In an era when technologies evolve at breakneck speeds, individuals are poised for their quick adoption and implementation. However, when an organization’s goals include comprehensive adoption of feedback techniques such as video, we must transcend a focus on individuals and look to our institutional culture.
Culture change within organizations is a slow-moving and organic process that, as Principal Jeff Bloom at Tumwater High School in Washington describes, requires a fair amount of trust and patience. As with many adoptions that aim to be widespread, effective, and sustainable, buy-in for video as a developmental tool for teachers is rooted in the many conversations and demonstrations that happen over time. “Those kinds of conversations over a several-year period of time created momentum,” Bloom reports, “and now we have a larger percentage of folks using it.”
While culture change is a large endeavor, initial steps toward change are often small and simple. Here are a few simple ways to get the ball rolling at your institution.
Identify potential early adopters
“I want to hear how I sound when I’m delivering this lesson.”
“I want to ensure I’m giving students the right engagement prompts.”
“I want to be active in my professional development plan instead of passively receiving feedback from my administrator.”
Many teachers identify with sentiments like these, and using video is a natural outgrowth of these motivations. Teachers looking for new ways to grow and improve make great early adopters of video in the classroom. Speak to these individuals about the benefits of using video in the classroom, and get them started with a simple self-reflection practice. Help them apply their curiosity and energy to reflect on their work and identify areas for improvement.
Celebrate wins
Once a few curious teachers have begun to incorporate video feedback, set the stage for wider, deeper implementation of the practice by publicly celebrating their wins. Reward and speak highly of the early adopters’ work and provide opportunities for them to share their insights and experiences with their peers. Designate activities around the use of video and acknowledge the practice formally in professional development assessments and plans.
Get the technology right, early
To make the adoption of video as smooth and simple as possible, start with the right technology. While choosing the right technology requires a bit of legwork up front, leaders will eliminate many of the barriers to entry with this simple step. Technology is often the most intimidating aspect of adopting a practice like video, and a flawed or complicated system will undoubtedly deflate any initial enthusiasm and buy-in. Make sure the technology works, make sure it’s simple, and create internal support for the video observation process.
Scale your efforts
Once you’ve piloted the practice with a small group, actively work to sell the idea to your constituents. Elevate the voices of those with experience and help them lead in spreading the word. Gather testimonials and enact institutional changes to increase the scope and scale of the project.
Looking for more information about how to shift your culture toward video in the classroom? Check out Visibly Better’s resource library. And while you’re exploring the subject, engage the community about culture change and video using the hashtag #VisiblyBetter on social media.