I believe that: there needs to be quality in the foundation that is taught. There needs to be key elements that are built in the basis of understanding in any subject to allow students’ to have the skills to carry on and build ownership for their own learning beyond the classroom. How those elements are given, is open to the teacher’s preference and creativity. Opportunities to make changes and modifications should be flexible in its approach.
I believe this because: like every student, teachers are all different. Everyone has their own learning and teaching style. The curriculum in many subjects in British Columbia has finally been updated after so many years. When reviewing some of the expectations, the staff met for discussion and found the vagueness of the curriculum, which we agreed, allowed for free interpretation. To some, this was a great thing, for others, not so much since they were so use to working out of a text book and following lesson plans that they’ve created years and years ago. Times change, and the knowledge around us is changing.
Lots of issues/aspects: of where to start will be troubling for all staff. For example: what new resources are available, who to collaborate with, what existing plans could still be used, how much time will be given to plan, when could it all be put into action, and how long will it take to transition.
I’d like to talk about: getting students involved with lesson planning and building on their interests as well.
My example: When I ran an after school program with students grade 8-12, I focused on their interests. We had meetings once a week, and for most of the decisions made, I provided options that would help build different aspects of their leadership skills. They voted, and provided their own input. There was a basic guideline, and I stuck to similar plans run previous years; however, with returning students and new members, new learning experiences are inevitable. If only this would happen more so in the classroom setting as well. This will carry on to encourage the students to stay committed to attending and being actively involved in their school.
I believe this because: like every student, teachers are all different. Everyone has their own learning and teaching style. The curriculum in many subjects in British Columbia has finally been updated after so many years. When reviewing some of the expectations, the staff met for discussion and found the vagueness of the curriculum, which we agreed, allowed for free interpretation. To some, this was a great thing, for others, not so much since they were so use to working out of a text book and following lesson plans that they’ve created years and years ago. Times change, and the knowledge around us is changing.
Lots of issues/aspects: of where to start will be troubling for all staff. For example: what new resources are available, who to collaborate with, what existing plans could still be used, how much time will be given to plan, when could it all be put into action, and how long will it take to transition.
I’d like to talk about: getting students involved with lesson planning and building on their interests as well.
My example: When I ran an after school program with students grade 8-12, I focused on their interests. We had meetings once a week, and for most of the decisions made, I provided options that would help build different aspects of their leadership skills. They voted, and provided their own input. There was a basic guideline, and I stuck to similar plans run previous years; however, with returning students and new members, new learning experiences are inevitable. If only this would happen more so in the classroom setting as well. This will carry on to encourage the students to stay committed to attending and being actively involved in their school.