Every February, there was a literary convention in town, Reading For The Love Of It.* It was a highlight on the calendar that was sorely needed when we were in the months of snowsuits, puddles of wet slush, lost mittens, and damp socks. It re-energized me to see all the newly published books, get some free-bees for my class, and attend the fascinating workshops. I’d discuss the new ideas with my colleagues during the breaks. We couldn’t wait to put them into action when we returned to class after the weekend.
Inspiration VS Implementation
This was the kind of inspiration that drove me to attend workshops and conventions: new ways to make learning and teaching more engaging and successful. I’m not saying that I never implemented the new ideas, but it was certainly an uphill battle to make the changes once I returned to class.
The times that I remember successfully following through on these workshop revelations, was when I had a teaching partner who was also invested in the new ideas. Then, it happened. We worked together to collect the new materials, organize them in our classrooms, and figure out how to insert them into our programmes. We each tried the new ideas with our students, and then discussed what worked, and what needed to be tweaked. It was a process made possible because of our collaboration. Without support, the fascinating workshop stayed theoretical. With support, there was improvement and growth.
Collaboration Leads To Success
Implementing good ideas takes work, support and time. As a coach, I offer myself as that “teaching partner” to help my clients implement their good ideas. We figure out the materials needed, and how the new ideas can fit into the client’s life. I’m a sounding board for the inevitable tweaking that needs to happen. It’s tremendously rewarding to watch a client take their intentions from theory to action. It doesn’t happen after only one session. Having regular sessions with a client ensures that we persist and don’t lose our momentum. For me, the collaborative nature of coaching takes the best part of working with a teaching partner into my new job as a coach.
What has helped you to take theory into action in your work or personal life? Comment below.
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