Always Learning
If you’ve been following me for any amount of time, you know how much I believe that we should always be growing. I’ve always found it funny that we’re one of the few professions that when we graduate college, we think we’re done and ready to be the best teacher possible. Crazy, right? I am constantly learning. I’m continually finding ways to better myself and be the best educator (and person) I can be. I know that I’ll never be finished.
Sometimes, though, it’s hard to find the right avenues to continue your growth. Yes, there are social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, but we all know that when we look for ideas there, it can sometimes be like drinking out of a fire hose. And sometimes, even though many people have the best intentions, their ideas need to be vetted more than we may be capable of or have the time to do.
Then there’s those in-person, face-to-face opportunities to continue our learning. However, my district would often frown upon me being out of the classroom or off campus, even if I was trying to learn, grow, and better myself for my students and staff.
So where does that leave you? Where can you go if you really want some in-depth training or help in particular areas? For the last year or so, I’ve been taking courses through an organization called Advancement Courses that I have fallen in love with. What I love best about this organization, with over 280 courses, is that you can get CPE credit hours and graduate credit for the courses!!
I just finished working through one called “Curbing Disruptive Behavior”, and I am so thankful to add what I’ve learned to my tool chest! Whether it was gaining a deeper understanding of behavior and development stages, or new ideas on a tiered approach to behavior management, this course was much needed for me! Disruptive behavior is a part of all of our classrooms and schools at some point or another. This course not only gave me some great ideas but also introduced me to some needed research and some fantastic links to ideas shared by others. Because courses like this one are online, with up to 6 months to complete, it’s letting me do it on my time. It’s letting me go on my pace.
That’s the kind of learning I need in my life right now. That kind of learning that is deep and grounded, and allows me to move at a pace conducive to my life.
So go check out some of their courses! It’s a pretty awesome spot. I’m already looking forward to joining another! If this is something you’re interested in, you can even use the code TODD20 at the checkout and get 20% off your first course!
Check it out and let me know what you think! I’m dying to hear about other amazing courses from people like you who are using them!
I also did a Facebook LIVE on my page with Leah Jurek, Director of Partner Development (at Advancement Courses) about some incredible free micro-courses that are being offered right now!! Check it out!
