Thursday, July 30, 2009

My approach to Mustaches

I have a friend who can grow facial hair at an above average rate. Every time I see him, he has something new going on with his canvas. I saw him a week ago and he had a full beard, then three days ago, chops and a goat, and yesterday a fu man like you wouldn't believe.

Not that students will be able to grow facial hair at the same rate, nor will they have as much knowledge about mustaches as I do, but each student will bring their own style to the classroom. Part of our job as educators is to involve every student no matter what they bring to the table. Keeping an open mind to the abilities and personalities of each individual is critical. Through this, we will develop plans to reach every type of learner. Some students need more guidance than others, some need their space and some need to change their own approach depending on the situation. This personal diversity can add to the positive learning environment when all students are given a chance.

Every student will have their own facial landscape and we need to make sure not everyone is clean shaven.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Physics and Bow Ties

I have been doing some thinking over the recent weeks as to what I want to accomplish as a teacher. We discussed student achievement and what it means for our students to be successful. I understand that standards have a large place in education today, but I feel that the most important part of teaching is how we reach those standards. From my experiences student's learning is increased by a strong relationship with the teacher. As many can probably tell, I like to take a jovial approach to learning and life. I feel that if the students are having fun with me, they will trust what I say more. This builds a foundation for learning success. I also know that strong teacher student relationships in my past made me strive for knowledge. I did not want to let my teachers down and I worked constantly to prove this. I feel that when teachers get to the level of the students, each is more likely to benefit. As we go out to teach, please keep this in mind. Don't try to become friends with your students, try to understand them and allow them to understand you. Bow ties for everyone.

The use of Technology must be focused

As I was watching the societal changes group present in our 649 class, we talked a bunch about how technology can be used in the classroom. One of the major issues that I had during this presentation was my lack of focus when it comes to the technology involved. We were offered the chance to get on twitter and ask questions while the presentation was taking place. I tried to make some comments on twitter, then I found myself reading all of the other comments first, then I tried to figure out how to comment, then I read more comments. By the time I had done all of this, the discussion in the classroom had passed me by. I realized that I had tuned out for approximately 8 minutes. So, as I stated before, the technology usage needs to be focused and incorporated into the lesson. When I was given the opportunity to explore and use the technology on my own, I struggled. While some of the students will have more knowledge and be more familiar than myself, I will also have to show others how it can be utilized.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Shout out for all you techies out there!

Technology in the classroom; it is fantastic when it works. I have always been fascinated with various ways that students learn and I will make sure that my students have a firm grasp on any type of technology available to them. I think Smartboards are a great way to incorporate various learning styles and abilities with technology. My plan is to teach in a STEM class environment and adopt a cooperative teaching style. I see my students teaching me as we go and developing along the way. I am open to new opportunities and look forward to setting up a positive learning environment.