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This week, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke are tackling some listener questions. The question they are covering this week is: “Do you have any tips on becoming well versed in becoming knowledgeable about content areas other than my own and scheduling classroom observations?”
Jen’s Ideas:
- Ask questions
- Admit what you don’t know
- Ask, “This looks like it’s working. Is my view accurate?” (coming from a place of positivity) intentionality
- Making yourself a student of the thing 🙂
- Getting multiple perspectives
- Come from a place of positivity
- Get feedback from other sources (data! Student experience! Parent feedback!)
- Comfort zones– get out!
- Set the standard and stick to it
Will’s Ideas:
- Think more about what makes good teaching and learning
- Examples: Clear focus for learning, student engagement, teacher transitions, checking for understanding, reteaching when needed, variety of assessments, collaboration with others
- Ask for understanding from the subject area teacher
- Be clear on appropriate learning standards as a guideline
- Ask students what they are learning
- National SAM Innovation Project
Now It’s Your Turn:
What are some ways that you would answer this week’s listener question? What are some takeaways you have from the episode?
