nicartph

[nicartph]

4.0 Version of PE Teaching

I smile as I look back on the onset of the pandemic, I can't help but see myself was lost and really struggling on how I will carry forward my PE teaching into the remote setting and more importantly how my students gonna like it and able to catch up. The transitional shift has challenged my professional creativity in all forms as I fully understand that whatever I do in my class will directly impact my students in a make-or-break scene. I'm not gonna lie, during the first term I can describe my teaching as awful and I feel that I was not making a connection. If you'll break down and properly analyze my way of teaching, it was only superficial and has no sense of direction and by its design, I focused on participation, well-being, and any games that keep my kiddos occupied. In a long run, I ended up doing the same old things until I told myself, "I got to do something, I need to figure this one out and it has to be now".

THE STARTUP...

I started to be active in physed online community by attending and hosting webinars, exchanging innovative ideas on Twitter and Facebook group I am in, and read blogs to help me improve more. What's good thing about this all is that PE teachers around the globe are somewhat having the same energy as mine and do really share their passion and teaching materials not just to help each other but to raise the bar of Physed. The plethora of available resources was left and right and success stories were shared and discussed and I started to feel my 1st cloud nine moments.

This PE SHARE facebook group is the one I have created to share and give back to the community of Physed online.

Since all the shared resources are not one size fits all, I began to master the skill of adapting. I began to analyze the curriculum framework that we have in our school here in Dubai and then benchmark all the international standards in aligning to our very own board. The competencies and success criteria have been tailored to fit into the present PE teaching situation we have at present.

THE CHALLENGES

Apart from change, it is safe to assume that challenge is also constant in a working setup. After all the provisions that we had, still in between we encountered fall short. I have fine-tuned both my remote and face-to-face lesson to personalize my instruction even introduced a couple of models of teaching physed like flipped classroom and sports education model to improve responsibility, communication, techniques, teamwork, and leadership. Technically speaking, we had dealt with issues related to, camera and audio issues, online portfolios ( from free to paid), student's screen time, no differentiation in instruction, demands for virtual competitions that at some point has lead to demotivation until to not attending class at all. For the th times, I feel the need to innovate. In the middle of the school year, I had conducted a quick survey among all my students across all the grades to seek understanding of their likes, feelings, and interest towards my subject, and amount of response was overwhelming that becomes my foundation to creating lessons not only standardized and tailor-fit but a click to trigger the interest of my students.

THE 4.0 VERSION

As a physed teacher who survived a year of teaching remote and hybrid, I considered myself as confident and competent in delivering quality PE instruction. During spring break, I and my team had curriculum brainstorming, and this time we were all stronger and better from all the shortcomings we have last year.

1. We designed and allocated activities considering factors such as skills to develop, education ministry year schedule, students' interest, and competency focus. This year since remote teaching is likely a spike, we focus more on the individual pursuits that are challenged-based and student's friendly activities. Some of the examples are: Karate, Yoga, Gymnastics, Jump Rope, Home Workout Exercise, and Virtual Olympics.

Here is a short vlog about our game allocation for sharing : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wa7hepEozv8&t=19s

2. As soon as finished the curriculum design, we immediately proceed to make all the required instructional videos, assessment forms, and google slides and have it all in-store in our digital platform so that once we start the class a minimal tweak will be only required. In addition, we see to it that all the video instructional materials are engaging, self-paced, and safe to deliver.In case you are interested, I am sharing with you our Karate and Yoga playlist.

KARATE : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vf_349voq8&list=PLPBEND8QuDFP4C_ng3Zv_Q13fUAuLGLXP

YOGA : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vB-agKkgIU&list=PLPBEND8QuDFM-A9mPHJKSvnOl4fSOGz-B

3. Parallelly, we give importance to the design of the curriculum framework is not only to develop the skills and movement but as well as to improve the life skills and soft skills that may obtain from participating in PE class. Not to mention the well-being of every student is further develop in our class.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBDd7Pt_SPo&t=57s

[nicartph]

PE Journey During Pandemic

Physical Education (PhysEd) class and sports activities have been immensely affected by the pandemic. In as much as we wanted to do things face to face in the physical setup, constraints hold us back from being active and carry on with sports activities in our syllabus, and I hate it. Lockdown, Work From Home, Remote Teaching whatever is appropriate to call it has made us go slow and face all the underlying challenges and transform into something innovative.

