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| http://mrg.bz/Wb4kqx By: kevin_p |
I really like the ending of the book, especially how it ties all the practices together in the sense that the theme that runs through these chapters I believe are about establishing and being part of a community. One of the major themes we have learned discussed and practiced in this program is the idea that we are better together than as one. It only makes sense that we read about this type of theme in a book such as this. Chapter 9 is a continuation of the thoughts and lessons of 7 and 8. Chapter 9 however speaks about extending those ideas to the point that everybody has the potential to be creative. To see growth in our own potential we need to think that every interaction with others is an opportunity to help others find their possibilities. I found the story about the at-risk school in London very heartwarming and a perfect example of this concept. Just providing the opportunity to create music for those students opened a new experience and potential musicians. This idea is not new and it brings to mind Rick Warren’s book, The Purpose Drive Life. By making connections with each other, helping others to find their own potential, we expand our own potential. Another analogy I see in this idea is the Internet phenomena. We’ve seen rapid growth in many areas of society in recent years because the Internet has allowed individuals to share ideas and concepts easily and more rapidly than ever before. Connections with other individuals have opened up exponentially because of the Internet which can explain the reasons for the rapid growth.
Hi Thanh.
ReplyDeleteIf you truly enjoyed the book, I wholeheartedly recommend the audiobook. When Benjamin Zander tells the story of the at-risk school in London and speaks about the eight voices in Beethoven's Fifth, his words are escorted with musical accompaniment. For someone like me, who couldn't "hear" the music while reading, it was pure joy to listen. You may enjoy it even more as someone so inclined toward music.
It is a delightful thought as a teacher to believe that every encounter provides a new opportunity to assist someone in finding his/her potential. And, I would agree that the icing on the cake is in us flirting with our own potential as well.
I came into this program dreading the "group work" concept. I consider myself a lone wolf - a singles tennis player. I am an only child. However I leave understanding not only more about Education and Media Design, but about group dynamics as well.
My group challenged me to do my best. Together we raised the bar. And I learned to be responsible to another human being made me work harder.
If this was all a part of the master plan of EMDT, it was brilliant. If it happened by circumstance, it is a gift.
Peace,
Sue
@Thahn,
ReplyDeleteThank you, I just took away a new perspective of the book that I should have grasped, but didn’t. You are absolutely right when you say “One of the major themes we have learned discussed and practiced in this program is the idea that we are better together than as one. It only makes sense that we read about this type of theme in a book such as this.” I hadn’t thought of the book like that, but it completely makes sense. And that my dear friend, is half the reason, or so I believe, that they want us to be doing these response blogs.
Thahn,
ReplyDeleteWay to see the bigger picture of the book. We are stronger when we work together rather then when we work alone. You made a great statement when you said, “by making connections with each other, helping others to find their own potential, we expand our own potential.” I strive to have my students make connections with each other and over time you really see them become their own person and expand their potential.
I love the connections that you have made with this book. It is obvious that this book has made an impact on your thinking as it has mine. Hopefully you continue to use these principles to better your teaching and your life. This book has many great ideas and concepts that opens your mind to view situations and problems differently. Good luck with your last month of the EMDT program!
You have so hit the nail on the head with this one. Making those connections whether in the work place or at home truly benefits all of us in so many ways. You have obviously taken much from this book and I am sure that you will come to see how it makes great changes in the way you look at things.
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