Wk 2 Reponse - Diane Frymire

Original Post by Diane Frymire:

"The contributions game has remarkable powers for transforming conflicts into rewarding experiences."
Art of Possibility, by R. Zander, p. 59

Presence of mind rather than overwhelm with emotion allows more positive interaction. This presence is more transforming when both are seen as contributors to good in the world instead of arbiters of evil. A very destructive viewpoint is a double-edged sword. On one side, a person can throw out negativity that can cut another's psyche, while on the other side, the receiver's interpretation increases the damage on the return slice. The contributions game that Zander endorses dulls that return blade.

Many people, including, or especially including, students, are prone to receive information in different ways based on previous experience. Zander's way of opening his students' eyes to how they positively contribute to the world and people around them creates an inner sense of worth in them. This can be likened to filling up one's cup with delicious things so that when someone tries to pour something bitter into the mix, the sweetness already there can actually transform that tartness into something tasty.
"...his true power derives from his ability to make other people powerful."
Art of Possibility, by R. Zander, p. 68

What better goal should there be for a teacher!?! Pride wants to put-down others, while true humility is powerful and has the ability to empower others. Zander has hit on the true meaning of leadership. A leader is one who sees greatness in others, learns from it, nurtures it, and never feels that her/his knowledge is so untouchable that s/he cannot grow from even the smallest person's contribution.
As a teacher, this should mean that student opinions, thoughts and ideas should be treated with value and respect. Collaboration in its deepest sense is mutual contributions where wisdom guides but does not overpower.
"Who am I being that they are not shining?"
Art of Possibility, by R. Zander, p. 74

Without unnecessary self-deprecation, this should be a question teachers continually ask when students are not responding positively. A sober, positive assessment of pedagogical practices, as well as personal foibles, may reveal new ways to reach students that otherwise may have been considered difficult. Although this may take some extra energy to pursue, the benefits are often more long-term when others know that educators are paying attention to students' real needs.

That's Rule 6 isn't it?




Reponse by Rebecca Day:

Diane,

I absolutely agree! When students are made to feel that they are worthy and that they are successful, they will have the motivation to face any challenges head-on. Putting our students down and making them feel stupid NEVER works, and unfortunately, many teachers still use this tactic. We have to empower our students to be successful.

Becky