ED 5769 - Online Activity 4

Secret Three: Capacity Building Prevails

In the intrinsically complex and uncertain world of today, problems get solved when people believe that they will not get punished for taking risks. (p. 60 Fullan, 2008)

I believe that most teachers will encourage their students to take risks in their work, and try to stretch their creativity while searching for authentic meaning in their own learning. For this creativity to take place, these risks must be acknowledged and supported by the teacher. Sometimes, taking risks and striving for a different interpretation is expected, and rewarded.
However, I believe the same courtesy needs to be extended to teaching staff as well. If a teacher is expected to problem-solve, they need the freedom to take risks, and they need the freedom to fail. At my school, this has become more common, and in time, will become standard practice. Once teachers realize there is no punishment or reprimand for failing, they will be more inclined to take risks, and solve emerging problems in our complex environment. Because our environment is still in its infancy, we are continually facing problems, challenges and opportunities. We require unique solutions to these problems, and often that comes from unique ways of interpreting the problem, or looking at if from a new perspective. On occasion, the apparent solution is short-lived, or fails altogether. However, our administration doesn't see that as a failure, but looks at the experience objectively, and assures that the teacher (and the entire staff) will learn something from the experience. I've heard this from our leadership a number of times: Well, at least now we know what DOESN'T work!

We will continue to explore new technologies that haven't been tested for our environment. As a leader, I will ensure that staff are encouraged to try novel and unique ways of working with the technology, in hopes of solving problems before they exist! By showcasing the successes (and failures) of other individuals, I will hope to establish a culture of calculated risk-takers, which will lead to a stronger, more robust understanding of the specific technological tool or practice being tested in our environment.

Fullan, M. (2008). The six secrets of change. San Fransisco: Jossey-Bass.