Friday, May 24, 2013

The Value of a Respectful Stance

Several years ago, I read a short article about observing in teachers’ classrooms.  What has stuck with me, as it applies to coaching, is this:

Respect and understanding are always intertwined.  

The question I always ask myself is, "What is the logic behind this teaching?"  When we respect the teacher, everything will eventually make sense. That is an important idea to keep in mind as we consider the stance and attitude we will have as we work with teachers.  Our job is not to criticize, but to work to understand the teacher's logic, finding out what has happened previously, as well as what is planned for the future.  Start with the stance that the teacher is brilliant and everything they are doing makes sense, even if it isn't what you would do in the same situation.

It's amazing to see how conversations and perspectives unfold when you start with a respectful stance.  Because the teachers we work with have thought about their students and their curriculum with such care over long periods of time, their plans are deep and thoughtful.  There is logic in all teachers do, and we can see it if we begin with respect and take the time to understand their choices.

When using the GIR coaching model, we acknowledge the funds of knowledge* that teachers bring to any learning situation.  The coaching path (shown in the GIR model by the curving line) depicts teachers’ previous knowledge and experience by starting above the “0-0” position on the axis.  The model also illustrates the belief that teachers will continue to learn and grow in their profession by having the line end below the upper corner.  As we respect teachers’ logic and where they are now in their thinking, our coaching evolves so that it aligns with teachers’ changing needs.  That is the value of taking a respectful stance.

* Moll, L., Amanti, C., Neff, D. & Gonzalez, N. (2001). Funds of knowledge for teaching: Using a qualitative approach to connect homes and classrooms. Theory into Practice, 31(2), 132-141.

This week, you might want to take a look at:

Get the Math, a site that has videos showing how math is used in careers like video game design, fashion, sports, and music (great for answering the question, “When will I ever use this?” for students young and old).  There are also interactive challenges full of algebraic reasoning for older students.  Find it at:

http://www.thirteen.org/get-the-math/

Math + Reading = Fun 


Integrating Math + Literacy:  Going on a Shape Hunt



For those of you who still have time left in the school year, check out these ideas for the last weeks of school:


Ideas for ending the school year strong from The New York Times: (specifically targeting English Language Learners, but good for everyone!)



That's all for this week.  Happy Coaching!
 

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