MAC Wk 4-4: Leadership Project Post -- GETTING PUBLISHED!

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"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day.  Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime"

 - - Chinese Proverb

As part of the Leadership Project, I have prepared an article for publication, based on my CBR project.  The focus of my CBR project and the article is motivation.  This was my area of focus because most of the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students I teach are highly intrinsically motivated to achieve their goals.  They are motivated by the desire to communicate well and thereby advance themselves in their new surroundings.  My premise was, that if the students were able to harness the power of new media, it would ensure their success.  With these ideas in mind, I devised a Challenge Based Research project to inspire and challenge a target audience of six students to seek out new media resources that would assist them in their language learning endeavors.  Their search was a self directed, independent inquiry and discovery activity that empowered the students to become confident in their ability to conduct research, gather resources and apply new media language learning tools to learn on their own.   I have decided to share my article by submitting it for publication to the Educational Technology Research and Development Journal as my first choice.  

My second choice is the journal, Language Learning & Technology.  Please read Leadership Project Post #3 (link below) for details on why I chose these two publications. 

The following are links to my previous posts describing the progression of my Leadership Project:

Leadership Project Post #1 --BRILLIANT ROLE MODELS

Leadership Project Post #2 -- PUBLISH OR PRESENT? -- THINKING OUT LOUD

Leadership Project Post #3 -- GETTING PUBLISHED! -- THINKING OUT LOUD 

Independent learning and lifelong learning are particular areas of interest for me.  I believe that teaching and learning should not begin and end in the classroom.  Teaching and learning opportunities are all around us.  Moreover, new media has added a brilliant dimension to the learning scenario and it offers amazing opportunities for those who are willing to seek them out and use them.  My article may be viewed here:

Motivation: Inspire Inquiry of Language Learning Tools 

 

MAC Wk 4-3: Classmate Comment 2

 

Derek Gualandri:

week 4 MAC reading of Art Of Possibilities 9-12

Chapter 9. Lighting a Spark. It’s not about us. It’s about them. What are you 

doing to pay-forward from your universe of possibility?

This Chapter reminds me about how you get what you want from people. I learned a long time ago, that in order to get what you want from say your boss is to make it seem like their idea! I like that fact that one should conduct business face-to face. I think when all parties are included and that the Spark of excitement is prevalent that all prevail. This chapter was pretty cool to view Zander's perspective on the universe of possibility. 

The statement about , "Certain things in life are done better in person."

When we believe and are excited about something others will be too.

Chapter 10. Being the Board: It's not them. It's not the circumstances. It's me. It's my choices. Now what do I do?

I enjoyed this chapter because it reminded me of a statement I once heard about life. " If it is going to be, it is up to ME!" I feel that we are in charge of our own destiny to a point. I think we control the string of our own puppet. We have to make "IT" happen.  When we are young, it is hard to see the BIG PICTURE.

WOW!!!!!! ZANDER is an Inspiration.

Can you say WOW. So many of us see ourselves as a pawn in a big game of chess.

The 1st part of THE PRACTICE

This is a great statement Zander makes. People should really think how true this is.

Zanders word are so true and inspiring.

Again, Zander is Brilliant. 

Chapter 11. Creating Frameworks for Possibility: How do I take this flash of insight and make it into daily thing? And how do I share this with others?

This  little blurb about Dr. Martin Luther King where dreaming can make a difference. This reminds me about the time I meet a boyhood hero. His Name was Ernie Banks, "Mr. Cub". I meet him at Mike Ditka's restaurant in Chicago. He was sitting down enjoying a glass of red wine. I went over to him to just ask him for his autograph, and as I asked Mr. Cub invited me to sit and talk for a while. We proceeded to talk for the next 3 hours about life, about baseball, and about lives accomplishments. One thing that is so vivid to me about that encounter was he signed this menu card THINK BIG Ernie Banks Mr. Cub. I never forgot about that encounter. I appreciated that Ernie invited me to chat with him. Years later, I thought to myself, What does it mean to THINK BIG? I then began to look up information online about what Ernie had to overcome to be a great baseball player and what scarifies he had to make to THINK BIG. If he had never DREAMED BIG he may never have become MR. CUB. I appreciate the little things that happen in life and the experiences we gain from those encounters. Awesome.

Actual autograph of Mr. Cub.

