tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33943114249327201432024-03-12T19:16:52.868-07:00Small Steps Go Places ®wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-79868437787271471632016-10-11T08:52:00.000-07:002016-10-11T08:52:24.084-07:00We all matterI apologize for the lack of posts since August, and before. Such a complicated summer, with Mom's death, a health condition for Mr T our dog, and then the transition (if that is what I can call it) into the fall. The unexpected and difficult loss of Mom continues to shape my days. I am not devastated, but times when I would pick up the phone because I know she would have a view are gone. I wonder, often, where her spirit is--although it is just over my shoulder at times. I feel sad for me, and everyone else in her life, that we will no longer have her there to call, talk with, ask for help, celebrate with.<br />
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In September, I spent a week in Michigan, both in Ann Arbor and in Mom's house. I was looking for shades of me in all of her belongings, as well as honoring the doll collection that she had. We drove back a car full of stuff that will remind me of her, and our family, in my own home. And, I will go again and find more. Now, there are so many photos, things she used in her baking, Christmas decorations, other things that will live on through their use, and eventually her engagement and wedding ring to pass onto my own children. Driving back into town was surreal because I left for good at 19. The only reason I returned was to see my family; and now there is a situation to be finished. She and Dad set it up, and just like honoring the doll collection, I honor the intention.<br />
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Among the stuff, I found shades of who I was then. It shouldn't be surprising because she knew who I am now because she was always involved in my life. There are loads of photos of her happily being a wife, mother, friend, contributor, grandmother, and great grandmother. And, loads of photos of her being the explorer and communicator she was. She straddled being a vibrant member of her small town community with being a citizen of the world, and that is powerful. She taught me that everyone is a person, no matter what their title or background. We all matter. That is a lesson that has underlaid my life.<br />
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Since returning, much of my time is starting to be once again filled with my business and game. Yesterday, I met with my bookkeeper for the first time. In the next few weeks 1,000 copies of OPTION PLAY will arrive. I will have a launch and will start talking about and playing OPTION PLAY, signing clients up for a RUBY SLIPPERS workshop. The wonderful women who have been such a huge part of my journey have bee there for all of those steps.<br />
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www.smallstepsgoplaces.com is coming along, thanks to Susanne Schropp (<a href="http://www.divadesign.com/">Diva Design)</a>! Karen Raugust <a href="http://raugustcommunications.com/">(Raugust Communications)</a> has worked her magic on the wording of cards and communication materials. Karen Matsu Greenberg <a href="http://hourglasspress.com/">(Hourglass Press)</a> is guiding the production and arrival of those games. Paige <a href="http://paigemedia.com/">(Paige Media)</a> has already made a video that is going to go live very soon so everyone can meet me, and hear about OPTION PLAY from awesome people who I have been blessed to know. Alisa Cohn <a href="http://alisacohn.com/">(Alisa Cohn & Assoc.)</a> is keeping my journey on track, no matter the storms.<br />
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I will retire this blog in the very near future, as I move to blogging at <a href="http://smallstepsgoplaces.com/">www.smallstepsgoplaces.com</a>.<br />
My website is chugging along. Soon, there will be a direct way to order. In the meantime if you want to ask questions, leave a comment, or find out more information please send me a Tweet @smallstepsgo2 or an email at smallsteps@smallstepsgoplaces.com.<br />
<br />wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-87173241799598092372016-08-11T16:19:00.003-07:002016-08-11T16:19:58.823-07:00Life sends us in directions we do not anticipate.Life sends us in directions we do not anticipate. It seemed that I had just said good bye to my mother at the airport, after a great visit, when I got a call from my brother telling me he had found her, dead. Unexpected, but completely Mom. No big drama, in the middle of doing lots of things, engaged with what was going on in her world and the bigger world. Numbing at best for those of us left behind.<br />
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I am unprepared for the amount of pain that hit my body. I am not a young girl, or a child who lived next door. The ring of my voice saying how important being independent is has, at times, had a hollow tone. But, when it is all said and done, I could not have become who I am without my mother being who she is. I don't think there will ever be a "was" because my mother is part of so many fabrics and life bloods. My accomplishments have a foundation in her belief that she, and I, could do anything. We might choose not to, but we can.<br />
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So, I helped with her memorial service -- which was awesome in words and the number of people. I have returned to my place where I just finished looking over the boxes and cards that will become OPTION PLAY. Susanne Schropp (Diva Design), Karen Matsu Greenberg, and Karen Raugust have all worked hard to help me make this step. I honor myself by doing this, and in that I honor my mother.wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-76480753390087270712016-08-11T13:13:00.001-07:002016-08-11T16:15:15.934-07:00Life sends us in directions we do not anticipate. It seemed that I had just said good bye to my mother at the airport, after a great visit, when I got a call from my brother telling me he had found her, dead. Unexpected, but completely Mom. No big drama, in the middle of doing lots of things, engaged with what was going on in her world and the bigger world. Numbing at best for those of us left behind.<br />
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I am unprepared for the amount of pain that hit my body. I am not a young girl, or a child who lived next door. The ring of my voice saying how important being independent is has, at times, had a hollow tone. But, when it is all said and done, I could not have become who I am without my mother being who she is. I don't think there will ever be a "was" because my mother is part of so many fabrics and life bloods. My accomplishments have a foundation in her belief that she, and I, could do anything. We might choose not to, but we can.<br />
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So, I helped with her memorial service -- which was awesome in words and the number of people. I have returned to my place where I just finished looking over the boxes and cards that will become OPTION PLAY. Susanne Schropp (Diva Design), Karen Matsu Greenberg, and Karen Raugust have all worked hard to help me make thiswisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-82211038469990795012016-05-18T14:40:00.004-07:002016-05-18T14:40:59.504-07:00Small Steps really do Go PlacesI can't believe it has been two months since my last blog post. So much has happened! Where do I begin?<br />
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Today, I spent the morning with Paige Wilhide who is the magic behind <a href="http://www.paigemedia.com/">PaigeMedia.com</a>.<br />
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"As you know, every business (no matter how small) needs video, but not every business actually DOES video and does it well. So by taking this step to implement video into your online strategy, you are ten steps ahead..."<br />
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This morning, I was nervous, sure that this was a horrible idea, sure that nothing would work, that the men working with jack hammers on my building would choose the moment the camera rolled to start, that no one would show up...need I go on? Paige, Eric, and Mary arrived exactly on time and began setting up. Virginia, Lillian, Henri, Gabby, and Nick all arrived. Emma and Chris were hugely supportive and did all the right things. The workers told me they knew I needed the jackhammers to be quiet for my project. Paige guided us all through the many steps of making a video promoting OPTION PLAY. The many testimonials from these unbelievable people in my life, who have helped in the development or playing of OPTION PLAY, touched me very, very deeply. It was an awesome experience, and I can't wait to see the first cut!<br />
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Move backward and you will realize this is a hugely important day that crowns a month of lots of small steps and big leaps:<br />
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<li>Chris gives his internship presentation after working with me for over a month.</li>
<li>We go to the NYU Game Center open play where I play with members of Girls Inc., and various NYU open play participants. </li>
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<li>Strategy calls with my CPA, Paige, and Karen (card production).</li>
<li>Learning about Licensing (and Branding) from Karen Raugust</li>
<li>Connecting with Neal Raisman (www.greatservicematters.com) who helps colleges change to lower attrition, and who successfully became a kidney transplant recipient!</li>
<li>At Chris's suggestion and support, had a game play at Fordham Prep with a group of seniors in Erica Keough's guidance class.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Lhc7NFSU13OnnVaZAvhM34tGY4lnX1AwMlNmRMnXck8_K2FbWWxwtDqtYGp0rwlcsDV5TyYfynJcLeWJXJa8sDe79EajLBh0L5BeJw_1VzMDDcBnTHAUvLMeIbfoP0A4VAZWg3BrOXZA/s1600/IMG_0539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Lhc7NFSU13OnnVaZAvhM34tGY4lnX1AwMlNmRMnXck8_K2FbWWxwtDqtYGp0rwlcsDV5TyYfynJcLeWJXJa8sDe79EajLBh0L5BeJw_1VzMDDcBnTHAUvLMeIbfoP0A4VAZWg3BrOXZA/s200/IMG_0539.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2HDOAnSXsDn3AR7zufh6-y6dybPZpolIp0mGTCv94kTW8syETlSAskufJ48JEBjPi1CUYipYppoZyTnOAjVS6P5_n6CLoJoAEq4gJrTqWrsiLSbJSjtM8Rpmp3V3GE3qAm452Kp0Jqs9/s1600/IMG_0542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2HDOAnSXsDn3AR7zufh6-y6dybPZpolIp0mGTCv94kTW8syETlSAskufJ48JEBjPi1CUYipYppoZyTnOAjVS6P5_n6CLoJoAEq4gJrTqWrsiLSbJSjtM8Rpmp3V3GE3qAm452Kp0Jqs9/s200/IMG_0542.JPG" width="200" /></a></li>
