Networking In Education

How can we build a culture of learning at scale? There's an increasing focus on ‘learning networks’ (as well as, or instead of, learning within organisations). It's built on a sense we need to support learning to occur across scales & boundaries - from the individual to system-wide. How to develop an effective learning network: 1) Take a decentralised approach: create a network of diverse experiences and voices. 2) Structure for emergence: create some "simple rules" that foster the exchange of knowledge and the emergence of new ideas, behaviours, actions & connections. 3) Let go of certainty: help network members to see learning (and unlearning) as a strength rather than a threat. 4) Build trusted relationships: create processes to foster ties & trust across the network. 5) Invite ‘boundary spanners’ (people who have connections across other networks): support those who are not ‘inside the tent’ including reframing their role in the learning process & the value they bring 6) Co-develop a learning strategy: give all members the opportunity to be part of collaborative decision-making. 7) Regard learning together (collective sensemaking) as "real work": learning should inform action in real time and be done in context, rather than abstract ‘learning time’ outside the system or the work. 8) Encourage network members to take experimental action: start with small tests. 9) Incorporate critical reflection: Develop methods of surfacing differences in how a group sees, understands, & responds to situations. 10) Build a collective memory: Define processes for capturing, distilling, applying & sharing knowledge. 11) Create a simple evaluation framework: e.g., how people work together, new behaviours & practices, confidence & capability to engage with difference & unlearn. https://lnkd.in/ejm-Z3pD. By Thea Snow. See also https://lnkd.in/eCszTtp9 by Orange Compass.

Here are five important cybersecurity tips for schools: 1. Educate Students and Staff on Cybersecurity Best Practices Regular training on recognizing phishing attempts, using strong passwords, and avoiding suspicious links can go a long way in preventing attacks. Everyone in the school community should be aware of the risks and how to mitigate them. 2. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Enabling MFA for access to school networks and accounts adds an extra layer of security. Even if a password is compromised, MFA can help protect sensitive data. 3. Regular Software and System Updates Ensure that all devices, operating systems, and applications used in the school are up to date with the latest security patches. This reduces vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cybercriminals. 4. Secure Wi-Fi Networks Schools should use strong encryption (e.g., WPA3) for their Wi-Fi networks and ensure that the network is segmented, separating administrative systems from student and teacher devices to minimize risks. 5. Back Up Critical Data Regularly Regular backups of student records, academic materials, and other important data ensure that, in case of a ransomware attack or system failure, the school can recover without losing valuable information. These tips can help create a safer digital environment in schools and reduce the likelihood of cyberattacks.

𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 “𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐫” 𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭. You send one email. Maybe have a 20-minute Zoom call. And then… silence. Six months later, you apply for their PhD program and hope they remember you. They don’t. Because relationships aren’t built in one conversation. If you really want a professor to remember you and maybe even advocate for you. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐮𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞. After that initial connection, don’t disappear. Stay in touch every month or so. Here’s how: • Ask thoughtful questions about their research or program • Congratulate them when they publish a paper or earn recognition • Let them know if you’ve recently read a paper or seen something relevant to their work they’ll appreciate the engagement • Share a new study or insight that connects to their research direction • Connect on LinkedIn, ResearchGate, or their lab’s social media • When you apply, let them know personally and if possible, request to interview with them The goal isn’t to “network.” It’s to build credibility through consistency. When a professor sees your genuine curiosity, initiative, and engagement over time, you stop being “another applicant.” You become someone they want in their program. And this could be your "Gateway" to your dream school :) #PhD #research #academia #studyabroad

Spent time early last month helping a network of schools get out of an adult culture funk. The result? They went from 41% favorable on their priority org health questions to 83% in under 6 weeks. Here's the exact 7-step process we planned in hopes it's helpful for others: 1. Look back at your priorities for the year. Pick no more than 2 questions that align with those priorities that you'll regularly ask staff.* 2. Set a goal around those two questions, such as 80% of staff will respond agree / strongly agree. 3. Design a 3-question survey that you can give every other week at a staff meeting. In that survey, use those questions plus one open-ended question that gives staff an opportunity to expand on their responses. 4. Get as close to 100% of staff to take the survey. 5. After each survey administration, sit down as a leadership team and action plan around the data using these 4 steps: - Did we meet our goal (in step 2)? - What are 1-2 strengths in the data? What did we do as leaders to contribute to those strengths? - What's the top gap to close in the data? What are we doing or not doing as leaders that's contributing to that gap? - What's the most critical leader action we could take to close that gap? 6. Share out the action plan to start the next week and ask staff to hold you accountable for your critical leader action. 7. Repeat steps 4,5, and 6 until goal is met. Not rocket science, but what you measure gets managed. And sometimes in running schools, there's so much to manage, it's hard to focus on what matters most. Which is when it's time to create a plan that helps everyone focus on what's most important right now. *The 2 priority questions we chose were: "I am learning and developing in my position," and "I feel positive about working at my school." Staff could respond with: Strongly Disagree, Disagree, Neutral, Agree, and Strongly Agree.