Last November 2020, I tore my ligament in my left knee in an accident from playing volleyball with my friends that cause me to underwent reconstruction surgery that will take 6 months or more for its full recovery. Putting the above mentioned in the context, presently I am not able to teach nor demonstrate movement skills and exercise and even making instructional videos and it's ironically FRUSTRATING. I began to lose myself and be on the dark side of the spectrum until somebody influential to me once said " Hey Nick you aren't useless, you're injured! Cheer up! " and I had a light bulb moment at that very moment.

BOTTLENECK...

Pretty much that both students and teachers are skeptical as to how PhysEd class is to be conducted on the onset of remote teaching. It was chaotic and most of us were lost and not fully acquainted with the new system, usage of digital platforms, and its transitions itself while going from one class to another was a tangible challenge.

In PhysEd, the resources have been the major deal-breaker pertaining to space facility and implement to be used. It is safe to say that a large majority of the students are living in flat type housing where the space for movements and skills are inadequate with a chunk of sharp pointed objects and breakable furniture everywhere- NOT SAFE. Talking about the manipulative implement, I do always offset whether all the students have access to a ball, a racket, or even a simple beanbag that is required to deliver qualify PhysEd lesson. The NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND resonates in my mind every time I plan the activity; it's important to be mindful of every child's means to access during this time of the pandemic. QUITE A TASK.

After months of doing Zumba and fitness workouts, I feel the decline of motivation among students and become despondent in class. They started to not participate in the warm-up activity and become selective of the kind of game they only wanted to do. Manifestation continues as they turn off their camera and disconnect to the audio deliberately saying its connection issue. The classic 'MAMA RULE' and ' I AM NOT FEELING WELL' excuse cards have been played several times.

PROACTIVE...

The energy that is overflowing in PhysEd class was felt from within and it was not a good vibe. As a teacher, I felt the need to do something win-win, where we all can synergize and I have to start at some point. First thing first, I introspect the inner essence of the subject and reflect on the available resources we have and then create and innovate. I even conducted a short survey about their general feels with regard to well-being and safety coming to my class and also care to ask about the kind of activity they would love to have in the class so I have a baseline to work upon. I SEEK TO UNDERSTAND. Finally, I was able to figure out what best interests my students. The one size fits all approach is not working. MASLOW FIRST BEFORE BLOOM. It's time to innovate.

The highest regard of teaching PhysEd is to be able to touch the lives you teach not only in their physical development as well as the mental being, social and personal skills, emotional health, and overall well being are being honed. We made PhysEd class a space where students can loosen up, meditate, socialize, and have fun while learning the necessary fundamental movement skills. We maximized the use of breakout rooms and made it even more purposeful and tailor-fit with the best interest of the students not to mention, self-paced, challenged-based, fitness driven, and fun. As we go on, students become masters in navigating digital platforms and in using a variety of google suites used in class. As soon as they understood, it becomes meaningful to them and even started to make life's connection. The energy becomes synergistic in class that promotes happy and positive PhysEd culture.

Being a PhysEd teacher is both an honor and a responsibility to help students achieve their best potentials in class that transforms into their practical life. If you can relate to this and still seeking more wisdom, I hereby have 3 words for you:

1.HUSTLE: The most crucial time where we need to be on our toes and at our best is now. Do not let Joe Wicks take away the job that we love. GRIND more. SKILL UP. and INNOVATE.

2. CONNECT: The vast available digital platforms beckons us to dive in. Be proactive in establishing connections in social media, read threads and forums, and attend webinars with the people who share the same passion and story as you. There are lots of wisdom to take in once we reach out. See the bigger picture. SHARE.

3. COMPASSION: In today's time where uncertainty prevails and school children are lock-up at home, it is expected for us adults to exhibit emphatic listening skills and be extra considerate. If anybody is not able to catch up with the pace of the instruction, no means to access resources, or not able to comply with the submission due dates of the task - BE KIND. We can always RE INSTRUCT, GO SLOW AND TAKE BABY STEPS, MAKE FLEXIBLE DUE DATES, and other possible matters applicable. We are not in a race, we are in a marathon. Learn to be in the moment. MINDFULNESS. SHOW COMPASSION.

The 3 words - HUSTLE, CONNECT & COMPASSION is what makes the PE in Credence High fly High.

[nicartph]

DUBAI – November 22, 2018: Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC)

DUBAI – November 22, 2018: Credence High School, a leading CBSE curriculum school in Al Khail-Dubai, has announced extension of its students’ Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) activities to another 60 days considering the fact that consistent practice of any new activity for 90 days will make it an inevitable part of the person’s daily life.

