As I am heading home from a full weekend of learning at Get Your Teach On, I also had an assignment due for my doctoral class…today. Applying Bassett’s Emergent Wisdom model, here is what my Get Your Teach On experience was like.

Discerning: Unplugging for True Learning

As an adult learner, I often find myself overwhelmed by daily tasks, potentially overlooking crucial learning opportunities. Inspired by Bassett’s approach, I intentionally eliminated digital distractions during sessions. By immersing myself fully in the content and resisting the urge to respond to constant phone notifications, I not only absorbed the material more effectively but also became more present with fellow attendees. This heightened presence allowed me to gain fresh insights from fellow educators and leaders, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Respecting: Embracing Discomfort for Growth

The conference pushed me beyond my comfort zone in various ways. Whether it was absorbing insights from leaders in the field on topics like MTSS, Critical Conferences, Classroom Walkthroughs, and Equity, I found practical knowledge and ideas to bring back with me. Opening up and actively engaging with fellow speakers allowed me to embrace discomfort, anchoring myself in diverse perspectives and gaining valuable insights. This willingness to step out of familiar territory not only broadened my understanding but also enriched my experience with practical takeaways for professional growth.

Engaging: Unexpected Acts for a Wider Impact

Wait, what Boys II Men will be featured at this conference? Oh, and you will be part of the opening act, dancing in front of 3,000 educators. While I was freaked out at the moment, this aligns perfectly with Bassett’s idea of engaging for the common good. It’s about contributing beyond oneself, echoing the essence of impactful education. So while I can’t gritty well (at all), I can contribute to the positive energy and pour into these incredible educators who took time away from their families, schools, and lives to be fully present and engaged. 

Transforming: From Drain to Gain

Leaving the conference mentally tired yet emotionally charged, I found it fascinating to slot these experiences into a cognitive framework. This reflection reinforces the ways adults can keep learning and growing.

In essence, merging Bassett’s Emergent Wisdom with Get Your Teach On has broadened my educational horizons. It’s a blueprint for fellow school leaders – embrace discernment, respect, engagement, and transformation for a continuous journey of learning and leadership growth. Or in other words, get out there…have fun and you might be surprised what you learn along the way.

…and let’s hope I get an A on this submission for class this week. 

Here if you need anything, and if you can, try to get out and learn something new and in a new way this week!

Photo Credit: daviderickson.photography

Merriam, S.B. & Baumgartner, L. M. (2020). Learning in Adulthood (4th ed.). John Wiley & Sons Inc. ISBN: 978-1-119-49048-7