This site is a class blog space for new Career and Technical Specializations and Heathcare Science teachers enrolled in the New Teacher Institute (NTI) at Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
"What have I learned about myself as a teacher this week"
There is always something new to learn and I strive to find a better way to do things. As a teacher, I have reached the conclusion that I need to take on fewer things so I may develop depth. I have learned that in order to make that happen, I will have to say "no" to some good things to do what is best for my professional learning and growth. I've found that having your lessons well planned makes it easier to handle situations and I'm able to be flexible when administrators make a change. Now, it is easier to bring closure to where we are in the lesson and state we'll pick up here at the next class. I'm finding it easier to laugh at myself when I thought I covered an item with a class; but I had actually covered it in the class the day before, so I too am learning the art of keeping notes. Because, while your lesson plan may be consistent, student questions and ideas may vary a great deal and I have to make sure I share important insights among the classes. Now, I just need to make lesson plans on how to handle the day-to-day activities of my personal life in order to take control of the time I need to re-energize. I think I'll schedule in a nap that covers 2 class periods (170 minutes) Saturday or Sunday afternoon. Oh well, not this week we are going to Fall Leadership Conference...but it is a thought worth developing.
Leola, what wisdom you always convey. You are right on many points. What I found most insightful was the realization that "no" is an acceptable answer. It is not that you do not want to participate in many of the worthy events but you look around and your time dissipates rapidly. Relating to your blog seemed as if you had a mirror into my class. As for me, students constantly remind me, "You did not share that information with us". I just started making notes on my lesson plans on what worked and what needs to be strengthened. So, taking notes after each class would be very helpful to me. Great blog. Take care...
ReplyDeleteThat is so true. I am one of those people that wants to be helpful wherever and whenever. I have since realized that sometimes I have to say no and its okay especially if it prohibits me from developing, as you put it depth. Sometimes we put to much own ourselves and I know that as a new teacher it is important for me to prioritze my duties and responsibilities in order to develop as an educator.
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