I would say that I am one who believes in student-centered teaching. It seems that teachers of the past have been teacher-centered teaching. This gives you the knowledge of who knows the information and who does not. I prefer to have the learning centered on the students through discussion and interacting in different activities the children actually learn and experience different thoughts that may have never crossed their mind before. Often times the help of a peer is more effective and more welcomed by the other student.
In teaching we all have guidelines and certain material that has to be taught. I want to teach the material that needs to be taught but I do not want to be afraid to try new things and add my own spin on it. I hope to make the learning experience fun, engaging and memorable. Technology is a great way to do this especially since so many of our children are familiar with it and it is what keeps them occupied in their free time, computers, games and electronic toys.
I do know one thing without a doubt that in order to have a well-balanced classroom you must first create a community learning environment. I used to always think that it was classroom management but it is so much more. In order to create this type of environment I will make sure the children know exactly what is expected of them as far as their assignments go and their behavior as well. I will get to know my students and let them get to know me on a personal level which can be done through fun games. I will always encourage my students to go beyond what they have to do. High expectations are something that will create responsible and confident young children. The children will know that I truly care about them and that we are a family in the classroom. We are all here to help each other to learn, to succeed and to grow. Creating this type of environment will take time but once we have accomplished that the rest will be much easier and the results will be so much more rewarding for me as well as the students. After all if we are not in the teaching profession to make a positive influence and make a difference in children’s lives than what are we doing?
After reading that post I think your definatly on your way to "Being the Teacher" that really helps the children and makes the classroom enjoyable. Your right it's not that the stuff they are learning is boring it's that we need a new interactive spin on teaching. I know project based learning takes a lot of time and energy but I believe in the end it's the best way to go.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your comment Butch. You know project based learning is fun for not only the students but also for the teacher. When we create this type of learning we all learn form each other, including the teacher.
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