EduTECH Day 1 2017

How do we Build a Culture of Inquiry and Data Use?

School systems have a shared responsibility to improve student learning outcomes. Likewise, for staff there is an obligation to provide extended opportunities to build on what they already know. High quality recording methods that ascertain growth mapped over time can identify trends and highlight threats allowing organisations to predict implications of applying a learning initiative or intervention. This can become complex and messy due to competing agendas and a variety of interpretations. For this reason, organisations have an obligation to develop a fair, ethical and shared understanding how data will be used and interpreted (Stoll & Fink,1996). A strong and user-friendly data system when properly implemented, empowers teachers to discover value in functions that bring student data to their fingertips (Brunner, Fasca, Heinze, Honey, Light, Mandinach & Wexler , 2005). Therefore, teachers require adequate learning support if they are to use data to improve practice ...

Leading Quietly! The Powerhouse of an Introvert in Education

The education sector thrives on passionate leaders, but for introverts, navigating this world can feel like venturing outside their comfort zone. Society often glorifies extroversion, but introverts bring a valuable perspective and skillset to educational leadership. In this article, I explore and reflect on how introverts can leverage their strengths to become exceptional educational leaders. I have primarily relied on older articles for my research, which is not my usual approach. Nonetheless, delving into the wisdom of the past has been a fascinating endeavour, even in today's modern world. To begin this article, speaking as someone who identifies strongly with introverted leadership traits, I must admit that expressing these thoughts feels vulnerable and somewhat daunting. It's akin to unveiling a part of my authentic self, which can be both revealing and demanding. Quiet Strength Introverts are natural listeners and observers (Grant, 2013). They excel at taking in informat...

Restorative Justice in Education: A Personal and Reflective Examination

As educators, we constantly seek methods to cultivate environments where students feel valued, respected, and supported. Over the years, restorative justice has emerged as an approach that addresses disciplinary issues and promotes a culture of care, empathy, and mutual respect. This article reflects on my experiences with restorative justice in education, highlighting its strengths, benefits, and connections to positive behaviour theories such as positive behaviour in schools (PBIS). I'll discuss the role of traditional disciplinary measures, like time-out, detention, and suspension, within a restorative framework. However, my stance is that these should be employed as a final option when there is no room for relationship coaching or the other strategies prove unsuccessful in achieving positive behavioural outcomes. I am going to preface this article and state that it is informed by my Christian perspective. I am committed to fostering a learning environment where students are enc...

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