I've helped candidates crack top MBA programs including Harvard, Wharton, Columbia, Booth, Kellogg, MIT, INSEAD, HEC Paris, ISB and more. I've helped candidates with over $3Mn in scholarships. I notice candidates focus on the obvious: ✅ GMAT scores ✅ Work experience ✅ Brand names But I've learned that the real differentiators are rarely discussed. Here's what actually moves the needle in international MBA applications: 🌟 1/ Story > Statistics Everyone obsesses about the perfect GMAT score. But I've seen 775s scorers get rejected while 665s get accepted. NOTHING can substitute your story. Build a coherent and self-aware story. 🎯 2/ Growth > Perfection Schools don't need perfection. Your profile needs to show your trajectory, not just a point on the graph. The best applications showcase the achievements over time. Growth is the best highlight. 💡 3/ Impact > Brand You don't need the perfect brands for work and undergrad. Every year, people from no-name institutions and employers secure top offers. But you need to show your impact! Do anything, but do it WELL. 🤝 4/ Community > Individual Top schools aren't just selecting students. They're building a community. Your application needs to show what you'll bring to the class. The strongest applications I've seen went beyond personal goals to show community contribution. 📊 5/ Research > Rankings Everyone knows the top schools. But few candidates do deep research. Successful applications know how to connect their goal to specific school resources, with deep understanding of school culture. Generic applications get generic results! The truth about international MBA admissions: It's not about checking boxes. It's about telling a compelling story that makes you unforgettable. Your unique journey is your biggest asset - Use it! 🚀 ------------------- 📢 BONUS: Looking to craft your international MBA story and crack top MBAs across the world? Find me here: https://lnkd.in/d443tHqe Or send me a LinkedIn message: Ruchi Aggarwal Mentoresult #mba #education #graduate #harvard #stanford #insead #wharton #international #admissions #career #mentorship #goals #success #linkedin

Impact of NCF Implementation in the new academic year & Expectation from schools Guiding factors for schools in this transition may include guidance from state or central education authorities, adherence to the principles outlined in the NCF document, and a commitment to providing a more holistic and learner-centric education that prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century. Collaboration with educators, parents, and relevant stakeholders will also play a crucial role in successful implementation. Some key aspects and guiding factors for schools: Schools will need to adapt to changes in the curriculum, which may include updates to subject content, learning outcomes, and assessment methods. Baseline assessment should be designed for understanding the learning levels and plan interventions to reduce the learning gaps. More efforts need to be planned for diagnosing early interventions for developing cognitive and psycho motor skills of school going students. The NCF typically emphasizes a more holistic and skill-based approach. The NCF encourages learner-centric teaching methods that promote critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Schools will need to train teachers to adopt these innovative approaches. More of hands on learning & experiential learning has to be introduced . Continuous and comprehensive evaluation (CCE) & Application Based Learning & Evaluation techniques shall be the focus of the NCF. Schools will need to modify their assessment practices to align with this approach, moving away from rote memorization and high-stakes exams. Adequate capacity building teacher training programs will be crucial to ensure educators are well-prepared to implement the new curriculum and teaching methods effectively. Schools may need to allocate resources for updated textbooks, teaching materials, and technology to support the NCF's goals. Infrastructure and Facilities: In some cases, changes in school infrastructure and facilities may be required to support innovative teaching methods and special programs. Schools will need to engage with more home school community partnership activities to communicate the changes and seek their support in implementing the NCF effectively. Regular monitoring and evaluation of the NCF's impact will be necessary to make adjustments as needed and ensure that the educational goals are being met. Here Mentor Educators will need to extend flexible support & cooperation to the beginners and developing schools. Remember every journey begins with a small step.

