To Move Through The Day

 Why else are we here if not to live with passion for certain aspects of life?

🦋

Assessment Of/For/As Learning

Video Conversation  In the realm of education, whether attending elementary, middle, high school, or pursuing post-secondary studies, there is a societal expectation to receive grades in exchange for the effort we invest. Individuals naturally anticipate a corresponding grade for the effort and quality of work put forth. As an assessment seems to be an integral aspect of the educational system, it is essential to remember that education encompasses much more than just grades.

In this discussion, we will primarily focus on adult learners, but let's take a moment to reflect on the essence of an inquisitive learner. From our previous discussion on a learner's mindset, we explored the innate curiosity and determination of a 1-year-old attempting to walk with many falls, but always getting back up to try again, or the 2-year-old that kept asking "why" to make sense of the world around them. Shifting our perspective to learning for the joy of knowledge and personal growth can foster a genuine love for education and open up endless possibilities for self-discovery.

From Harapnuik's studies, Assessment of Leaning assists teachers in using evidence of student learning to assess achievement against outcomes and standards. "Summative assessment," usually occurs at defined key points used to rank or grade students. The effectiveness depends on the Validity, Reliability, and Weighing placed on any one task.

Assessment For Learning involves using evidence about students' knowledge, understanding, and skills to inform their teaching. "Formative assessment," occurs throughout teaching and learning to clarify student learning and understanding.

Assessment As Learning occurs when students are their own assessors. Students monitor their own learning, ask questions and use a range of strategies to decide what they know and can do, and how to use assessment for new learning.

Building on our discussion of adult learners and the importance of embracing learning, let me share how self-reflection plays a significant role in my workshops. At the end of every session, I encourage participants to engage in a self-reflection process. One of the simplest methods we use is called "Stop, Start, Continue." In this exercise the learner identifies one item they would like to stop doing, one item they would like to start doing, and one item they would like to continue doing based on the insights gained during the workshop. The learner is then provided the opportunity to share their reflections with their peers, fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

We also employ another effective self-reflection tool called "Tell Your Neighbor." Participants are requested to take a piece of paper and write what they learned from the session, using words they would use to describe the learning to a good friend, spouse, or neighbor. Subsequently, they are encouraged to turn to the person next to them and share their reflection. This interactive approach reinforces their understanding and ensures some gap-filling of knowledge with their peer neighbor.

Further to end-of-session self-reflection, I find it valuable to initiate a reflection at the beginning of each new session. This allows the class to recap and discuss the key takeaways from the previous session, creating a solid foundation for building each skill set as we progress. This practice proves beneficial in workplace settings where learners can readily apply newly acquired knowledge. As we engage in these reflective discussions, I actively take note of the connections made by participants and identify any areas where gaps in knowledge may still exist. By doing so, we can address these gaps effectively and ensure a comprehensive and continuous learning experience for all.

In conclusion, workplace learning presents a unique environment where formal assessments may not be the primary measure of employee growth and development. Instead, informal assessments play a vital role in gauging progress and understanding the application of leadership principles in real-life scenarios. Employees have the opportunity to embrace a learner's mindset, much like the inquisitive learners we discussed earlier, where self-reflection becomes a powerful tool for personal development. Through self-reflection exercises like "Stop, Start, Continue" and "Tell Your Neighbour," individuals gain a deeper understanding of their strengths, areas for improvement, and the impact of their learning in the workplace.

https://www.harapnuik.org/?page_id=8900

https://www.harapnuik.org/?p=8407

DAD

When people inquire about those who have left an indelible mark on my life, I confidently respond, "My Dad."

My father, a man of unwavering dedication, toiled tirelessly to provide for our family. Day after day, he worked diligently, often taking on extra shifts to ensure we had what we needed growing up. He never hesitated to enlighten me about the value of money (maybe that is how I found a career in accounting), imparting invaluable lessons that would shape my understanding of the world.

But it wasn't just about money. My father selflessly dedication his time to causes he believed in, generously volunteering to uplift others in need. His actions spoke volumes, revealing the depths of his compassionate soul.

