Learning Presentations!

Last week at UPSM I helped Ms Mylor grade some of her classes exams. While helping her I had the opportunity to listen in on a learning presentation given by the student. Each student must give a learning presentation to show and reflect on what they have learned throughout the semester.

Listening to this student's presentation was quite a special moment for me and the highlight of my time here at UPSM. I was amazed at how introspective this student was at his age. He discussed how the best part of the semester for him was "learning to believe" in himself and to "never give up". He also chose "integrity" as his disciplined principle. He spoke how "integrity" was important to him. I was impressed that he chose this principle since it is so important in the times we are in today. The need for more people who demonstrate "integrity" is essential in managment and I am glad that he realizes this at such a young age. I am sure he has learned alot about integrity as a student at UPSM.

The student also shared the quote below from Eleanor Roosevelt and then proceeded with a slide show about Barack Obama both of which resonated with me in a powerful way.

"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent"

When the presentation was finished the audience (or students) gave stars and wishes (constructive feedback) to the student. One student's comments included stars for using video but that he wished the student would have given more eye contact throughout his presentation. It wasn't until college and my first job that I gave and received feedback from my peers. This is really an important lesson since the ability to give and receive feedback in the professional world is critical.

Once again I was impressed by the curriculum at UPSM.

Kiana Stringfield comes to UPSM!

Teaching Fellow and my Industrial & Operations classmate Kiana "KiKi" Stringfield joined me at UPSM a couple of weeks ago.  She came to class interested in learning more about the great learning environment and students.   I was so happy that she could join me.  During her visit she met with the superintendent Margaret to learn more about this unique program and interacted with teachers and students.  She expressed to me that she was extremely impressed with the school.  To learn more about KiKi's experiences please visit her blog: http://ypsdtf-kstring.blogspot.com/.

In my Instructional Leadership class I have also discussed my experiences at UPSM.  The students in this education course are planning on becoming principles or district leaders.  They have also expressed interest in visiting UPSM.  Hopefully we will be able to get them there to see a learning environment that works!

I am also planning a field trip for the students to come to U of M's design expo.  We are planning on the student's doing an activity and/or visiting a lab.  We plan to give them the full U of M experience so that these future engineers can better learn what we do and why they should come to University of Michigan (Go Blue!);). 

I am utilizing my organizational design skills to help students develop clubs at the school.  I created a survey to determine student's interest in certain clubs.  I can't wait to help the students get their first club off the ground!  I will keep you all updated on our progress.

Have a great weekend!