Listen and Learn: What values do you express in the classroom?

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Downloadable Discussion Questions for PLCs.

In this episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett highlight insights from their interview with Dr. Kulvarn Atwal, an innovative headteacher and thought leader in education. Together, they explore the transformative power of questioning assumptions and aligning classroom practices with core values to foster creativity and flexibility in schools.

Episode Highlights:

• Real-world examples of how questioning classroom norms can unlock dialogue and creativity.
• The role of teacher autonomy and flexibility in promoting student engagement.
• Actionable strategies for creating shared values and expectations with students.

Key Quote from Dr. Kulvarn Atwal:
"I went into the second school, and the culture was: 'Everybody has to do the same thing because that's what they think consistency is.' That is not consistency. Consistency is consistency of values, consistency of expectations, consistency of aspirations—not consistency of doing the same thing. You're not going to get the outcomes for the children if everyone is doing the same thing."

Discussion Questions for PLCs:

1. What values guide your teaching practice, and how do they manifest in your classroom?
2. Are there any routines or assumptions in your school that could benefit from being questioned?
3. How can autonomy and flexibility inspire both educators and students?
4. How do you define "consistency" in your school or classroom? How does this definition impact creativity?
5. What strategies can you use to collaboratively set expectations and values with students at the start of the year?

Resources Mentioned:

• YouTube Video on Crafting Classroom Contracts by Dr. Cyndi Burnett
• Downloadable Discussion Questions for PLCs.

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