I LOVE presenting! I totally get a rush from sharing what I do in my classroom. I don't even have to be a presenter, I just love being part of the conversation. Every conference I present at also allows me to really dig deep into my practice and reflect on what I do, and in return, makes me a better teacher. We know that when our students can teach each other, they truly understand the concept. It is much the same for teacher presenters.
Every time I write a presentation proposal, I examine my practice and begin by looking for evidence that my strategy works. It's amazing how much you can learn from this form of self-reflection. What teachers, and I, don't always realize is that we do such great things! When we are in the trenches day in and day out, we don't realize the ways we are revolutionizing teaching. We don't realize the services we are providing for our students. We need to share what we do! It sounds corny, but it is so true! It's got me typing in all !!!!!!
Presenting forces me to organize and share the great things I have created for my students. More importantly, I find areas where I can improve. When I write a proposal, I always add something new to my teaching and throw in a brief line stating that I will share outcomes of my practice. This forces me to do something. It's a learning experience, right?
I love hearing how my presentations have impacted other teachers. The feedback I get from participants, good or bad, always forces me to re-examine what I present and I always change or tweak my practice. As I type this post, I am preparing for a presentation tomorrow to a group of graduate students working towards their Gifted Endorsement. I am so excited to share with them and hopefully be a champion for differentiation.
The first time I presented, Student Math Portfolios, I was terrified, and alone. I didn't know if what I had to say would be useful to anyone. When I got into the room, I was so surprised to see people actually wanted to attend my session. There were a few people at first, but by the time my presentation began, it was standing room only! It was exhilarating and overwhelming. I was told to prepare for 30 attendees, and being the over-prepared teacher I am, I printed 50 copies of my handout. I don't know how many people actually attended, but I ran out of handouts and had to promise to email copies to those who did not receive one.
After that, I try to bring my inspirations along for the ride. Presenting is always better with a friend, and I have some of the greatest to choose from. Not only is it great to have someone to share the jitters with, but having another person to ask the tough questions before the presentation is another great way to process your information. I highly recommend using the buddy system when presenting, especially for the first time.
The best part of being a presenter is that you also get to be a learner. Since you are at the conference, you may as well attend a few sessions. Once again, you learn something new to tweak your practice.
I never thought I had anything important to say. It's what took me so long to begin this blog. But we all have something great to say. Please find something, anything, that you are doing in your class that highlights your awesome and share it with the world. If you can't think of anything, ask a student or colleague, I'm sure they can help you out. Still can't think of anything great to share? Maybe it's time to make a change...
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