A Reader Asks... The Key to Becoming an Expert in Instruction

A LYS Assistant Superintendent asks the following:

SC,

What do you believe is the most important key to building insight and deeper understanding about teaching and learning in our classrooms?

SC Response

The most important key to building insight and deeper understanding about teaching and learning in our classrooms is high volume classroom observation, WITH REFLECTION.

By watching a wide variety of teachers, with varied skill sets, in varied settings, over extended time, one positions oneself to see patterns and connections that accelerate or inhibit instruction.  With reflection on these patterns one begins to build the required vocabulary to describe these patterns in a way that teachers can capitalize on them.  

Obviously, just having once attended a school, doesn't make one an expert in instruction (sorry, politicians).  

Not as obvious, but just as true, being a teacher or a school administrator does not automatically make one an expert in instruction.

Expertise is purposefully built.  

Think. Work. Achieve.

Your turn...

• Call Jo at (832) 477-LEAD to order your campus set of “The Fundamental 5: The Formula for Quality Instruction.” Individual copies available on Amazon.com!  http://tinyurl.com/Fundamental5 
• Now at the Apple App Store: Fun 5 Timer (Fundamental 5 Delivery Tool); PowerWalks CLC (Networked Formative Observation Tool) 
• Upcoming Presentations: American Association of School Administrators Conference; National Association of Secondary School Principals Conference (Multiple Presentations) 
• Follow Sean Cain and LYS on www.Twitter.com/LYSNation  and like Lead Your School on Facebook