Professional Connection Map #5

Making Connections

Updated using Prezi

My professional connections map of my community revealed multiple layers and various types of connections linking to other connections. My real world connections are strong and I engage with frequently through face-to-face interactions, discussions, collaboration, emails, and meetings.  While digital connections are developing and growing within the classroom, it is also connecting outside of the classroom with my real world and professional connections.  I want to continue to engage and strengthen the relationship with whanau, parents and students at my school through the use of digital communication i.e share their children’s learning with them.  I believe that if parents are not going to attend student conferences or special events at school, whatever the reason/s then I needed to provide alternative means so that students are more likely to continue to want to learn.  With the use of digital connections such as skype, twitter, facebook and blogging I can extend these professional connections on a global scale, not only to benefit my own teaching pedagogy, but also maximise the learning opportunities for my students.  This could help strengthen ties for students with their ‘home country’, which may support relationship with family.

What are or what would be the benefits and challenges of working in a more interdisciplinary environment?

Interdisciplinary can be defined as “bringing together two or more things under one roof… in a conscious manner” (Mathison & Freeman, 1997, p.11). In a primary setting, this could mean integrating two classrooms in an open planned classroom with two teachers responsible for the learning or two subjects together, regardless of the methods, processes, points of view or skills taught. Mathison & Freeman (1997) summarise the interdisciplinary approach as “always consciously integrating two or more disciples and keeps them distinct and in focus.” The approach is largely teacher directed, with clear objectives and a focus on inquiry skills.

The benefits of working in a more interdisciplinary environment would be that I could utilise human resources that are not necessarily teacher related. For example, using digital experts like students or teachers to show their peers or other teachers new learning. This type of relationship would not only allow new experiences for my students, but would also other students outside of my classroom and allow others i.e. teachers to step out of their comfort zone by upskilling and making professional and real world connections.

Social media has played a large part in helping to establish and maintain professional connections. It is the easiest way with individuals being so busy. Online discussions have allowed me to hear ideas of others, and the collaborative approach benefits everyone.

The major challenge is time. In a profession where the job never ends, there is never enough time to develop connections, particularly face-to-face connections. Technology has proved advantageous as things can be organised via email, facebook or msn which can be responded to when parties are not busy.

Another challenge is remembering to utilise the current resources available, whether that be a staff member or someone in the local community. More often than not, there is someone willing to help, and that information usually arises from informal conversations, hence the need for face-to-face discussions. Tapping into other outside agencies and business that can come into the school e.g. Travelwise who was the drive behind establishing ‘The Walking School Bus’ and your local council is another excellent resource. Again, the time is the major barrier when setting up these relationships.

I believe, that as we move away from the traditional forms of teaching, an interdisciplinary approach is needed in order to foster citizens who are ready to participate in a global environment.

Reference

Mathison, S. & Freeman, M. (1997). The Logic of Interdisciplinary Studies. National Research Center on English Learning & Achievement.