Non-fussy and frictionless: Loom as a useful teaching tool

I was delighted to be mentioned by Loom on their recent blog post not least because much of what I am about is communicating ideas efficiently using digital tools. Being recognised in this way might mean that finally my media career can take off and I can buy those gold taps that I always longed for.

Anywho… the previous blog post outlined a few initial thoughts on this useful tool which I pretty much still stand by. The big change since then is that I am using it a lot more for short topic intros and work feedback with my groups.

For posterity I thought it was worth sharing the clip that they mentioned - a quick overview of the Buddha’s life complete with a fictional hedgehog apprentice:²

As you can see it isn’t a super-polished presentation¹ - which is the point of these things - this is about fallible teachers communicating directly, quickly and sometimes roughly with their classes. The great benefit with this tool is that I can make a fast shareable upload that retains the human touch. One of the things I am often expressing on this blog is the importance of facilitating thought processes - in other words employing tools that enable idea development rather than slowing it down or getting in the way. For me, Loom has been a frictionless method to get some teaching thoughts down efficiently without being too fussy.

Non-precious is the new precious.


¹ although the material I created did take a while to put together!

² if you are offended then you haven’t taught teenagers

³ I don’t care for gold taps

Supporting Vulnerable People

Dave Burke is a friend from a galaxy far, far away. As a communicator, he speaks with conviction and insight into mental health issues. I was thrilled to see he is reaching out and providing useful tips for supporting vulnerable people in our communities - especially with Covid19 looming so awfully. Hopping into one of his zoom webinars recently, I created some shareable sketchnotes:

If you want to explore these issues further Dave has a helpful website. If my scribing is something you think would benefit someone you know then get in touch or explore other examples here.