In my youthful curiosity, I occasionally tested the boundaries he had set, challenging the limits of my own potential. Yet amidst it all, I never questioned his ability to be the leader our family needed. His presence was a steadfast pillar of support, instilling within me a sense of security and the belief that i, too, could become a leader.

As I embark on my journey through life, I aspire to be a leader just like him. I yearn to inspire those who look up to me, even if I am unaware of extent of my influences. My father's relentless hard work and perseverance have paid off, as evidenced by the successes he has achieved. But I am certain that his impact extends far beyond our immediate circle. He has inspired countless others to forge their own paths, to seize opportunities, and to become leaders in their own way.

With clarity, I understand why my father always bore the weight of responsibility with determination. He did whatever it took to support and nurture his family, never abandoning in his commitment to our well-being.

So let my words be a testament to the remarkable man my father is - a guiding light whose kindness, compassion, and devotion has forever shaped the person I am today.

If you don’t have something to die for, what are you alive for?

 Every beat of your heart propels you through the day, while oxygen fills your lungs, harmoniously sustaining the intricate balance of internal systems. This subconscious rhythm is often taken for granted, it's ticking unnoticed. But what happens when you pause to look within your soul and discover your purpose? Suddenly, everything you do becomes a contribution to the greater good of society and the world. Your diligent work takes profound significance, a reflection of your devotion to a higher power.

In my journey of self-examination, I have come to realize that I am here to make a difference. Since I was a little girl, I have felt it coursing through my veins - a knowing that I am different, not like the others. While connecting with people may not come naturally to me, I find solace in nurturing the success and growth of others, helping them transcend their own limitations.

My relentless pursuit is to find strength to stand up for those who feel powerless, and to lend them my voice when they struggle to find their own. This is the essence of my being. Like many, self-doubt sometimes finds its way into my thoughts. I am not always strong for myself, occasionally succumbing to overreactions and allowing my emotions to cloud my judgment. There are moments when I question my own worthiness, thinking I am undeserving of certain opportunities. Yet, if the roles were reversed, I would be the first person to stand by your side, reminding you of your brilliance and urging you to fearlessly pursue your dreams.

By nurturing strength, composure, and tenacity within myself, I illuminate the areas of my life that require additional energy and focus. I exist for others, extending my hand in genuine support. I wholeheartedly believe in you; I believe in your ability to believe in yourself!

Motivation

 Motivation is the drive to achieve your goals.

Where does it come from?

Extrinsic Motivation comes from outside source and influences in our life. It often involves external rewards like trophies, money, social recognition, or praise.

Intrinsic Motivation comes from your internal self. This could range from completing difficult crossword puzzles, to a desire to read 100 pages a day.

Why do we need it?

We need motivation to initiate, guide, and maintain goal-oriented behaviors. Motivation can encourage us to engage in health-oriented behaviors which in turn will help us improve our overall well-being and happiness. Motivation drives you to take action and help you feel more in control of your life.

3 Key Elements to Motivation.

The following 3 components will help you become motivated and stay motivated.

    Activation- the decision to initiate the behavior.

    Persistence- is the continued effort toward a goal even though obstacles may exist or appear.

    Intensity- the concentration and vigor that goes into pursuing your goal.

Tips to Improving your Motivation

Motivation can be a simple awareness of your self-confidence. Believe in yourself and your skill set to completing the task at hand and you confidence will naturally improve with your new thought pattern. If you have any self-doubt, think of times in the past where you did accomplish great things and remind yourself that you can do it, just as others before you have. When the task at hand seems insurmountable break it up into smaller chunks. Chunking the work allows you to see achievement throughout the process.

Remember there are people in your corner cheering you on who look up to you, turn to them for support and encouragement if you need a little advise.

Believe in yourself, because I believe in you.

Change

 If there was no change there would be no butterflies!

Change is an inevitable part of life. From the smallest shifts to the most profound transformations, change shapes our experiences and shapes who we become. It can be unsettling at times, pushing outside our comfort zone, but it is through change that we find growth, resilience, and the opportunity to become something even more beautiful.

