It's about learning (and technology)

It was really interesting watching my eldest daughter this week teaching herself how to complete a forward flip on the tramp.  First she talked about how she would love to do it.  This crystallised the goal on her head and helped her make an internal commitment to it.  After realising that her parents were of no particular use to her she sought out the powers of YouTube watching others and even seeking out instruction.  Next came the hard work where the rubber met the road....  Repetition and perseverance with some feedback on her performance from observers and video recordings.  Also a little enthusiasm and praise didn't hurt!  Then the satisfaction of completing her goal.  Next step the back flip!!!  Now the challenge..... Do we provide this framework in the classroom?  Do we provide technology for relevant , meaningful purpose?  Apps like ubersense allow students to view their performance alongside professionals.  Imagine how this could be utilised in the class.

Research- putting my money where my mouth is

This year I have decided to complete my Masters of Educational Leadership by undertaking a dissertation. I have decided to do this for two reasons.... One I am in control of what I research, which means that I will be able to apply what I learn to my school context. Secondly I am going to be researching a topic I am very passionate about. The topic I have formed is investigating school leaders perceptions toward digital technologies and hen looking at how this is being implemented in their schools. I have elected to investigate new schools (2-6 years) I. The hope that this will mean I can concentrate on beliefs, values, principles and practices rather than outlining the pitfalls and barriers. Ironically early in my study I am finding digital technologies to be invaluable. Already I have utilised two apps on my iPad mini- pocket and scratch works. Pocket is an amazing tool that allows you to cache websites or articles to view and read offline in your own time, whilst scratch works allows you to take notes whilst viewing a webpage. I hope to keep a record of my progress and reflections here- any comments or assistance will be gratefully received!

Neon- Our School Band

At Stanley Ave we always encourage teachers to make a difference in and out of the classroom. One of our staff has worked exceptionally hard over the last two years tutoring students in drums, guitars and vocals. This has led to the formation of our school band NEON! This group has performed at a wide range of events over the last two years. This culminated in them playing at the RockQuest Hamilton Band Competition. They were awesome! Special congratulations to our bassist who won the overall award for his talents on the night.

Somewhere over the Mountain

Over the last two terms the students, staff and community of Stanley Avenue have been working hard preparing an amazing production "Over the Mountain'. At Stanley Ave we are passionate about creating pathways for our students to follow their talents and passions. Our production produced an amazing opportunity for our students...... The amazing class scenes, lead actors, sound technicians, lighting, props creation, down to the amazing DVD that is being created as I write. An event like this doesn't just happen! Amazing staff and community support turned the Rec Centre into a fantasy land. Congratulations to all the classes, students, teachers and helpers who made this a great event!

Moss Burmester- Olympian

Yesterday Stanley Avenue School was fortunate to have a visit from Moss Burmester (Commonwealth athlete, Olympian and World Championship Swimmer). He delivered an amazing presentation on the importance of hard work, passion, goal setting and attitude in achieving what he did. Moss's insight into being a top level athlete and stories that he shared about the Olympics really inspired our students. It was wonderful to watch our radio crew confidently introduce themselves and interview Moss as well.

It's about FUN!

I have always said to our learning community that school is about having FUN and LEARNING and that the two have a reciprocal relationship. This video was played during a keynote by Ken Shelton. What implications does it have for leaders, teachers and all learners at Stanley Avenue? What is the point of school?

Learning to Learn

This week I have enjoyed an amazing time at ULearn.  This conference has international speakers and presenters from all around New Zealand.  The three days were a great opportunity to learn, create new ideas and share with others.  A range of speakers inspired me and one of the common threads that kept resonating with me was the importance of our school's vision-  Educating Lifelong Learners.  Schools need to focus on ensuring that their students are learning how to learn.  Our seven dimensions of our learner play this out in some detail-  however I am now even more committed to focussing on giving our students as many opportunities to practice the skills of goal setting, reflection, questioning etc...... these are the dispositions and values that are students are going to need for success in their lives.  The video below, whilst obviously funny, makes some points that are hard to ignore.....
Another major point that I took away from the days was the need to let our students make mistakes, learn from them, reflect and polish (make improvements).


Thanks to Amanda from Summerland School for sharing this video with us.