Working in my PDS has completely opened my eyes to the world of teaching. Before this, the only time I had spent in a classroom was either shadowing or writing down lecture notes in high school. This experience has allowed me a chance to actually engage with students, see how a teacher prepares a lesson, and acquire valuable skills that will benefit me throughout my career. One very important thing I've learned from this whole experience is the importance of always maintaining a positive atmosphere in the classroom. My PDS teacher always managed to keep things fun and entertaining for the students, and the advantages showed in the students' work. During my first tutor activity, I decided to learn some of the students' names as I taught the lesson. Every time I called on a student, I would have them tell me their name. This was a simple thing, yet the students showed enthusiasm when called to the board because they got a chance to express themselves a little bit (or maybe I'm just being vain.....). Anywho, I found that this principle is one to always keep in mind when instructing a classroom. I understand that the classroom should first come as a place of education and learning, but I don't believe that there is anything wrong with having a little fun along the way.
Brittany, what experiences have you had that showed the effectiveness of a positive classroom atmosphere? Have you ever had a teacher that seemed to have trouble with this?
--Mike
Hi Mike! Even though calling students by name seems like a small detail of teaching; it demonstrates a certain level of interest in the students. Only being in your PDS 2 hours a week, it is difficult to really get to know the students, but knowing names is a start. If you are interested in your students, they will be interested in you!
ReplyDeleteHey Mike,
ReplyDeleteSimilar to what you said about your PDS teacher, my PDS teacher also maintains a positive classroom environment. She is always encouraging to the students during the times they are working on an assignment such as saying a couple of words to them like “good job” or “nice journal.” She also gives each student enough wait time when calling on them, which like we’ve read can instill the belief in the students that she has confidence in them. Through her positive attitude the students are encouraged to try their best and participate. The more each student participates, the more he or she learns. On the other hand, I have had teachers who have not maintained a positive environment. In high school I had a teacher who did not connect with the students and did not maintain a positive atmosphere. It made me question why he became a teacher in the first place. It was evident that his lack of a connection with his students made us less willing to learn the material. On the bright side, it makes me all the more appreciative of the teachers that do care, though. It was a good idea for you to have the students recite their names when you called on them. I’m sure many of the students enjoyed your effort to get to know them better. No, you are not being vain. It sounds like you are creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere. :)
-Brittany