<li>Had a breakfast game play with 14 Residence Directors and Justin Muzzi, Assistant Director of Residential Life for Leadership, Development and Training at Fordham University (and amazingly positive human being!)</li>
<li>Game play with the PTA from Frank McCourt High School.</li>
<li>Parent focus group for OPTION PLAY.</li>
<li>Meeting with Dr. Jill Brickman (psychologist) to discuss wording of scenarios, and possible other scenarios like focusing on overuse of social media and executive skills)</li>
<li>Game play with small but vocal group of University of Michigan freshman ("I really like the feel of these cards...It is better to have a card game because players are actually talking with one another across the table.)</li>
</ul>
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Finally, I want to thank Susanne Schropp who is the uber-networking queen behind so many of the positive connections in my Small Steps journey. At the beginning of these two months Chris and I had a valuable meeting with her about design and this process. Success comes only when we are open to the connections that flow our way!</div>
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Phew! It was extremely helpful to write down the steps I have been taking. And, this does not include all of the other things that have been going on--but that is another story...</div>
wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-17295319516436683612016-03-10T14:52:00.000-08:002016-03-10T14:52:17.681-08:00Inhabit CollegeI have hosted two focus groups for parents of high school and college students this week. The point was for them to play OPTION PLAY and for me to tell them about LEARN HOW TO USE YOUR RUBY SLIPPERS.<br />
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The groups were small (3 each), which has its own problems because OPTION PLAY requires 6-8 players so that enough answers and discussion happens. The participants were <b>awesome</b> because they were smart, funny, honest, and gave me good feedback even if they felt something didn't work. It is always a pleasure to play with people who can lose themselves a bit in the process. It is a <u>challenge</u> to be the parent of a child who is in high school or college because that child is moving into their own journey but still needs the love and support of their parents. It is a messy time, because learning should be messy as it is full of trial and error. And, learning is happening when a parent delves into the possible details without having to go into helicopter-mode.<br />
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Unfortunately, the road through high school and college for students and their parents has really unrealistic parts. High school presents <u>so much pressure</u> as students are supposed to take lots of hard classes and do well in them all, shine on standardized tests, have time to do meaningful extracurriculars, and oh, yes -- sleep. Not to mention being a member of the family, having friends, and being an upstanding member of whatever community they are in.<br />
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College is a must, right? What is the point of high school but to get into a great college. That is defined by individuals in so many ways. And, students are then asked to become proactive adults in an environment that may feel similar but may not. Once a student goes to orientation they should be good, right?<br />
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I disagree with that assumption. It is a big leap from high school to college. That leap can feel not so big if there isn't a difference between the type of place or people. But, does a student want a repeat of the last four years in terms of the way subjects are taught or the type of people they interact with daily?<br />
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That is why I have designed OPTION PLAY and ENTER THE CAVE, and why it is important to use my workshop LEARNING TO USE YOUR RUBY SLIPPERS. I help students transition successfully from high school to college by examining scenarios written by college freshmen and sophomores through playing a fun and easy game. Using those scenarios, through the games or workshop, gives students and their parents a script to begin conversations with and situations to think about or prepare for.<br />
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The other night, I did something I have wanted to do for several months. I went to hear Frank Bruni talk about his book, <i>Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be</i>. I had already read the book, and then found a copy of his, <i>Born Round.</i> I am glad I read both books because Mr. Bruni has walked the walk. In the intro of <i>Where You Go</i> I found a statement that stayed with me through the remainder of data, interviews, and cases that I so love to read.<br />
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"College is a singular opportunity to rummage through and luxuriate in ideas, to give your brain a vigorous workout and your soul a thorough investigation, to realize how large the world is and to contemplate your desired place in it. And, that's being lost in the admissions mania, which sends the message that college is a sanctum to be breached--a border to be crossed--rather than a land to be inhabited and tilled for all that it's worth." (10)<br />
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Today, I was talking with a man who is very skilled with working to show young people that they can accomplish more than they thought they could by facing discomfort and leaping into some sense of the unknown (with a harness of course). I asked him where he had gone to college and he seemed reluctant to tell me after we had been talking about much better known schools. I pressed him about this, and he told me his college had challenged the Federal Government on the subject of exerting control over the college when its students received Pell Grants, Grove City College, in the late 70s according to my friend, took the issue all the way to the Supreme Court and won. And, they told the Federal Government that if the Pell Grant wasn't awarded they, the college, would supply the student's funding.<br />
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There is nothing to feel reluctant about there.<br />
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Successfully transitioning to college sets up a student to feel confident enough to rummage through and luxuriate in the ideas learned at any college. It takes some work, and some structured risk, and it is oh, so worth it.<br />
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<br />wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-30037517443957650582016-03-10T10:24:00.003-08:002016-03-10T10:24:48.808-08:00Staying Away from the Changeup<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><b>People don't resist change. They resist being changed. Peter Senge</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">Finding this quote has become <u>essential</u> to me as I move from doing what seems to come naturally to doing what needs to be done. Initially, the quote looked like an explanation but now it looks like a method.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">I realize that throughout my life I haven't wanted to invent something that never existed before, rather, I believe I can help people do what they do in a better way. It is easier now to see where my asking "why?" so often came from. Filtering through a game encourages players to address real situations while they are flirting with being someone or something else. My "whys" are no longer as important as my "tries". </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Since 2012, I have learned about high school student, counselor, and parent concerns regarding going to college from focus groups and research. Students work hard academically in high school, and also want their concerns about going to college validated. Counselors balance the application process, producing graduates, and feeling confident about sending their students on to the next step. Parents want their children to succeed, and are at times less appreciative of the importance of trial and error, because they are busy taking care of so much. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">I believe I can help all of these people do what they do more effectively.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">According to Senge, there are <u><i>four challenges in initiating changes</i></u>.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>There must be a compelling case for change (that would be learning to go to college)</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>There must be time to change (that must be made now)</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>There must be help during the change process (that would be my games)</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>As the perceived barriers to change are removed, it is important that some new problem, not before considered important or perhaps not even recognized, doesn't become a critical barrier (that would be a player holding onto who they are, while learning to adapt)</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I believe I can help people do what they need to in a better way.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">And, then, the next step beckons to me: Getting Things Done.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">The President, Dalai Lama, Prime Minister, Queen, and all the rest of us start our days with the same breath. And, we all strive to get things done. What those things are make up the textures of our lives. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">What do I need to do at the moment? I need a website!? People are asking, and it is about time I finished this particular task. Let me try out Mr. Senge's observations:</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Compelling case: I NEED a website. Not having a website is holding my journey back!</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Time to change: I am piloting this ship, so NOW</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Help: Diva Design, Square Space, what I need to say and offer</span></div>
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<span class="s1">New Problem? I do not know how to do this, and so it becomes another thing to figure out, and I feel overwhelmed, scared, and befuddled.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">People don't resist change. They resist being changed. I am resisting being changed because I want someone else to do this for me, and I really need to do it myself. OK, that feels, better...</span></div>
