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Learning from Geese
January 4, 2008
Courage is not simply one of the virtues but the form of every virtue at the testing point, which means at the point of highest reality.
-C.S. Lewis
-C.S. Lewis
- As each goose flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird following. By flying in a 'V' formation, the whole flock adds 71% more to its flying range than if each bird flew alone. Lesson: Teammates who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier when they travel on shared power.
- When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies at the point position. Lesson: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing the leader's role.
- In formation, the geese from behind honk to encourage those in front to keep up their speed. Lesson: Sometimes, team members need to hear a little honking.
- Whenever a goose is sick or wounded, two geese drop out of formation to help and protect it. They stay with it until it heals or dies. Lesson: Stand by one another in times of trouble.
At the Working Forum for Teacher Educators in Auckland, New Zealand, April 30 - May 2, 2008, college instructors, independent trainers, and individuals in organizations responsible for staff training will explore ways to improve teacher education. The Forum will facilitate the sharing of techniques, objectives, philosophies, and perspectives among teacher educators from around the world to enable them to improve their effectiveness. Learn more and register today at the Working Forum For Teacher Educators.
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Creating a high level of trust within your workplace generates more positive feelings than a 36% raise. Discover strategies you can implement immediately to help you motivate your staff.
Comments (3)
Displaying All 3 CommentsCare.A.Lot ECE Training & Consulting
Oregon, United States
Several times, over the past few years, I have used this powerful piece (Learning from Geese) in presentations to teachers and early childhood providers, as well as in a keynote address I presented last year.
The human species can derive applicable life lessons from our feathered friends and others of the animal kingdom. I wonder how many people have heard these words and ultimately left the auditorium or conference center ready to apply the principles of this writing!
It would be nice to see this presentation offered globally and the concept adhered to by all. It seems there might be no wars, were that the case.
It makes a strong impact every time I hear or see these words.
Thank you for posting here on the Child Care Exchange Everyday.
Carolyn Ausborn
Care.A.Lot ECE Training & Consulting
Care.A.Lot Preschool Enrichment
Oregon
Poway Unified School
Poway, CA, United States
Where can I get a copy of the geese presentation slides? I'd very much like to use it with my leadership team.
Many thanks and Happy New Year!
Bloomington, IN, United States
I've seen these slides in an On-Line Faculty course and have used them ever since with my students.
They are powerful and get the point across effectively and cause, I feel, much thought on the part of participants.
Glad to see them used in EED.
Linda Zager
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