Walking into the March session with George Couros, I really didn’t have a clear idea of what innovative practice meant.  Throughout the day, I began to understand this concept and realize how innovation in the classroom (and school wide) allows students to feel empowered in learning.  As educators, we focus strongly on engaging students.  I still believe this remains a crucial part of the learning puzzle, but empowerment seems to be the missing piece.  Students need to become more invested in their education through practice and to effectively transfer new knowledge outside of the classroom in real life situations.
 
To help students further explore concepts introduced within the classroom, we need to provide them with the means to think critically, ask questions and seek answers.  Communication is key – allowing opportunities for students to converse with their peers and teachers promotes a safe environment where they feel comfortable taking charge of learning.  Conversations may even begin via social media sites.  Students can be resourceful by sending their questions out to the virtual world as learning happens everywhere.  Students can gain independence and build connections through doing so.
 
I think introducing the use of Twitter in the classroom is a cool way to safely expose students to the benefits of social media sites for educational purposes.  Being new to Twitter, I am looking forward to discovering ways to make use of the tool in the classroom.  I am willing to take on a ‘growth mindset’ as we continue forward with the sessions in this professional learning series.

Jillian Chaykowski
École Lansdowne
Cluster 1971