In the focusing phase, the inquiry team asks: Where will we concentrate our energies in order to make a big and lasting difference for our learners? The focusing phase challenges the inquiry team to decide among competing priorities.
- Look at the evidence that emerged in the initial scan.
- Select one or two areas on which to focus.
- Choose an area of high impact that will address important issues.
Tips
- Be bold with your goals but realistic about the immediate next steps.
- Choose a manageable direction.
- Don’t try to do everything all at once because, if you do, your energies will be scattered, the learning will be cursory, and the change will be superficial.
Have the courage to slow down and develop a deeper understanding of what is worth spending time on before moving to action.
- SPIRALS PLAYBOOK
Considerations
- What caught your attention during the scanning phase?
- What’s missing? What other evidence do you need?
- What are some strengths that your learners show in this area?
- How could you build on these strengths?
- What can you most effectively tackle over the next few weeks or months?
- Record & reflect with your team about the steps above so others may benefit from your experiences too.
Focusing Involves
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Focusing is NOT
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Aim for focused and deep rather than scattered and shallow.