EDF2085-Reflection #10

I believe this article is really helpful for all of us as our futures as teachers. It shows us ways on how to treat all students equally while at the same time teaching them as a group (classroom). It is really important to know your student and who he or she is by learning their names the first few days of class. There is nothing like addressing someone by their name, it shows importance for that individual. We can’t assume just because a student doesn’t explain themselves to the class constantly and speak out, that they don’t know what’s going on. I was taught to listen more than to speak out, and I would consider myself an average, above average student. Us as teachers cannot assume things, but we must know. All the respect and attention for each student has to be shown the first few days of class so they don’t begin to shut themselves out or feel left out. It is important to let everyone participate and make everyone response seem important in the classroom while the other students judge as well. It’s also a good idea to set rules for the classroom, to let all the students know the respectful and right things to do with one another. You should never make a student act as a spokesperson for the group. Each student should have an opportunity to speak out in class and express their opinions. I learned if we were to be talking about a certain topic and that topic represents a student in the classroom, avoiding eye contact makes it even more obvious. I have learned all of this because if it wasn’t for reading this article I wouldn’t know how to react or what to do if this scenario happens. But, if the student is always participating and getting involved, then the student is already warmed up with the atmosphere and will feel comfortable sharing his/her opinions or views on the topic. The most important thing is to pay attention to all students equally and try to know them each individually. Try to learn and explore their learning style, and teach them as a group of diversity. As a teacher you have to be very precise and careful with what you say because you may offend a student by saying something wrong.