In my field placement at Ox Bow, I noticed early on the different races of students. In the Goshen area, there are many Hispanics and their population is definitely evident in schools. Along with Hispanics, Ox Bow had students that were African American and white. These races are most numerous, but there could have been others in different classes. To create a safe and open environment in the classroom, I knew I had to recognize all races and show respect to everyone.
Showing respect meant doing many different things. Even though I was just an observer, the students treated me like another teacher. Since they gave me this respect, I openly gave it to them as well. I listened to their stories, shared in their beliefs, and valued them as individuals. Making time in each day to show interest in every student can make a big impact on students' lives. Being democratic can include sharing commonalities that I have with students. Treating them as an equal and being on the same level are very important. Each student has their own story, their own beliefs, and their own goals. To practice democracy in the classroom, I should value these things and see them as an individual.
One democratic principle that is key in a classroom is choice. As a teacher, I am one who disciplines and shows leadership, but it is the kids who make choices for themselves on how they are going to act. At Ox Bow, the students know that they make their own choices, but teachers encourage them to make the right choice. This is something I, too practiced while observing. I could see it positively affect the kids' decisions. By simply saying to a child "you know your options, make the right choice," they are more likely to make good decisions. Using this tactic, along with the others mentioned, I think will have a positive effect in class.
Showing respect meant doing many different things. Even though I was just an observer, the students treated me like another teacher. Since they gave me this respect, I openly gave it to them as well. I listened to their stories, shared in their beliefs, and valued them as individuals. Making time in each day to show interest in every student can make a big impact on students' lives. Being democratic can include sharing commonalities that I have with students. Treating them as an equal and being on the same level are very important. Each student has their own story, their own beliefs, and their own goals. To practice democracy in the classroom, I should value these things and see them as an individual.
One democratic principle that is key in a classroom is choice. As a teacher, I am one who disciplines and shows leadership, but it is the kids who make choices for themselves on how they are going to act. At Ox Bow, the students know that they make their own choices, but teachers encourage them to make the right choice. This is something I, too practiced while observing. I could see it positively affect the kids' decisions. By simply saying to a child "you know your options, make the right choice," they are more likely to make good decisions. Using this tactic, along with the others mentioned, I think will have a positive effect in class.
No comments:
Post a Comment