Designing Schools

  In this episode Sabba let's discuss an essential aspect of personal growth: stepping out of our comfort zones. We explore how venturing into the 'learning zone'—the space just outside our comfort zones—can foster significant personal development, skill enhancement, and confidence building. Key Topics: Understanding the Comfort and Learning Zones: The concept of the comfort zone as a familiar yet stagnating space, and the learning zone as the area where real growth and development occur. Overcoming Fear to Embrace Growth: Addressing the natural fear of leaving the comfort zone and strategies to transition into the learning zone for personal and professional advancement. Examples of Great Innovators and Leaders: How successful individuals have achieved greatness by constantly pushing their boundaries and living in their learning zones. Daily Spark - Copy, paste, and edit this prompt in ChatGPT Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking to step out of my comfort zone. Here's my scenario: Situation: I've been comfortable with [current comfortable situation]. Problem: Staying in this comfort zone is causing [specific limitations or issues]. Aspiration: I want to step out into my learning zone by [specific actions or changes]. Results: Making this change could lead to [expected growth or opportunities]. Can you suggest strategies or ideas to help me transition from my comfort zone to my learning zone? To Learn More Connect with Sabba and Check Out Her Free Class on ChatGPT Dr. Sabba Quidwai's Contact Details: Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Connect Here Twitter: Follow Here Instagram: Follow Here Free Class: "Discover how to break out of your comfort zone and unlock your potential with AI. Join Dr. Sabba Quidwai's class '3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI'." Watch Now    

In this episode, we explore the concept of resilience, often described as the ultimate skill that thrives through experience and is crucial in our rapidly changing world. Resilience is likened to a muscle that strengthens with exercise. Our focus is on how to develop this resilience muscle and utilize it effectively. Key Topics: Understanding Resilience as a Muscle: The analogy of resilience being like a physical muscle, which gets stronger with each challenge we overcome. The Role of Challenges in Building Resilience: How facing obstacles in personal and professional life acts as 'weights' that our resilience muscle needs to lift, thereby strengthening it. Mental Toughness and Perseverance: The importance of mental resilience, as seen in athletes, who not only work on physical abilities but also on mental toughness. Daily Spark (Cut, paste, and edit this prompt in ChatGPT) Hey ChatGPT, I'm working on cultivating resilience in response to life's challenges. Here's my scenario: Situation: I recently faced [specific challenge or hardship]. Problem: The challenge made me feel [emotions/reactions it evoked]. Aspiration: I aim to use this challenge to become more resilient by [desired growth or learning]. Results: By building resilience, I hope to achieve [envisaged positive outcomes]. Could you provide some guidance or steps on building resilience in this context? Reflective Perspective: Consider how viewing challenges as opportunities for resilience training can empower your response to future obstacles. Remember, resilience isn't inherent; it's built through experience and consistent effort. To Learn More Connect with Sabba and Check Out Her Free Class on ChatGPT Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Connect Here Twitter: Follow Here Instagram: Follow Here Join Dr. Sabba Quidwai's class '3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI'." Watch Now

Today's episode of the Daily SPARK focuses on a crucial, yet often overlooked aspect of personal and professional development: the art of reflection. Dr. Sabba Quidwai delves into how transforming our approach to reflection can lead to significant growth and learning, inspired by the research of Amy Edmonson on psychological safety. Key Topics: The Importance of Reflection: Understanding reflection not as a focus on failures but as a vital tool for learning from experiences. Psychological Safety: Insights from Amy Edmonson's research, emphasizing the value of a safe environment for open dialogue on failures and ideas. Turning Setbacks into Success: How viewing challenges as opportunities for growth can lead to personal and professional achievements. Your Daily SPARK: (cut and paste the prompt below into ChatGPT) Hey ChatGPT, I want to develop the power of reflection. Here's my scenario: Situation: I recently experienced [specific event or decision]. Problem: This led to [emotions or thoughts about the experience]. Aspiration: I want to reflect on this to learn and grow. Results: This reflection could help me [how you hope to benefit or grow]. Can you suggest a process or questions for a reflective exercise on this situation?   To learn more connect with Sabba and check out her free class on ChatGPT: Join Sabba in her free class "3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI". Sign up here. Connect with Sabba Quidwai on LinkedIn. Follow her updates on Twitter and Instagram. Discover more at designingschools.org. Remember, reflection is not just about looking back; it's a forward-moving force that shapes our path to success. Keep reflecting, keep learning, and keep growing!