Chapter 12. Telling the WE Story: I told you it wasn't about you. Have you been able to tap into the power of combining your expertise and passions with someone equally gifted? Have you had the pleasure of lifting a teammate, student, stranger up enabling them to realize their dreams and exceed anything that you could have imagined?


As I read through the Telling of We story, a picture popped in my head about how this is so true and how it effects us as teachers and people. I thought about How Bad I am when I tell the students that they have to pass the end of the year courses test in order to pass Algebra. I Tell them that I have already passed Algebra all the way up to college Algebra 2 , and I don't have to pass it. I already graduated from High School.  I actual was a bit disappointed that day in them on how little effort they put forth and how disruptive and disappointed I am with the fact I cared more then they did about passing High School.  I drew a big red 45 on the board and placed a circle around it and said to them this is the average score on the midterm. Not a really good move. I decided that I was saying them them them instead of how can we work toward excellence. I was frustrated with the behavior of the students and reacted on an instance instead of on the Arts of Possibilities. I need to convey to my students that WE are all in this together and with US working toward the same goals We came reach them. Sometimes though I do not think They want to be part of We.

Another quick story about Lifting someone up. I had This Beautiful spirited Student whom was a senior in my math class. She had such troublesome high School career thus far until she meet me. I inspired her to be the best she could be and did not judge her for her negative past. I gave her a clean slate and told her that I believer in her and she could do well and graduate if she worked toward those goals. At graduation that cool Saturday in June, Amanda tracked me down and handed me a card and gave me a big hug and said Thanks. So, Later that Night as I drove home I opened the card and it read:

Dear Coach G, 
Thanks for Believing in me when no one else would. 


Sincerely 
Amanda

This was the first time I truly felt Like I had made a difference and Lifted someone up.


to be continued:

2 comments:

1. 
   Derek GualandriJan 28, 2012 11:43 AM

   I really enjoyed this Book Art of Possibilities. I think I am going to buy a dozen books and give to friends as gifts. Thanks Joe and The Zander.

   Reply
2. 
   GailJan 28, 2012 09:26 PM

   Derek, you have given a thorough examination of the chapters with great insight and references to important highlights. Thank you for sharing your experience of meeting your boyhood hero. It is really exciting to get a view into the life of another and learn how their experiences shaped their successes. I believe that reviewing the successful strategies of others can give us an edge when planning our own success. The encourage you received from Mr. Cub was wonderful. I particularly like the way you added your personal impressions, thoughts and applications for teaching to the chapter reviews.

MAC Wk 4-2: Classmate Comment 1

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Joseph Hudson:

MAC Week 4-1: Reading Post

Chapter Nine (Lighting A Spark) was a very interesting read. I would have to agree with the authors that each person has within them a “spark of possibility”. Our job is to have the capability and mindset to have other people’s spark catch fire. As it is put in the book, the way to do this is:

1.   Imagine that people are an invitation for enrollment
2.  Stand ready to participate, willing to be moved and inspired
3. Offer that which lights you up
4. Have no doubt that others are eager to catch the spark

What this is saying is that you must believe that each person has the possibility for greatness, be ready yourself to inspire, show what excites you, and believe that others WANT to be inspired!

Chapter Ten (Being The Board) talks about changes the aspects of life into your favor. Don’t play the blame game on other people, but look at the aspects behind the situation and figure out a way to change it. The reason behind this is because the minute you place the blame elsewhere, you lose your ability to have a say in the outcome. It is out of your hands. To do quote the Andrew Lloyd Webber music “Jesus Christ Superstar”: PONTIOUS PILATE: I wash my hands of your demolition.

Chapter Eleven (Creating Frameworks For Possibility) discusses the fact that things may appear to be going in a downward spiral, but each one of us has the opportunity or ability to change that in three simple steps:

1. Create a feeling of substitution for this downward spiral
2. Make the effort of making the new philosophy everything
3.  Keep track of what is going right and what is going wrong

This is a great philosophy, because if you do not make the effort to change things around you and make that your goal….nothing will change for you.

Chapter Twelve (Telling The WE Story) discusses the WE story. The WE story to me is very similar to the six degrees of separation. The WE story says you must:

1.  Tell the story that relates to all
2.  Listen and look for the rising person or things around you
3. Ask yourself “where do WE go from here?”

What a concept! We are all connected, all we have to do is look around us for someone or something else to join us and figure out where to go to make everything better TOGETHER!

MAC Wk 4-1: Reading Post -- THE ART OF POSSIBILITY

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“Certain things in life are better done in person.”

