i1: Algorithm
Three Phase Model
Inspiration 1 has roots firmly grounded in Emotional Intelligence and Inclusive Practices, and an Essential Core that works toward cultural inclusion. The i1 Algorithm, crafted to enable and support a group to achieve their objectives in a collaborative space where the individual is valued. It is a model synthesized from Connection, Community, and Practice. They are interconnected and are essential to each other.
Whether facilitating a single meeting, a group retreat, or leading extended learning and ongoing initiatives, the i1 Algorithm is the foundation for the Services we offer.
Connection
Almost any meeting or gathering can be considered a learning event. In her ground-breaking book on teaching and education, Culturally Responsive Teaching, Zaretta Hammond talks about the importance of connection in learning. As Ms. Hammond succinctly put it in one interview, "Only the Learner learns." For instruction to be its most impactful, the learner-participant must find Connection.
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Connection affirms the learner-participant's identity, invites more authentic participation. builds self-confidence, and encourages more creative problem solving.
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Interpersonal connections can highlight commonality among diverse group members and build allegiance to a common vision, mission, project, or goal. These connections are formed during the Connection Phase of the i1 Algorithm.
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Community
The Community phase builds on the bonds forged during i1's Connection phase. In this phase, i1 supports the creation of a strong collaborative learning community. Learner-participants work in small groups to make meaning, deepen understanding, find solutions, or inspire creation. The small groups come together to share learning and ignite new thinking, decide a course of action, or find solutions.
The work is purposeful, active, and constructive. Learner-participants don't just take in content, they construct their experience, establishing personal relevance, increasing project ownership, and making the learning the more impactful.
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When Connection has been made and Community has been built, a group is optimally primed to engage in Practice.
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Practice
A practice can be described as something you do to get better results. It is a goal-oriented, evidence supported, and often agreed upon set of behaviors. For i1's clients, that looks like equitable access during procedures, more authentic member participation, better communication, deeper understanding, increased productivity, improved organizational culture, and more impactful meetings.
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Another way to describe practice is continuously repeating, reflecting, and refining a technique toward mastery. For Inspiration 1 internal operations, that looks like constant assessment, reflection, and revision to ensure our work fulfills client expectations, always remains true to our Essential Core.
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