Today's episode discusses personal growth by stepping out of our comfort zones. We explore the 'learning zone,' a space just outside our comfort zones where true growth, skill development, and confidence building occur. It's about taking small, ongoing steps towards becoming the best versions of ourselves as lifelong learners. Key Points: The Learning Zone: This is where we find new challenges that are stimulating but not overwhelming. It's a space for growth, skill development, and confidence building. Overcoming Fear: The fear of the unknown and new challenges can keep us stuck in our comfort zones, hindering our growth and leaving us feeling frustrated and stagnant. Small Steps to Greatness: The journey from comfort to learning involves small, manageable steps, not leaps into chaos. This gradual approach allows for sustainable growth and learning. Impactful Quotes: "Learning and growth happen just outside our comfort zones." "Stepping out of our comfort zone doesn't mean leaping into chaos, but rather moving into a space where we can grow." "The journey to personal growth isn't about staying safe in our comfort zone. It's about daring to step into the learning zone where our true potential lies." Daily Spark: Reflect on an area where you've been staying within your comfort zone. Acknowledge your fears and imagine transitioning into your learning zone. Consider the new skills and experiences you could gain, like improved communication skills and enhanced self-esteem from public speaking. Sample Prompt:  Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking to step out of my comfort zone. Here's my scenario: Situation: I've been comfortable with [current comfortable situation]. Problem: Staying in this comfort zone is causing [specific limitations or issues]. Aspiration: I want to step out into my learning zone by [specific actions or changes]. Results: Making this change could lead to [expected growth or opportunities]. Kismet: Can you suggest strategies or ideas to help me transition from my comfort zone to my learning zone? Final Thoughts: Embrace the challenge of stepping out of your comfort zone. It's not just about taking risks; it's about thoughtful growth and finding the confidence to explore and learn in new spaces. For more insights and inspiration, follow Dr. Sabba Quidwai: Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Sabba Quidwai invites the audience to explore the potential of the question 'What if...' in driving innovation and reshaping industries. By examining the transformative stories of companies like Netflix, Uber, and Airbnb, she illustrates how challenging conventional norms can lead to groundbreaking innovations. Key Highlights: The Power of 'What If': Dr. Quidwai emphasizes the significance of this simple yet powerful question in sparking innovation, as seen in the evolution of Netflix and its departure from traditional movie rental models. Examples of Industry Transformation: The episode explores how outsider perspectives in industries like movie rentals, publishing, transportation, and hospitality have led to revolutionary business models, changing the way we interact with these services. Challenging Unwritten Rules: A focus on how our personal and professional lives are often governed by unwritten rules and the importance of questioning these norms to unlock creativity and potential. Impactful Quotes: "Often, the most significant innovations don't come from within an industry but from outside." "By asking 'What if…,' we give ourselves permission to think outside the box, to envision better and more efficient ways of doing things." Daily SPARK Scenario: Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking to innovate and improve my routines. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: I've identified a routine/rule in my [life/work], which is [describe the routine or rule]. Problem: This routine/rule is limiting because [explain the limitations or inefficiencies]. Aspiration: I'm asking myself, 'What if I changed this? What innovative approach could I try instead? Results: If I successfully implement this change, I envision [describe the potential improvements or breakthroughs]. Kismet: Can you help me brainstorm some creative ways or steps to alter this routine/rule for better outcomes?   SPARK Example Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking to innovate and improve my routines. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: In my daily work, I have a routine of checking emails first thing in the morning, which often leads to an unproductive start. Problem: This routine is limiting because it consumes a lot of time and often derails my focus from more important tasks. Aspiration*: I'm asking myself, 'What if I changed this routine? What if I started my day with a creative task or a planning session instead?' Results: If I successfully shift my routine, I envision a more productive morning, better time management, and an overall increase in daily work satisfaction. Kismet: Can you help me brainstorm some creative ways or steps to adjust my morning routine for a more efficient and focused start to the day? Closing Thoughts: Dr. Quidwai invites listeners to share their 'What if...' scenarios and innovative ideas. These shared experiences could inspire others in future episodes and foster a community of forward-thinking individuals. Connect with Dr. Sabba Quidwai: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Website

