My week in Kristiansand, Norway is coming to an end. I have been attending the International Society for Teacher Education seminar. It has been an incredible personal and professional growth experience. And I’ve met so many passionate professionals in the field of education.
Numerous teacher educators from around the world have gathered in Kristiansand to deliberate research, discuss pedagogical implications, and explore international collaborations and relationships. It has been quite a privilege to be here and share the initial findings of my research with the Hocus Focus curriculum and it’s impact on the academic and functional learning of children with learning differences. I have been welcomed and encouraged by this amazing group of people. As a result of their input and expertise, I’ll be able to refine the data and rewrite the paper to prepare it for submission into one of the professional education journals. But most importantly, I’ve made international connections and laid the foundation for friendships that I know will last a very long time.
If you had asked me 10 years ago, “Would you consider yourself an educator?” I doubt that I would have answered “yes.” Today, because of the continued support that I am receiving from educators around the world with this project, I would definitely consider myself an “educator.” Using simple magic tricks to engage children in the learning process is an exciting opportunity!
Yesterday, as a part of our “road trip” activities, different groups of teachers visited several Norway schools around the area. My group visited the Hocus Pocus kindergarten (no, I’m not making that up). It was a fascinating and insightful experience!
I’m off to the FARWELL DINNER to spend the last few hours with my new colleagues. Tomorrow, Alan and I begin the adventure of returning to the U.S. I’m looking forward to sleeping in my bed for a few weeks!