Practice Connected Coaches--
Brenda Sherry
Marsha Ratzel
Chad Evans
Mark Carbone
Zoe Branigan-Pipe
John Pearce
join Dean Shareski and I on an incredibly exciting journey into wayfinding as coaches.
Our connected model draws heavily from Cooperrider's appreciative inquiry, Costa and Garmston's cognitive model and Tschannen-Moran's evocative coaching while infusing much of Sheryl's wisdom on learning in online communities.
Currently engaging with members in the El Paso and ConnectU Powerful Learning Practice communities, we really are about changing the world of online professional learning. And with this accomplished group, with whom I am privileged and honored to learn, I see it happening.
2 comments:
Hi Lani,
It has been an exciting start, hasn't it?
I know that as a new coach the experience has been incredible for me! The support, practice, discussion and learning space that you've provide us on the Ning is nurturing that learning and connection in an awesome way. I've been learning online for a while now, but you, Dean and Sheryl are really showing us best practice about how deep learning can and should happen online.
Thanks for modeling your exemplary coaching skills and making us feel that we can get started and do well, even as beginners! :)
I'm grateful that we've connected!
Brenda,
Yes, it surely has been exciting--
And now the hard work continues--
Sitting on my hands, watching you coach is such a pleasure-- far more than a beginner in my book.
Our connection, our collaboration is but one illustration of the power of technologies to enable systemic, improved practice.
We should meet here one year hence to share our reflections--
Lani
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