To Teach a Teacher

I learned so much more than I ever thought I would in this class, and most of it was by doing and discussing, (rather than the usual heavy workload of reading and writing papers that many other classes require.) This is exactly how I want to teach -- through engagement. Engaging students is by far the most important concept I learned this semester, and I feel as though other classes or teachers have not stressed how utterly important it is. We cannot just stand in front of a classroom and lecture, or click through a Powerpoint presentation. We need to reach our students, and differentiate instruction to reach each and every one of them. The biggest shift in my view of education is that I now put myself in the students' shoes. If I would rather do a simulation activity modeling the Holocaust when reading Number the Stars than writing an essay, then why would I assign them an essay? I think that some teachers take the easy way out; I've had teachers like this in the past. My curriculum here at Shippensburg has shown me what past teachers could have done better. I am distraught when I think back to my junior high and high school classrooms that lacked the engagement I, and all of my friends, really needed. I could have had a better educational experience, which upsets me. I never want a student to reflect back on my class and have this same thought. If an individual prefers to take the easy road, then teaching is certainly not for him/her.

On the other hand, I have had wonderful teachers as well. And when I think back to their classes, they implemented much of the same engagement strategies that I have come to know. We did activities, we analyzed the book, we became the book, rather than just talking broadly or writing about it. My approach to literature and the way in which I will teach it has changed as well. I am not afraid to have my students just delve into a book like I do. I was worried for a long time that there would be a divide between the way in which I read and the way in which they will. But now I have the confidence to just convince them to jump in head first, even if it is a hard text (like Shakespeare). Because I will be right there if they need my help, and we can work as a class through our difficulties together.

I want to make my classroom a community, as mentioned above. I believe this creates more positive surroundings for everyone, which makes students want to come to class and enjoy their time there. Much of what I learned in Adolescent Lit was not taught through instruction, but through how our class was structured. Dr. Shannon promoted such a relaxed and fun atmosphere, such that I always felt comfortable asking questions and sharing my thoughts. This is vital to a classroom. If students cannot share their ideas, then we have nothing; because their education is about them. I want to keep my classroom management under control, but at the same time create the relaxed atmosphere I felt in this class. Lastly, I think if we are understanding and kind teachers, who are compassionate towards the needs of our students, we can never go wrong. If students make a connection with us as people, even if it is just that they feel as though we are easy to talk to, then maybe they will make a connection with us as teachers as well, and engage in our class.