The first 'thing' on Ned's list really resonated with me. Currently working at two different schools (as an LTO), I've noted that even though they're in the same district, they couldn't be more different in the needs of the students. My morning school is in an affluent part of town, whereas my afternoon school is in an area with subsidized housing and is noted as 'low income'. More students in my morning school come in clean clothes, having eaten breakfast, and are ready to learn. Students in my afternoon school are often wearing clothing with small tears, shoes that don't fit, or have improper winter clothing. Many have little in their lunches and are often hungry and tired by the time I get there. As often as allows, I make a pit stop in the breakfast club and bring some snacks with me to their class. It is on these days that I see the biggest improvement in the attention and motivation of students. I need to remind myself that if basic needs aren't met, it's not necessarily the student's fault that he can't pay attention.
I know we can't fix all of the problems that students face, but let's work on the ones that we can :)
*This isn't specifically Math related, but certainly benefits a Math classroom.
Thanks for sharing this great reminder. Students face such a wide variety of unique challenges and I think this video does a great job of outlining the major needs of students that must be met in order for truly effective learning to take place.
ReplyDeleteI would add one more point under I Have a Coach - encouragement. When students know that their teachers believe in them (and are frequently reminded of this through encouragement), students are often able to overcome some of their challenges and participate in meaningful learning.
I have certainly found this to be the case while teaching PE!
I really enjoyed this video and it speaks volumes about how important it is to treat your students like actually people. Learners are not going to respond well to a lesson if they are concerned with other matters, or deem it unimportant, but most of all if they are unable to practice/ learn at their own pace. Thanks for sharing this video and reminding us that educators are not only information presenters but a support system, a guide, and a positive role model.
ReplyDeleteIn regard to the comment posted by Steven Irish, I 100% agree that "coaching" requires encouragement. Positive feedback, reward, and meaningful contribution all create a positive learning environment that allow students to prosper and grow.