The Power of Observation

A few months ago, as Middle School morning handshaking was wrapping up at about 8:15 AM, I just stood there and observed a variety of movements, conversations, and sights: multiple high-quality art projects on the walls and in display areas; dozens (literally) of students bounding down the stairs after early morning squash practice and hustling to their first period class; 7th graders happily starting a dress rehearsal in the Black Box Theater under the tutelage of their enthusiastic teacher; and a math teacher and a 7th grader pleasantly discussing when the best test date would be given that the student had a conflict (because of the aforementioned dress rehearsal!). All in all, it was a great few moments, with academics, art, drama, athletics, and several authentic teacher-student relationships all "on display." The scene reminded me about the power of observation. An observer, while standing in a common area such as a lobby or main hallway, can learn a tremendous amount about a school (or a workplace!) without actually speaking with anyone. What are the students wearing? If they are wearing a uniform, do their accessories (shoes, backpacks, jackets) differentiate them from each other in any way? How are they interacting with each other? With adults? How are the adults interacting? What items are hanging on the walls? Tone and demeanor of the students and adults? I encourage you to "be an observer" in your school or workplace and then to reflect about whether your observations were in line with your prior thoughts or expectations.