As educators, we are continuously making instructional decisions on behalf of our students. What resources should we use? What delivery method would be most effective? How might we review or reteach so everyone can meet standard? It can seem daunting. So, how do we ensure that the decisions we make are truly best for the children we serve? We believe the answer lies in keeping current. But, what does "keeping current" really mean? For us, keeping current means maintaining a steady diet of professional books, articles, collegial relationships, conferences, workshops, etc. that are ingested through a consistent filter. That filter is current, reliable research. Are you looking for one or two ways to refresh your knowledge and enthusiasm for our craft? Here are a few of our favorites. Maybe one of them will meet your needs and fit your style of learning.
- Professional Books: We often read titles that are recommended by colleagues or that pique our interest when we are perusing educational publication catalogs. We especially love book clubs where we can reflect on and share our takeaways from our professional reading.
- Online Resources: There are many wonderful and reputable resources online; Education Week, ASCD, Reading Teacher, Inc.Wire, Twitter, and (shameless plug) The Daily Cafe.
- Classes, Conferences, and Workshops: Whether online or in person, we love learning from others. We can't wait to be participants in Chicago next week at the IRA conference. If you follow us on twitter, you'll be kept abreast of the tidbits that strike our fancy as we sit in the sessions we are excited about.
We often think about the I Charts when we think about our self-selected professional development. Not only does it make us better educators, but it's also fun! Since we understand the power of learning from each other, we'd love to hear from you. If you are excited about a book or article that has pushed your thinking or improved your craft, won't you share it on our discussion board? That way we can all start planning our summer reading list now.