Creating the Classroom

My "classroom" has changed significantly in the past three years. I went from teaching English to seventh graders to guiding teachers in how to integrate technology into their curricula.

Prior to the new batch of seventh graders in the fall, during the summer I would rethink how to structure my classroom from desk arrangement to how to have predictable (somewhat) procedures. I knew the curriculum well and had favorite units that brought out my passion for the material and for teaching. In turn, my students would get excited about the unit. What I learned early on is that if I was less than thrilled about something I was teaching my students, they would follow suit and become uninterested as well. What I'm learning about teaching adults is that they need that excitement from me as well; it just comes in a different form--working collaboratively.

Public Domain via Pixabay

Mind Shift

Working with teachers is a different approach in many regards. BUT, I'm thinking now that there are many ways that I could structure my "classroom" in the same way I did with my seventh graders. I would get "pumped" up when setting up my physical classroom from arrangement of desks to minimal decorations. But that was simply tied to the superficial. What I loved best was getting to know the kids and the "ah-ha" moments that would ensue as the year would progress.

I don't pretend to know more than the adults I teach. Each one of us brings different experiences to our learning of how technology can be threaded in the curricula. I may have a bit more experience with how something works but each teacher has a different way that they see its application in the classroom. Then, the students shift the tool even further and use it in a way that is often unexpected.

The classroom I wish to create is a flexible one that allows for teacher choice, is a collaborative learning center, and allows me to work with students. Now to use my summer to plan for just that!