7 Degrees of Similarity

This grade eight test from West Virginia in 1931 is far too similar to a current test in 2012. It revolves around rote memorization. Perhaps memorization was more important back then, because knowledge could not be acquired so easily. Tests should not always aim for lower level thinking; we must apply our knowledge. The answers are easier to obtain now more than ever. We must rather create problems that take this knowledge and help students solve said problems.

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7 Degrees of Connectedness

Presenter: Rodd Lucier
Location: Komoka, Ontario, Canada
Twitter: @thecleversheep
Presentation Description: What is it for you that leads you to pay closer attention to the learners in your network? Do you feel close to those colleagues you interact with, even if you’ve never met? Are you more attuned to those people whose voices are amplified because you met at a conference; exchanged stories; shared a meal? As our connections grow with online colleagues, we may find ourselves in qualitatively distinct relationships with co-learners. By sharing our ideas alongside details of our personal lives, we have a tendency to become more and more familiar to one another. Augment these connections with voices and imagery, and it can lead to deeper and more fulfilling connections. In this presentation Rodd Lucier (AKA The Clever Sheep), invites you to walk along with a few of his colleagues who join him in reflecting on how modern tools are impacting our online relationships. The concept of ’7 Degrees of Connectedness’ is introduced as one way to qualify the relationships we foster with online colleagues.

This is a great additional form of PD for teachers. As an avid podcaster, this is very beneficial and easy to listen to.