Lessons from Kung Fu Panda

This is my visual representation of some of the ideas and thoughts I have taken away from this course. Some might be a stretch but it was fun and I loved watching this movie with my 6 year old. Hopefully, you know something of the storyline.

Greg Lewis

Meet the future “Dragon Warrior” – some students are motivated in different ways – but each has the potential to achieve something worthwhile and notable. They want to be active participants and not just “passive viewers”.

Each of these pupils must have a “sensei” or an Oogway that is wise and experienced yet allows for many paths to success and lets the student/other sensei discover this for themselves. Clever yet deep analogies or examples from past history may be used that serve as a catalyst for the pursuit of knowledge linked to current events.

At times, however, the sensei must relinquish his status as “guide on the side” and directly intervene and provide solid, concrete examples accompanied by intense motivation.

By belonging to a learning community, all participants bring something to the table and contribute to the greater good of the collective; “strength through diversity and experiences”. Active interaction plus comments that are focused between students. It is also a good visual representation for collaborative spaces in which group knowledge is created and peer evaluation can be helpful.

Technology (the Zebra mussel) can be an invasive, negative lifeform that attempts to dominate the landscape/valley. New techniques/tools are adopted slowly by teachers/sensei. Yet, challenges are good and may ultimately free us from our traditional methods of teaching and create a “dragon warrior”.

Teachers/sensei working together often are the best form of Pro-D in terms of adopting and integrating technology. Whether young or old, everyone can learn to use technology to benefit their students and themselves.