We read somewhere that in a normal population only 10% to 15% of people are what psychologists would call "change embracers" while the remaining 85%-90% are "change resisters" (pg. 85).
Many books have been written on the subject of change management, and while the buzz words often change, the four basic strategies for managing change are planning, communication, participation, and leadership. We contend that the modifiers "your" and "proactive" must be added to each (pg. 87).
I feel as though this image works for both of the preceding ideas from the reading. I chose this image because it shows change as the goal and each technique that needs to be addressed in order to undergo a successful change. Obviously, the largest oval is seen at the bottom, Performance Management. This speaks to me that the key to keeping change successful is a strong emphasis on performance management. If the managing force behind the change is weak, how can you expect the other other elements to hold strong for an effective change?
In many districts, union contracts require placements made on the basis of seniority (pg 93).
This comic is only one slide, but represents the preceding sentence well. Do we agree with this philosophy though? While seniority is seemingly the fair way to go, it may not be the most effective. As standards grow exceedingly complex and different, people who have been teaching for many years may not be up to date on the last (and "greatest") methodologies for teaching. Rather than holding on to our most effective teachers, might it be a wiser decision to reinforce the teachers who have made the greatest achievement in teaching the students?
Extracted Essence...
For greatest success, believe and construct the greatest possible change.
Brendan,
ReplyDeleteGreat Illustrations! In my short experience I have seen Principals, Assistant Principals, and Deans try to make changes in schools. Many changes that were tried failed because one: teachers were resistant to the change and two: the change was not managed well. This year at my school, we have a new principal. She is starting with small changes. These are changes that even the most routine teachers can deal with. I think your second thought referring to effectiveness of teachers is a great conversation that should be happening more often. Do teachers hold onto their job longer when they are attached to the union? and why should they if aren't showing achievement with students?
Melissa R.
Brendan,
ReplyDeleteAlthough I do not have a permanent teaching position, as a future educator I strongly believe that in order to have a successful change, it has to be managed well. As teachers we need to be open to new ideas, especially change. Our overall group of students changes each year, students change and develop throughout the year, we as teachers change and develop, so I think it is silly not to embrace the idea of change. If managed well, change can be good for everyone.
I really like your comic and i definitely agree with you about student achievement. With our economic crisis, it is obvious that teaching positions are being cut left and right and it's of those who are lowest on the totem pole. I think you raise an interesting topic: Should jobs cuts go by seniority, or by evidence of student achievement or the lack of?
-Stephanie