I've just picked up Steve Wyborney's book, The Writing on the Classroom Wall. Wyborney believes in posting his educational beliefs on the walls of his classroom, making them visible for students to see.
In the introduction to the book, the author touches on the subject of risk-taking - not only of the need to teach students to take risks, but to take risks as teachers. He uses the term risk forward to describe what teachers should do.
Along the way, Wyborney recognizes the difficulties.
In the introduction to the book, the author touches on the subject of risk-taking - not only of the need to teach students to take risks, but to take risks as teachers. He uses the term risk forward to describe what teachers should do.
Along the way, Wyborney recognizes the difficulties.
My journey was not a rapid one, nor was it without its setbacks.
Some young teachers may think they have what it takes to master the profession. Spectators may see a person who is "good with children" or "energetic and creative" and think that person will automatically make an excellent teacher. Those of us with more experience - even those of us who have long been considered to be effective educators - know that even the most natural of teachers must go through a process of development.
Through my years as an educator, I've become passionate about seeking out powerful truths regarding students and classrooms. I now realize I will never complete my pursuit of learning. Like so many other educators around me, I have a passion to grow, to continue learning, and to constantly reflect.
It is constantly necessary to find and experiment with processes and strategies, postures and tones, color and light, to grow. No one comes into the education profession with every tool, inspired by some spirit, to solve every problem that arises...and no one enters the classroom with a completely intact educational philosophy.
I can point to specific points along my 28-year path that might be classified as forehead-slapping moments. They are often moments when we realize that others have blazed similar trails or that others have made discoveries that can be very useful in our own world. With humility, we share the sentiment of Steve Wyborney in the introduction of his book.
I can point to specific points along my 28-year path that might be classified as forehead-slapping moments. They are often moments when we realize that others have blazed similar trails or that others have made discoveries that can be very useful in our own world. With humility, we share the sentiment of Steve Wyborney in the introduction of his book.
Almost every time an epiphany strikes, I marvel at how I had ever missed the truth. Often, it is an idea...that has been repeatedly poured into my life or a truth that has been standing in front of me for years. Suddenly, what may have been a vague, peripheral concept is clear and obvious. I am not the originator of these ideas; I have merely recognized their validity and power and have been deeply impacted by them...