The second edition of the DFC, which kicked off on October 26, will officially conclude on November 24, 2018. Aimed at transforming Dubai into the most physically fit city in the world, the initiative motivated and involved Dubai’s residents to commit to a minimum of 30 minutes of continuous exercise a day for 30 days with a month-long calendar of exciting events.

Aimed at making Credence the most fitness and sport-friendly school in the city, the students will continue their fitness challenge activities which started on the first day of the DFC to an additional 60 days making it a three-month long initiative. Credence High, commenced the DFC program by attending the workshops conducted by the KHDA, thereby following the DFC mobile app, promoting the activities through school radio zest and displaying DFC messages around the campus.

Commenting on the initiative, Ms. Deepika Thapar Singh, CEO – Principal of Credence High School, said, “We are extremely proud to continue the Dubai Fitness Challenge activities adopted at the school for 60 more days. This is to keep up with the momentum and inspire our students, parents, teachers and other employees to stay healthy by making fitness activities an integral part of their lives. Moreover, we aim to take fitness to the next level as any activity continued for 90 days will train the brain of the person who undertakes it to make it a life habit.”

“We believe that maintaining good physical health has positive effects on academic performance congruent to mental and emotional health. The structured DFC program of the PE department aims to create awareness and promote an active and healthy lifestyle for all. The DFC program in our school ensured that every member of Credence community, from kindergarten students to upper middle schoolers, support staff to leadership management team and parent community adhere to our mission of creating a happy and healthy school in Dubai,” she added.

“We are glad to see all our students participating in a number of activities for 30 consecutive days and now getting ready to continue the same for the next two months as well. In order to make an activity a daily habit, a person has to change the patterns of the habit as the brain is used to performing on a regular basis. The best results in life are created by different actions taken consistently with a change from the ones that a person is currently taking,” Ms. Singh pointed out.

Nicart Obsuna, Head of PE Department at Credence High School, said, “The entire DFC program is making a real impact in our school, especially to the students as they start talking about it by getting engaged and wondering on the next day’s activity. Their daily executive function capability has improved making them happier with the activities.”

“As part of the DFC program, a variety of exciting and sweat-producing fitness activities have been designed and programmed not only for the students but for staff and management as well. The lineup of activities included football, yoga, swimming, basketball, dodgeball, badminton, core and strength exercises, floor exercises, jumping rope, aquatic activities, Zumba, brisk walking, track challenges, gymnastics, Indian traditional games, fitness relay, and obstacles,” he added.

The participants joined a number of events like fitness village visits, KHDA football match, yoga and zumba sessions. Every family of the school community has been encouraged to escalate this value of fitness and health by writing their DFC goal together as a family supported by an informal discussion.

[nicartph]

Gulf News

Sport Our focus is not just on physical skills but cognition, too

I support the move to modern and contemporary styles of teaching. As a teacher, I have adopted the approach, which is called TGFU — Teaching games for understanding. In a traditional setup, normally what the teachers did was give the children a ball and let them play. But with TGFU, children don’t just play, through the six phases of learning which are implemented, children have meaningful learning. So the child has to understand what is being taught, apart from playing. I am also using technology-integration in my classes – I record practical performances and because my phone has the feature of slow motion, I am able to tell my students whether their body orientation is correct, for example. I am able to give them feedback on how they can improve. Another online formative assessment tool helps me feed data on physical movements of a child into the system and it can check for the child’s cognitive understanding. So, we don’t just develop physical skills, we develop cognitive skills as well. However, one issue that I have seen in general with schools today is how they don’t prioritise physical education. Even with inspections, when it comes to extra curricular activities, social and cultural subjections seem to take precedence over physical education. But as a PE teacher, my focus is to give students opportunities to explore movements and hone necessary sports skills to be healthy, active and fit.

From Mr Nicart Obsuna

https://gulfnews.com/opinion/op-eds/focus-death-of-a-school-by-rating-1.2105093

[nicartph]

Maska

I am beginning to believe what my dear friend once told me about the  “Butter Up Theory”. At first, I was skeptical and thought that this is a case to case personal basis, but since she is a friend to me, I did my best to sympathize and listen to the best I could be. Moving forward, as I go on and get more and more encounters, I can’t help but wonder about the above thought.

Yes, I felt biased! Have you, by any chance, be it implicit or explicit as well? I know it’s an ugly feeling to take in any form.  In a place where diversity and belief systems exist, a balanced, harmonious, and consensus solidarity I feel should be observed. In any and most of the organization, political gap and unprecedented mishap happen amongst peer to peer, authority to authority, and authority to peer and vis-a-vis.

