Viewpoints

My family enjoys Disney movies, and one of our favorites is Toy Story. So, as you can imagine, when Toy Story 4 came out, we went together to see the latest adventures of Woody, Jessie, and Buzz. As the credits rolled at the end, we were quick to share our thoughts about the fourth movie in this animated series.

Two of us thought it was the best Toy Story yet, and two of us were not as impressed. We talked about the characters, plot, and ending, and I remember thinking at one point during our conversation how interesting it was that even though the four of us have the same common interest in this series, we each took away something different. Of course, the movie’s main idea and outcome were the same for all of us, but the scenes we connected to and our reflections on those scenes were very different—four people, four different viewpoints.

This is true across the board when it comes to movies, TV shows, podcasts, books, and conversations. The prior knowledge, life experiences, and purpose we bring to a situation affect how we internalize it. Every time we watch, listen to, or read something, we bring our own perspective to it, and as a result, our takeaway is unique. We do this individually all the time, and occasionally we have the opportunity to share with others. When we come together to talk and listen, we take in new perspectives and develop a deeper understanding.

Conversation is a rich learning tool when there is a collective focus, intentional listening, and a safe space for sharing thoughts and asking questions. Because of this, we believe book studies are an extremely valuable source of professional development. When a group of educators come together to learn and share, good things happen.

That is why we would like to extend an invitation to you and your colleagues to join us in a book study of our newly released book, The CAFE Book, expanded second edition.

Beginning January 7, 2020, we will spend time each Tuesday discussing a chapter of the book. We would love for you and your colleagues to be there and share in the learning! Grab a copy of the book and sign up here. You will receive an email reminder and access link before the first session. We can’t wait to learn with you!