The Counter Narrative: Changing the Way We Talk (and think) About Education

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For most of us, as educators, the term pedagogy is one with which we are extremely familiar. It refers to our instructional approaches. Right? Well ... kind of. During my recent IB training in Austin, we discovered a new term which made us think about our instructional approaches in a new way. Pedagogy actually refers to instructional practices designed for children. They are traditionally teacher centered wherein the teacher is the controller of knowledge. You know, the "sage on the stage." Meanwhile, andragogy refers to instructional practices designed for adults. This approach shifts the teacher into the role of a facilitator and relies on the intrinsic motivation to learn and grow as a person. What is our teacher training practices instilled within us a reliance upon using pedagogical approaches, despite the shifting trends towards andragogical approaches? What if this has contributed to the declining academic performance of our students? What do you think?

In this episode, I chat with Joshua Stamper, the Training and Development Specialist for the Teach Better Team and manager of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Prior to Joshua's current position, he was a middle school Administrator, classroom art educator, and coach. Joshua is the author of Aspire to Lead, podcaster, leadership coach, and education presenter. During our conversation, we talked about behaviors in our school. All too often, we punish students who fail to meet behavioral norms while failing to recognize that these behaviors are actually their way of communicating with us. What would happen if we stopped reacting and started listening?

There are those of us who have been fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to share our experiences with other educators. Whether through conferences, screens, or texts, we spend time encouraging educators to grow and improve their craft through a number of strategies. I wonder, however, how many of us actually practice these same suggestions on a regular basis. This episode shares a recent experience that I had while attending an IB training in Austin, TX. In this case, I was not presenting but was an attendee. All was well until someone in the room recognized me and I had a moment of internal conflict. Do I maintain a facade of being an educational guru or do I lean into the vulnerability that comes with being The Lead Learner?

Dr. Brandon Beck is an educator, speaker, coach, and author of "Unlocking Unlimited Potential: Understanding the Infinite Power Within to Guide Any Student Toward Success." As a keynote speaker, Brandon is best known for his inspirational storytelling that is directly connected to authentic activities which build upon the ultimate goal for all... Unlocking Unlimited Potential.   He is also the host of the "Unlocking Unlimited Potential Stories Show," a live show and podcast where he interviews inspiring people sharing their inspiring stories. Brandon is a National Board Certified teacher and also holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.  His primary purpose is a simple one: “To inspire people to have faith in themselves and believe in their inner genius.”  He has been an elementary teacher for 18 years and a monolingual, bilingual educator for over 12 years.  He is also a college professor, consultant, Results Coach, an editor and reviewer for AASA Journal of Scholarship & Practice,  a regular keynote speaker at state, regional, and national conferences. Dr. Beck is also a Mutt-i-grees National Trainer. Mutt-i-grees is a program designed by Yale University’s 21st Century in partnership with North Shore Animal League. The Mutt-i-grees curriculum is an innovative Pre-K - Grade 12 social emotional learning program that brings adopted shelter dogs into schools.  Dr. Beck is an entrepreneur and professional soccer coach. He is currently a nationally certified instructor for the United States Soccer Federation. Throughout his career, he has coached teams that have won numerous state, regional, and national championships.     

A series of recent events including a delay at the airport and our back-to-school leadership series resulted in a much needed reflection about our perspectives and attitudes regarding our roles at work. While we often criticize the younger generation about their apparent lack of concern for their jobs, their approach may be just what we need to combat the steady and drastic rise of mental health issues stemming from our workplaces.

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Watching the construction happening around my school provided me with an insightful moment - in order to build something new, the old must often be demolished and removed. We, for the most part, are the same way. In our efforts to grow into someone better, how often do we fail because we are afraid to let go of those tainted foundations? To compensate we build facades and then question why they crumble under pressure. Are you willing to do the work that is needed to become the person you want to be?

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Inspired by a post from Vernon Wright, this episode examines the difference between EduCelebrities and EduHeroes. While there may exist some overlap between the two, there are some clear distinctions which distinguish one from the other. Do you know an EduHero who should be celebrated? Fill out this form (you should also share it with others so that they can too!) and I will be sure to show them some appreciation. EduHero Nomination Form: https://bit.ly/EduHeroNominee