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wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-79082421170430173282016-02-04T07:50:00.001-08:002016-02-04T07:50:49.637-08:00OPTION PLAY is ONE thing you can to do to increase the possibility of successfully transitioning to college<div style="background: white;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12.0pt;">According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the
2013 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">6-year</b> graduation rate for
first-time, full-time undergraduate students who began their pursuit of a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">bachelor's degree at a 4-year
degree-granting institution</b> in fall 2007 was 59 percent, with public
institutions at 58% and private institutions at 65%.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://u.s.%20department%20of%20education%2C%20national%20center%20for%20education%20statistics.%20%282015%29.%20the%20condition%20of%20education%202015%20%28nces%202015-144%29%2Cinstitutional%20retention%20and%20graduation%20rates%20for%20undergraduate%20students./"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics. (2015). The Condition of Education 2015 (NCES 2015-144),Institutional Retention and Graduation Rates for Undergraduate Students.</span></a></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Going to college, for many students, is the
logical next step on the journey to adulthood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is an awesome opportunity to attempt new things, take calculated
risks, learn to respond to missteps and outright failure and ultimately
succeed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Parents, counselors, advisors, and students,
themselves, want to successfully transition to this new chapter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, that transition is uncomfortable and
stressful as roles are stretched, and expectations adjusted. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhB0b5hRQCA0X4ce3ddiy8VYDscwm3nvEmxXtB6RvJnAGOv9U4JweBJpcIsA6znflnbbFGIs7cha3SJ63-ypwdJ9ZW_lYQTBqRMqotTZlT1W64SneZUO8Wrtld23WsKZlf0zz6gjfyHIsO/s1600/images.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="95" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhB0b5hRQCA0X4ce3ddiy8VYDscwm3nvEmxXtB6RvJnAGOv9U4JweBJpcIsA6znflnbbFGIs7cha3SJ63-ypwdJ9ZW_lYQTBqRMqotTZlT1W64SneZUO8Wrtld23WsKZlf0zz6gjfyHIsO/s200/images.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background: white;">
<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background: white;">
<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background: white;">
<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>But, the goal is the same for all:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">a
successful experience</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
statistics mentioned above can feel daunting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But, here is ONE thing you can do – Play OPTION PLAY!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQt6rKHD8eX5qrv052OWoLFPBc5FExxTTNZfB2ukZYJH4BhSgmQjoWU03u1axWG_IanzrUHR7-OZHEw5xQV0FEg3P7qW2V9X_DoSUtlEtMIVxNc3A01aJ9XtlqFaZc9giIqiGSMUGKiioS/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQt6rKHD8eX5qrv052OWoLFPBc5FExxTTNZfB2ukZYJH4BhSgmQjoWU03u1axWG_IanzrUHR7-OZHEw5xQV0FEg3P7qW2V9X_DoSUtlEtMIVxNc3A01aJ9XtlqFaZc9giIqiGSMUGKiioS/s200/images.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I am Genevieve Griffin, the designer of OPTION
PLAY and President of Small Steps Go Places Inc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please give me the opportunity to speak with you
about playing, signing up for my workshop PRACTICING USING MY RUBY SLIPPERS, or
to learn more about where many small steps have led me. Send me an email: <u>optionplay15@gmail.com.</u> Also, I would like to know what international students find most challenging about coming to the United States for college.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Successfully transitioning to college is hard
work, can be stressful, requires problem solving and communication, and
reframing skills students already possess.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Playing OPTION PLAY is hard work that players
choose to do, requires problem-solving, making and defending choices,
communicating, thinking about skills and characteristics players already have
or want to have, and as with any game, can be competitive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The result of many focus groups is that it is
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>FUN</u></b> to play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Playing OPTION PLAY is ONE thing you can do
to increase the possibility of having a successful transition to college.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Successfully transitioning to college
increases the possibility of graduating, after having a good experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOtqB1KYuXzR3MmreunI_3NM62kvce9-r4_N4Gi2MORJPDRA9_9vtBjBSJNTXhDIwX3gJblIe_eHaD4THRAEftOxZgmg51T7NlMAgqW_JX6CYnZ77TL18-5Ag-2Y5ZEk1Cfa1ggQi4SYH/s1600/images-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOtqB1KYuXzR3MmreunI_3NM62kvce9-r4_N4Gi2MORJPDRA9_9vtBjBSJNTXhDIwX3gJblIe_eHaD4THRAEftOxZgmg51T7NlMAgqW_JX6CYnZ77TL18-5Ag-2Y5ZEk1Cfa1ggQi4SYH/s1600/images-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-30422153135735885282016-01-08T12:39:00.002-08:002016-01-08T12:39:39.039-08:00Evicting that which I stumble on<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy New Year 2016</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I symbolically ripped off the last calendar page of 2015 and began anew by working through a list of questions from the Chopra group. List my accomplishments, list my challenges, list what I am grateful for, list what I still want to accomplish...it is kind of like doing an exercise plan or yoga class. Don't think about it too much and just do it! This is not the way I spend most of my time, and in reflecting on 2015 that was a problem.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During my first yoga class of 2016, Mary (yoga teacher and wise woman) spoke about the connection between calendar and Kali. Kali is a goddess not known for happily going with the flow or even caring.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlXxxM7d_h8eh4q-8QzFmiQOB6gNz_pSI3T6ACT791F7cioVY5JGH-YB9gLkMBWVduZ5rxi_dp1FZ3w0hVM9mi0nWZEbaOGwkj-nCKGvfHfDRpmurvU-hkONB-YtktP84axZwGBDnLvu2/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlXxxM7d_h8eh4q-8QzFmiQOB6gNz_pSI3T6ACT791F7cioVY5JGH-YB9gLkMBWVduZ5rxi_dp1FZ3w0hVM9mi0nWZEbaOGwkj-nCKGvfHfDRpmurvU-hkONB-YtktP84axZwGBDnLvu2/s200/Unknown.jpeg" width="153" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Again, for me, not who I perceive myself to be. And, I must say, the calendar as a symbol of time has not been happily going with the flow or even caring. This past year contained many incredibly positive accomplishments (resulting from hard work, but accomplishments they are)</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Small Steps Go Places ®</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OPTION PLAY (prototype)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ENTER THE CAVE (prototype)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Small Steps Go Places Inc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Numerous visits with groups of high school and college students, residential life staffs, guidance counselors, international student orientation providers resulting in lots of feedback about OPTION PLAY</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ENTER THE CAVE development and game plays</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Christmas season celebrations!!</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and also much loss, hurt, and discomfort:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Feather died</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gram died</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Melissa died</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Health issues for people whom I love</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Squirrel in my linen closet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Crazy people doing and saying startling things</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">NY State escapees</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Violent world events</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It was balanced many times, for sure. And, isn't that what I was seeking --- balance?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Which brings me back to the new year...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have taken ideas, hopes, and dreams and with much work, focus, passion and support turned them into actual things. Hey, I have a TRADEMARK!! It is not KLEENEX ® or SKIPPY® but it is way cool to be able to put my ® on Small Steps Go Places ® because that is ME. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And, I have two PROTOTYPES of GAMES!! I have to go back to those earlier blog posts and see if I actually thought I would do that.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And, I now have an S-Corp, which means I am an ENTREPRENEUR!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My husband and I share a funny phrase: <i> It's all Genevieve, all the time</i>... and that is what <u>this all is</u>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And, now for the reason for the title: despite all of this living, working, and all Genevieve, I still am walking around with that unwelcome voice stuck inside of my head that let's me know it is:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">not enough</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">not real</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">not good</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">not valuable</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">embarrassing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">too out there</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">unclear</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">not functional, and the list goes on and on.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OK, I know that I am not the only person renting mind space to this <u>most unhelpful</u> voice. And, I have had more than my share of working with people who have ideas for showing these messages to </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXFiNZS0rjgImt3rNsXs6npfZPIZApDUAs_yqmBHcR8VpC1Dt0qaYhbrepZWlyWX9EBU98vgpYvyKTTpx-7PfuqmvrgKzfYU2EXauOYzHAIR5RzYmiHL4djO52MQmY3Nl__y2lv9z6jSAR/s1600/images-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXFiNZS0rjgImt3rNsXs6npfZPIZApDUAs_yqmBHcR8VpC1Dt0qaYhbrepZWlyWX9EBU98vgpYvyKTTpx-7PfuqmvrgKzfYU2EXauOYzHAIR5RzYmiHL4djO52MQmY3Nl__y2lv9z6jSAR/s1600/images-2.