- - Ben Zander, quoting his father Walter Zander, from The Art of Possibility

Chapter nine of The Art of Possibility, Lighting a Spark, brought tears to my eyes as I read, through the chapter.  Through the stories in this chapter, I reconfirmed that making connections with others and lighting a spark has amazing potential to create a huge blaze of success in any venture.  I learned, confirmed and reinforced many things in my mind by reading this chapter.  I have had some experiences similar to the one described by Roz and I was hugely inspired by her story of the bicycle incident.  Thinking in terms of possibilities instead of impossibilities is a refreshing paradigm shift.  I like the way she explained the dynamics of the shift in perception as the three people involved changed their perception and transcended an impasse.  The remainder of the chapter is an incredible description of events surrounding the development of a music intervention program for a failing school.  Though Ben sought to enroll another in his venture, he became enrolled in a bigger venture that encompassed his own.  I learned that enrollment on either side of an interaction equation has within it the tremendous power of synergy.  The creative venture of the collaborating members is limited only by the imaginations of those involved.  The quote above that I chose from this chapter was very inspiring to me.  The story of Ben’s father and his remembrance of the lesson he learned on personal interaction came into play beautifully, when he chose to approach and enroll Rostropovich, the renown cellist.  I thoroughly enjoyed this chapter and I plan to apply the lesson of lighting a spark and enrollment in my life and work.

“You can always grace yourself with responsibility for anything that happens in your life.  You can always find within yourself, the source of any problem you have.”   - - Rosamond Zander, from The Art of Possibility      

Chapter ten - Being the Board, “You move the problematic aspects of any circumstance from the outside world inside the boundaries of yourself.” Chapter ten is about taking responsibility for what happens in your own life.  Not blaming others and not blaming yourself for circumstances and situations but viewing negative events from a new perspective.  I like this chapter because I feel that it is empowering to think in these terms. The alternative is, being frustrated by problems, giving control of your life to others, and being a victim of circumstances.  This chapter shows how a simple adjustment of perspective can change the course of events in ones life and open up new possibilities.  The stories and examples in this chapter clearly illustrate the dynamics of being the board and taking responsibility by asking the simple question:  “How did this situation get on the board that I am?  From this vantage point, it is easy to reassess a situation and create new possibilities that will turn the tide and get things moving in a different direction, more advantageously.

Chapter eleven, the eleventh practice of Creating Frameworks for Possibility is about resisting the “downward spiral” that can easily draws us into a negative system of thinking, sowing and reaping.  The chapter begins with a mention of the “I Have a Dream” speech by Dr. Martin Luther King and describes a leadership role as touching others and creating a chain reaction that opening up possibilities for the greater good.  I appreciate the notion that everyone can be a leader in any situation and create a framework that allows for the fresh air of new possibilities.  This type of leadership has the power to transform situations from negative/stagnant to positive/dynamic.  The stories and examples in this chapter provide excellent insight into the use of the practice.  I particularly appreciate the explanation of the difference between a “visionless” mission statement and one that contains a vision that will provide a springboard to possibilities as opposed to a springboard to the downward spiral.  One of my favorite quotes, a quote by Nelson Mandela, was provided in this chapter:

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.  Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.  It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.  We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous – Actually, who are you not to be?  You are a child of God.  Your playing small doesn’t serve the world.  There is nothing enlightening about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.  We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us.  It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone, and as we let our own life shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”  - - Marianne Williamson, A Return to Love, (New York: Harper Collins, 1992) - - as quoted in The Art of Possibility (Formatting has been changed)

This chapter was inspirational in that it made me think about my creative resources and ability to structure a framework for amazing outcomes.

Chapter twelve, the final chapter of The Art of Possibility, Telling the We Story is about human connections and the fact that we are all part of the same story in one way or another.  Often, making meaningful connections means coming to terms with historical injustices and forging new possibilities based on a renewed collective vision.  This chapter drives home the fact that there is always more than one perspective to an event or experience involving people.  I particularly liked the account of Ben Zander’s father relating the histories of the Jewish people and the Arab people going all the way back to Abraham and culminating in Palestine in 1947.  The resulting quote from a student provided a profound realization that things can be different if people are willing to look for opportunities to converge and appreciate the strengths one another other possess.  Thereby, they can work together for the good of all.  The story of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, TRC in South Africa also provided a profound realization about the power of people to connect and rise above the role of perpetrator and victim, to reconciliation and the possibility of a brighter future.  This chapter was very meaningful for me in that it reminded me that possibilities mean that we are never alone and there is always a “we”.  The We Story can be a formidable force to employ in bringing about the bright future that we envision, hope for and work toward.  The Art of Possibility is a “must read” for anyone interested in being proactive about creating a life of their dreams with unlimited opportunities and possibilities.          

