Classroom Conversations with LaShona Dickerson

Learning is not limited to the confines of physical space. Therefore, I am broadening the conversation and expanding the classroom. Conversations will no longer be limited school talk. Let's converse about LEARNING! Learning is ubiquitous. It happens everywhere. If you are living you should be learning and if you are not, well you need to be evaluated. Over the past few days, I have truly been rejuvenated as I held intercontinental discussions with diverse groups of professionals. The topics were authentic, the challenges were common, and the approaches to resolve were works in progress for all. My take away from London was inclusivity. While the focus was on digital inclusion, the conversation took me to mental places that were dormant. Now I want to be sure that I "unforget" the individuals and topics that have somehow faded in the background. The fabric of life and the fullness thereof is in the uniqueness of those that are brave enough to open their hearts and min

What is it, what is its impact and how can I build it for my students? As I explore the streets of London at the ripe age of 45, I connect with topics I recall not understanding as a young girl. I finally made the connection! As an Educator, I always believed in the power of building background knowledge to give individuals a perspective on what they were about to learn. This gives them perspective and a connection. With a connection, the learning experience is different and more engaging because they now have something to reference. POWERFUL! We must set the stage when introducing topics to students. We owe it to them to give them perspective, a connection that some will never have the opportunity to gain otherwise. With the use of technology, this is possible. Videos are great but won't work for every child. Virtual Reality, however, can place students in actual environments where they gain real perspectives on topics. I've read stories of Paddington Bear many times but