Chapter 11 Response to: Classroom Issues

by April

I thought it was interesting that we had almost opposite experiences with group work when we were young. You felt useless because some students took over. I felt stressed and overwhelmed because I, while also being shy, felt like I always had to step up and lead groups because other students wouldn't take any personal responsibility for the group work. In either situation, I think we've both brought out an important point, teachers have to watch over group work and ensure that it is benefitting all students involved.

I did think it was interesting that the text mentioned that independent work might be better for introverted and shy students. On one hand I completely agree with this. On the other, I ask, how do these students learn to cooperate with others? This skill is necessary for success in many and perhaps most jobs. In the classroom, teachers can provide for opportunities to learn this skill in a caring and supportive, noncompetitive way, before students enter the work force and have to cooperate for success.

I wanted to comment on the idea of a "comment box" but didn't in my original journal so I'm glad you brought that out. I've never seen it done so it was nice to hear of your experiences with it. When I read that I thought, "That's a great idea!" Of course, it does require that a teacher has thick skin. I'm guessing students will at times bring out things that they don't like about what the teacher does. A teacher has to be willing to accept criticism and be able to reflect and evaluate their teaching for the benefit of their students. I've always been sensitive and have never taken criticism all that well. But I've made it a point in the last few years (especially after facing upset parents) to be more reflective and open to criticism. Yes, I still take it personally more often than not and I do get my feelings hurt, but I'm determined to push through those feelings so that I can hear what others say and continue to become a better teacher, year after year.