Tinker, Teacher, Techie Talk

In Chapter 9 of The Innovator's Mindset, George Couros (2015) says that we "...can make the most of new opportunities by embracing the role of learner. Immersing ourselves in the learning process will give us a much better understanding of the opportunities technologies bring to our students" (p. 141). This is the mentality an Instructional Technologist needs so they can be an effective leader in their school. I have tried to model this behavior in my own daily work as much as possible. One way I have modeled and explored new opportunities for learning at Lone Star College-CyFair is to volunteer to familiarize myself with the campus "One Button" studio and develop training for both faculty and students. Another way I have modeled this is by collaborating with the Program Manager for our professional development department to provide training on Mevo cameras that are available for checkout. I will be explaining how videos created with Mevo cameras can be...

I have been learning about, reflecting and meditating on leadership since the summer of 1997 when I spent a week sailing around the Florida Keys for the Sea Explorer Advanced Leadership Program. That program was created by a former FBI agent, who valued decisiveness and commanding others to act. His style didn't necessarily jibe with mine (sailing joke). I preferred to ask my crew for their input before making big decisions, and I enjoyed sharing ideas and knowledge to ensure that we were all on the same page. It seemed like collaborating with the crew and gaining their buy-in would ensure all of our safety as we sailed a 44 foot ketch around coral reefs.  The fundamentals of my leadership style haven't changed much since 97, but as I learn and grow in my current role, my style has evolved a bit. Although my position isn't considered to be a "leadership" position, I know that I can lead from any role. One way that my leadership style has evolved in the ...

In watching the "Dancing Guy" video this week, I realized that many of the leadership books I've read over the years have been perfectly condensed into this three minute video. I've always believed that the best leaders tend to lead by example, then blend into the crowd. It's not about glory and accolades, but about creating an environment that motivates others and encourages them to do their best and enjoy what they do. The dancing guy video sums that up quite nicely I think: I've been working to try to develop my own identity as a technology facilitator on my campus. When I started, I was replacing a brilliant and well-loved technologist and the bar was set quite high. I think I started developing my identity by making myself present in the adjunct workroom. I would sit in the lab all day and just talk to people as they came in. I would offer them assistance with the LMS and ask questions about how they wanted their online courses to be set up. Over...