Overview: In this episode of 'Daily Spark,' Dr. Sabba Quidwai talks about 'Breaking the Rules.' She discusses the transformative power of trust and relationships in challenging the status quo, inspired by Satya Nadella's culture of learning at Microsoft and Simon Sinek's insights in 'The Infinite Game.' Key Highlights: Challenging the Status Quo: Dr. Quidwai emphasizes the significance of creating a safe environment for trying new things, asking questions, and sharing ideas. She poses an introspective scale of 1-5 to assess personal and organizational cultures. Rethinking Rules in Culture: The episode draws on the contrast between weak cultures clinging to rules and strong cultures thriving on relationships and trust, citing Simon Sinek's observations. The Courage to Innovate: The discussion highlights how the most innovative leaders often share the trait of breaking rules when they no longer serve their purpose, underlining the importance of trust, empathy, and connection. Impactful Quotes: "It’s not about throwing all rules out the window, but rather, discerning which rules support our growth and which ones hold us back." "Imagine a world where we measure success not by our adherence to rules, but by the strength of our relationships and the bravery of our innovations." Today's SPARK Scenario: Hey ChatGPT, I'm exploring ways to challenge and grow beyond existing boundaries. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: I have identified a rule in my [work/personal life], which is [describe the rule]. Problem: I feel this rule is limiting my [creativity/growth] because [explain how the rule is restrictive or limiting]. Aspiration: I imagine a scenario where breaking this rule could lead to [greater trust/connection/innovation]. Results: If I successfully shift away from this rule, I envision [describe the positive outcomes you anticipate, such as improved relationships, innovative solutions, personal growth, etc.].Kismet: Could you suggest some approaches or strategies for how I might effectively challenge and potentially change this rule?   Example SPARK Hey ChatGPT, I'm exploring ways to challenge and grow beyond existing boundaries. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: In my workplace, there's an unwritten rule that we shouldn't share project ideas outside of our department. Problem: This rule limits our team's creativity and growth because it restricts cross-departmental collaboration and fresh perspectives. Aspiration: I imagine a scenario where breaking this rule could lead to a more collaborative and innovative work environment. Results: If we successfully foster cross-departmental collaboration, I envision outcomes like more innovative project ideas, improved team dynamics, and a more inclusive workplace culture.  Kismet: Could you suggest some approaches or strategies for how I might encourage my team and management to reconsider this rule? Closing Thoughts: Dr. Quidwai encourages listeners to challenge a rule that no longer serves them and to share their stories, promising that the rules in our fast-changing world need to change too. She invites listeners to connect and share their experiences, potentially featuring them in a weekly reflection episode. Connect with Dr. Sabba Quidwai: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Website

Overview: In this episode of 'Daily Spark,' Dr. Sabba Quidwai explores the concept of "Learning to Learn Again." This journey is about reigniting the childlike curiosity we often lose as we grow older, and understanding its importance in an AI-driven world. Download Your Free ChatGPT Guide Key Points: The Power of Childlike Curiosity: Dr. Quidwai emphasizes the organic approach to learning seen in children, like her young nephew and niece, which is essential for creativity and innovation. She highlights how this innate curiosity is the foundation of human prompts necessary for AI. Challenges in Adult Learning: The episode delves into the constraints adults face, as shaped by societal expectations and rigid education systems. It references Microsoft's report, noting how 68% of people lack time for critical introspection, leading to barriers in exploring and reaching full potential. Breaking Free and Rekindling Joy: Dr. Quidwai urges listeners to rediscover the joy and wonder of learning. She suggests starting each day with a fresh perspective, free from past setbacks or preconceived notions. Inspiration from Leaders: The story of Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, is highlighted. His commitment to continuous learning and instilling a growth mindset in Microsoft showcases the transformative power of staying adaptable and innovative. Impactful Quotes: "AI always needs a human prompt. And the best prompts come from this innate curiosity." - Dr. Sabba Quidwai. "Imagine if our education fostered and amplified these inherent strengths, skills, and dispositions instead of letting them die away." - Dr. Sabba Quidwai. "In our dynamic, AI-centric world, where change is the only constant, embracing this ethos of perpetual learning is not just beneficial – it's essential." - Dr. Sabba Quidwai. Envisioned Results: Dr. Quidwai encourages listeners to embrace lifelong learning in 2024, with the understanding that learning is a social activity. She invites listeners to explore new possibilities, be it through podcasts, new connections, hobbies, languages, or professional upskilling. SPARK Prompt Template for "Learning to Learn": "Hey ChatGPT, I'm focusing on personal growth and I'd like some guidance. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: I want to improve in [identify the specific area or skill, like public speaking, a new language, coding, etc.]. Problem: I'm hesitant because [explain your fears or hesitations, like fear of failure, not having enough time, feeling too old to learn, etc.]. Aspiration: My goal is to approach this learning process with [describe the enthusiasm or mindset you wish to have, like a child's curiosity, eagerness to grow, etc.]. Results: Successfully learning this skill will help me [describe the potential benefits or growth outcomes, such as advancing in my career, feeling more confident, personal satisfaction, etc.].   Example SPARK Scenario: "Hey ChatGPT, I'm focusing on personal growth and I'd like some guidance. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: I want to improve my ability to speak Spanish. I've always been interested in the language and culture, and I think it could open up more travel and job opportunities. Problem: I'm hesitant because I've never been great at languages, and I'm worried I'm too old to start learning something so complex. Aspiration: My goal is to approach learning Spanish with the same excitement and lack of self-consciousness that a child has when they're learning to speak for the first time. Results: Successfully learning Spanish will help me feel more connected to a culture I love, boost my resume, and give me the confidence to travel to Spanish-speaking countries. Kismet: Could you provide some steps or strategies to help me begin this journey effectively? Dr. Quidwai reminds listeners that their unique human advantage in an AI world stems from curiosity. Connect with the Speaker: Dr. Sabba Quidwai's LinkedIn Dr. Sabba Quidwai's Website Dr. Sabba Quidwai on Twitter Dr. Sabba Quidwai on Instagram Your feedback and stories are welcome. Share your thoughts and experiences with Dr. Quidwai via email or social media to possibly feature in the weekly reflection episode.

