Charting Change: Idea to Implementation

When Ocotillo began in 1988, it was the direct result of some questions I had asked our faculty in 1987 about technology and its role in learning. I discovered that the faculty were quite willing to take charge of the instructional agenda. Since then Ocotillo has become a metaphor for the use of technology in the teaching/learning process, and it generates additional questions every year.

Other metaphors which have come out of Ocotillo are:: "It's a River, Not a Lake,"; "Painting Outside the Lines," and; "Charting Change: Idea to Implementation" (this year's retreat theme)

Educators in Maricopa have agreed that technology is no longer the key component of Ocotillo. Although it is still integral--witness the change-over to the APOLLO system--committees and individuals have shifted their focus and dialogues to the larger and broader agenda which drives our District--learning. Thus, technology is only one of many tools we use to talk about the underlying premises of learning.

One of the attractions of Ocotillo is that it facilitates the coming together of faculty and staff to explore issues of teaching and learning. This gives everyone an equal voice, and it is all done selflessly with the aim of helping students.

I wish to thank all our faculty and staff who have participated in Ocotillo during 1994-95 and again helped it be successful. I thank especially those who served as chairs and co-chairs of the different Ocotillo committees.

Special thanks to Maria Hesse, Faculty Chair, for her leadership and vision for Ocotillo these past two years. We welcome David Weaver who assumes that role beginning this Summer.

Thanks also to the staff of MCLI for their excellent support and wisdom in coordinating the many necessary details connected with Ocotillo. I look forward eagerly to 1995-96. I know it will be a continuation of productive dialogue as we continue to learn through Ocotillo.

Muchas gracias,

Alfredo G. de los Santos Jr.

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