MAC Wk 3-5: Wimba Post -- THE ART OF POSSIBILITY

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The Wimba session this week was very informative.  I enjoyed the review of the text, The Art of Possibility and the questions that made me think about what would be most beneficial to me from the text and what would be a great take-away as I move forward to the culmination of the EMDT MS program and beyond.  It is my opinion that the book, The Art of Possibility transcends the average self help/think and be book in that it provides food for thought and introspection, rather than a cookie cutter routine of positive thinking.  It forces the reader to look inward, to become more reflective and to apply the examples and exercises provided to their own lives.  It was very interesting to see my classmates responses to the questions posed regarding the text.  I think that my best take away from the book is from Chapter six on Rule Number 6, not to take yourself too seriously.  Injecting comic relief is sometimes the best medicine to cure any situation.  I have heard of teachers being so stressed out, they were at the point of heart attacks and death.  One teacher I worked with was so stressed out that he died grading papers in the teacher's lounge.  If he had observed Rule Number 6, it may have saved his life.

The information provided about the upcoming week's activities, including the presentation during the Wimba session next Wednesday was very valuable.  It gave me an overview of what to expect and to prepare for as I work on my presentation.  Also, the description of our substitute Jason as a lively person makes the anticipation of the presentation session more enjoyable.  Finally, the information about the month 12 activities was extremely helpful as, a lot was clarified and demystified.  I particularly appreciate the encouragement to keep up the pace and not to relax because of the seemingly lighter upcoming month 12 schedule.  Thank you Professor Joe!

MAC Wk 3-4: Leadership Project Post -- GETTING PUBLISHED! -- THINKING OUT LOUD

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The two publications I have chosen to pursue for publication of my CBR project are: Language Learning & Technology (http://llt.msu.edu/intro.html) and Educational Technology and Development (http://www.aect.org/intranet/Publications/index.asp).  Both of these publications accept submissions online and publish research in several categories within the field of my CBR project.  After reading about the types of articles and research that is accepted by both of the journals, I feel that these two will be good choices for me to pursue.  
I chose the journal, Language Learning & Technology, specifically because it is a journal that deals with language learning and technology.   It is a refereed journal that is concerned with the sharing of scholarly information with language teachers here and abroad.  They specialize on issues related to technology and second language education.  My CBR deals with motivation and the independent inquiry of language learning technology tools by ESOL students.  Therefore, I believe that the information I have to share is appropriate for this source.

In addition, I am very excited about what I have read on the Association for Educational Communications and Technology website.  This organization is the publisher of the Educational Technology Research and Development journal.  They state on their website that, "they are the only scholarly journal in the field focusing entirely on research and development in educational technology."  I believe that my research will be a good fit for this publication.  Their articles are geared toward K-12 teachers as well as college level educators and corporate trainers.  I feel confident that the information I have to share from my CBR will be valuable to these two publishers.

MAC Wk 3-3: Classmate Comment 2

 

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"Why so serious Batman?"

Marquita Gulley

MAC Week 3 Blog Post

Chapter Five taught me that you do not have to be the conductor of an orchestra to be a leader. I lead from my position now.  Everyone is a leader no matter what they do. Being a leader is not defined as your position or title but by what you do. By making a difference in my community, I am a leader. Being a leader is also letting someone else do the shining and not holding the spotlight for you.

Chapter 6 teaches one to relax and enjoy life. Do not take things so seriously. Reminds me of quote for a Batman movie that I recite often “Why so serious batman?” I know it is a crazy quote to remember but it reminds me so much of this chapter. So often we get caught up in things and ourselves that we forget to relax a little.  It is not always about the title you have or who sees you. It’s about relaxing and taking in what you can.

Chapter 7 teaches you to accept your mistakes.  Some things in life happen for reasons we cannot control. Sometimes it really just is “the way things are.” This chapter teaches you ways to cope and understand what is happening in life.  It reminds me of a book that helps you cope with losing someone.

Chapter 8 giving the way to passion makes you take a look at yourself and realize what you should change about yourself.  Look at your whole self and taking away the boundaries that keep you from everyone else.