Episode Overview: Welcome to the first episode of 'Daily Spark,' where Dr. Sabba Quidwai guides us in strengthening our human advantage in an AI-dominated world. This episode focuses on overcoming the 'Blank Canvas' anxiety and leveraging design thinking to transform challenges into opportunities. Today's Prompt (Edit, cut, and paste this prompt into any AI tool, works best with ChatGPT4): Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking at 2024 as a blank canvas for my personal and professional development.  My current challenge is [describe a specific area you want to improve or a goal you want to achieve]. My aspiration for the new year is to [outline what you hope to accomplish or develop].  Achieving this would mean [explain the significance of this goal for you, like gaining new skills, career advancement, personal fulfillment, etc.]. Can you help me with 4 specific steps or ideas to begin this journey effectively?   Prompt Example: Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking at 2024 as a blank canvas for my personal and professional development. My current challenge is enhancing my public speaking skills. I've always been a bit shy and hesitant when speaking in front of groups, and this has held me back in my career. My aspiration for the new year is to become more confident and effective as a public speaker. I want to be able to present my ideas clearly and persuasively in meetings and at conferences. Achieving this would mean a great deal to me; it would not only boost my career prospects but also increase my self-confidence and ability to influence positive changes in my work. Can you help me with 4 specific steps or ideas to begin this journey effectively?   Key Highlights: Design Thinking as Your Human Advantage: Design thinking, a method and mindset for reframing challenges, starts with the question, "How might we?" It's crucial for asking the right questions, especially when using AI tools. The Power of the Right Prompt: Before prompting AI tools like ChatGPT, Bing, Bard, or Claude, prompting the human mind is vital. This series aims to build creative confidence, reminding us that our first try is never our last. Overcoming 'Blank Canvas' Anxiety: The episode discusses the paralyzing yet potential-filled moments of facing a blank canvas. Dr. Quidwai shares an impactful quote from Seth Godin's "Linchpin," emphasizing the distinction between 'the job' and 'the work,' which involves personal responsibility and challenging the status quo. Embracing 2024 as a Blank Canvas: The episode encourages viewing the new year as a canvas for personal and professional growth. A daily SPARK prompt is provided to guide this journey. Closing Thoughts: This episode inspires us to take small, purposeful steps towards our goals in 2024. Remember, each step is a stroke of progress in the masterpiece of your journey. Connect with Dr. Sabba Quidwai: LinkedIn Website Twitter Instagram

