In the March, 2008 issue of the CSTA Voice newsletter (csta.acm.org/Publications/sub/Periodicals.html), readers are invited to reflect upon and share professional development experiences that changed their lives. We all have stories of inspiring presenters, dramatic training, and “ah-ha!” moments that transformed our approach to students, what we teach, or even our direction in life.
As summer approaches and opportunities for professional development abound, we’d like to hear about the professional development experiences that truly made a difference in your life. CSTA is the proud sponsor of many professional development opportunities (csta.acm.org/index.html), and hearing from you will help us in planning memorable, maybe even life-changing, opportunities.
So in the spirit of sharing, let me tell you my story of life-changing professional development. I began my professional life as a home economist. In one of my first years of teaching, I attended a professional development event and listened to what we called way back in the early 80s, a “futurist.” I have long forgotten the person’s name, but the message was loud and clear: “Technology will change the lives of families in ways you cannot imagine. Those who prepare now for the technological future will have the opportunity to impact that future.”
I was so excited about the stories of smart devices, ubiquitous communication, and unbelievable opportunities, I barely slept for days. Within weeks, I reenrolled in college, figured out how I was going to be part of the exciting new world I had heard about, and announced to my fellow (and very skeptical) teachers that I was going to become a CS teacher!
Lo and behold, the future that I heard such wondrous things about is here and my life was changed forever because of a professional development event.
Please tell us about the impact of your professional development experiences.
Also, take a look at CSTA professional development offerings.
Get ready for life-changing experiences.
Pat Phillips
Editor, CSTA Voice