Imagine a world without change - stagnant, predictable, and devoid of progress. It is in the face of change that we discover the essence of our true potential. Just as a caterpillar undergoes a metamorphosis to become a butterfly, change has the power to transform us in remarkable ways.

At first, change can be challenging and unsettling. It disrupts our routines and forces us to confront the unknown. But it is precisely in these moments of challenge that we find the greatest growth opportunities. Stepping outside of our comfort zone allows us to learn, adapt, and expand our perspectives and beliefs.

When we resist change, we cling to what is familiar and safe. However, by embracing change, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and experiences that we may never have imagined. Change provides us with the chance to discover hidden strengths, develop resilience, and uncover untapped potential.

Think back to times in your own life when change has played a significant role. Perhaps it was starting a new job, moving to a different city, or ending a long-term relationship. In those moments of upheaval, you were forced to adapt and find new ways of navigating the world. And through those challenges, you grew stronger, more resilient, and more aware of your capabilities.

The change also invites us to question our beliefs and perspectives. As we encounter new people, ideas, and situations, we are prompted to reassess our preconceived notions and expand our understanding of the world. This continuous evolution of our perspectives allows us to cultivate empathy, compassion, and a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experiences.

So the next time change knocks on your door, don't shy away from it. Embrace it as an opportunity for growth and transformation. Step outside your comfort zone and allow yourself to be challenged. Embrace the discomfort, knowing that on the other side lies the possibility of becoming a more resilient, knowledgeable, and compassionate individual.

Change is the catalyst for personal and societal progress. It propels us forward, urging us to adapt and evolve. It is through change that we discover our true potential, spread our wings, and soar to new heights. Embrace the power of change, and watch as it unveils a world of endless possibilities.

Embrace.

“Hold tightly to what you love,” I can hear them saying, their words echoing in my mind as I navigate through the small, cold, and dark world around me. The rhythmic ticking of a clock on the wall fills the silence, a constant reminder of time passing by. A tear escapes my eye, tracing a path down my cheek, but before it falls, a gentle comforting hand reaches out and wipes it away. The warmth and pressure of that touch soothes me, even in the midst of surrounding chaos.

Gently, the loudness of voices and beeping machines seeps into my consciousness, but the darkness persists. I yearn to open my eyes, to make sense of my surroundings, but my mind struggles to process the concept of movement. It's as if I'm caught in a surreal limbo, suspended between awareness and oblivion.

And then, like a lifeline thrown to a drowning soul, I drift off into a different realm. I find myself snuggled in the embrace of a soft, fluffy, stuffed bunny. Its long brown ears with a delicate pink center, dangle loosely as I hold it close. The bunny's chest proudly displays a heart, sewn with care and love. In this simple moment, I discover solace. The act of holding onto something warm, delicate, and personal brings a tender embrace to my fragile heart. 

In my mind's eye, I transport myself to a time long ago - my grade school years. I'm sitting on a circular mat with my fellow classmates, all of us cradling our cherished stuffed animals on our laps. It was a special time, one that I hold dearly to my heart. The shared experience of storytime, surrounded by the comfort of our beloved companions, created an unbreakable bond among us.

As the beeping of the machine brings me back to consciousness, my eyes flutter open, greeted by a room filled with concerned faces. Their stares indicate the gravity of the situation. “Must be a serious concussion,” one of them states, their words reaching my ears with a mix of clarity and confusion. It dawns on me that something significant has happened, but the details elude me. The room feels strangely familiar, triggering a vague sense of deja vu. I recognize the stiff bed beneath me, the rails on the side, and the footboard, all too well. And that distinctive smell - stale, old, and airless - floods my senses, evoking memories I struggle to grasp. 

Questions swirl in my mind, but they are silenced by a gentle hand holding mine. Although I am unable to process the connection, mentally I embrace it, allowing it to reach the depths of my core. Love. All around me, I feel an overpowering sense of love emanating from those gathered by my side. In this moment of vulnerability, their presence provides solace, a reassuring balm to the uncertainties that surround me. At least in this state of surrender, I surrender to a somber rest, knowing that love will guide me through whatever lies ahead.