Think Piece

Sometimes you just have to sit back and think about it. Then you have to get off your ass and take action.

This op-ed piece from the New York Times made me do just that with a few tears added in. It reminded me of the power of the pen -- a power more lasting than the sword. So here's the challenge..... We must constantly hone the inky weapon and exercise its power often, beit a letter, a blog, a peer-reviewed article, a book, a zine, etc. Just write it!

The op-ed also reminded me of how essential it is to stand up for what one believes -- even if the consequences are dire. Even if it blasts us far from our comfort zone. When the way of the world runs against our personal ethical view, we must not sit back quietly. We must step up. We must shout out. We must take action. Otherwise, we are part of the problem. Sitting around complaining about it doesn't help anything.

We have not come very far from those days in 1957. We, as a nation, have not learned well from our mistakes. Yes, we have progressed a little, but not enough to hold our heads high in this world. So, I'm going to go write about it -- then do something else about it. That's my goal. I hope it is yours too. Be positive change!

Another Slacker Tool

Midterms, major papers, little papers . . . teachers beware! The plagiarism goblins are out and about in full force. Students are masters at cut and paste these days. Now a days, I also find they are superheroes of formatting tricks. This video clip was sent to me by a friend as a "laugher," but it's also good information for an educator to know. Yeah, it's pretty much common sense, but it never ceases to amaze me to what short cuts students will go in their learning process. Are there still the overachiever kids out there who think learning is fun?

And, why do we even consider those students "overachievers"? Shouldn't best quality be the norm? Hmmmm, just a few thoughts before I dive into grading papers today (on my non-contracted, non-paid time).