Saturday, September 18, 2010

CED525 Class 2

The strategies we studied this week are a great reminder of what educators need to focus on. I think at times we find ourselves moving into a routine and not always thinking our lessons through. Why would a student want to do the work, if they don't understand what the objecctives, or what the purpose is? Setting objectives helps the students understand the direction of the learning, along with short and long term accomplishments. I asked my students to answer some Social Studies questions on an online survey I had created. I used survey monkey to poll the students. I wanted to get an idea of what they knew, wanted to know and what they found difficult, about learning history. It worked really well and they took the questions serious. I explained that the answers they gave would dictate what they would learn this year. In a way I actually allowed them to set their own objectives on what they wanted to learn in my class. I put the results of the survey on my Smart-board, so they could all see. I really like my students to be involved in the classroom decisions and taking an active role in their learning. In our book chapter 2 had great ways to give feedback. Communication and feedback also helps build that bridge of respect between the teacher and student. Praising and showing your students recognition is also an important key to building a mutual respect. Without respect your student will not use their potential to the fullest in your class. I don't care how great of a teacher you are.

3 comments:

  1. It is a great idea involving your students in classroom decisions. That makes them feel they belong and are an important part of the class. Was this your first time using Survey Monkey? What were your students' feelings about using it? I also agree that communicating and giving students feedback builds respect. If a teacher doesn't give them the time of day, why should they pay attention to the teacher? With students today and the situations they have to deal with inside and outside of school on a daily basis, it is important to stay involved and in contact with them. Even a friendly "Hello!" could help brighten someone's day.

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  2. Another great survey web site I use to poll my students is http://www.websurveymaster.com/ I find it very easy to use, the surveys look really good, and the result analysis tools are fantastic.
    Hope this helps
    Jane

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  3. This is a nice example of using prior knowledge and student interests to set learning activities. Your comment on mutual respect is a key idea - we often forget that is an essential component.

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