Seminar 10: Open Learning and Educational Resources

Conceptually, I love the idea of open learning and the sharing of educational resources. I’ve spent much of my career–both as a teacher and school administrator–trying to encourage and support an open culture of innovation and growth. While we’ve had some bright spots, there is an overwhelming amount of support for collaborative learning when people are in need of Act 48 hours… Don’t get me wrong. There are a number of committed, high quality educators who embrace an open culture of collaboration. We have teachers that lead book studies, meet regularly over the summer to discuss pedagogical innovations, etc. The majority, however, do what they must to ensure a satisfactory rating… nothing more, nothing less. As the demands of the job continue to grow… and children (and their parents) become more complex… the establishment of an open culture of learning is our best chance for success. I once had a quote from Eleanor Roosevelt that I referenced often with new teachers… “Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.”