565 Week 5

The change simulation went much more smoothly this week. The most important thing that I took away from the experience was the reminder to divide and conquer. There are always going to be those who are resistant to change. However, they should not keep the rest of the group from making progress. By teaming up those hesitant or unwilling to change with others that they respect, there is a greater possibility that they will change their views. However, it is also very important to ensure that some consensus can be reached. Having a top-down system of leadership is not going to give teachers the chance to buy in to the new ideas, and they will simply feel as though they are being micromanaged by individuals who have spent little time in the ever-changing classroom!

565 Week 4

The discussions on climate and morale really spoke to me this week. There are many people who are unhappy with the climate that they work in, and some do little to try to change the situation. Some complain and whine about how terrible things are, while others try to take action to change things. However, an attempt to change things can get individuals into trouble. Those in power are not always excited for negative feedback. Some of them aren't excited about any feedback. It is a shame when those who are in power care little about how those under them feel.

565 Week 3

The most interesting thing this week was looking at the Beloit College mindset. It is really important to keep in mind who you are trying to lead, and make the content/changes relevant to them. My current students were born when I was in high school, so I need to remember to think about their life experiences, and how they differed from my life experiences when I was their age. The internet wasn't huge until I went to college, and they have had exposure to it their entire lives! That fact alone has made their childhoods vastly different from what mine was like.

Additionally, it is important for leaders to meet others where they are. It is important for someone to lead, but it is also important for that leader to recognize the stumbling blocks for those he/she is trying to lead!