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I think it is time to <span style="font-size: large;">EVICT</span> this unhelpful voice because I think it is time for me to grow and make</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">THIS IMAGE: INTO SOMETHING MORE PROACTIVE!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf783YI0xxsYP_CKZij7VyPUiFBcN89M0or7RSlQ_h4td5vHpYbEZoVLGjNHKmw5e2CMjK7m3Axt4SiGeGbojNhyyB3zZoYUI_hkn37CppH2TgMW3R9MIm8scDyUtNbjqzTmxRMWkC9LLO/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf783YI0xxsYP_CKZij7VyPUiFBcN89M0or7RSlQ_h4td5vHpYbEZoVLGjNHKmw5e2CMjK7m3Axt4SiGeGbojNhyyB3zZoYUI_hkn37CppH2TgMW3R9MIm8scDyUtNbjqzTmxRMWkC9LLO/s200/images.jpg" width="179" /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxNfJI4qrC943lPGy_-FTZmmPMN98LB-d1U3Twbe_FOS3twQ2czO_3Ugf1-dpPIRHGaj5AwVQxutbAE04W4afcW2q3vJDq6sH6nL7GyVd1-5fIoZqv8DIMuMHJ19gnHQM6AW_QmCZLijP/s1600/images-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxNfJI4qrC943lPGy_-FTZmmPMN98LB-d1U3Twbe_FOS3twQ2czO_3Ugf1-dpPIRHGaj5AwVQxutbAE04W4afcW2q3vJDq6sH6nL7GyVd1-5fIoZqv8DIMuMHJ19gnHQM6AW_QmCZLijP/s1600/images-1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">THAT IS WHAT I AM TRYING TO DO!! I have accomplished some things and no one knows about me. Inviting people to know about me means risking rejection and questions (ugghh) and means I need to state what my goal is (yipes!!). But, people going to college more prepared to do their own work, and having fun learning about it, is what I am all about!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6f1UUFvkcldBMlSNaV-UlURM5BmW1SZzNI0eptbKZyjf-iqWpn7v6BCqR6gZi04DkZpjR3n9jrBo5Z4BtlNjSf-qeCeFIzl7Yq79XGHmnej8bnZKR9MTgjvbGwnrQyKEha_JRi2vWLph/s1600/images-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6f1UUFvkcldBMlSNaV-UlURM5BmW1SZzNI0eptbKZyjf-iqWpn7v6BCqR6gZi04DkZpjR3n9jrBo5Z4BtlNjSf-qeCeFIzl7Yq79XGHmnej8bnZKR9MTgjvbGwnrQyKEha_JRi2vWLph/s200/images-3.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, I am taking a huge risk by saying out in the light that I need to SHARE, TRY, AND EXPERIENCE REJECTION. Remember, it's all Genevieve all the time so chances are I will figure out how to deal with these things and grow from them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. I want to celebrate the fact that I have made a lot of progress. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. I do not want to just accept others questioning what I do, because as one of the very wise women in my life says "it's an opportunity." Let me use the opportunity.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. I need feedback. Right now I am wondering what scenarios international students, and students who go to college in a different geographical area from their upbringing, deal with.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It seems to be too difficult to make comments on my blog so send me an email at </span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">optionplay15@gmail.com</span></b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Are you going to college in the fall, are you a residential life person, a guidance counselor, or a parent trying to help their child be prepared to have a growthful college experience? Send me an email and I will try to send you a prototype of OPTION PLAY. I say "try" because sending things domestically works but I do not know about internationally. That falls under "opportunity."</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-42824706360284348422015-10-29T07:47:00.001-07:002015-10-29T07:47:34.320-07:00Lists can be a great way to get things done (You can do it!)<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">Look what I found!! I knew it existed -- A LIST FOR BEING SUCCESSFUL!! But, wait a minute, what about the human reality of what this list is asking?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">Some of it is common sense but there are things that get in the way; like "get to class." That is absolutely TRUE! If you do not go to class you have a problem. But, what it should say is "Figure out how to wake up when your alarm goes off, and then GET TO CLASS!" Some of us have got the sleep thing figured out, and the alarm thing figured out, but some of us don't.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">So, I am just saying -- READ WITH AN EYE TO WHAT IS NOT SAID, and then by all means let's figure out how to check off the list!!!</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">A CHECKLIST SUMMARY OF KEY
COLLEGE-SUCCESS <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">PRINCIPLES & STRATEGIES</span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1. ACTIVE
INVOLVEMENT</span></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i>Inside</i> the
Classroom:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Get <i>To</i>
Class—treat it like a job—if you “cut,” your pay (grade) will be cut.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Get <i>Involved </i>in
Class—come prepared, listen actively, take notes, and participate.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i>Outside</i> the
Classroom:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Read <i>Actively</i>—take
notes while you read to increase attention and retention. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Spend a <i>Significant
Amount of Time</i> on Academic Activities Outside of Class—<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>make it
a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>40-hour work week.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2. UTILIZING CAMPUS RESOURCES<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Capitalize on
Academic & Student <i>Support Services</i>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Learning Center <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>College Library<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Academic Advisement <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Career Development<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Personal Counseling<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Capitalize on <i>Experiential
Learning</i> Opportunities:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Participate in
co-curricular experiences on campus.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Participate in
service-learning (volunteer) experiences and internships off campus.<b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">3. SOCIAL
INTERACTION & COLLABORATION<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><i><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Interact</span></i><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> with:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span><i>Peers</i>—by joining
campus clubs and student organizations.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span><i>Faculty</i>—by
connecting with them immediately after class, in their offices, or <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>by e-mail.<b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span><i>Academic Advisors</i>—see
them for more than just a signature to register; find an <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>advisor you
can relate to and with whom you can develop an ongoing relationship.<b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span><i>Mentors</i>—try to
find experienced people on campus who can serve as trusted <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>guides and
role models.<b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i>Collaborate</i>
by:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Forming <i>Learning
Teams</i>—not only last-minute study groups, but teams that <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>collaborate
more regularly to work on such tasks as taking lecture notes, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>completing
reading assignments, editing writing assignments, conducting library <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>research, and
reviewing results of exams and course assignments.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Participating in <i>Learning
Communities</i>—enroll in two or more classes with the <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>same students
during the same term.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">5.</span></b><b><i><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></i></b><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">SELF-REFLECTION</span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Take <i>Self-Assessment</i>
Tests—to gain greater awareness of your interests, values, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>abilities,
learning habits, learning styles, self-concept, and personality traits.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span><i><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 15.0pt;">Self-Monitor</span></i><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 15.0pt;"> your learning—maintain awareness of <i>how</i>
you are learning, <i>what</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 15.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>you are learning, and <i>if </i>you
are learning.</span><span style="font-size: 15.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Reflect
on <i>Feedback</i>—seek information form others (professionals and peers) on <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the quality
of your performance and what specifically you can do to improve it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">þ</span></span>Reflect on <i>Your
Future</i>—from time to time, take time from the daily grind to look <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ahead, set
long-term goals, and develop strategic plans for your major, your career, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and your
life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Lucida Sans Unicode"; font-size: 22.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">≉<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The foregoing material has been excerpted and adapted from
the following source:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cuseo, J., Fecas, V. S., & Thompson, A. (2007). <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Thriving in <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>College & Beyond: Research-Based
Strategies for Academic <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Success & Personal Development</i>.