I for one is a victim of unparalleled equity treatment, been called out by the highest authority for something not beneficial for the entire organization, so I got criticized and making my self felt sorry for what I have done. Recently, I got interviewed by the media in my opinion as a Teacher about wellbeing during this remote teaching. The news editor has been my contact since before and I have been a contributor for any topic appropriate. 

https://gulfnews.com/living-in-uae/education/coronavirus-is-distance-learning-overwhelming-your-child-here-are-some-ways-to-cope-better-1.1589212777065

I feel confident with every word I have said in this article. I find it sensible and pop culture. But no appreciation worst been judged not the content but the action of me not putting the name of the organization. According to them, anything that involves teaching & students we should always explicitly mention our home. 

My only points are; all the points mentioned in the article are general specific with no dragging out any name of place and person. Yes, I agree that the reason they are interviewing me is that I am a teacher but I am sure that all points are organizational sensitive. In all fairness to the media, they ask me whether I want my school to be put after my name and I said no and just put a generic label for the same. Again, to make it more organization sensitivity friendly. 

Moving forward, here comes my colleague who has contributed a mini-blog in an e-magazine about teaching and different treatment happened. All the shout out, praised and flattery, name it. I have nothing against it, in fact, I bumped into it and find it inspirational.

So reflecting back, I remember a friend telling me about the genuine treatment  and a poker facade image reflected is at some point do exist.

Let’s be proactive (1st effective habit). What are my quoted ideas from here?

1. “Move on and treasure my worth. My security, guidance, power and, wisdom should not  be affected by”

2. “Know more the battle- Kairos “

3. “At the end of the day, I am the bigger man as I took the higher road”

4. “Improve my circle of concern  and remember the very reason why I am doing this thing; Why I am contributing to the news article?”

5. “A wise man is always principled”

Thanks for reading.

-NICK

[nicartph]

This same level of thrilled when your student does a 6 run in cricket 🏏 #ThisFeeling (at Flip Out Dubai)

[nicartph]

Getting ready for my Jumping Action. Thanks #flipoutdxb for the free pass all access and ofcourse thanks to my bosses for choosing me to have the tixs. #perkofbeingateacher (at Flip Out Dubai)

[nicartph]

Hawk eye #flipoutdxb #perksofbeingateacher✌️ (at Flip Out Dubai)

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Routine

         In this blog, I’ll be sharing with you about the teacher tactics I use across K-Middle School to promote meaningful teaching and learning environment. The highlight is all about the classroom management system, transforming it to routine and its significance. I believe that we teachers speak the same language and I think up to this point, I need not to elaborate further the importance of implementing routine setting in class and how mandatory to take up and pass number of units about classroom management course during bachelor years. In my 11 years of teaching experiences (not that expert though), I have experienced a traditional laissez faire routine in government school, a visually detailed and structured routine in a Montessori school and even an authoritative and disciplinary routine in an International overseas school. Your question would probably be, what’s the best classroom management then?  Answer is, ‘There’s no such single best thing’ it comes with a mixed formula of 1.) Teacher. Our experiences and expertise on understanding what works best on a every students dynamics, Language, Gesture and Self Grooming could also be add factor on this point. 2.) School. The availability and access to resources to be used e.g. smart board, bell/musical instrument, chart boards & flash cards. 3.) Innovation. For both school and teacher whether they are implementing a uniform wide classroom routine system and/or continuously doing professional workshops discussing  new, practical and trendy way to device classroom routine.

What are the benefits of having classroom routine?

1.       Increase students’ readiness and motivation- Having more than 5 different subjects in a day could be tedious for students. And if so, learning will not going to take place. The real challenge lies on the creativity and expertise of a teacher on how to set up the classroom mood getting them motivated and ready to learn.

2.       Increase instruction time – Because we have established a routine, the time for instruction has increased as the “sshhh” moment became less.

3.       Increase participation and engagement- Children will become proactive as the student-teacher connection has taken its place. A child will best learn from somebody he/she likes and once you get them hooked, more engagement and learning will happen.

4.       Promote a culture of safe, authentic & systematize Teaching Learning process – a conducive ambiance for learning always follow by an authentic and satisfying learning by the students and teaching by teacher as well. Not to mention, the safety element of it is covered especially during the time when students are waiting for the teacher to arrive in class.

I made mentioned in the beginning that I’ll be sharing my kind of classroom routines I use in teaching PE. Here are my top 10.

1.       Quiet Rule. A gesture putting my both hands at the back of my head communicates as a quiet rule. In my previous school, touching my nose gesture is my quiet rule code.