The Fastest Way to Secure Your Dream PhD 🎯 1️⃣ Flip the Script on Research Goals Most people focus on what they want to study. Instead, start with why it matters. Ask yourself: • Why is this research critical today? • What urgent problem does it solve? When you frame your research as the answer to real-world questions, professors and programs listen. ✨ Pro Tip: Use AI tools like Connected Papers to map cutting-edge research trends in your field. Show you’re not just following a path—you’re paving one. 2️⃣ Target Professors Like a Pro Forget generic emails. Dive deep into a professor’s less obvious work—recent conference talks, collaborative projects, or grants. Mention these in your email. It shows you’ve done the work no one else has. ✅ Example opener: “Your recent presentation on [topic] stood out to me, especially your approach to [specific method]. I believe my background in [skill] could complement your work, particularly in [specific application].” 3️⃣ Revolutionize Your SoP Your Statement of Purpose isn’t just about you—it’s about what you bring to the table. • Start with a hook: “Why does this research matter right now?” • Include a micro-story: Show, don’t just tell, your passion for research. • Highlight value: Explain what unique skills you bring that no other candidate offers. ✨ Pro Tip: Reference gaps in their research and propose how you’d address them. Professors love applicants who think like collaborators. 4️⃣ Leverage Underrated Opportunities Instead of fighting for a spot in a top-tier program immediately, apply to niche labs or interdisciplinary departments that connect to your field. Many of these programs are under the radar but equally prestigious—and less competitive. ✨ Example: Instead of “Biology,” look at “Computational Biology” or “Systems Neuroscience.” 5️⃣ Optimize Timelines Time isn’t just about meeting deadlines—it’s about staying ahead. • Create a personal calendar of deadlines for funded positions only. • Prioritize programs with rolling admissions—they evaluate applications as they come in, giving you an edge. 6️⃣ Be Loud About Your Work Your social media can be more than cat memes and food pics. Share your research journey, insights, or challenges. You never know when a professor or researcher might notice and open doors for you. 🔑 Fresh Tip: Turn LinkedIn into your research portfolio. Create posts about specific research challenges you’re solving. Visibility = opportunities. 7️⃣ Simplify the Follow-Up If you don’t hear back from a professor, don’t just resend the same email. Instead, forward your previous message with a quick addition: “I wanted to follow up and share [new insight or idea you’ve had since writing]. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your work on [topic].”

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐋𝐋𝐌 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: Every year, brilliant lawyers with stellar resumes get rejected from top-tier LLM programs. Why? Because they make avoidable mistakes that sabotage their chances.  If you’re aiming for Harvard, Oxford, NYU, or any elite law school, here’s the reality: 𝙖𝙙𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙣’𝙩 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙦𝙪𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨—𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮’𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨. 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐨 (𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐝): 🚫 Don’t write a generic “Why this school?” essay.   Admissions teams see hundreds of essays that say, “This program is prestigious, and I want to grow.” Yawn.   ✅ Do your homework: Mention specific professors, courses, or clinics—and explain how they align with your goals. Show them *why you’re choosing them*—not just why they’re famous.  🚫 Don’t ignore the power of regional expertise.   Your background in Mexican corporate law, Chilean mining arbitration, or Peruvian fintech regulation isn’t just a detail—it’s your superpower.   ✅ Leverage it: Highlight how your unique experience adds value to their global classroom. Schools like Columbia and UCLA actively seek Latin American perspectives.  🚫 Don’t skip networking.   Assuming admissions is purely merit-based is a rookie mistake. Connections matter.   ✅ Reach out: Connect with alumni or current students. Ask thoughtful questions about their experience—and mention these conversations in your application. It shows genuine interest.  🚫 Don’t rush your resume.   Listing every job or project you’ve ever done? That’s a recipe for getting overlooked.   ✅ Be strategic: Focus on 3-5 standout experiences. Use metrics to quantify impact (e.g., “Advised on $10M cross-border deal”). Let your achievements speak for themselves.  🚫 Don’t walk into interviews unprepared.   Fumbling answers to common questions like “Why this school?” is a red flag.   ✅ Practice relentlessly:** Rehearse answers to common questions and prepare stories that highlight your leadership and expertise. End with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression.  𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐘𝐎𝐔: An LLM from an elite university isn’t just a degree—it’s a career accelerator. But getting in requires more than good grades or a solid resume. It demands 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙜𝙮, 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣. Let Me Help You Stand Out:   As a coach specializing in elite LLM admissions, I’ve guided lawyers from Mexico, Chile, Peru, and beyond to secure spots at Harvard, NYU, LSE, and more.  📩 DM me: 𝗟𝗟𝗠 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆 for a free consultation—and let’s craft an application that gets you noticed.  #LLMAdmissions #EliteLawSchools #LegalCareers #LatinAmericanLawyers  P.S. Your dream LLM is within reach—but only if you avoid these pitfalls. Let’s make sure your application shines.*

