Superintendents’ Network: The Work of Instructional Improvement Whose Learning is it Anyway? May 20, 2008

Agenda Welcome Text-based discussion Theory of action: How will our superintendent network improve student learning? Split groups: AEA9 and facilitators

First Challenge of the Day Give a “Friendly Greeting” to as many people as you can… in 60 seconds. “Friendly Greeting” = handshake eye contact greet the person by name

Whose Learning is it Anyway? Review the article about Carol Dweck and your notes on the 4 “A”s: What Assumptions does Dweck hold? What do you Agree with from Dweck’s ideas? What do you want to Argue about with Dweck? What parts of Dweck’s ideas do you Aspire to?

Whose Learning is it Anyway? With your group (page numbers are helpful): Each person takes a turn to share one assumption that Dweck holds. After everyone has shared, go around the circle again. Each person shares something they agree with. Open conversation about “argue” and “aspire.” What are the implications for your work?

Observation Homework

Theory of Action How will common planning time improve student achievement?

Theory of Action How will our superintendent network improve student learning?

Theory of Action A way of making practice transparent and accessible to yourself and others A way of tracking your learning over time A way of focusing energy and attention on essential dimensions of the work

Theory of Action A set of “If…, then…” propositions that capture the essential connections between your practice and what happens in classrooms Falsifiable – possible to say when you are wrong An accurate representation of your practice at this moment Distinguishes the essential elements from the less important ones