2.       Bell. In my class once I ring my small, tingling silver bell means “come here, and gather all”.   When I am having a class outside on the field / court, it’s not easy to gather them altogether amidst of a drill or game for skill correction and instruction.

3.       Whistle Rule. I design a variety of whistle sounds to communicate. A long whistle sound means “GO” for any small sided games to start. A short whistle means “ATTENTION” maybe a child does wrong or on a not safe practice drill. And a soft &  long  whistle sound is for “COOL DOWN/ BREATHING EXERCISES”

4.       In teaching kindergarten, I made my students say and briefly explain about the PE golden rules; 1. Quiet Rule, 2. Safety Rule 3. If somebody speaks, all of us will listen through actions. Reiterating it over and over again until it become a culture.

5.       PE Pass ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXf-DI3ZfvU&t=1s ) the target is more on the behavior/ personal & social development of the student. I am using PE class as tool to keep the motivation. Click the link for more info.

6.       Teaching Jump Rope Skill and making it a fitness activity for the entire year across the school. ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtD_7y9fruk&t=108s )

7.       Grooming, Gesture & Language. Our self is our best visual aid in teaching. It creates a wow impact the moment my students see me in my football short and shoes during football class and sometimes wearing Messi/ Neymar / Cristiano’s jersey made them even say wow more.   A well define gesture to communicate nonverbally also help.  For example, when I am staring at my students while standing straight with my hands at back means that I am ready and waiting for them to get settled. An appropriate teacher language too is to be encouraged especially on misconducts and response to answer.

8.       In class meeting. Before lining up house wise going out for PE class, I always set the class environment by giving instructions – ID card & hoodie removal, Drinking water, Washroom rule, and even asking how best we can show respect by walking quietly in a line. And of course the Good Morning Sir wish is what I need to hear before I start everything.

9.       Focus Board. This helps my students to be more accountable to their learning by having a head start of what Topic, Activity, and Skills that we will be working in this week.   Also, if I’ll be having a small sided game, the sportsmanship code is to be recited in class at first to get all students reminded that it’s all about sportsmanship, fair play and respect. ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KuUh76fhLZw )

10.   High Five. I see to it that at the end of the period I am reaching every single child in my class by giving my personal high5, fist bump or hug and a high five for my HOW WAS IT? board ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4_MRspkBGQ ) as my formative assessment. This helps my students understand their present skill level.

[nicartph]

Forethought

      In one of our MLT meetings, my principal once said “Put all your energy into planning and the rest will go fine” – Dr. John (Dubai based school consultant). At most point, she is correct! If the planning has been done carefully designing it horizontally and vertically, you will be relaxed and good to go for a year. How important planning is for a teacher? What does it take to plan a standardized, comprehensive & purposeful curriculum and finally, how much time will it consume in planning.

       Many of us teachers are still struggling in making one, perhaps the demands and trends of learning is constantly changing and part of it will be empowering our self, our knowledge and set of skills in order to deliver quality instruction. I distinctly remember about 3-4 years ago, there was a point of my teaching life that I see no good. I started to complaint, I do mundane teaching routines and lost my reason to teach. I don’t know, I can’t help, it just happened and was wondering what is going on Nicart?!  until I bumped into one of Joey Feith’s ( PE Educator in Canada & PE website founder) videos  about nuts and bolts of teaching Physed ( Physical Education )  and the rest is history.

It is very timely today especially to the Dubai CBSE schools to discuss about this as at present we have spring break allocated for CPD workshops & planning. I would like to share with you my thoughts on how to take at least a baby steps in planning your year plan curriculum as easy as ABC.

1.  ACTION PLAN = A course of action has to be identified. If you are teaching in Dubai, making an action plan takes handful of considerations; KHDA report and present status, benchmarking schemes especially standardized & cognitive exams from external community, national agenda, and internal / in school present condition of your curriculum matrix, syllabus, assessment and teaching.  Remember to always express your thoughts while planning in an “outcome” scale. Establishing provisions is never been easy unless the above mentioned are considered.  It will be extra helpful if you will self-reflect and have a mindful moment every now and then on the given points above. A small sharing, every after an academic year I used to collate all my documents in PE and have it book binded. This gives me a clearer picture of what went good and wrong on the year that was. Writing notes and blogging is an equally efficient way to reflect as it give me a deeper thoughts to ponder. REFLECT first, study the present and set your action plan. I hope you find also the wonders of blogging and the magic of Self Reflection.