3 comments:

1. 
   Derek GualandriJan 21, 2012 09:12 AM

   @ Marquita,
   
   I love the batman quote. I agree we some times take ourselves and others too serious. Sometimes things just happen for reasons is so true too, yet we are in charge of our own destiny to a point. We position ourselves to become successful like in this incredible journey at FULL SAIL EMDT program. Thanks for sharing your view of Zanders message in the Art of Possibilities.
   Derek

   Reply
2. 
   LexiJan 21, 2012 08:07 PM

   @ Marquita
   
   Bravo! Your summary of the chapters was concise and poignant. It provided the reader with a clear understanding of the material in the chapters. “Why so serious?” was one of my favorite quotes from that movie and definitely captures the spirit of chapter 6’s practice. Overall, you did a great job!

   Reply
3. 
   GailJan 22, 2012 03:55 PM

   Marquita, I love the way you distilled the chapters down to the basic essentials yet you touched on the most important points in your review. I also love the Batman quote. I think that it is great to have little one liners to help make on-the-spot attitude adjustments. I like what you said about everyone being a leader. I believe that and it reminds me of a statement: "everyone can teach you something". There are lessons all around and leaders everywhere we look. Some lead in a good direction and some lead astray. Ultimately, it's the follower who makes the choice and leads herself or himself behind the leader.

MAC Wk 3-2: Classmate Comment 1

Joseph Hudson singing with quartet members

JOSEPH HUDSON

MAC 3-1: Reading Post

Chapter Five (Leading From Any Chair) tells of how the author changed his own philosophy about leadership from that of the sole conductor of the orchestra to the facilitator of others passions and expressions. To be a true leader, as he states, you must be able to admit when you are wrong and show those you are leading that you are wrong. As the conductor of a chorus, I would have to say that one of the first things you are taught is that the singers are to express the meaning of the song and that you, under no circumstances, get in the way of the singer and the audience.

Chapter Six (Rule Number 6) tells a few stories, but the two that stood out to me most were the first two. Number one tells the story of where Rule Number 6 comes from. Two Prime Ministers are interrupted three times and each time, the interrupter was greeted with “REMEMBER RULE NUMBER 6”. Rule Number 6 is very simple…DON’T TAKE YOURSELF TOO GODDAMN SERIOUSLY!” The second is that of how to relieve tension in a band rehearsal, simply talk about falling cows. As a conductor of a chorus, I would have to agree. If my humor was not involved in rehearsals, I know we would not have as many members.

Chapter Seven (The Way Things Are) discusses two ways of looking at situations. You can either look at a bad situation as “this is what was planned and then this happened and this is how I feel about it” or you can look at it as “this is what was planned and then this happened, but I will do something else and not let the change bother me.” To quote a friend of mine: CHANGE IS INEVITABLE, EXCEPT FROM A VENDING MACHINE.

Chapter Eight (Giving Way To Passion) discusses ways to change accomplishments that others would find ordinary into truly magical and amazing feats. The example given about Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata is absolutely true. In order to truly appreciate the music, the player must draw the audience in by not only mastering the triplet feeling, but also the beauty and texture of the melody line above it all.

2 comments:

1. 
   LexiJan 21, 2012 08:26 PM

   @Joe
   
   Your insight into the text is really good. You were not only able summarize the material covered, but you spoke of the application of the rules in your life which adds your personal touch and the impact the text had on your life. Overall, the summary was great! Great job!

   Reply
2. 
   GailJan 22, 2012 02:40 PM

   Joe, I was looking forward to reading your presentation of the chapters from the text because I knew I would appreciate your music leadership experience. You have provided additional insight from a vantage point similar to that of the author. I love the way you interpreted the example of Beethoen's Moonlignt Sonata and your friend's quote is priceless: "CHANGE IS INEVITABLE, EXCEPT FROM A VENDING MACHINE". (LOL) I love it! You have provided me with two excellent quotes, (one here and one on my post) that I know I will use in my work. Thank you.

MAC Wk 3-1: Reading Post -- THE ART OF POSSIBILITY

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"There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you through all time, this expression is unique.  And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost.  The world will not have it.  It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions.  It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open."

