I was at a meeting today where we were asked to summarize in six words what was on our minds. The coach to my left said something that blew my mind.

Use the tool, then ask why.

It is a good phrase. Remembering the importance of experimenting with new tech tools, and balancing that with reflecting on why that tool may or may not be the right thing. Using the tool is not enough. And asking why is not enough. You need to think of both.

Then I realized it was something I needed for myself. Use the tool, then ask why.

We are working on self-directed, professional development groups at my school. Each group is supposed to takes notes.

• Use the Tool: Google Apps to Take Notes
• Then Ask Why: Uhhh, because teachers takes notes after meetings?

What else could I have tried? FlipGrid. Maybe reflecting with Flipgrid might have a different impact. How about a WordPress blog? Twitter? I move everyone towards one tool, and gave it really no thought as to why.

I might put it on a poster.