Transformational Influence: Finding and leveraging the small behaviors that make a big difference
The current research on positive influence (Influencer: The Power to Change Anything by Patterson et. all) talks about high leverage behaviors and promoting systemic change using the 6 areas of influence. We need to look at the research of change as it relates to incorporating the technology in ways that research shows will improve learning.
But we're dealing with people here - until we get past the technology and learn how to work with people, we will forever be stuck talking to each other. There are areas where systemic change IS happening.
We should try to get Patterson or one of the speakers to ISTE and also have them lead a panel of educators (principal, admin, IT director) to talk about the 6 aspects of change and help people consider the human aspect of what we're trying to do as well as build upon the research about positive change in organizations.
It should also include a component about what it takes to be an opinion leader, the person who truly can transform an organization. Yes, technology is important but until we understand the people we will forever be relegated to being underutilized and mis-implemented as the regular classroom remains unchanged.
Vicki Davis
shared this idea
5 comments
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Sue Runyon
commented
I do like the idea of understanding how to make change happen. I love technology but technology integrated in the classroom is not happening on a large scale with most school districts I work with and I want to see change happen!
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Heather Davis
commented
I think is a terrific idea. It is something that I could really get my mind around. I especially like the part about being an opinion leader. This proposal is strong and yet has a manageable focus. Something I could get my mind around. I am hoping to make my first trip to ISTE and don't want keynotes that are so overwhelming that I walk away thinking "that was good and I am sure it applies to someone but that is too big and overwhelming for my situation". Those thoughts lead to feeling defeated and are not productive.
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Cynthia Garrety commented
Sounds like a great idea and very inspirational, perfect for this conference. The big mistake we made in the 80s was focusing on funding the technology and forgetting about the human beings learning with it...and teaching with it...professional development is key and I'd love a panel discussion. Great idea Vicki
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Vicki Davis
commented
Yes, Jen - it is about all of us. I hope that when things are said and done here that "latecoming ideas" (like this one) are incorporated into early arriving ideas like Kevin and Scott's. It is so much about all of us and it is tough to see when IT/ admin/ teachers are divided from one another. Can one separate their heart from their lungs - surely they are separate but they are intertwined in such a way that the life and vitality of one directly impacts the other.
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Jen Hegna
commented
I really like this idea - building influence no matter where you are in the "educational food chain"! I personally hope that anyone who attend ISTE - walks away feeling like they are a leader and can make a difference in their districts, schools, and classrooms.