--Martha Graham, quoted by Agnes DeMille,    

Martha: The life and work of Martha Graham

The discussion of leadership in Chapter five of The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander is interesting and profound.  As the title of the chapter ( Leading From Any Chair) suggests, leaders are those who choose to take a leadership role, regardless of their assigned role or designation.  Leadership involves taking the initiative that others can follow to strive for a desired outcome.  Often, people with strong leadership ability do not have direction or they are negative leaders who lead others to negative outcomes.  I believe that all people have leadership potential whether or not they choose to exercise it.  However, from the prospective of a teacher it is excellent to recognize the leadership potential that students have to influence one another and to channel that ability through student centered activities and cooperative grouping.  In this chapter, I particularly liked the story about the legendary quartet that played their music from memory.  Their alertness and ability to step in to pick up the slack for each other was what made them successful.  This was a great example of shared leadership.

Chapter six, Rule Number 6, is full of poignant stories and light-hearted surprises.  It provides a reminder not to take yourself too seriously and to work toward moving from the rigid, serious, "calculating self" to the free, light-hearted, generous, "central self".  Posing the question, "What would have to change for me to be totally fullfilled" and playing the game "Have the best sex ever" are great exercises to help a person break through the confines of the calculating self to the central self.  The stories in this chapter were amazing.

"The way things are" is an unusual title for a chapter.  However, Chapter seven is initiated with a dialog from the movie Babe that expresses the concerns of animals who may be destined to become dinner at some time or another.  Through this dialog, the authors present a contrast between two outlooks, one of resignation and one of indignation.  These attitudes are examined and refuted within the chapter.  The authors assert that neither outlook is advantageous.  They propose that a zen type mindfulness be applied to the way things are, so that we are "being present without resistance".  This practice allows for circumstances to be brought into perspective, further allowing for acceptance, emotional honesty and transcendence.  The story of Jane Goodall's work and her ability to apply the principle of acceptance of the way things are, to reach greater possibilities, provided a touching highlight to this chapter.

Many authors have written about finding your passion and following your passion.  I think that it is undeniable that passion is a key element, recognized as a determining factor for success.  However, in Chapter eight, "Giving Way to Passion", the Zanders have written about passion in another perspective.  Their stories seem to describe passion as a unique, energy of expression that propels an accomplishment into the realm of extraordinary.  I really like all of the stories and anecdotes related to music and musicians.  It is exciting to hear about their struggles and how they must master their art while uniquely expressing themselves creatively.  It is easy to see how passion fits in through the examples provided.

MAC Wk 2-5: Wimba Post -- COPYRIGHT ISSUES

 

The Wimba session for this week dealt with copyright issues and an overview of the Leadership Project.  I enjoyed the review of the issues regarding Copyright, Fair Use and Creative Commons.  The quiz questions helped to reinforce and fix the facts in my mind: copyright is a permanently fixed work that can be seen or heard.  Only the copyright owner can use the work.  The copyright period is the lifetime of the owner plus 70 years for an individual and 100 years for a company.  Books, plays, films/movies, dance, music can be copyrighted.  Fail Use covers some limitations to copyright.  However, Fair Use is not a right but a legally defensible positon.  In the case of Fair Use there are four categories of use: parody, news, teaching, critical commentary, with two additional considerations; that it's a small amount and that it doesn't interfere with the copyright holders ability to capitalize on the work.  The Creative Commons solution is a wonderful contribution and I particularly like the use of symbols to denote the different types of licenses available to use work within the Creative Commons.  Thank you Professor Joe for the idea to partner with a Fullsail music student to have music made especially for you.  Moreover, the explanation of the Leadership project was very helpful.  I enjoyed the Wimba session this week.  I have a question that is of a legal nature like copyright issues:  I would like to gain an understanding of photographic releases.  No one has discussed it so far in the EMDT program and we do a lot of video production.  When you want to use another person's image, voice or artwork in a video production what is the best form to use as a release?  Is a release always needed?  What are the risks if a release is not used?

MAC Wk 2-2: Classmate Comment 1

Joseph Hudson:

MAC Week 2-1: Reading Post

The Art of Possibility is extremely interesting to read. It puts ideas in a new perspective.

Chapter One (Invented) begins with the story of two scouts going to Africa. Each comes back with a different perspective on what is going on in Africa. One states that the “situation hopeless…no one wears shoes” whereas the second states that “great opportunity…no one wears shoes.” A great way to look at this situation is the Winston Churchill saying: “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” You can INVENT your own outlook…just depends on your frame of mind.

