Yes We Can, Etc.
April 20th, 2009 by Dan Meyer
Kate Kowak is to math blogging what Barack Obama was to stump speeches:
My hope is that what we are witnessing here [with What Can You Do With This?] is a paradigm shift. At the intersection of problem-based lessons, digital projectors, blogging, and frustration with poor-quality textbooks, is blossoming a new way of bringing mathematical understanding to our kids. We don't need to buy anything new, or anyone's permission…just the structure, and the willingness to be observant and curious, and the humbleness to imagine that there might be a better way. I think this is just the beginning. I think this is going to spread like a fire.
One dissenting comment: It takes more than “willingness” to be “observant and curious.” It’s a habit. It takes diligence. And too many of our teachers are too much like Prez.
Oh, dear. I did sound like Barack Obama. Not the intention, but whatever. I’m high on cold meds.
And, of course, yes, persistence, hard work, etc., but in my experience that’s not so bad when you know something is going to be worth it.
Ok, so I watched the prez video. I think he fails Kate’s humility criteria. But I like what you’ve added: habit, diligence.
I’m still not 100% sure what ‘it’ is. But I’m so very inspired by all these blogs. They’ve gotten me through a way overcommitted year still trying to do my lessons just a little bit better.
Sue