Sparking Reflection
On this page:
Part 1: The Importance of Self-Reflection
Part 2: Ideas for Assessing Pedagogical Approaches
Part 1: The Importance of Self-Reflection
Part 2: Ideas for Assessing Pedagogical Approaches
Part 1: The Importance of Self-Reflection
An important part of teaching is establishing a routine for students to follow. With this we usually set up rules and regulations as well as their partnering consequences. Every teacher then has to ensure to meet the program requirements established by the governmental and local communities. Sometimes these lessons, programs, routines and rules are set up with careful consideration and reflection; however, more often than not, they are a product of circumstances. Yet, many schools and educators are weary to change their routines and practices, relying on the idea that things have always been done this way, so why change? This is an unfortunate but prevalent attitude in education. If we want to encourage professional growth we have to constantly examine what we are doing and re-evaluate our practices. This is especially true when talking about our treatment of cultural differences in the classroom and ensuring an equitable classroom environment.
Part 2: Ideas for Assessing Pedagogical Approaches
This 179-page guide is published by the Irish government. The pdf can be downloaded here. Its aim is to contribute to the development of Ireland as an intercultural society based on a shared sense that language, culture and ethnic diversity is valuable. Ireland and Quebec both share a history of having a parochial school system. It is excellent reading for educational leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of what it means to create a school environment based on intercultural values. It also provides some checklists for reflection on what kind of changes leaders can look to make. These checklists can be a great starting point for school staffs to initiate meaningful changes.
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