Chapter Two (Stepping Into A Universe Of Possibility) discusses the idea of new inventions are the “order of the day.” This brings to mind the thought that it is someone’s way of thinking that leads to an open mind. And open minds are what lead to new inventions. So, someone must instill upon themselves the belief and process of having an open mind. Once your mind is open, a “universe of possibility” will open up to you.

Chapter Three (Giving An A) discusses the thought process behind grades and attitudes toward achievement. It says that both attitude and achievement are on an individual basis. You should not compare yourself to THE NORM. An exercise that was given I utilize for my chorus all the time. Have your students write a letter dated for the end of the semester, and have them explain why they received the grade that they do. This allows them to think about who they WILL be, and how THEY will get there.

Chapter Four (Being A Contribution) is truly thought provoking. It instills the philosophy that we are a gift to the world. It suggests that we determine our day by day triumphs by the contributions we ourselves make upon the world around us. A great way to look at life. “Glass half full!”

So far this book has brought up a lot of ideas and philosophies I had forgotten about. I cannot wait to see what the rest of this book holds.

I leave you with this video of a Band Director explaining how an “A” is not enough.

1 comments:

GailJan 15, 2012 12:35 AM

Joe, I love your comments about the chapters of the book, The Art of Possibility. You have provide an excellent summary with illuminating insights of your own. I particularly like the quote you have given by Winston Churchill. It is very appropriate and meaningful in this context. Also, thank you for the video of the band leader. That is a great way to sum up your post.

MAC Wk 2-4: Leadership Project Post -- PUBLISH OR PRESENT? -- THINKING OUT LOUD

 

 Image from Morgue File:  http://morguefile.com/archive/display/57676

After much consideration and thought, I have decided to publish my CBR project as an article in an industry journal.  As a college professor, it is deemed highly favorable to publish or present within the scholarly community.  At many four year colleges, it is an unspoken rule that every professor must "publish or perish".  That refers to the fact that most universities expect their professors to be actively engaged in the scholarly community by contributing academic research that elevates the image of the university.  Although, I teach on the community college level and I am an adjunct instructor, this activity is good practice for me as I continue to position myself for advancement in my field.  There are many journals that focus on ESL/ESOL (English as a Second Language/English for Speakers of Other Languages) and the state of the art for teaching ESL/ESOL.  Generally, though presenting is a separate option, it can also follow a published article.  Therefore, publishing can be considered a first step followed by a presentation of the published article as a second step.  I am looking forward to seeing my work in print in a regional or national publication and I am currently researching to find the right publication for my CBR project.      

MAC Wk 2-3: Classmate Comment 2

Derek Gualandri

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

week 2 reading

As I sit down to read and embrace the book Art of Possibility, I find it to be very engaging, motivating, and right on queue for me in my life. The first four chapters related to me as if Zander had me in mind while he was writing this book.

It’s All Invented: Most of my life, I tend to worry about what others are saying and how they viewed me instead of painting my own self-portrait. I lived up to others expectations and did not hold myself to my expectations. At times, I am not sure that I expected much from myself. My parent’s expectations were not that unreachable either, and the goals they set for my brothers and myself were not that high. My parents just did not want us to get in trouble whether it was at school or by the cops. WOW ! What a high expectation my parents set. My mother whom was very educated with a degree from Michigan State grew up in a prestigious family where her father was an inventor who graduated from Harvard Business School. My father was an Italian who joins the Army yet was discharged for conduct unbecoming.  My mother was a florist who was great at what she did, the best in whole town. Her shop was named FLOWERS by HELEN.  My Father was a glassier, which often would drink on the job. This would be the demise of his occupation.  So mother worked all the time at the flower shop while raising 3 boys virtually on her own, while father would sit on a stool ordering Miller Lites one after another until he would drink himself to sleep. Most of the time he was asleep by 7 pm. He tried to be a good father yet had no idea what a good father was. His father died at a critical developmental stage of his life when he was only 16. A high school student with no father in the 1950’s in an Italian neighborhood on the outskirts of Chicago was a tough time to grow up without a great role model. No role model to teach him how to be a great father. The great moments fathers and sons have together were often missed because of his absents. For some reason he would drown his sorrows at the local watering hole. So, my mother and fathers expectations for their children were to graduate from high school and don’t get in serious trouble. Furthermore, I believe life happens for many reason! Many of my high school teachers and friends never thought that I would attend college and actually graduate from a four-year institution of learning, University of South Florida, let alone high school. So, I have re-invented myself, and decided to get educated with earning a B.A. degree in Criminology from USF. All my life I have wanted to live a little better then my folks lived. I did not want to struggle like they did. Even though we did not have lots of money we always had everything we need to survive the basic, food, shelter, clothes, and LOVE( a lot more from mother then father). With all that being said, I have re-invented whom I am, and I strive to be ME. Who am I, just ME? I am a fun, funny, caring, passionate, sensitive individual who just wants serenity while riding a soft tail down route 66 from Chicago to California.

