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While many would debate what the characteristics of an effective classroom are, I would say it is relative to the objectives of the individual leading it. I faced this very issue at the end of September and have struggled to define and redefine what this meant for my students and myself throughout the year. When I think sbout our learning experiences this week, the change game and reading chapter six of How to Thrive as a Teacher Leader, there was a collision. I felt resistant to change when I was told that I would have to teach all subjects including MATH (a subject, I have dreaded and prayed I wouldn't have to teach for as long as I have been a teacher). This came at a time when the district introduced a new reading adoption and instructional model. My resistance came from a fear of how uncomfortable it would be teaching myself math concepts and being able to effectively teach these same concepts to my students. My resistance came from the fear of being in a constant state of learning without reaching a state of mastery in all of those subjects I was going to have to teach.
How do I feel now? I feel that I was justified in my concerns, but that I have done pretty well. When I reflect on my math class, I see an effective classroom. When I look at my reading class, I see an effective classroom. This year has helped me understand that although I have felt like I was in survival mode in my classroom, I really am a thriving educator. Before I began reading the text for this course, I was already doing some of the things the author mentioned as features of effective classrooms. I map my curriculum, to help me plan for the long and short term goals for my instruction and student learning. I differentiate instruction, keeping in mind the abilities if students in my class, use assessment data to guide my instruction and I reteach and retest. In addition, I model strong study skills and habits while also helping with homework after school.
What did I learn this week? It took the changes that I resisted the most to show me how I effective I really am as a teacher.
Hi there,
ReplyDeleteI like your last statement. It took me a while to think about what things I have changed. Once I got to thinking there have been quite a few. Thinking about those and the process, did show me I am a good teacher, looking out for what is best for students. It was interesting to do those activities thinking about changes I have made.
The book is also a great resource for some more ideas on being a great teacher. I do some of the things as well already, which confirms they are good ideas and worth doing.