I’m delving into a critical aspect of education: goal setting. As we begin the school year, the need to set professional and developmental goals is at the forefront of educators' minds. While SMART targets (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound) have been the go-to method, I explore why this might not be the best approach.

I discuss the challenges of using SMART goals and introduce a promising alternative: PEERS framework (Powerful, Easy, Emotionally Compelling, Reachable, Student Focused). With its student-centric focus, practicality, and emotional resonance, PEERS aligns with what education should prioritize.

Join me in exploring this new approach to goal setting that may better resonate with teachers, leaders, and most importantly, benefit our students.

Key Quotes

"SMART is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound. It's one of the most popular acronyms for setting targets. And it's pretty good... but some argue that something is really missing and problematic with these goals."

"One of the big areas that's leveled against smart targets is they're not connected to any sense of emotional connection. You're not necessarily having to be emotionally invested in the target."

"PEERS goals start with a really strong focus on making a real difference on students' lives... powerful, easy, emotionally compelling, reachable, and student-focused."

"By connecting to our emotions, the peers goal really drive our motivation and sustained effort in a way that the more analytical smart goals might not."

"Take a moment to step back as a leader and reflect on those goal-setting procedures in your school... is your goal setting procedure helping teachers and staff to set emotionally compelling goals?"

If you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on Twitter, LinkedIN and Instagram: @leaningshane

Additional Links

Link to the study mentioned in the episode

Whether you're a teacher, a school leader, or simply passionate about education, this episode offers a fresh perspective that may change the way you view goal setting. My exploration of PEERS goals is essential listening for those who wish to align their objectives with the true mission of education. Feel free to reach out to me on social media platforms to share your thoughts or ask any questions.

Keywords: Goal Setting, SMART Goals, PEERS Goals, Education, School Leaders, Teaching, Professional Development, Student Focus, Intrinsic Motivation, International School Leader, Global Ed Leaders Podcast.

Join Shane's Intensive Leadership Programme at educationleaders.co/intensive

Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports school leaders globally. Passionate about empowment, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane is a leading educational voice in the UK, Asia and around the world.

You can find Shane on LinkedIn and Bluesky. or shaneleaning.com

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