Saturday 30 September 2017

3/4 through the year. What I've learnt about teaching in an open space.



I have realised that having thought that teaching in an open space to be daunting, it is even more so to many kids to do their learning in such a space.
Being told to choose to work independently on a choice of set tasks seems to inevitably result in nothing being chosen and no work taking place. I've learnt that as appealing as options are, they need to be offered up in a contained, achievable package. Work needs to be closely monitored with clearly communicated expectations and great feedback. Teachers need to be touching base with kids regularly, pushing, challenging and supporting them. Meeting them individually and in smaller groups. Making sure that they are being made accountable and expected to do their best (a levelled criteria can help here).
I've learnt that large classes need teachers to be on the same page and be totally supportive of each other. There needs to be open, honest dialogue and in an ideal context, a relationship, a friendship, and a sense of humour goes without saying.
I've learnt that information about kids needs to be shared, no matter how inane. Eg. Knowing that someone's cat died last night can help hugely.
I've learnt that planning needs to be shared and owned by all teachers.
I've learnt that not everyone likes rugby, not everyone likes coding. There needs to be differentiation across the curriculum, but kids should be expected to try everything, but it might need different packaging ;)
There needs to be leadership. Not the dominating, fear of God kind of leader but someone who motivates and supports the teachers, who leads and guides a space, someone who can be depended on and trusted. Someone who the kids love, but don't fear. Someone who brings the space together.
Like any classroom, there needs to be clear expectations with clear consequences that are adhered to by all teachers at all times.
There also needs to be an atmosphere of kindness, understanding and aroha that permeates everything.

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