Gary Ackerman @garyackerman@qoto.org

So I’m reading a book about volcanoes that I rescued from a discard pile. I’m not sure I’m going to apply what I’ve learned, but I’m really enjoying it.

There is a single light of science, and to brighten it anywhere is to brighten it everywhere. -Isaac Asimov

The proof of evolution lies in those adaptations that arise from improbable foundations. -Stephen Jay Gould

I could get Cs in math class, but actually understood many sophisticated concepts. When I became a math teacher, my students liked my approach… other teachers, not so much

Observation ruins so many wonderful speculations.

When the “next big thing” runs contrary to the philosophies that have guided recent decisions, it is best to not say anything. The leaders don’t like it.

No, that’s not what the data say, but you go on.

The savior syndrome explains much teacher behavior (in my experience). They reason the students should be so grateful they are here to teach them that the students should comply with every command no matter how ridiculous.

If a project failed because of incompetence, was it sabotaged?

I’m always interested at how folks are so quick to “make a survey” when instruments used by researchers are available to measure the “thing” we want to study.

We are born with brains that continue to develop long after birth, immersed in a social environment called culture. This culture shapes our views and provides the criteria we use to assess who and what is important.

Leaders should believe those who are pushing the limits of the technology and meet their moving goals. Always decide to support the teacher who is using existing technology and adapting to the current level. #SupportInnovation

What solutions were written on flip chart paper only to be ignored?

Facts do not convince anyone, especially not those who demand them.

I know this will not be believed, but we actually taught (and quite successfully thank you) before there were standards.

A blog post on the Paradox of Moving Goals
https://hackscience.education/2020/01/15/the-paradox-of-moving-goals/

A blog post on the social nature of learning, now with audio:
https://hackscience.education/2020/02/14/social-aspects-of-learning/

Why do cultural norms stick? Humans seem to follow the logic: “I need these people to survive, so I am going to do what they do, say what they say, and value what they value.” These norms become deeply embedded early in childhood.

A blog pot, now with audio, on the nature of students:
https://hackscience.education/2020/02/03/students-are-not-blank-slates/
#education #learning #students #teaching

If you are waiting for the "perfect technology," be warned: you will never be satisfied. The focused leader supports those who are using existing solutions and driving improvements. #ProgressOverPerfection