This quote may sound counterproductive, especially coming from an (almost) English teacher. And although Mr. Twain only had an 8th grade education, I do not believe he is speaking ill of the education profession and especially not of education in general. What TED 633 taught me this month is even though we must follow standards, meet deadlines and focus on assessments and grades, we must not lose sight of the prize – education. All that other stuff is simply schooling. It is the pomp and circumstance needed to create a status quo to which standards are built...which is out of balance with the art of education.
As with all things, balance is key. Balance is where understanding is birthed.
For instance, just as in TED 633 there is a balance between learning the material, creating quality work and turning it in on time, the same will be true in all of our current or future classrooms. Balancing classroom necessities with activities, assessments and anecdotes that are meaningful and fun is where the combination of the two create the magic of understanding – that “ah-ah” light-bulb moment we all strive for. Do I know everything that every English teacher should know? No, I do not. But, I am willing and able to gain that knowledge as I go. Will there be hoops to jump through along the way? Yes there will be, and to that I say, “I have never let my schooling interfere with my education.”
Great points, and what a perfect quote to start off a discussion like this. I really like the idea of balance, and how that's where the education aspect of it comes from. Balancing assignments of importance and activities of meaning is one of the most important things I have learned from all of these classes, and especially this one. Really great post, keep jumping through those hoops so you can get where you are going. I truly applaud your efforts and work.
ReplyDeleteWow Jacob,
ReplyDeleteyou made some excellent points... all so often we focus on the students being teachable, but don't we as teachers need to learn from the students and be teachable in return? It's a pretty interesting thought how many teachers get stuck in their ways and don't move to the beat of their classroom. How many more students would be challenged and increase learning if we had teachers that ensured they were always a PART of their own class and not the leader of the class. That's actually why I really dislike the word "instructor." I also like your pictures and felt like this picture goes along with what I am saying :) http://msl-cdn.radiantforestllc.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/boss-vs-leader-800x800.png
My hands down favorite part of this entire post was that "we must not lose sight of the prize – education" I know I lose sight of this all the time with my dance team, and am sure this will happen in class too. Who cares if the scores aren't insanely high, as long as students are learning... honestly, NCLB is going to modified soon anyway as every district goes under!
I am going to really miss reading your discussions. They say it takes five years before you become a good teacher. I believe you will fast forward and be there right away. You have all the makings of an amazing English teacher and I only wish I could be one of your students for a day. My whole life I have used quotes for everything. I have enjoyed the ones that you have chosen for this class. I wish you the best of luck as I see you interacting with your students and them being totally engaged.
ReplyDeleteFunny and true...breathe life into your subject area...that is the crux...Mark Twain or Mahatma Ghandi or Jesus Christ...help these kids
ReplyDeleteMark