Putting Out Fires

This practical, interactive guide provides a framework for educators to solve a variety of problems they face by leveraging design thinking to evaluate potential solutions.

Many educators say they spend much of the school day tackling one problem after another, making them feel like they’re constantly “putting out fires.” This book will help educators solve problems using the author’s “Putting Out Fires Framework,” which demonstrates how sorting possible solutions – into Extinguish, Detect, Contain and Prevent categories – can help teachers and administrators think through the impact of various solutions and make a more informed decision before implementing a solution.

In this interactive book, readers will apply a design thinking process to identify a problem, consider the people involved and analyze possible solutions. Each chapter features two example problems related to edtech – one for classroom teachers and one for administrators – to illustrate how to apply the framework for effective problem-solving. In the process of working through the book, you’ll discover how selecting the best solution is dependent on several variables, including impact, outcome and the people involved.

This book:

• Introduces a unique problem-solving framework to help educators address challenges in an effective and efficient way.
• Provides educators with practical tools for solving problems to create an environment that meets the needs of all students – from general education classrooms to secure schools.
• Offers a highly interactive approach, with a workbook component in each chapter that readers can complete to learn how to address a range of problems.

Follow along as Holland provides deep insights and surefire strategies gleaned from years of experience working in the most diverse and restrictive classroom settings across the U.S.

AUDIENCE
Elementary and secondary teachers, instructional coaches and school leaders

School Library Journal, Deidre Winterhalter

VERDICT: School libraries will find this a helpful addition to a well-used professional collection.

Educators are constantly addressing chronic problems with short term resolutions due to lack of time and resources for planning. Holland has assembled a framework for school staff to anticipate issues and brainstorm solutions in advance. The book has an educational technology undercurrent: examples within relate to technology, but suggested exercises stem from the author's experience in both ed tech and with students in secure schools in the U.S. Juvenile Justice System. Prevent, Detect, Contain, and Extinguish are the pillars of the framework. End-of-chapter activities have two branches: one for educators and one for school administrators. Both center design thinking, encouraging readers to focus on people, technology integration, and economical impact. Readers are prompted to employ both logic and feelings to examine facets of problems and consider barriers, impacts on individuals and groups, and their own capacity and influence to implement solutions. A QR code to the author's spoken explanations accompanies each module. Teachers and administrators pursuing small group study or a schoolwide development title will find that the book presents more opportunities for introspection than quick tips or fixes.

Kaylah Holland, Ed.D., holds a doctoral degree in instructional design and technology, and has completed extensive research in active learning environments. She has spent years empowering educators and championing student-centered classrooms. Holland is a Google Certified Trainer and Innovator, a college professor, an ISTE Community Leader, and was named one of ISTE’s 20 to Watch in 2022. She is the director of instructional technology and blended learning for BreakFree Education, where she works to empower educators to foster innovative, sustainable and active educational environments. She also helps to radically improve education inside juvenile justice facilities.

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