EdCampBoston Allows Teachers to Get Better Together

     Even though I had heard good things - virtually - about EdCamps, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect at my first. But, after experiencing EdCampBoston, I would venture to another EdCamp.

    People were passionate and invested. They wanted to share, and they wanted to learn from others. While at conferences, a lot of the best learning happens in side conversation or in discussion between sessions. EdCamps seem to try to capture the power of learning informally from your peers.

    No one touted themselves an expert, but all carried unique experiences and perspectives. The common desire to share and to learn energized the 200 participants in discussing a variety of topics including grading, passion, classroom management, and critical thinking among many others. There were great opportunities to engage with peers, learn, and grow as a teacher.

    I was disappointed the facilitator did not show up to the green screen session, but in true EdCamp fashion sharing and learning still took place. Others shared their experience and ideas, making it time well spent despite the awkward start.

    One highlight occurred during lunch - an impromptu Skype session with Dave Burgess (@BurgessDave), author of Teach Like a Pirate. He invigorated the crowd speaking about passion in his non-stop, humorous style.

    EdCampBoston was not perfect but was worthwhile. There is much to gain from teachers engaging teachers to all get better together.  I would recommend you each experience an EdCamp at least once.

If you have had positive experiences with EdCamps or if this post has generated some thoughts of your own, please share them in the comments. I'd love to hear about them.