I was reflecting last night after my teacher as researcher meeting, how has my practice changed?
I realized that the biggest change is not in how I do things, but in knowing why I do things. In the beginning I was a very instinctual teacher and luckily my instincts were right. I was a good teacher and I made very good choices on what to do in my classroom. Now, I don't just make good choices; I make informed decisions. The decisions that I make in my classroom are based on theory, action research and reflection.
These personal skill sets have also helped in my collaboration with my colleagues. I have been able to "teach" some of the skills I have learned in my pursuit of becoming a better teacher. The power of Critical Friends Group practices is in the knowing.
Comments (2)
I am thinking about the knowledge about which you have spoken...Is it a general kind of knowledge or could you classify it (put boundaries on it) in some kind of ways??? Just a wonder...
Posted by Cheryl | May 17, 2005 4:38 PM
Posted on May 17, 2005 16:38
I also think that knowing why you are doing something is a step that is hard to grasp, yet vital to improving our practice. I try to make teaching decisions based on theory, research and reflection, but lately have felt trapped by so many directives that do not mesh with some of what I determine is best for my students. So I am once again struggling with how to get out to a broader base (in the education and political world)more research, data etc. to better form reflection.
Posted by Janet | May 17, 2005 5:05 PM
Posted on May 17, 2005 17:05