I opened a package of Dots candy today and discovered something remarkable.  The Dots were fresh.  Normally I get Dots at the movie theater and they have always been somewhat “tough”.  I didn’t know any better because that is how they have always been.  You go to the movies and get what they give you.  This time, on a whim, I actually bought some Dots at the store.  When I opened the box, they were soft, chewy, full of flavor.  I was surprised.  They tasted so much better than I knew.

Why am I writing about Dots?  Because I got to thinking about teaching right after I started eating the Dots.  Are you aware of how your students are “eating” your instructions?  Do they think that they are stale?  What would happen if you came in ”fresh” – would they enjoy your class more and learn more?  I started looking over every aspect of what I am teaching, looking to make sure that I haven’t gotten stale.  Stale Dots suck.  I only want fresh Dots.  Which means that I will probably have to change the candy I get at the movies, or do without.  I don’t want my students to decide to “do without.” 

Mark Viquesney