Question:
A well-respected professional organization is using the theme "How Teachers Learn" for its annual convention this year. How would you describe or explain the way YOU learn?
Replies:
NJ
I NEED THE INFORMATION; FACTS, DETAILS... THEN I NEED TO KNOW THE EXPECTATIONS, "WHAT AM I SUPPPOSED TO DO WITH THE INFORMATION?" WHEN I HAVE ONE WITHOUT THE OTHER, THE ONLY THING THAT COMES TO MIND IS, "SO WHAT?" OR "WHY?"
Lisa Linn - Oceanside, CA
I would describe myself as an active learner; I seek out new opportunities to learn and go "all-in" on the subject or project. I am also a collaborative learner. Many times I have an idea or vision I would like to explore, but don't have the necessary tools or know how to do it alone; that is where a great PLN becomes imperative. Alone, I am a good classroom teacher, but with my network, I am not only better in my classroom, but I am also able to contribute to the wider good of my profession.
Terri - Port Orchard, WA
The way I learn is by talking with other people about what I am learning and by doing things, "hands on." I struggle with lectures that simply state facts and want regurgitation of answers. I usuaaly don't get things the first time around, but when I learn something, I have learned it. I feed off of ideas from others, like from "Teacher's First" and I adapt them to meet my needs and my students' needs. I had an eighth grade math teacher tell me I was a dumb blonde and would never get advanced math.
OR
I learn best by doing. Lecture puts me to sleep. I need minimal instruction to get started and then I'm ready to go, to do the research, to create an end product. If the subject is something I'm passionate about, even better.
Rajasthan
When you teach, you have to be exact and ready for cross questioning and its the best way to learn more and more.Besides if you are passionate about your subject and inquisitive by nature it is beneficial. Journals,research papers, articles help to keep yourself update. That's my way!
Jennifer Vaughan - Fort Wayne, Indiana
I learn through many modalities as do most people, but I have realized over the past few years, that the most effective way for me to learn is through modeling and then doing. Even the simple act of writing down what is being said helps me to maintain the information. I do this even if handouts are provided by a presenter. Last year I was designated to attend a trhee day curriculum mapping training. Many dollars were spent for food, lodging and gas to send me to the training. I was familiar with the electronic program the district had chosen to use. I assumed that I would be using the program and becoming something of an expert which would help me train my department. Sadly we were lectured to for three days and never once used the program. There were no computers available to us for that purpose. Because I could not see the program modeled and then have a chance to use the program, I felt very unprepared to come back to my school and train others. This was a good lesson for me to learn, and I have definitely transfered it to the classroom.
Norma - Arlington, TN
Because I am predominately a visual person, I like seeing someone demonstrate what I have to do. I can study diagrams, too, but having a person observe my first tries and make valid, uncritical comments is great. Sarcasm and criticism do not help, but a hearty "girl, go back a step! You can do better!" never hurts.
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