Dubuque, IA: <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kendall/Hunt.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">I <b>LOVE</b> that it is <span style="color: red;">strategies</span> for THRIVING!! </span></u></div>
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wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-686327868062676422015-10-22T09:08:00.002-07:002015-10-22T09:08:31.165-07:00"Learn to solve your own problems..."Yesterday: I have created games that I feel very, very good about. Now comes developing and executing a plan to market them. I can't tell you how messy my worktable is!!<br />
<br />
Okay, I feel pretty overwhelmed right now. There are index cards, thoughts, questions and lists pulling at me from all directions.<br />
<br />
I need to learn about The American Freshmen.<br />
I need to find international students to help write the scenarios that will become my International Student, and "I'm am not from where my college is" edition.<br />
I need to figure out what makes a training pack. <br />
I need to make a presentation for Kickstarter.<br />
I need to meet Frank Bruni.<br />
I need to read the article penned by the Stanford admissions person about helicopter parents.<span style="font-size: large;">*</span><br />
And, I am working on finding a First Year Experience and International Student connection in a college in all 50 states (Wisconsin and West Virginia are done).<br />
<br />
And, that is just what has come to mind in the last minute.<br />
<br />
Also, dinner, dog walk, switching clothes to fall/winter, emails for food for Thanksgiving, and getting ready to go to Ann Arbor this weekend!!<br />
<br />
Whew, I feel <span style="font-size: x-large;">better</span> now...<br />
<br />
Today: I am reading the Washington Post article about helicopter parents, and yes, I can be one. Just ask my creative, interesting, and very capable children. But, there is often a sway that happens when an opinion hits the news stands. (Coffee=Bad, Coffee=Good) <b>How about the middle road?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>*<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/education/wp/2015/10/16/former-stanford-dean-explains-why-helicopter-parenting-is-ruining-a-generation-of-children/">Helicopter Parenting articl</a>e</b><br />
<br />
So, why does someone become a helicopter parent? In my experience, this would include lack of trust of the "experts," lack of understanding that a little communication can go a long way, disbelief that anyone can appreciate my children the way I can, and perhaps an overwhelming awe that kids these days can have SO MANY opportunities (and wanting to get in on that).<br />
<br />
Oh, yes, middle road...<br />
<br />
Learning means <b>taking some chances, trying to make things work, taking what we are reading or doing and using it in either the same way or a different way, and owning the results</b>. Getting an A or getting IN is just the beginning. <br />
Once a person has that accomplishment <span style="font-size: large;">DOES IT RUN</span>?<br />
<br />
My games are based on experiential learning. That means controlled RISK TAKING, TRIAL AND ERROR, considering situations that really will happen maybe before they do.<br />
<br />
<br />
I just had a wonderful coffee break with Lily, a parent who I have had the pleasure to meet at school. I am not good at small talk -- and I talk a lot, and Lily made me feel happy and accomplished regardless of how much I talked. <u><i>She is the inspiration for today's post.</i></u> Self-reliance is the gift that keeps on giving!!<br />
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<br />wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-51282337794945883142015-10-13T18:40:00.002-07:002015-10-13T18:41:40.226-07:00I'm registered!Today appears to be the 100th post of Small Steps, and I NOW HAVE A REGISTERED TRADEMARK! This leg of my journey grew out of the realization that when I Googled Small Steps Go Places my blog came up first. The gift came when I acted on that realization! Yoga, Meditation, Alisa and perhaps most of all my own focus and drive has grown out of that gift.<br />
<br />
I have spent just a few minutes looking through past posts. Overall, I can see the steps I have taken. I seem to be staying true to my own focus.<br />
<br />
Now, it is going to get interesting. I have to go back to All Marketers are Liars (Seth Godin), and figure out how to explain in a video what I have done (for Kick Starter?)<br />
<br />
<br />
But, regardless, today I am Registered!<br />
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<br />wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-44741943514315277092015-10-06T05:52:00.001-07:002015-10-06T05:52:11.918-07:00Piloting the ship<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">It is amazing to me that we get to know people in completely different circumstances and then find they have accomplished big things in what they chose to do for a living. And, that finding that "living" was just as messy as my own "finding". I write that as I am looking at an interview with Nobel laureates from 2008, one who is a dog owner in my neighborhood. The Nobel fact popped out during a larger conversation yesterday, and it was no big deal. And, when I shared that I had very recently called my grad school advisor, this kept the conversation going.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I am observing that when people are doing what they feel they are supposed to it is not necessary to point out that we are being cool when others are not. That is not really true anyway.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">It is difficult to stay the course. Yet, when we (I) do life moves more seamlessly. And, we can be much more helpful to others.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">This past week has been amazing to me.</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I visited the Residential Life department of a local college.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I have been open to and made loads of connections to begin filling in a constellation of communication.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">My goal is to identify three people in a college in all 50 states, that would benefit from using OPTION PLAY.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I called my graduate school advisor, who is a GAME DESIGNER, and inspired this journey!</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I hosted the BIG PLAY for ENTER THE CAVE.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I had a spectacular lunch and dinner with very, very dear friends.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Now, I need to write out the answers to questions for Kick Starter and for a beginning presentation for funders.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">In looking back at the list, there are so many I's! Nothing could have or can happen without everyone in my life, but I must pilot this particular ship. Earlier in my life I did not lead very comfortably, and perhaps there are moments like that now. But, on this particular journey, it is the picture in my imagination that I am trying to bring to life. May I continue enjoying this journey, and may the I's expand into we's.</span></span></div>
wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-54478015497465495062015-09-22T12:00:00.000-07:002015-09-22T12:00:04.302-07:00Playing OPTION PLAY is the place to beginLast night was my "first" event to share OPTION PLAY and ENTER THE CAVE. I want to thank Book Culture <br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
for providing the place for me to host, and the attendees for coming. The majority of folks who came have known me, and have been instrumental in the success of this project. This event gave me the opportunity to share progress with them. And, we had one new person from a program which will become a new direction for users of my games.<br />
<br />
Today has been an opportunity to debrief, look at what could be a better representation of what I want, and setting up my calendar for the next month. <br />
<br />
I realize that playing the games, at this time, is the place to start. The experience of playing leads to examining the value of my games. So, to successfully play and discuss requires a streamlined and comfortable spot. That will be one of the first things I need to find.<br />
<br />
Then, I need to determine pricing. This is new. Also, putting together the presentation of the game for retail and for training.<br />
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This all begins with me and who I am. It is so difficult to acknowledge that. I keep looking for the person in the polished suit with the 40 years of experience and the Power Point presentation. But, that person did not have the idea for these games, or put the work in, talk with the people, learn from the students who shared their scenarios, invest in the EMC, or take the chances necessary for progress to happen. That would be me.<br />
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A possibility...putting these on Amazon with a link here so you can buy them. What do you think?<br />
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<br />wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-60592628503574638652015-09-17T14:19:00.000-07:002015-09-17T14:19:37.324-07:00More Will Be RevealedToday, it has felt like riding atop a dolphin or whale. Not much for me to hold onto, great view and moving fast with moments of being completely overwhelmed. Except, there is something for me to hold onto--I have developed it from hours of reading and doing. I guess it is just my dramatic flair that needs to come out periodically.<br />
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<li>I am so lucky and blessed.</li>
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<li>Today or tomorrow I am going to receive 200 prototype OPTION PLAY card games. Diva Design is such a blessing!!</li>
<li>A young man named Edward is going to ask about what I have been doing and perhaps I can provide something useful to him in his journey.</li>
<li>Monday, I will host a play event for OPTION PLAY and ENTER THE CAVE. This endeavor encompasses so many people, and so much work! It is my 1st event and I am excited to get to the other side!</li>
<li>I am setting up a meeting with Manhattanville College to play, and meet with Residential Life staff.</li>
<li>More questions are popping up: how to develop an OPTION PLAY for Residential Life programs to use in training X how many colleges???</li>
<li>When is the PLAY ENTER THE CAVE going to happen?</li>
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More will be revealed....</div>
wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-56245061202760009232015-09-12T06:29:00.002-07:002015-09-12T06:29:28.041-07:00Playing for Keeps in College<div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.6em;">
"Going to college can just be an extension of a high or low powered high school experience, or it can be the opportunity to try new things. Games invite players to take risks, face fears, but still have control. Combining the discomfort of different with the relevancy of real scenarios through the medium of game playing lets everyone be a winner." (Genevieve Griffin, 9/11/15)</div>
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I was greatly inspired by what I read in <b>Frank Bruni</b>'s <i>Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be</i>,</div>