This week I'm delighted to introduce you to Robert Dickson, CIO of Wichita Public Schools, one of the first to design an enterprise integration of AI across their large school district of 50,000 students, and 10,000 employees. Here are three core ideas Robert shares with us in this episode. You'll find all his information below, as I know this is one guest you'll definitely want to add to your network.   Robert Dickson's insights highlight the transformative power of AI in education, focusing on strategic planning, AI literacy, and preparing students for a rapidly changing workforce. His approach emphasizes the need for a balance between technological advancement and human-centered values. His journey not only illustrates the efficiency gains and innovation that AI can bring to educational settings but also underscores its broader implications for enterprise-level integration.    Embracing AI in Education:   Robert shares how he introduced AI in education, with a focus on how it can enhance the workflow for leaders, teachers, and staff in his district. He shares insights on utilizing AI for strategic planning and instructional improvement. “Every task I do, I start at 70% to 80%... Imagine what that frees your time up to do if 70% of a task is done for you.” - Robert Dickson   AI Literacy and Policy Development:   Dickson discusses the importance of AI literacy among educators and developing policies for AI use in educational settings. “I’ve written an AI policy and I’ve revised it now twice... It's about setting guardrails but also enabling innovation and adaptation.” - Robert Dickson   The Role of AI in Future Workforce Development:   The discussion touches on how AI is reshaping the skills needed in the future workforce, emphasizing adaptability and digital literacy. “Memorization is not how we produce a skilled workforce anymore... Intelligence is a commodity.” - Robert Dickson   Connect with Robert Dickson on LinkedIn to follow his journey and insights in integrating AI in education. His resources, articles, and ideas are some of the best on this topic.   Podcast: Listen in to "What the EdTech" Robert's podcast Connect with Robert on X   Article: How Wichita Public Schools is Using Microsoft Copilot   I'd love to connect with you as well. You can join me on any of my platforms    Website: Dr. Sabba Quidwai's Website LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai on LinkedIn Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ   Reading List   Join the AI Bootcamp   Timestamps:   1:57 Why you should subscribe to ChatGPT 3:48 Introducing Rob 6:12 Rob's realization that AI can make a huge difference in education 8:44 How Rob uses AI to reach his goals with more efficiency 11:47 Time-saving with AI 13:41 Shifting the AI use from personal to enterprise level 18:40 The importance of being proactive when exploring AI, intead of just waiting to see what happens 21:11 Some skills and mindset for exploring  and incorporating AI 25:33 Design thinking as a method to approach AI 28:08 Design Thinking at the Orange County Department of Education 31:37 Improving work experience within large organizations using AI 35:29 How Rob implemented AI at enterprise level in practice 39:15 The SPARK framework for asking the right questions to AI 41:12 Some of Rob's prompting practices, guidelines and values at his organization 44:32 Introducing AI tools to students 46:36 The AI Bootcamp 47:40 Questions you should be asking going in 2024 50:42 Rob's books and resources recommendations

It's a familiar scene: organizations invest in team-building exercises and post-work gatherings to foster a sense of belonging. These proactive efforts are commendable, yet they only scratch the surface of a more profound challenge. True connectivity, it turns out, originates from a place within. In the absence of a well-defined set of core values, establishing profound and authentic relationships becomes an intricate endeavor. Enter Brant Menswar, a proponent of a values-driven pathway to genuine connections. By delineating one's core values, individuals embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery. This heightened self-awareness lays the groundwork for forging meaningful relationships anchored in transparency and intentionality. In an era dominated by AI, a poignant question emerges: how do we mold our identity amidst the onslaught of technological progress? Brant delves into this thought-provoking inquiry, advocating for an alignment of AI's influence with human values. He reframes the discourse from one of control to one of amplification, positioning AI as a tool to magnify our values and stimulate growth with purpose. Education, as a domain, is not untouched by this paradigm shift. Leveraging AI's potential, educators can imbue the educational landscape with core values, bestowing a sense of purpose upon students beyond the academic realm. Brant's quintet of fundamental values—connection, authenticity, integrity, personal growth, and creativity—serve as navigational markers, guiding individuals toward a more enriching existence. The transition to a process-oriented approach, however, is not without its complexities. Brant addresses these challenges, offering valuable insights on navigating this transformative endeavor. Educators, too, receive counsel on making decisions in alignment with their core values and those of their students, elevating the educational experience. In a world characterized by swift technological evolution, Brant's counsel stands as a beacon of wisdom. He encourages us to embrace process-oriented objectives, inviting us to weave our values into every facet of life. This expedition leads individuals not merely toward connection but also to a profound sense of purpose, shaping lives of heightened significance. 00:00 Introduction 1:06 Introducing Brant Menswar and his approach to figuring out your values 2:25 Who do you choose to be in a world driven by AI? 4:42 Brent's views on AI as a creator and its values 6:25 Using AI to reframe and amplify your values, not to try to control outcomes 12:2 Amplifying values with AI in educational contexts 14:46 Brant's 5 core values: connection, authenticity, integrity, personal growth, and creativity 22:20 How to actually use these 5 values after identifying them 26:53 Main challenges when transitioning to a process oriented goal pursuit 31:14 How can educators make decisions based on their own core-values as well as their student's 38:19 Brant's advice for making the transition to process oriented goals Connect with Brant: Website: https://www.brantmenswar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brantmenswar/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brantmenswar/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrantMenswar/ Connect with Sabba: Website: https://designingschools.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askmsq/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SabbaQuidwai/videos