2.  BOOKS /BLOGS= This is all about your resources. The amount of demands to continually read &   research as an educator is endless and a no question for us.  Reading books and nowadays blogs, provide wisdom towards doing well in our craft.  In US, it has been a running pun for PE teachers that if you haven’t read or stumbled upon the book called ‘SPARK’ you are 5 years behind. Like other subjects we also have our resources both physical and online for our professional development.  I am elated to share with you my top 5 most go to websites / vlogs/ blog  in Physed.  https://sparkpe.org/ , https://www.shapeamerica.org/  , http://www.pecentral.org/ , http://openphysed.org/ , http://www.pe-kansas.com/.   I have more but as a start these will be more than enough to start. In addition, subscribing to any related newsletter will be beneficial keep our self updated with the trends happening in our field. READING = WISDOM, keep on reading and always SHARE as giving back is cool.  I hope you find the links helpful for you.

3.CREATE =  If you reach at this stage means that you are already equipped with the necessary knowledge, have clearer picture in mind on what is to be done  and  have reasons for doing.   I kept on telling on my past blogs that my reason is not a one solid or couple of few things but my entire students. I personally made them the reason of all this because everyone is unique and has its own needs. Why I am blogging now is because I want to reflect and learn as cliché as it sounds. Start creating yours, I am passing the ball to you and I hope like I did you will be brave enough to step outside of your comfort zone and take a baby steps. Good Luck and Happy Planning!

[nicartph]

My defining moment having photo taken with Dr. Abdulla Al Karam , Chairman of the Board of Ditectors and Ditector General of KHDA in Dubai. Humble feeling having standing next to him and holding the torch together with my colleagues, 1st standard students, & Ms. Sunita representing parents community. #YearofZayed #UAENationalSportsDay #uae🇦🇪 #KHDA #TwinningWithChairman #UAESportsDay. @dubaisc #uae_unites_us (at Dubai, United Arab Emirates)

[nicartph]

GULF NEWS & KHALEEJ TIMES in UAE (at Dubai, United Arab Emirates)

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CONVERGE

Conducting a sporting event on full swing in every school around the world becomes imperatively paramount today as the trends are becoming grandiosely cultural and filthy hype. Let’s not forget the bottom line that in a school setting this is part of the curriculum and a celebrations of both sports and life skills learning through running events, novelty races and mass drill performances.  It is indeed a challenge for one to think parallel and consider all the parameters of a successful sporting event including   the school  expectation, time frame, budget allocation, students’ ability, people that you’ll be working with, event  standards, down to having implements  are all have to CONVERGE.

What does it take to have a successful sporting event with a cultural performance twist?  

I trimmed and listed 10 empirical points on how to plan and conduct an Annual Sports Day in school. Hope you find it cool.

1.       DTT (Define the Task). It is important to always make the job crystal clear before you start planning. There’s no harm in asking, ‘What’s the management expectation?’ ,  ‘ What kind of culmination activity are we looking for here?’ . It is safe that both ends are looking at the same page especially when you are teaching overseas / other countries dealing with other nationalities, where language, might be a barrier for certain point of time. So always DTT!

2.       Standard. Raising a bar is easy but raising it higher takes intensive effort of everything that’s why you need to have one. It doesn’t have to be wild and too technical, It’s about you and your work ethics something that answers the question, what do you want people to be known you for? or ‘ How did you pull the strings to bring nothing but the best version of all your students? It takes skills and experience for you to be able to set one for yourself. Most of the time, setting your work standards is risky & always gets prejudged. However, if you can picture out the outcome then work backwards and you know to yourself that you can pull it, everything is worth taking the risk. Trust me!

3.       Experience. Teachers’ (for all I must say) best teacher case close.  Short sharing:  when I was teaching in the Philippines I have experienced both private and public schools when luxury and scarcity of all kinds of supports were evident. Also here in UAE, I’ve been to couple of schools having different supports system and all. Having said that, I am now able to take those good points, further improve, implement and eliminate those bad experiences.  And when you have all these in mind, everything becomes smooth.