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"But too many kids get to college and try to collapse it, to make it as comfortable and recognizable as possible. They replicate the friends and friendships they've previously enjoyed. They join groups that perpetuate their high school cliques. Concerned with establishing a "network," they seek out peers with aspirations identical to their own. In doing so, they frequently default to a clannishness that too easily becomes a lifelong habit...</div>
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Now more than ever, college needs to be an expansive adventure, propelling students toward unplumbed territory and untested identities rather than indulging and flattering who they already are." (p.112-113)</div>
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What am I looking to gain from this first event? It will be the FIRST event, and I am ready to play. I wonder if my assumptions are true. Actually, I know they are true. I know this because when I listen to high school students and then, college students, I see the choices and listen to people talk about trying things, getting frustrated when the other people do not react the way they want, getting happy when they seem to get it right. Figuring out how to work through uncomfortable situations brought about by living with other people in close confines provides a lot of learning. Negotiating successfully through something that looks as simple as a differences in bedtime and wake up time can give a person a sense of confidence and calm that pays off hugely in other areas of their lives. Sure, a student may be able to say they can do well on a test or write a great essay, but can they apply that to an actual life challenge?</div>
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So, I am laboring on the Event Brite invitation. Soon, it will be finished and out. My FIRST event will happen.</div>
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Are you coming?</div>
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wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-57274210737535429122015-08-15T19:44:00.001-07:002015-08-15T19:44:58.274-07:00If it is fun does that mean it is still work?The summer session of work with the EMC has come to a close, and I will soon be receiving the prototype for Enter the Cave. I have been playing the versions, as they have been updated and in the past few days have had the pleasure of playing with all three of my children. It is amazing that not so long ago this game was an idea living in my imagination. There is still much work to be done, and I hope that it becomes a necessary tool for players who are heading to college; but what a blast!<br />
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I am also working to finalize the prototype for One Scene At A Time; and with it find a new name for that game. I have a list of ideas but so far nothing has grabbed me. I have an event in September and want to be ready with prototypes to give out!<br />
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This seems to be a good time to look back at my posts and see what the connections are. And, then, there is that question of "what does it mean to thrive?"<br />
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Good night for now...wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-67933073916786720982015-08-12T12:15:00.000-07:002015-08-12T12:15:35.931-07:00Well DesignedWell, I am working on the design of Enter the Cave and One Scene At A Time. And, I am reading <b>well designed: how to use empathy to create products people love</b>. And, Jon Kolko's book which I found in an article from inc.com is everything I have hoped it would be. There are so many quotes for my bag of tricks. Right now, I am working on identifying my emotional value proposition: what can someone do <i>after</i> playing Enter the Cave or One Scene At A Time that they couldn't do <i>before</i>?<br />
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It is creation based on assumptions that need to be checked out through getting to know my players.<br />
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I want to know what players actually do when they play. Boy, that is different from carefully setting up a focus group, trying not to put the players in any situation that would make them feel uncomfortable, and trying not to ask anything that would be wrong! I actually want them to PLAY, possibly find things that are wrong, and prove that my assumptions may be not based in any usable reality. That is okay, because I believe that by playing, these future or new college students will be better prepared to THRIVE in college.<br />
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So, here are some of my assumptions:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Playing before selecting roommates will help players make better choices about who should be their roommate</li>
<li>Playing these games means becoming familiar with actual first year college scenarios, and so Players will have thought of actions they could take to deal with the scenarios</li>
<li>Players who are already in college can replay scenarios and possibly realize other options they could take</li>
<li>Playing gives Players a sense that they are prepared for how to live on campus</li>
<li>Playing when in high school, and then again when in college gives Players a concrete sense of their growth from dealing with one context and then the new context</li>
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As I write out the responses from my focus group scenarios I see that most of the players (so far) feel that the objective of the game is not to earn the most points, but rather is for the READER to choose the BEST ANSWER. Every player during the game will take a turn as the READER so PLAYERS have the opportunity to learn from watching others and also take the helm and make a decision. AND, if they really want to, they can EARN POINTS, too.</div>
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Most of all, playing Enter the Cave and One Scene At A Time is fun. Players can laugh, compete, make fun of and have raucous discussions about a new experience without having the commit to anything. The players will leave the game with new experiences in tow, without having to feel that they did anything more than play a game.</div>
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Next step: find groups of players to check on these assumptions on. First question to pose: what does it mean to THRIVE??</div>
wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-35967694729776172622015-06-10T13:55:00.004-07:002015-06-10T13:55:46.435-07:00It's Alarming I have worked a great deal on the phrase "what you focus on, you attract." It alters my thinking and acting. My life has been transformed, especially over the past two or three months, as I just accept that what I create will provide value to those who play, and work to set myself and those creations up in the best position and light. I get bombarded by questions and comments; some of them good and necessary but perhaps not timely. Everything happens in it's best time if you let it.<br />
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And, then, there is trust -- of which I have little. To be successful one needs to trust, and that is so, so, so hard for me. It is a large symptom of being a control freak. It is counter to my self. It gets in the way of my creativity, and of me helping. Sometimes, I just need to help. That is part of a plan larger than I. And, I need to believe that I am providing something valuable, and helpful. Just believe it, just believe it and not let the questions and comments throw me off course.<br />
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I am working on marketing ONE SCENE AT A TIME. First, however, I need a name that does not sound like an improv game. This is a game that is both hilarious to play and that will leave players better prepared to successfully transition to college. This game will be a great gift to buy for high school seniors and new college students because just reading through the scenarios will prepare players -- playing is like icing on the cake. I wonder if a name about ALARM CLOCKS is good because getting up, getting to class, getting to a job, is so important. It is ALARMINGLY IMPORTANT! If one doesn't learn how to master awaking, getting in the shower or having that first cup of coffee/tea/something, then all of the wonderful opportunities in the world can exist but will gather dust.<br />
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More current questions are: how much is it going to cost to make some prototypes for my gig at Book Culture in September? Low expectation is 4 players show up, high expectation is 200 players show up. How many prototypes do I need? And, who is going to be my celebrity endorser? I am reading Frank Bruni's new book <a href="http://mazon.com/Where-You-Not-Who-Youll/dp/1455532703">Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be</a>. Maybe I should have tea with him! Does anyone know Amanda Seyfried? Does anyone have suggestions that would move them to pick up the box with my game? I briefly entertained the idea of Mr. T ("I pity the fool who is not prepared for college...") but find myself feeling intimidated by the idea.</div>
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So, back to my table with my focus intact. I am not opposed to attracting challenges or growth opportunities. I do not want to attract negativity or gossip. I do want to attract success and bigger dreams than I can currently imagine.</div>
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What are you focusing on right now?</div>
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<a href="http://kukuklok.com/">Kukuklok</a></div>
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<br />wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-18265841758754746042015-03-26T14:37:00.001-07:002015-03-26T14:41:23.173-07:00Be more prepared by playing my games.I am taking a breather in sunny Florida, trying to finish <i>Reality is Broken</i>, learning about new games and taking a crack at a marketing plan. What is the objective of my business? BUSINESS?? I design games. But, I have been pushing up against the question of WHY I am doing this? My father-in-law and husband had no problem telling me what the objectives of their businesses are. I wrote all of this stuff down....<br />
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Then, in the shower yesterday, I realized how scared I am that I can't deliver and that my belief in what I do is not enough. For a brief moment I wallowed in the thought that I am the only one feeling like this; for a brief moment.<br />
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My objective is to give players a less risky opportunity to try scenarios that will make them more prepared as they enter unfamiliar territory. My games make players more prepared. Playing my games provide a less risky opportunity. Going into an unfamiliar situation with some practice gives a player confidence.<br />
