In Semester 1, which marked my first attempt at creating a proposal of any kind, my Innovation Proposal focused on exploring various forms of STEAM learning that could be implemented at my current campus, utilizing the tools and resources already at our disposal. Following this, I outlined my Implementation Plan, aiming to uncover and utilize items stuffed away in storage to provide students with a new learning experience. During that initial semester, I tackled another first – composing a Literature Review. While it may have been lacking, it served as a valuable reminder that returning to basics is often the best approach when unsure where to start. This experience aligned well with my growth mindset, a concept I explored further in my Growth Mindset Plan. Reflecting on my introduction to a growth mindset and delving into relevant studies reinforced my belief in this approach. My Learning Manifesto allowed me to discover my learning style and understand why helping students find other ways of learning was so important to me.
In Semester Two, I was introduced to the book 'A New Culture of Learning: Cultivating the Imagination for a World of Constant Change' by Thomas and Brown, which helped me build confidence in my ideas about learning and teaching. I wrote about this experience in my blog post titled 'The Power of Perspective.' While composing my Learning Philosophy, I discovered theorists who supported my learning style, contributing to my confidence in leading my innovation plan.
In Semester Three, I learned how to write an article that I could eventually publish. Although I haven’t published it yet, I am aware that many publishers do not accept material that has already been posted online. Therefore, I have refrained from linking the assignments for that course. Also, during the third semester, I encountered one of the most crucial lessons this program could teach me: if everything is important, then nothing is important. In 'Rediscovering: WHY,' I discuss my motivation for starting the STEAM Club at my campus. While not explicitly mentioned there, I realized that my primary goal was to ensure that children, including my own daughter, never feel inadequate in their ability to learn. Although they may struggle with textbooks and lectures, engaging them in hands-on problem-solving allows them to learn at their own pace. I was determined to make a difference, and this became apparent through my participation in the Influencer study. I acquired valuable insights into effective leadership and learned how to engage in important conversations, which I further discuss in 'Points to Ponder: Effective Leadership.’
In Semester 4, I was given the opportunity to create both an online lesson and an alternative Professional Learning (PL) Plan. Additionally, I had to come up with a method to teach my coworkers how to use Canva without the ability to sit down and meet with them. I also had the intention of utilizing Canva for collaboration with other leaders in the STEAM group. This initiative resulted in the development of an alternative PL for Canva and the Online Canva Course.
As learning evolves, so will my innovation project. I don’t think it will ever be complete; it is a living entity that must change as everything else changes. While navigating the development of this innovation project, I have begun to understand my own way of learning better, as well as my daughter’s. This insight helps me see how other children learn differently, enabling us to better assist them in becoming lifelong learners.
The approach that worked best for me in implementing a STEAM Club at my campus was engaging in important conversations and learning how to conduct them. I look forward to being more involved in the future. This semester, I had to rely on many other people for the Club to be successful, and fortunately, many individuals stepped forward. We even had a teacher take on the Science Olympiad Team! I am excited to hear about how their first year went!
One way I plan to promote more communication within the project next year is by using a collaborative Canva with different tasks, allowing us to communicate within it even though we don’t have the time to plan together. If I pursue another innovation project in the future, the most crucial aspect will be having those important conversations with people who can encourage change. I will never be afraid to stand up for something that will benefit my students.
Reference:
Thomas, D., & Brown J. S. (2011). A New Culture of Learning: Cultivating the Imagination for a World of constant change. (Vol 219) Lexington, KY: CreateSpace.
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