no know copyrights restrictions the cubs are stepping in to the universe of possibilities.  they have not won a world series since 1908

Stepping into a Universe of Possibility: I totally agree with Zander about how we view things can lead to greater possibilities. I try to convey this to my students everyday. I tell them that we did not get to go to Toys R Us and pick our parents because our parents brought us in to this world. Our parents are usually the biggest influence in our lives. They model what they have learned and we as their child mimic the lessons they are teaching. So, I tell my students that you do not have to be limited to what your parents have taught you. You have a whole world of possibilities available to you with in your grasp, yet you have to reach for them. Zander states in the video Professor Bustillios had us view about success are accomplished with shinning eyes. Parents need to look in to the eyes of their children and see if they are projecting the right lessons to live by.  Many parents do not realize that their misery is producing misery for their children. My point is that if you want great thing to happen, you have to create great thing. Even though your parents were negative, doesn’t mean you have to be that way. Start to view the African natives without shoes as the possibility to introduce them to new ideas. Like the one salesmen sought the great possibility to sell them all shoes. The glass is half full instead of half empty, optimism at its best.

I, myself, stepped out over the forbidden edge with attempting to earn a Masters degree at an online Institution know as Full Sail University. Only 6 % of Americans have earned their masters and I will soon be part of that elite group. When I first started at Full Sail in 2008, I got through the first course with an A only to drop out of the second course because I did not have the knowledge, drive, or discipline to dredge through the horrible challenge that faced me. Also, the professor did not give us an A when we started which made me feel that I was not successful. Just a little Pun joke. Now I have had a tremendous journey through this elite program. I have been thoroughly engaged in each and every course. I owe a big thank you to a fellow student named Cassie Conners, who has inspired me to be better then I have ever imagined. She has been my rock through most of my EMDT experience. I thank her from the bottom of my heart. Thank you Cassie!

Giving an A: Giving Yourself an A. Before I attended Full Sail University, I have never ever really saw myself earning A’s in a masters program. I am one that gets frustrated if you do not engage me right away and I have to produce busy work projects that teach me nothing. I usually earned B’s and C’s in my course in college!  As I move through this journey and move closer and closer to the edge, I strive to be the best I can be. I deserve those A’s. I want to make a difference in the world. I want to be a better teacher. I comprehend the possibilities we have if we don’t get stuck inside the little box. Through most of my journey, I felt that my goals  to make it to month 11 were going to be filled with tremendous obstacles, yet I consistently saw the big picture. The end result. A Masters Diploma hanging on my office wall surrounded by a cherry frame. What a beautiful accomplishment hanging on My Wall of Fame. I kept telling myself that I could make it like the little train that could.  I just have to learn to manage my time correctly while  take one step at a time and everything else would work itself out. When I needed a boost, I would lean on my dear friend Cassie.  I love what Zander expressed to us about how you are viewed when you are given an A compared to having to be pressure to earn the A. How much more important we are as professional and how we view our self-portrait when we are told we will have an A.

Being a Contribution: I feel like I try to make a difference in my students and friends life everyday. I try to teach life’s little lesson to them in a way they understand. At school, I talk honestly to my students and tell them the truth about things as how I view them. I try not to sugar coat the situation or the lesson. I tell them honestly my opinions. I refer back to what I heard on the Oprah Winfrey show one day , She said, ”If you help enough people get what they need, you will get what you need.” I love that statement and try to live by that as well. I also tell them, "It takes a life time to build a reputation, and 5 minutes to blow it all up.”  I let them know on how to deal with people effectively is all in how you say thing yet not what you say. I feel like some of my little darling students are getting the point or message I am trying to convey to them. Some of my students over the years have told me that I should be a motivation speaker and will you please share some more life’s lessons with us. Many have said that I inspire them to be a better person to themselves their family, and their teachers. My goal is that one-day that I can inspire many young people to see the big picture and guide them to be a great contributor in their community and their world.