Reflecting and trying to move forward with approaches to teaching, being aware of student needs and meeting the program requirements in a way that is balanced and dynamic is something that I challenge myself with continually. Today I watched a video on youtube that was a timely reminder that teacher attitudes, expectations and classroom management are are closely linked. "Dear Teacher ... " I wonder what my students would say to me . . . ? Do you ever wonder that? Not all our students are the same, we know that. They don't all have the same needs, we get that. We know need to individualise and support students to see that we will give them what they need and will support them in their learning. Fair or equal doesn't mean the same for all, I get that. I know these things and I believe these to be true. I work to build a supportive classroom culture as much as I can. I work to build positive relationships with my students AND their parents. BUT is there more? How can I make a difference that is going to inspire, encourage and challenge my students. The challenge is time to listen to each individual. The challenge is to ensure each voice is heard and each need is met. There are so many challenges and they are constantly changing but that is the AMAZING part of being a teacher. The joy you get when a child smiles, or the student who never responds asks a question or answers one. The student who sits at the back starts to move closer to see what is happening because somehow today you have managed to make them curious, interested and not worried about what others think. All these challenges are what keeps me loving being a teacher. The funny moments when a student makes you giggle, the huge smile when they 'get it' now, the tears of frustration cause they really want to 'get it' and they are not quite there - YET. I am reflecting on the student voice in this video . . . How do we empower our students to have a voice? How to I respond? Often there are no words needed. Being aware of each student, not just their learning - but knowing them, thinking about them as people, working out what works for them - today . . . have empathy, demonstrate understanding. Be THAT teacher. Create a safe environment to empower students to share ideas and thoughts; to follow their passion, to demonstrate understanding and to feel they are valued. Comments are closed.
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AuthorTeaching in an IBPYP school; interests: student agency, technology integration, growth mindset & the continuous cycle of improvement that is the world of education, learning and being! Archives
June 2018
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