Reading
“Certain things in life are best done in person.”
I found chapter nine to be the most impactful. I think part
of the reason I did was because of the quotation above and how it applies to my
action research project. The project was to implement a blended learning model
in an eleventh grade history class. I recall one of my doubting colleagues
remarking, “Well Broz, if they[students] like it that much they don’t even have
to come to class”.
Al had a good point. We implemented an entirely computer
based credit recovery program for students who were unsuccessful during the day
program and his conjecture was implying that I was making my classroom
obsolete.
Of course I laughed and disagreed with him, saying “Then
they [students] would miss all the antics!”
I really enjoyed my action research project and I think it
had a great impact on student learning; however, nothing can replace the human
element in education.
The other part of the reading I found particularly
meaningful came from chapter eleven when the author discusses the idea of
creating a framework for possibility. In particular on page 163, the author
wrote about the practice of framing possibility. Number three in the list is to
“Keep distinguishing what is ‘on the track’ and what is ‘off the track’ of your
framework for possibility.” I think this holds particular weight for teachers
and frankly for all professionals who continually reflect upon their practice.
Because none of us are ever entirely perfect, being a reflective person is
almost necessary. If we continually distinguish what is in the realm of
possibility and then dismiss things that get us “off track”, our practices and
personal relationship to our profession will inevitably improve.
Reflecting, re-assessing, replaying the last unit that we did was always part of my process in the classroom. There's always room for growth.
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