What we're talking about is usually what takes precedence in an organization? Prioritizing the topics, questions and even the order of discussion at meetings sends a message about what's important.
The same is true in our classrooms--what are we talking about there? What discussions take precedence? What is your "time on talk" like? How would you characterize the words and topics, and who is doing most of the talking?
How can we assess our talk? Here are a few examples:
- Take a look at the last 20 emails you sent, and see what the content is about?
- Have students write you a letter about what they think is important to you--that will tell you about the ideas and priorities your words are conveying?
- Read your last 10 blog posts and identify the themes that stand out.
- Look back at PLC, faculty meeting, or grade level notes and see what stands out.
And once we assess our "talk," how will we make change or discuss our collective priorities as a team, school or learning community? Who's doing the talking and what are they talking about? is an integral question in any organization, and one I want to think more deeply about in the days ahead.
