As I look back to the time we spent in the classroom working on this project, I am overwhelmed by a sense of satisfaction. The deligence of the students makes me proud. The outcome is typical. Most got it; a few didn't. What really makes my heart sing is what I learned in the process. Learning just happens when you are open to it!
Eveything I Learned I Learned in the Classroom:
1. When you are video taping, plan ahead of time where you will be taping. Everyone now knows the inside of my desks are stuffed with paper, and I am not a good housekeeper.
2. Substantive conversation is very important. Of course there was a lot of interaction between the students themselves, but what was different this time is the conversations that took place between the teacher and student. I took a few minutes to conference with each student during class regarding their plan. The plans were explained and questions were asked. The students were held accountable for their own work, and they took ownership of the project. I enjoyed the time I spent with each student. Yes, it took a while, but it was worth it! Many preconceived notions I had about certain students faded into the darkness.
3. The students became cognitive apprectices; they became accountable for how they think as well as what they think. The Marzano Heirarchy of Thinking Skills helped in the process.
4. Rigor and relevence are utmost important. Rigor is set by the complexity of the process and relevence is determined by personal involvement. "How does this affect me?" should be asked when working on projects. By having the students place their projects in the library to encourage others to read connected the students to others.
"Success comes to people who are willing to take on challenges." Ann Curry.
Wednesday
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