One-Room Schoolhouse
My philosophy of teaching begins with inclusion of all
students. In every class, I have
students from 9th to 12th grade with abilities that range
from IEPs and 504s to academically talented and advanced placement. The
guidelines and expectations are clear. Students are there to learn online at
their individual pace with respect for everyone in the classroom. I teach,
coach, mentor and advocate for my students. My classroom has been compared to a
one-room schoolhouse and I agree that is an appropriate description.
Engagement
Students need to be engaged in the learning process and feel
a sense of control over their environment. For many students, online learning gives them this
opportunity and responsibility. I work very closely with the student, his or
her parents and the counselor to make sure the student is taking the course
that results in the greatest level of interest and motivation.
Atmosphere
Learning takes place in an atmosphere that is positive and
generates energy. I am excited and
enthusiastic about teaching and learning online and that emotion is
contagiously shared with my students.
Even when there are technology glitches, we always put a positive spin
on them and turn them into learning experiences. We celebrate student success individually and collectively.
Even though I may have 15 students working on 15 different lessons, we
acknowledge individual course milestones as a group. My students know that I am there to support their learning
and they also support each other with resources and by sharing experiences.
Technology
Teaching in the age of information is dynamic, exciting,
challenging and rewarding. I believe that the integration of technology in
every classroom is critical to our students’ success and acquisition of 21st
century skills. Thanks to the use
of technology, education is changing at an almost exponential pace. I work hard
to maintain a daily professional development online network as well as
collaborate with colleagues to bring the best technology resources to my students.
Photo title created with Spell With Flickr
