One of the most important things that I have learned this year is that change is required. I actually felt that my lessons would be how I wanted them and that getting ready each day would be relatively easy. What was I thinking???? I am coming to realize through our faculty meetings, continuing education, and research that my lessons are just a good starting point. I am striving for high quality work from my students....not there yet. The question is how do I get me and them to that point? And the answer is probably perseverence and the idea that our students are ever changing. This will require me to continue to develop lessons, trial and error, and modifying to meet the needs of the students. It also means that I may not follow the state curriculum completely and that will be okay too.
Ultimately I am learning that to be an effective teacher I must be willing to change and to change often. I will continue to design and revamp lessons, try new things, and challenge myself and my students. I really like the idea of "Expectations of Excellence". That will be our class moto for now....until the students decide they want to change it.
I agree with you and what you say about required changing and adjusting accordingly with the students and their needs. I have tried so many different techniques in the classroom just to keep up with my students and their needs. I know that what we are doing today will have an effect on each and every student. I feel that effective teachers can have an influence in the way some students will become leaders or even teachers in the future. Challenging and giving the student a reason for having expectations is an important lesson. This year, I have already seen a difference in the way so many of my students look at the future. Sometimes, I lecture to my class on how I believe there is hope for them yet. Most of the students just laugh and agree me.
ReplyDeleteHi, Teresa - one of the mixed blessings of education is that change is ever present. You have to be able to adjust, adapt, and roll on towards the excellence that you envision. I love that you have embraced the attitude that flexibillity and change are key to your success and excellence. Your students will absolutely benefit from this - keep us posted.
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