754 Reading Reflection #2 Programming, Failing to plan=Planning to fail

    As I listened to Amy P's chat with Professor Byrd-Fort, the overwhelming fear that manifested as I filtered through Module 3 reading completely dissipated. The planning and pivoting skills that have been honed in the 16 years of teaching will aid me in programming for my school library. Even though I begrudgingly hear my Mom's voice in my title, it rings true when thinking about programming in a school library.   

    I have spent hours and days creating a unit or lessons only to have to pivot because we went in a different direction or, it did not go as planned.   As time went on,  I would plan in two different directions; backwards and forwards. Creating a template to fill in and create a familiar structure that students would respond to (forwards) and manifesting what needed to be achieved and figured out the steps we needed to get there (Backwards).  Using this structure will help when creating a programming plan for my k-8 program.  Dr. Feehan's ideas of pre planning and the simple idea of "looking up" to assess the learner in front of you were valuable reminders when planning. One can plan down to the smallest detail but without understanding the population you are aiming for can lead to a weak program.  

    Unlike Chandler in the above Friends meme, and as Dr.  Feehan suggested keeping an open mind and as Ms. Harris mentions using out of the box thinking when considering partnerships and program planning can strengthen any program.   Beyond the school systems near by school libraries could partner with local eateries, offices and venues  to immerse students into the world around them.  Creating extension lessons with a Doctor's office that is near by, could fortify the importance of taking care of your body and could be paired with a cooking lesson of a school family of healthy snack options. Finally you could feature various cook books and focus on how to read a recipe.   This scaffolding approach layers various literacies and connects them with the real world.  This was highlighted in the examples of successful programming.  

    All of the programming suggestions given in both modules set off ideas bouncing in my brain.  One idea is to pair with Boeing  or Bosch, two nearby companies, and work with them in creating a maker-space focused on simple machines.  Another would be to work with a local hip-hop artist and link poetry and rap for poetry month in April.  Regardless of all of the programming ideas, planning, structure and an open mind will offer a strong base to build off of.