"The internet is like a self-service buffet for educators."

...These words were spoken to me in a conversation with colleagues at our recent Indiana MTA state conference, and really got me thinking...

We were discussing why it's difficult to attract new teachers to physical conferences in an age of abundant professional development material available online.

It really is like a self-service buffet: There is endless variety available, and we all get to choose what to learn more about, from whom, and in what quantity.

It sounds ideal, doesn't it?
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...that is, until you realize the limits of selecting only what appeals to you at first glance.

The beauty of a teacher conference is the fact that - yes, you get to choose what you attend - but there is still a strong likelihood you will find yourself sitting in on a session you would otherwise know very little about.

When we seek out resources online, it's very tempting to limit ourselves to particular voices, topics, or research theories that we already have some familiarity with.

(And, as a podcaster and online course creator, I am certainly grateful for those who consider me a trusted voice!)

...yet, my favorite takeaways from teacher gatherings almost always come from a speaker I'd never encountered before... or on a topic I knew little about.

This is reason #672 I believe in making necessary sacrifices to attend conference experiences, or local teacher group meetings.

Let's be honest: Life feels a circus. I am not likely to spend an hour independently researching works by lesser-known composers or studying new perspectives on technique. I have algorithms and feeds that routinely bring me the kind of information I'm most interested in.

But that's a bit of a problem, isn't it? As someone who values the learning process, isn't there a limit to my potential if I'm only consuming information about topics I already feel passionate about?
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I know my audience. If you are subscribed to this e-letter, you are obviously someone who readily admits the importance of lifelong learning. It's a cornerstone of my work, and I imagine you feel the same way.

...but let's be cautious to make sure we are actively seeking out new ideas, not just filling our brains with an echo chamber of our own thoughts.

• If your local teacher group brings in a speaker you don't think you'll enjoy, try going anyway. You might walk away surprised at what's been ignited inside you.
• Find a workshop or a local event for teachers and go; regardless of what you initially think of the programming.
• Read all the articles in your professional journals; not just the ones that immediately jump off the page.

...there's a lot to learn out there, even by taking note of what you don't agree with, or what you are not interested in. There's useful data to process from the experience either way. ☺️

Can you name a time you were surprised by what you learned at an event? HIT REPLY and tell me about it!

🥂As we embrace our status as Lifelong Learners, may we be intentional in seeking the path-less-traveled from time to time. 🥂

Other Ways I Can Help You:

On the Podcast This week's episode (one of my shortest EVER!) carries an important reminder: Our "Musician" status is irrevocable. Check out Episode 146. Listen Here

Patreon Community The Patreon Community keeps on growing! Join us for the ultimate win-win; supporting one another AND learning side-by-side. ​ Check Out the Patreon Here

Can't-Live-Without Repertoire I always find myself enjoying Jeanne Costello's ability to maximize a sequence and make the most out of patterns students love to play. Zombie Dance is a fun choice this time of year. Get Yours Here

One-to-One Teacher Consultations If you have questions about the ins-and-outs of getting more from TeacherLife, I'm happy to help. More details here

A Favorite Thing I've been fielding a lot of technical questions these days so I thought I'd share my trusty webcam that has served me well over the years. I'm very satisfied with the audio and visual components for online teaching. Find it on my Favorites List

NOW: Hit that REPLY button and tell me something you've learned at a teacher workshop (or elsewhere) that surprised you! 😊

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Onward and upward toward stepping outside our educational comfort zones! 🥂

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