4.       Students’ Ability.  Understanding students’ capability should be the priority. Your planning and course of action should be made FLEXIBLE.  Keeping in mind that the true highlights on that day are your students so might as well work on their pace without compromising point # 2. Structured running selection prior to the event is what I have learnt to understand my students and on how to take them all forward considering differentiated instruction and all.  Mind setting and  teaching games for understanding technique are the instruction dissemination  keys to become a better version of them with a certain level of sportsmanship by having individual goal setting scheme ( through breaking own time record) , accepting the guidelines of selection,   how to treat defeat  and be happy to cheer for the success of others. ALL TAKES AN UNDERSTANDING. On the other hand, I made mentioned that the planning has to be flexible because if not you’ll end up frustrated. A very precise example is mass drill practices, again we should understand that not all our students are kinesthetically able. So during one of our practices, I gave my senior group students a dance exercise routine which they found it difficult to execute but still trying and ended up with a not so pleasing result. Turn out, I changed it into easier routine but still they aren’t able to take, until I came up with my alteration of routine and finally got it.   Again, it takes an understanding.

5.       Time Frame. Always work in a backward design is my suggestion. It would be helpful if you keep a task board  with you and list down all the errands, implements, purchases, people to communicate, even taking break in between. All needs to be visually written so to be able see the progress day by day by encircling or cutting out those jobs done. Time to request for a marker and start making your to do list.  

6.       Budget. This has a direct effect on the outcome of the event thus should be part of the stage 1 planning.  Dealing with this, I would suggest two contrasting good points. 1- Remember that you are part of the faculty /school team that must consider the amount of every expenditure, everything has to be worthy or probably not so pricey kind of spending and 2- Just be open to tell to your boss what exactly you want to buy for this event, It doesn’t mean that they will agree on it perhaps, they can suggest for any better alternatives.  You know what? Allowing you to personally spend for the requirements by giving you petty cash is the coolest thing to happen as far as budget is concern.

7.       People. It gives me an immense pleasure working with bunch of people whom I haven’t got to worked with before. I have experienced fun and dismayed bumping into others who are out my league. (I’ll be writing a separate blog about the kind of people I got to worked with). In here, having people smart skill is important and knowing your peoples’ strength is IMPORTANTER (grammar!!!) LOL! I have in my team who knows best in IT and computer work, so might as well gave her all the documentation work including being music in charge on the day of event. I have another team member who’s good in art and have patience with the designing of small details so I made her in charge of program and props beautification, another has a good sense of command in disciplining children, one is logical thinker, one is born dancer and well versed in artistic yoga, one is a leader, one is creator, etc… (I am excited to write my next blog… I have a ton to say). BOTTOMLINE: Use your people/team’s multiple intelligences and talents and always treat them with respect and just wait for the cunning result.    

8.       Events.  You are now down to designing what kind of show you be putting up. Yes, an extra hour of research would be helpful. Personally, I always brainstorm during my morning shower and morning bus ride. You won’t believe, that a tons of crazy ideas are popping up so I just have to keep on writing before it gets vanish.  My personal suggestion, apart from the given points above, come up with an idea that 1. You are enjoying teaching and doing it 2. It should have substance in it and 3. It must have a takeout effect after watching. JUST DON’T FORGET THE FIRST 7 POINTS ABOVE.

9.       Implement. If you are very hands on in every small details of the event then you do personally the shopping or the purchasing of implements for the mass drill, programs design & decoration amenities just like I did. Few tips: 1. You must know the cheapest yet with quality stores for your requirements in town, remember we are talking about bulk order 2. Build a rapport for future purchasing. It is always good to establish good working relation for future deals and 3. You must have your car. Commuting is OK but tiring especially if you need to walk kilometers, with 6 big plastic shopping bags on your hands.

10.   Reason. In between the process you will feel lost, exhausted, jaded because of back to back to back errands, I must admit that at a certain point of time I did cry for the same. One of my friends asked me to give reason at least one good reason why am I all doing these? I answered: I DON’T HAVE 1 , BECAUSE I HAVE 540 REASONS WHY I AM ALL DOING THESE. (My students from KG1- Gr.8)

THANKS FOR READING AND WISHING YOU AND YOUR SPORTS DAY ALL THE BEST!

[nicartph]

#CONVERGE2018 (at Dubai, United Arab Emirates)

[nicartph]

GULF NEWS today- February 16, 2018 (at Dubai, United Arab Emirates)

[nicartph]

Entitled

(GULF NEWS: February 16, 2018 )

The ‘participation trophy’ culture is no good

I actually have two contradictory observations on this issue. Firstly, I would say, yes, young adults are under too much pressure to achieve because I have discovered that in Indian culture, for example, it is common to push yourself a lot, especially during examinations. If they happen to fail, some teenagers tend to commit suicide. I have been reading about such cases. Coming from the Phillippines, looking at my own experience, I would say that I am an achiever myself — I came from a very poor family, pushed myself and worked in order to sustain my studies. I did a day job and a night job because I had a goal. There was no pressure. Whenever I did not meet my goals, I would think radically and look at what went wrong. I am also a blogger, and blogging helped me give feedback to myself.

