“Disorder is not knowing the system you are in.” -David Snowden, The Cognitive Edge
In today’s educational landscape, schools are tasked with meeting state standards to ensure student success. However, many schools face challenges in achieving these goals. The question is, why do so many struggle? The answer lies in the complexity of schools as sociocultural systems that resist top-down control. True success is rooted in how well individuals within these systems self-organize to reach desired outcomes.
The Simple Rules to Self-Organize
Self-organization can occur in one of two ways:
- Through deliberate, purposeful action
- By default, aligning with existing cultural norms
Most schools fail to self-organize around set standards because they lack the tools they need to make it happen. Here at Smart Learning Systems, we recognized this problem and decided to create a simple solution. While textbooks serve as useful tools, relying solely on them is akin to expecting a blueprint to construct a house without skilled builders. For textbooks to be effective, teachers must first comprehend and embrace the standards.
Purposeful Leadership and Essential Connections
Purposeful leaders recognize that to achieve desired results, schools must self-organize around three fundamental connections:
Shared Image of Expectations
What does a standards-focused school look like? A unified vision is essential, comprising:
- Standards-first pacing guides that link directly to lessons.
- Assignments that reflect real-world application of standards.
- A common understanding of excellence in educational practice.
With a clear and shared target, alignment becomes attainable.
Shared Information Systems
What information is needed, when is it needed, and how do we respond swiftly? Successful schools incorporate:
- Standards-based assessments aligned with pacing guides.
- Assessment that are uncompromised and that mirror state test expectations.
- Feedback loops that transform information into actionable insights before students fall behind.
Timely and relevant information leads to effective interventions.
Shared Interactions
Teachers report learning most from informal peer conversations. Purposeful leaders ensure:
- Every discussion centers on enhancing standards-based teaching and learning.
- Structured protocols direct discussions toward meaningful decisions.
- Regular reporting fosters transparency and accountability.
Breaking the Cycle of Disorder
Without deliberate connections, schools default to ingrained cultural norms, resulting in disjointed efforts and inconsistent outcomes. The beauty of a self organized system lies in its simplicity. By focusing on shared images, information, and interactions, schools can evolve into purposeful learning organizations. For school leaders, the message is clear: disorder is not inevitable. It occurs when we fail to recognize and intentionally design the system we’re within. By embracing the principles of self-organization, schools can unlock their full potential and achieve remarkable results.
Transform your school’s system today and pave the way for educational excellence.
Wondering how we can help? DOT IT is a software system that supports standards-first schools. Our all in one user friendly system makes self organization easy for big improvement fast.
