Quarterback Metaphor

they can call you a game manager, but does it matter if you're winning games?

This blog post combines two things that can both be easily mocked: lists and sports metaphors. However, I've been thinking a lot about the metaphor of a quarterback as I go back into teaching full-time. I realize that learning isn't a game. I recognize that the metaphor has some severe limitations. Still, here are some of my thoughts:

• It's okay to call audibles, but you don't want to try and run a no-huddle offense. Plan your lessons. Think ahead of time of where you are going. 
• We have to be interdependent. We're a team. We're a community. I need to play to the strengths of my students and I need to be protected in some of my weakness.
• Throw the ball away. That's right. If you're being rushed and the play was a bad decision, don't force an interception or take a sack. Instead, toss it to the sidelines, regroup and design something that works better.
• Hand the ball off. If you're relying on direct instruction rather than balancing your approach with something else, you'll be disappointed by the results.
• It's okay to be coached. Even "the great ones" have a quarterback coach who works on creating ideas, adding perspective and guiding reflection. 
• Get used to spectators. Call the armchair quarterbacks. Call them color commentators. A few of them might even be coaches. You may have won a few over into the fan category. However, their job is often dependent upon you doing well. Your data is their final score. Whether you win or lose might not matter in their Fantasy League. So, keep your eye on the team and ignore the spectators.
• The red zone is the hardest. I've learned that it's often hard to get every student to finish every assignment or project. It's hard to provide that intervention for the kids who need it. So, I'm tempted to try for a field goal and smile at the three points. However, if I'm doing things right, I can keep going at it and try for the touchdown. 
• It's never okay to yell at an offensive lineman, no matter how bad he's playing (sorry Bears fans) especially if I just threw four picks. And if I shame someone, it's my job to say, "I'm sorry" rather than "I probably shouldn't have . . ." 

photo credit: MPR529 via photo pin cc