🌍 Navigating the University Decision Maze 🎓 Hi guys, As someone who went through the intense process of choosing the right university, especially when moving to a new country, I understand the pressure and stress that comes with it. The process, from handling multiple acceptances to preparing for the Visa Interview, is undoubtedly taxing. So, I wanted to share a few strategies I implemented in the hopes that it might help those of you facing similar decisions: 1) Look Beyond Brand and Rankings 📈: Don't solely rely on brand or a university's rankings. Graduating from a prestigious institution may not align with what's genuinely right for you. Many counseling platforms perpetuate this idea, although I personally never relied on them. Instead, I took a more personalized approach. I scheduled 10-minute calls with alumni from each university I applied to. I delved into their experiences, sought valuable insights about research opportunities, what courses in the curriculum would actually help gain something that would further help me achieve my goal, and even the faculty, as some of them are really worth learning from. It's not just about the name; it's about understanding how each university can contribute to your unique goals. 2) Connect with Experienced Alumni 👩🏻🎓: I connected with professionals who had completed their education at the targeted universities and had accumulated substantial 3-4 years of experience in my desired field. Additionally, I examined their skill sections and compiled a list of common skills necessary for my future role. Seeking deeper insights into the skill requirements for the desired role, I tried to understand the specific skills their company prioritized during their hiring process how their educational experience contributed to its development. 3) Explore Practical Experiences 👨💼: I delved into the projects and research opportunities alumni were involved in. The hands-on exposure of working on projects or collaborating with industry sponsors will not only spark creativity and innovative thinking but will also enhance your chances of securing a job post-graduation. 4) Connect with Professors 👨🏫: In pursuit of a comprehensive understanding of the program, I reached out to professors on LinkedIn. Expressing my interest, I initiated conversations to learn about the course focus areas and how they aligned with my goals. Building these connections can provide valuable insights that can influence your decision. 5) Create Pro-Con Lists for Evaluation 📝: After thorough research and connections, I created a pro-con list for each university. Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages helped me weigh my options and make an informed decision. Remember, it's not just about where you go but how well it aligns with your goals and aspirations. Best of luck on your educational journey! 🚀📚 #internationaleducation #highereducation #studyabroad #mastersabroad #msinus #universityselection #newbeginnings

As we draw close to the holidays and plan for a new term, I want to share an insight into how supporting Fellows to harness the power of their communities has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my work since the inception of my coaching journey with Teach For Nigeria. Through the Teaching as Collective Leadership (TACL) framework, "Community as Power," I guided over 23 Fellows (teachers) across Ogun Waterside, Ijebu East, and Ijebu North-East to engage their local communities in ways that fostered a collaborative approach to education. Through meticulous planning and goal setting, each Fellow was tasked with conducting in-depth research to understand the unique educational needs of their assigned community. The findings revealed that true educational change could only happen with active community involvement, particularly from parents, local leaders, and stakeholders. By facilitating these community engagements, Fellows created platforms for dialogue, organized sensitization programs, and mobilized resources to meet the needs of their schools. A key part of the strategy involved working with respected local leaders, like the Báalés (local community leaders), and using local dialects to ensure messages resonated deeply with the community. The impact was evident, parents became more involved in their children’s education, student performance improved, and the bond between schools and communities strengthened. The success wasn’t without challenges, resource constraints and cultural resistance required creative problem-solving. But overall, this experience reinforced the importance of community ownership in achieving sustainable educational change. I’m proud of the work my Fellows did and the lasting relationships they built, and I look forward to seeing even greater impacts as we continue this journey together. #Education #CommunityImpact #Leadership #TeachForNigeria #CommunityAsPower #TACL