The In-N-Out burger as I remember it was delicious. I only ate it twice when visiting a friend on the west coast. I remember raving about it after my first experience, then wanting to go back before my trip was over.
Co-founder of In-N-Out Harry Snyder often said, “Do one thing, and do it the best you can.” His one thing was producing a delicious hamburger for people to enjoy. It works.
We should also think about how this advice might apply to the classroom. Can a teacher focus on doing one thing and doing it really well?
Technology? Social Emotional Learning? Content? Pedagogy?
For most teachers, there are many areas that need to be addressed. Focusing on only one area might limit a teacher’s potential for growth.
The In-N-Out Strategy can still apply however. Maybe the goal should be to focus on one goal at a time, and to do it the best you can.
Think about what goal you want to focus on this year. Do you want to dedicate yourself to learning new technology? Do you want to focus on social emotional learning with your students? Do you want to throw yourself head first into content or pedagogy?
Whatever it is, focus on that goal, and do it the best you can, In-N-Out style!
Rich