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This blog post by Dr. Richard Curwin, the author captures nicely the thoughts that run through every teacher's mind this time of year. For me, it was just yesterday that I was furiously scratching notes to myself on how I'd handle next year differently. I had made an interesting connection between two of the books I teach, and so I couldn't wait to make that connection in a lesson next year. Further, I'm currently learning about Project-Based Learning, and I'm excited to make my curriculum more relevant without sacrificing rigor.
In this post, Dr. Curwin reflects on these ideas and more as he reflects on his own experience as a teacher and challenges teachers to espouse a six-step sequence. First, he suggests that teachers must be willing to change, to embrace the need for change or improvement. Next, he recommends making a list--a master list-- of four things: a) Major things you will definitely do; b) Minor changes you will will make; c) Major things you will never do; and d) Minor things you will never do. It is interesting how Dr. Curwin focuses in this post on the things one will not do as well as the promises for change.
Dr. Curwin's writings also challenge teachers to put themselves out there for constructive criticism. He suggests having students write essays, or role-play the teacher (you) in an effort to point out the effectiveness (or lack thereof) in their instruction. This, of course, can be intimidating and yet effective in making change that matters to students. Finally, Dr. Curwin recommends a 5 x 7 note card on which students write things that helped them learn on one side, things that hindered their learning on the other. From this, a teacher can finalize the Master List for improvement in the fall.
The idea of ending one school year on a positive note, but looking with anticipation toward the next, of constantly seeking self-improvement, of finding ways to do things better and to engage students in a more authentic way is not new. This post just reminded me that, even when I think I've nailed it, feedback from my students may send me in a fresh direction.
What a great article! Self-reflection is so important. I actually keep a running list all year long of things I want to change for the next school year. It can be a little daunting by the end of the year to think of making all of those corrections. However, it's so helpful to have these notes. I love the suggestion of providing students with the 5x7 note card to record learning on one side and difficulties on the other. I might add that to my list of changes for next year. :)
ReplyDeleteGreat article Joe. Jessica I like your idea of keeping a list of things that you want to change for the next year. I actually read this article and liked a lot of the suggestions. We just recently had a discussion about this in our building. Three times a year each of our buildings have day where teams of teachers and district administrators come in to our classroom and observe. they are only there to look for evidence of our instructional model being used. As a staff we never get any feedback. We have asked for any type of feedback even if it is criticism. It is not part of our formal evaluation process but we would like to know what we can do better the next time.
ReplyDeleteLove the idea of my students acting out a lesson as me. I think this would be hilarious, and a great way to end the year. I think it really would give some insight to how kids feel in my classroom. I also try to keep a running list of things I want to change for next year, it's just a matter of sticking to it. About this time the weather starts to get nice, and it gets so easy to slip back into some old ways. This is a great reminder to work at always improving. Thanks for sharing.
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