Classroom Tour: Middle School & Precious Knowledge Inference Notes

 

 

What to Look for in a Classroom- Alfie Kohn- thoughts

             What to Look for in a Classroom- Alfie Kohn- input

    While reading through the article, I drew some connections from all around. It made me think back to our discussion in class about the behavior charts and about the popsicle stick methods that some teachers incorporate into their classrooms. Seeing that these strategies were on the ‘reasons to worry’ side was extremely interesting because that’s what students in my class thought as well! 

    Another thing that I found interesting was the classroom seating being on there and I was able to connect that section with my first day at my placement school. While being there, I saw that there were no “assigned seats” per say, but different areas around the classroom where students could choose to sit. These seating choices would have a maximum capacity for who could sit there (like 2 people max etc) and it seems to give the kids a lot of choice in their classroom which I always think is good. 1 overall enjoyed reading the article because it gives me something to think about when I encounter new places and what I could be taking notice of while out and about. 

    In the video, Irvine says, “I think the first thing to remember is that students are not mere representatives of a cultural ethnic group. First and foremost, they are individual students, who have individual needs and interests, etc” (time 3.16) I think this ideology is so important to not just know but make sure its being actively used. Students are more than just their race or their culture, above all they are human and an individual. Surely, their race and culture may play a big role to some which is fine but beginning off you must know that they are individuals. I really liked how that was mentioned and brought to light.