Livin on the Edge

We ended our 36th annual Summer Administrative Workshop with Harvey Alston.  He wowed our audience with his energetic presentation. His stories and observations were often hilarious, but underneath was a very serious message. He advocated for the audience to look beyond circumstances, Harveypetty thoughts, negativity, personal agendas etc….to put students first! Mr. Alston took on many topics during is address, but I was surprised by his take on technology. His motto is………….

“If you are not livin on the edge, you’re taking up too much space!”

Simply, our students live in a technologic world and we need to keep up if we are going to prepare them for that world. He believes that trying new things and engaging our staff to do the same is part of giving students our BEST!

While I embrace Mr. Alston’s perspective I have to confess there are days when I think if I come any closer to the edge, I am going to fall off! It’s tough to try new things. It takes longer, feels awkward, and is just plain hard! Yet some folks persevere, while others avoid new technology.

How can we get people to the edge and keep them coming back for more?

Comments

dbittner said…
I think the "secret" to keeping people "livin on the edge" when it comes to technology is to not overload them with the latest and the greatest. Quality is definitely more effective than quantity is this area. Too often when people are overloaded by having to learn the newest technology tool, they begin to feel they are a master of none. It is better to learn to use certain technology tools well until mastered, then increase the opportunities to add to that toolbox with a pace that will not overwhelm the learner.
August 17, 2009 at 12:02 PM
Kelly Pauling said…
Thanks Donna! You are absolutely right... quality is better than quanity. let me also add that too much technology training is how to push the buttons and is missing the why. Adult learners need explicit examples of how anything including technology fits into their school life.
August 18, 2009 at 6:07 PM
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