Semester Blogging Reflection

These blogs have been helpful with bringing thoughts together, reflecting on key points to the week. Reading other blogs also brought in other perspectives, challenging or reinforcing what I might think. That's not to say an opinion is right or wrong, simply that people at times have an interesting point of view. This could be of great help during a teaching career because it's continuously emphasized that teachers need to be in constant communication with one another about the students and the goings-on of the school. And with dedication, this is something teachers can take two minutes to do, giving them the opportunity to give and receive information they might need. And over the years, you could eventually reflect on them and see how far you've come, eventually providing an opportunity for newer teachers to learn from what you've come to know.

Constructivism

It is true that how one learns creates a likelihood that they will teach in that way too. But, I also agree that teachers should be open to other teaching possibilities. This creates the "bridge" toward helping children learn in different ways, allowing those who struggle to know they too can achieve that grade they want. The main constructivist approach centers on "people learning while doing". While this may be true for some people, others may prefer by learning while observing. It all depends on the child and what they've grown learning. Teachers need to observe their class, and know the best approach to learning, whether it be the constructivist approach or not.

"Smart Kids"

I have a hard time grasping the thought that some families don't have many learning opportunities at home, therefore children will likely struggle more in school. What? Do parents not realize that learning begins at home? I think this might be the reason why parents are so set on getting their children enrolled in pre-schools early. They are too busy with their 'adult' lives, therefore someone needs too teach their kids. But, apparently, that is having a greater negative impact on children's lives--more so than parents are willing to admit. It seems that parents in Finland have the right idea. Construct a more relaxed environment, don't set overly high expectations in school and later in college, etc. It seems to be working because Finnish kids seem to be excelling greatly. So why, when we are so intent on improving our children, are we failing? Children need the opportunity to be children. Otherwise they'll burn out early and they wont be able to know when they can take a break. This is more harmful to them than almost any other form of abuse.

Parental Roles

So I've been thinking about the speaker last week and the issues of parental roles in the family here versus Vietnam. I had mixed feelings on the subject, especially as he spoke on parents in the past compared to now. It amazes me that they had such strong influence in their children's lives, even to the point of who they marry. But, it seems that those who did have great parental influence did better in school. Although this is true, it seems unfathomable that the parents should be that much involved in their child's life. It seems that this is the case currently though, as children prefer parent's input, but not control. I can completely agree with this. Parents have "been through it" once, and they do understand regardless what the child thinks. So to have the watchful eye at least is helpful, but not complete control. Children will be lost if they are controlled for the most influential parts of their lives. They need guidance, not control.