Students (Future Teachers)

Motivating students to think is a powerful tool. As my reflections grow in number, a teacher can assign their students to pick a reflection, and write their thoughts about the topic. Next the student can write their own reflection about any educational topic they want. Finally, they can summarize about the role of reflection in education. Will they reflect when they become a teacher? How? (Time is always an issue.) Why? (Does it make a teacher more effective?) Where? (Journal, On-line, Orally) What? (Topics of focus) This is just one suggestion in bringing the tool of reflection to the awareness of future educators.

All Students

Reflection is an excellent skill to develop in all students of all ages, not just future educators in college. For instance, in my math classes I am always pointing out the reflection process in student comments and when we problem solve. Also, I assign writing assignments, (one page single spaced), that require students to reflect about the class, themselves, and their understanding. These assignments get the students thinking, which can be the most challenging some times. It also develops critical thinking and provides them the opportunity to challenge their beliefs about mathematics, themselves, and education. Feel free to click on the two assignments that I have created. Assignment One is an outline based a specific topic that students can use to write their reflective paper. Assignment Two has a list of questions that can be implemented in small group discussion which then the students can reflect on. I firmly believe that all teachers could use their creativity to implement reflection in their teaching practices.

Reflection Assignment One
Reflection Assignment Two

Teachers:

Teachers can use this blog as a sample for their own reflection process. Some times a quick reading can be a wonderful refresher of ideas and a reminder to previous thoughts that lay as diamonds in the rough. Also, first year teachers may find comfort in being able to relate their new adventures to some one who has been teaching for seven years. Likewise, a seasoned educator is given the opportunity to view the thoughts of the new generation and respond with their wisdom. Hopefully, the blog will be of service for all types of teacher.