Assumption, Assumption - What's Your Function?
Most are familiar with the "assume" adage. As I observe, listen, read and partake, I have come to the conclusion that it is important to be mindful of the following:
1. Successful student learning takes shape in many forms. If our goal as educators is to reach all children, one methodology is not superior. We do not have an enlightened few or reticent old guard. It is not that black and white.
2. Critical analysis is part of the learning process for many. Just because one questions or asks for clarification does not make the person negative or out to disable the program. According to an education text, constructivism is an "educational theory that emphasizes hands-on, activity-based teaching and learning during which students develop their own frames of thought." I like the idea of honoring the process of developing one's own frame of thought.
3. If you defend your position, this does not automatically make you arrogant and defensive. If you do not agree with the prevailing perspective, you are not automatically arrogant and unyielding.
4. Technology is not a panacea. It is imperfect as is any instrument of teaching - including the educator. Unless we begin to see a reenactment of War Games, is it necessary to sweat the small stuff? How many times has the overhead projector bulb burned out, chalk disappeared, or a video snapped? Perhaps technology is another aspect of what teachers often master in the moment - rolling with it.
5. If someone offers you advice or encouragement, it is not meant to be patronizing. If you disagree with the content and scope of the discussion, you should not be dismissed as having growing pains.
6. In my experience, students will rise to the expectations you establish within your classroom. Technology can be a powerful tool to incorporate high expectations. However, the assumption that all students have home access to technology can present problems. Whether it is socioeconomics, limitations to the Internet, or "tech-free" households, some students will perceive themselves at a disadvantage without ready access.
Text Reference: Johnson, J., Dupuis, V., Musial, D., Hall, G., Gollnick, D. (1994). Introduction to the Foundations of American Education, 9th Ed. Massachusetts: Schuster & Schuster
1. Successful student learning takes shape in many forms. If our goal as educators is to reach all children, one methodology is not superior. We do not have an enlightened few or reticent old guard. It is not that black and white.
2. Critical analysis is part of the learning process for many. Just because one questions or asks for clarification does not make the person negative or out to disable the program. According to an education text, constructivism is an "educational theory that emphasizes hands-on, activity-based teaching and learning during which students develop their own frames of thought." I like the idea of honoring the process of developing one's own frame of thought.
3. If you defend your position, this does not automatically make you arrogant and defensive. If you do not agree with the prevailing perspective, you are not automatically arrogant and unyielding.
4. Technology is not a panacea. It is imperfect as is any instrument of teaching - including the educator. Unless we begin to see a reenactment of War Games, is it necessary to sweat the small stuff? How many times has the overhead projector bulb burned out, chalk disappeared, or a video snapped? Perhaps technology is another aspect of what teachers often master in the moment - rolling with it.
5. If someone offers you advice or encouragement, it is not meant to be patronizing. If you disagree with the content and scope of the discussion, you should not be dismissed as having growing pains.
6. In my experience, students will rise to the expectations you establish within your classroom. Technology can be a powerful tool to incorporate high expectations. However, the assumption that all students have home access to technology can present problems. Whether it is socioeconomics, limitations to the Internet, or "tech-free" households, some students will perceive themselves at a disadvantage without ready access.
Text Reference: Johnson, J., Dupuis, V., Musial, D., Hall, G., Gollnick, D. (1994). Introduction to the Foundations of American Education, 9th Ed. Massachusetts: Schuster & Schuster
posted by S. Cornils | 6:54 PM
2 Comments:
I don't really have anything to add to this other than thanks for sharing this. These are good things for all of us to keep in mind.
So - attempting to be a calming influence, are we? :) How in the world did you end up in Social Studies? Just kidding! Anyway - I like your thoughts. You must have a great 21C mentor . . . ha!
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