Connect-ed Issue 46 January 2019 | Page 12

A cross- divisional case study in Collaboration We designed a cross-divisional project between our Middle School (MS) and High School (HS) classes. HS students, who launched their own businesses, created job postings for actual jobs they needed to fill. MS students applied for these jobs with their resumes. Then, based on the MS students? applications, HS students emailed the applicant with an acceptance or a denial. Lastly, the two classes met to share feedback on the process. Our project has been an amazing experience for both the students and us. ?We?ve all learned many important skills: - - - - - - - - - - - Consider the possibilities: think outside of the box and take risks. Organize the plan: backwards-plan to your goal. Launch the project: even if it seems scary, give it go! If you?re excited, the kids will be too. Leverage your skills: everyone brings different skills to the project. Leverage this diversity! Adjust as needed: pivot based on feedback. Be the example: model collaboration for students. Operate as facilitators: 'guide on the side' not 'sage on the stage'. Your students will amaze you if you let them. Reflect, reflect, reflect: don?t move on without evaluating learnings. Appreciate your partner: thank your teacher 'partner in crime' for their willingness to participate. Talk about it: tell everyone. Share pictures. You might be an inspiration. Embrace the mess! Learn to let go and let students drive their learning! Christ ine Galib Director of Entrepreneurship Diploma (ED) The Village School Angel Bradford Instructional Technology & Innovation Coordinator NAU Learning Technologies Teaching Fellow The Village School