The education info streams are filled with ads for the next best curriculum map, unit or material. This leads me to wonder where systems will put their dollars? When it comes to the development of educators and the acquisition of materials, where will the priority be?
The best teaching responds to specific students' needs and interests. The best teachers take the time to know their students well so that they can facilitate optimal learning events. Successful teachers are life long learners who pick and choose from the best educational materials to coach, mentor and guide student learning.
Hence, I suggest that systems choose educators over materials when it comes to professional development and dollars spent. Focus on the development of your educators, and let those educators and their students choose the processes, tools and materials that optimize students' learning and engagement.
Do you agree?
