Last night was the first class meeting for Edina's Teaching & Technology cohort. I am very excited to be a part of this group, working with and learning from Edina colleagues. One of the highlights was a group activity where everyone created a Google Map, highlighting the places they've lived and the technology they lived with at the time. Thinking back to days of VCRs, TVs without remotes, the original Nintendo, and even Atari (what up, Frogger?!) was great. It was a fitting exercise to do on a day I happened to read a great obituary on The Walkman.
What I couldn't escape after last night's session was this realization: I really do enjoy learning. I know that sounds simple and perhaps obvious, but I don't think all teachers sincerely agree with me on that point. The challenge is exciting, new concepts are invigorating, and collaborating with people I work with is, quite frankly, refreshing.
So here's the challenge to myself: do whatever it takes to instill this in my students who don't have it, and foster that love for the students who already do enjoy learning. Being an example in my room on a daily basis, and modeling those behaviors is huge...I think that's why nights like last night are so important. You can be reminded of a basic fact you may have forgotten, and that simple "aha" moment can go a long way.
Jon,
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you are a part of this cohort experience! Your reflection on learning mirrors my own. I look forward to supporting your efforts to instill the love of learning in your students!
Mike