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Hey, I went to college without this opportunity to gain less risky practice! I survived. It was one of the most influential experiences of my life. BUT, what if I had had that opportunity? How would my life had been different? Would I have been a doormat for my roommate? (perhaps not) Would I have made the same choices? (perhaps not) Would I have learned about choices I obviously didn't know about? (try using a new machine without the manual). I think there is a lot of room for students having many, many new experiences that tax and stretch them, <u>and</u> to build on having a leg up when entering that new, unfamiliar college.<br />
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On to more marketing plan....<br />
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<b>"The best way to predict the future is to invent it." Alan Kay</b>wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-51032688638323226032015-03-18T14:22:00.001-07:002015-03-20T14:38:15.080-07:00Pick your college carefully<br />
I have been in Michigan. I visited my mother and extended family there. And, then I went back to Ann Arbor. My alma mater and the place I will always love. It was busy; full of people going and doing anything you could imagine. There were tired, overworked looking students, hipsters, international students, students from city, country and in-between. People were walking with professors, friends, teammates, co-workers, co-conspirators. Books and computers were everywhere! Students were just very, very busy. There was no air of entitlement or edge. Winter is almost over and <a href="https://youtu.be/gi_Ilr6VHVc">joy is springing up.</a><br />
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I was lucky enough to be able to visit the Clonlara School<br />
to play LOOK WHERE YOU ARE GOING and invite students to critique it there, and to fill out a survey on Google Forms. Those students seemed a b it frightened about heading into the college application process or hear from the colleges to which they had applied.<br />
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Hey, who is working for whom? <a href="https://youtu.be/zm2uhcN8I1Q">Is School Broken?</a><br />
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The vision of busyness and vitality (and I am aware that there is a good amount of naivete in my observation) makes me feel hopeful, and excited. I hope for a good fit for all applicants. That means the road to college is filled with challenge, risk, reward and unknown turns. And, that it leads to a place so full of opportunities you can't even imagine it right now.<br />
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<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/15/opinion/sunday/frank-bruni-how-to-survive-the-college-admissions-madness.html?_r=0">Don't let the name of a college take your focus from finding a good fi</a>t!wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-48391423005227458612015-03-06T06:53:00.002-08:002015-03-06T17:32:55.569-08:00Berkshire School's Pro Vita Day 5: I AM HAPPY!My husband likes to talk about the Dunkin Donuts advertisement from way back where the little guy says, "it's time to make the doughnuts!"<br />
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For me, it is a way of acknowledging that now we are going live and whatever we have, we have. And, I think we have a lot of good stuff here!<br />
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This morning, the class is going to look at all of the notes I have written on the board and review our objectives and make something happen.<br />
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Stay tuned!<br />
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It has been a long day and I am doing my debriefing post much later than usual.<br />
The final class went very, very well. It is important to recognize the reality of where students are, what is needed for everyone to feel and be successful, and to still stick to the intended wish.<br />
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All of those notes I had written on the board kept us organized and on point. I think I could feel the students looking at the board with some apprehension when I began pointing and talking, but it helped to get them into small groups and talking with one another.<br />
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My goals:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Make sure all students complete the survey for ENTER THE CAVE.</li>
<li>See the smaller groups or individual for Design, Programming and Art were seated with one another and talking about the tasks.</li>
<li>Review objectives, group name, game name and the three game aspects that the group would redesign.</li>
<li>Review the steps each small group would need to complete to redesign each aspect.</li>
<li>Redesign at least one of the aspects.</li>
<li>Encourage the group to complete the design steps in small groups, and then come together as the large group with at least one aspect.</li>
</ul>
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All of this in 90 minutes, including a 5 minute bathroom break.</div>
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They DID IT.</div>
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It was important to cut the task of redesigning up into steps for each smaller group, but to also repeat the larger objectives so we could see both the small picture and the larger picture.</div>
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The group did a really solid redesign of the first aspect, which was introducing a new and more complicated scenario:</div>
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"You and your roommate are studying in the room. Hall neighbors, while in the ceiling air duct, break through your ceiling falling to the floor in your room."</div>
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Card choices are ignore, go to the RA, or ask the pair to pay for the damages.</div>
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Designers began the task by saying they had already done their part.</div>
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Programmer, after understanding what it meant to break the scenario cards into action steps made a diagram.</div>
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Artists worked on creating the initial window art.</div>
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Ultimately, the Designers got involved in what the Programmer and Artists were doing.</div>
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It was a relatively easy jump to the final two aspects, using the redesigned window.</div>
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The second aspect was about making the choices more visual. The third aspect was about creating an avatar. The resulting discussion delved into making the overall game more responsive to individual players and pairs.</div>
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Amy, my fabulous teacher/mentor taped the entire class, capturing many invaluable comments and observations to use in my own design, and to share with the EMC at Champlain College.</div>
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Now, I can read <a href="http://eandt.theiet.org/magazine/2014/11/book-interview-jon-kolko.cfm">Jon Kolko's Well Designed with even greater purpose.</a></div>
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It has been an epic week and I am....</div>
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wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-42831501320700244262015-03-05T07:14:00.000-08:002015-03-05T13:45:58.855-08:00Day 4 at the Berkshire School's Pro Vita! Deep into DesignGood morning eveyone!<br />
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Today the Berkshire School Pro Vita Game Design class dives deeply into the redesign of ENTER THE CAVE! I am so curious about how this is going to manifest.<br />
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My first question is who will be in what ROLES?<br />
DESIGNERS?<br />
PROGRAMMERS?<br />
ARTISTS?<br />
SOMETHING ELSE?<br />
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What will be the NAME of this TEAM? Names are important not only for teams but for products, too.<br />
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It is time to begin! More later....<br />
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I have been told that when ad libbing you must always say yes and go with it. That is often my approach with this design process. If a participant doesn't know the answer to a question or wants to think about the question, I won't accept that. They have SOMETHING to contribute, even if it is not the perfect answer. So, that is how some of this work got done today.<br />
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3 Designers<br />
2 Programmers<br />
2 Artists<br />
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Name of the team: I Have No Clue<br />
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Why have a team? Members working together is stronger than individuals working alone.<br />
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ENTER THE CAVE<br />
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Pros<br />
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<ul>
<li>The game helps making decisions in real life</li>
</ul>
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Cons</div>
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<ul>
<li>Scenarios are not all realistic</li>
<li>It is difficult to understand what is going on because art is not as visually detailed as it could be</li>
<li>Chats and additions to the Scenario can be easy to miss</li>
<li>Name</li>
</ul>
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I suggested that instead of trying to redesign the overall game, which is a complicated and overwhelming task, <u>identify three things that do not work to redesig</u>n. To identify these things it is a good idea to identify aspects that do work first. This sets thinking comparatively.</div>
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In the midst of pros and cons, and identifying, new ideas were flowing fast and furiously.</div>
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I have just finishing laying out what tomorrow's activity will look like, on the board.</div>
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It occurs to me how many words and ideas I am throwing at this group of young people. I find my own level of enthusiasm and passion rising as I remember do this sort of project in graduate school, and the many hours I have spent at my table designing what I am sharing now. I am sharing but this is not theirs.</div>
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What we have done this week so far has impressed me so much. This "team" is ready for a break yet they are sharing something of themselves with me during this Pro Vita week. I feel grateful to them. I hope that even one will find enthusiasm for using games to educate, inspire or even solve the world's many problems.</div>
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It is time to pack up for the day. More; the last, tomorrow!</div>
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<br />wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-55387017434635183042015-03-04T06:58:00.001-08:002015-03-04T10:27:51.374-08:00Taking Small Steps into the process of Game DesignGood morning everyone! Day 3 at PRO VITA!!<br />