Coming to my contradictory observation, I have also noticed a lot of times that millennials are not exerting enough effort. Without generalising an entire generation, based on my own experiences, I would say that they can behave in an entitled manner, wanting everything instantly. As a teacher, I have noticed what we would call the ‘spoon-feeding culture’. Students don’t have the patience to sit down and listen to instructions, they binge through the process and don’t go through things step-by-step.

Additionally, I also think the culture of ‘participation trophies’ is not helping, I am completely against it as it devalues actual achievement. How will we motivate children when we are giving away trophies or certificates for participating? You lose but you still achieve a medal? How does that work? If this continues, I don’t think students will push hard and try their best.

From Mr Nicart Obsuna

Physical Education Head at a Dubai-based school

[nicartph]

2017

It’s been forever !  I even don’t know now  how to start a blog. This hiatus made me rusty somehow. If I were to describe my 2017 experience it would be like a roller coaster ride. Sounds cliche, I got that but can’t help. The ups and downs of emotions are legit and unexpected occurrences took over. 

The beginning of  2017 was so benign. It was full of hope and aspirations  welcoming the year. I had a clear thoughts and goals to fulfill and everything was so magical.  As a matter of fact, the first quarter of the year was a blast, I made the my PE classes unstoppable and even conducted parents workshops for the first time in promoting  fitness and health through basketball sports. All ended  so well, another year goal achieved! 

Towards half of the year, my career got into a test, a real life test. I got a job offer from other school as Head of P.E.Department. I never thought that I am leaving the school that honed and nurtured me the kind of person I am today. To top it all, the rapport I built among  the students and teachers community. Seriously, It was never easy as going out of your comfort zone to your panic zone. In panic zone you are different,  you’ll become alert, at your best, and might fail in between but definitely will learn something big. This made up my mind retrieving the job. I was really heart broken leaving my professional family. It was heartfelt and until now upon writing this, still I feel the nostalgia. Bloody melancholic!!! It follows me shifting house and again have to leave my comfort place for more than  4 years plus the people around made me even feel disheartened. I trained my thought to process that everything is happening by the law of nature. In order for us to grow, we have to undergo such circumstances that will shake us for quite some times and parallelly will teach us. Moving forward is what life all about. July August of this year were cloud 100 feelings of all time. First,  I got to  travel Bangkok with my sister Aicee and Joey ( https://nicartph.tumblr.com/post/162972444676/thailand-kabayan?is_related_post=1 )  celebrated my 31st birthday at home in Philippines, rekindled connection with friends and relatives and made quality time  and memories with my family and Joey’s. I got the time of my life!

3rd quarter is a new clean slate for me. New home, new work place, new people, new boss, expectation, getting along… literally everything! During these times, I managed to be always on my toes and bring the best in me every step of the way.  One day I woke up as if i am dreaming of having a dilemma with my cancellation and all. It was sudden,  obnoxious and very stressful. My panic zone got even worse having this loads along. My anxiety  level heightened at its peak until I ended up tired of thinking. The lowest point of my life by far I should say. As I mentioned above I have to keep moving forward, and prove that I am worthy for my new job. I need to establish myself to everyone then.BUT HOW I AM SUPPOSED TO CONCENTRATE ON WHILE AT THE BACK OF MIND I AM STRUTTING WITH AGONY? I became closer to God father. I always lift everything to him. He knows how much suffering I have been through and whats inside my heart. Blessing through other peoples’help in all forms  kept on pouring by his grace. I am feeling blessed though . He never forsaken me in fact, Lord gave me what I needed in my life. He made me humbler, wiser and compassionate. Grateful for all these.

 Along the way, my personal love life prospered and got matured. I unofficially got engaged with Joey on the last quarter stretched of this year. The fall short I guess would be the Filipino tradition of “Pamamanhikan” which is not feasible at present. My bad that I only ask permission from Joey’s mom to propose through skype and yes she got everything me/us wrong there. My fault I must admit.My sister Aicee got back here in UAE for another job endeavor and so with my uncle EJ and wife Arla. We all celebrated Christmas and  New Year together with full spirit  of heart and with the hope that everything will turn out good this coming 2018. 

I am grateful for the blessings and people who have been and are with me still.  YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE AND PROBABLY READING THIS. I would just like to say thank you for the unconditional support and love. It was indeed the coolest roller coaster joyride of surprises, emotions and people for my growth.