Roles: Rigorous Researcher and Idea Illustrator
Idea Illustrator:
One section of this chapter that I really liked was how they discussed all the possibilities and opportunities that you can present in an elementary setting. They introduced the chapter with quotes from teachers, including "there just isn't time", "need smaller class rize" and "want more training, but not training that's boring or treats me like an idiot." (p. 128)
There are so many ways to get around behavioral issues in your classroom, as well as academic issues that your students may be suffering from. There are so many outlets, especially nowadays, that are meant to engage children more fully into their academics, and help them stay focused, and have fun learning.
Use of Computers & Other Media in Elementary School: p. 137
In a section entitled, "The Outdoor Classroom" (p. 139), they discuss this idea of "eliminating recess" in our schools. This is a huge mistake, and I thought it was interesting the statistics that are behind letting children be children, and going outside to play. It diminishes social time, play time, "getting your sillies out" time, that all children (especially at the elementary age) are in need of.
Rigorous Researcher:
I decided to do a little more research on the bonding and attachment in elementary learning. Children learn best when they feel loved, respected and safe... and that teacher-student relationship is too important.
Here are some good websites I came across!
- "Bonding with your students" Tips for teachers: http://www.preschoolprofessional.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=17:bonding-with-your-students&catid=2:professional-development&Itemid=25
Bonding - The Teacher-Student-Parent Connection: http://circle.adventist.org/files/jae/en/jae200568011803.pdf
Meghan,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed both of the videos and the research websites as well! I agree about the importance of play in schools. Many teachers and schools are taking out recess and outside time because there isn't enough time. This is such a huge mistake because children need to let loose for a bit and just run around outside in the fresh air with friends. It helps them release all of their energy that is built up from sitting in school all day.
I also liked the bonding topic alot in this chapter. Many teachers struggle to bond with their students which could create some problems in the classroom. The tips for bonding on your first website were great! There is so much information and advise for teachers out there. Great post!
Natalie Gianvecchio
Meghan, I agree with you about the importance of play. Children need many opportunities to go outside, even in inclement weather to le the steam out. It is so sad that schools are taking away outside play in place of more academics - physical activity creates a more stimulated brain and therefore a greater chance of learning.
ReplyDeleteI loved the topic of bonding. It is so important to develop a relationship (hopefully a positive one) with your students, especially the stuggling ones. They are the ones are need a smile, a hug, someone to talk. With so many families under hugh amounts of stress and family dynamics not being what they used to be, it is more important now than ever. I teach over 500 students every school year and I make every effort to learn their names so that when I see them in the hallways, I can call them by name and say "good morning", or "how are you today". I think because of my efforts to bond, I have many of my struggling students stopping in to my class on a daily basis to discuss some of their issues or just to say hi. As a teacher I treasure those moments.
Mary Kay Ward
Blog #5, March 3, 2011