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Today, we play ONE SCENE AT A TIME which is a game either for College Freshman entering school or in school during their first semester. I will be playing it with 9-11th graders in a boarding school. I am going to learn a lot! But, also, it is another form of game and this is a GAME DESIGN class. Does it work? What is the objective? Could the scenarios be used for ENTER THE CAVE? How would that happen? What are the Pros and Cons?<br />
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People who I have met!<br />
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<a href="http://www.makers.com/blog/tag/dyllan-mcgee">Dyllan McGee and MAKERS</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Getting-Into-The-Best-College/dp/1478743646#">Getting Into The Best College For You Edward Woodyard</a><br />
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Time to move the table! More later....<br />
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We did not move the table because these guys (the students) said we didn't need to. For me today, it was about not talking, talking, explaining...SO HARD!<br />
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It was an extremely valuable class on so many fronts!<br />
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<u>Off the board</u>:<br />
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What Skills would a Player use to play <b>ENTER THE CAVE</b>?<br />
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<ul>
<li>Decision-making</li>
<li>Communication</li>
<li>Recognition of problems</li>
<li>Solving problems</li>
<li>Reasoning</li>
<li>Walking in other people's shoes</li>
</ul>
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<b>ONE SCENE AT A TIME</b>:</div>
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Pros:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Good Ice Breaker game</li>
<li>Think of different situations</li>
<li>Entertaining</li>
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Pro/Con</div>
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<ul>
<li>Engage in conversation</li>
<li>Timer is unnecessary but an egg timer could be used to get conversations started</li>
<li>Tension within group (supports competition but overshadows purpose of game)</li>
</ul>
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Cons:</div>
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<ul>
<li>There could be more Answer Cards that are applicable to each situation</li>
<li>Currently the game is somewhat disorganized</li>
<li>No way to keep answers anonymous when they go to the Reader</li>
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I have written a number of notes for myself in addition to these notes from the board.</div>
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Challenges:</div>
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Can Players become Redesigners for a game whose focus is not exactly them?</div>
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Can students use simpler words that describe play objectives or action? We train students to have great vocabularies but the design action and ultimate directions must be comprehensible.</div>
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Aha, something <a href="http://www.alanemrich.com/PGD/Week_02/PGD_Ten_Steps.htm">new to read.</a></div>
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wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-88895114984067828692015-03-03T06:35:00.003-08:002015-03-19T07:05:03.770-07:00Taking it apart and rebuilding it againGood morning everyone!<br />
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Day 2 of Pro Vita is well underway. I am reviewing the Presenter's Guide for ENTER THE CAVE, getting the animatic hooked up to Amy's white board, putting up list names on the board and awaiting my 7 students!<br />
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I just looked at the many post titles I have accumulated over the past several years. It has been a journey getting to this point, and this is just one of many jumping off points. This specific jumping off point is particularly exciting.<br />
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I feel different.<br />
What I have accomplished is worth talking about.<br />
If things do not work perfectly, or as expected, it is an invitation to do it another way or to stick to my guns because I know it will work.<br />
My games will not work for everyone.<br />
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Going into today's class, I will talk about what I have accomplished but this class will be involved just as much as I am talking.<br />
Things are not perfect, and that is the purpose of this class -- DESIGN is about the good fit.<br />
I know some of what works and will learn more.<br />
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More later!<br />
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Okay, so here is how the class went today:<br />
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One of seven listened to Jane McGonigol's TED talk. But, the first exercise, which was writing the names of games and figuring out the objective of each game, was strongly connected to that talk so maybe the students will find the time to do it tonight.<br />
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This exercise was fascinating because teens do not think of games in terms of objectives. They gave a "reason" for each game (such as CandyLand being a Race, Monopoly allowing players to be part of the 1% or FIFA being about scoring goals and winning). Reason is connected to Objective. I could almost see their minds moving around the concept. Playing games is amusing, pleasurable but identifying an objective and building a game out of it is WORK.<br />
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I presented the development of ENTER THE CAVE, from concept to paper to box as a prelude to the Animatic. Again, it seems like taking a toy--apart.<br />
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Taking a toy apart and trying to figure out how it was made. This is not as fun as playing with the toy. Teens grow tired quickly of paper, questions and even three-D box models. "Aren't you supposed to have a Computer Game?"<br />
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Everyone gathered around the white board to go through the animatic.<br />
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Everyone could see it well, I used the Presenter's Guide. The presentation was good. I kept the group involved, illustrating scenarios with members of the group at times. SO MANY BLANK FACES! But, when asked they said they were with me. I am curious about how the surveys will end up.<br />
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Will they talk about the scenarios? They seemed very frustrated with the lack of "realism" saying they couldn't believe students would be so passive/aggressive or unyielding.<br />
I hope they comment on the Art Assets. They said the opening screen was blurry, where I thought it was mysterious. Hhmmm.<br />
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I encouraged throughout the session to think of themselves as a "team" and about what roles they want to have in the redesign. I wonder who will choose each of the areas?<br />
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I believe this is a good tool, and that designing it has been HARD FUN. I am looking forward to the rest of the week. I am so, so, so curious about how this group will redesign this game. Can they? Or, are they just kids who want to play?<br />
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<br />wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394311424932720143.post-12570562331929744522015-03-02T07:03:00.002-08:002015-03-02T11:54:16.955-08:00It is time to go live.Good morning everyone! I have been busy working on a marketing plan, trying to move ONE SCENE AT A TIME into a card context, looking for for focus groups for LOOK WHERE YOU ARE GOING and getting ready for Pro Vita at the Berkshire School. IT IS HERE!<br />
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Thank you to the ENTER THE CAVE team (Tim, Steven, Donovan, Tucker, Robert, David, Aether, Adam, Lynne, Jen, and Ken) at the Emergent Media Center at Champlain College for sending me here in such a prepared fashion! I am getting ready for Day 1 of Pro Vita where we will play LOOK WHERE YOU ARE GOING and learn a little about game design.<br />
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One of my favorite quotes from today's homework "Not only do games let us take risks, but they can make those risks feel real." (Game Frame, Aaron Dignan, p.45)<br />
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If you want to watch the same TED Talk that is homework find Jane McGonigol's 2010 TED talk about game design, and treat yourself!<br />
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Time to put on my name tag...more later!<br />
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Hello again, last night I listened to a program that included wonderful Berkshire School a capella groups, and some college groups including <a href="http://youtu.be/gERnW5ekzM0">CDN</a>. There are a number of Pro Vita teachers here, including alums.<br />
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I have scripted out Days 1, 2, and 3. Today, I met the seven students who will be having Hard Fun learning about Game Design with me this week. We played LOOK WHERE YOU ARE GOING, took a greatly abbreviated look at game design and application and then delved into what these students know about games. They will follow up by watching Jane McGonigol's TED talk, writing their own backstories and thinking about what skills come from playing games.<br />
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Their feedback was invaluable as is my growing sense of confidence. No one in this group thought playing a game focused on getting ready for a college search was useful. And, when we began the discussion many didn't think playing sports/fantasy games or fighting/mission games, or even Candy Crush was anything more than amusing and fun. As we discussed further I could see that playing improves thinking strategically, encourages learning about possibilities and choosing the best. Playing games sharpens focus. But, how to make LOOK WHERE YOU ARE GOING more engaging?<br />
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Tomorrow will involve a taste of transforming ideas into "an artificial conflict that results in a quantifiable outcome." Design means actual people take ideas, sit with them, discuss them, broaden them and then create an actual prototype which is turned into a series of logical steps and art work that leads a player in to the experience of playing the game. <br />
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"Not only do games let us take risks, but they can make those risks feel real." (Dignan, p. 45)<br />
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It is time to go for a walk, and then to meet more people, listen to <a href="http://theotherwesmoore.com/">Wes Moore.</a><br />
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The team at the EMC has developed an animatic of ENTER THE CAVE, an accompanying presenter's guide and an online survey to help support tomorrow's work. I am very excited to lay it out and dig in deep.wisergenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10856040487322771609noreply@blogger.com0