One of the interesting things about being a 'non trad' is all the extra activities and experiences that I not only 'bring to the table', but also that I have as part of my day-to-day life. Handily my volunteerism, although involving horses, is all to do with teaching! I am typing this on the plane as I return from Pony Club Annual Meeting held in Portland, OR. A meeting filled with others who want to provide opportunities for young people, even if it isn't in a bricks and mortar classroom! Not only did I watch, listen and learn about ways to help our Pony Club clubs and region (I am Regional Instructional Coordinator for our region), but I also got to talk about 'my studies' with many folk - and of course, everyone has an opinion on teaching, schools and education, so conversations are to be had in every plane, train or social setting!
On my first flight of the weekend, from Cedar Rapids to Denver, I was involved in a discussion about writing and the importance of students being allowed to take ownership of their own words; privacy at times, creativity encouraged, and opportunities to practice. Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. It was interesting to hear an echo of a recent article that I just read; no one seems to be writing - which explains why our students are falling short in writing assessments.
From Denver to Portland, the talk was about schools and society. The flight attendent used to be a teacher, his wife still is. We got into an interesting discussion about who was critiqued more by the media and general populace, schools or airline companies? As teachers are blamed for students not reaching the standards the general population wants, airlines are lambasted for not providing services travelers expect. It's all about wants, desires and expectations!
The weekend was a busy rush of classes and networking. I listened, learned, discussed. I connected with riding instructors, volunteers who teach and organize, vets and volunteer corporate staff. In between I tried to do homework and take care of what would otherwise hit me over the head (probably very painfully) on my return!
Coming home, I connected with a man whose son teaches with TeachAmerica and is at a charter school on the East Coast somewhere. Interesting viewpoints. although it was surprising to hear him say that he didn't understand why there wasn't more research done on how children learn. Well, there is certainly research out there (although not as much on writing), but I don't know that the educational researchers share their findings with the politicians - and if they do, does anyone listen? He allowed and encouraged me to discuss my favorite subject of teaching with mini lessons and workshops, and how all teachers should embrace interdisciplinary learning and block scheduling. I didn't finish my required reading, but I did stretch my mind a little bit more :) The last time that I brought up these concepts it was to someone who vehemently disagreed - this time several on the plane were nodding vigorously and a lively discussion ensued!
All of this was during high winds and blizzard conditions. We successfully landed to loud applause to our clever pilot and satisfaction that we had sorted out some educational dilemmas - for today, anyway!
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