A common theme that appeared throughout the weeks of observations was adaptability. I lost track of how many teachers said their day was unusual for one reason or another. Sometimes they said it because their class was quieter than normal or because there was a special event happening that day. This was especially true on Hallowe’en. There were times that it was related to staffing, whether it was not enough substitutes or just substitutes that weren’t familiar with the school or students. Other times it was due to students being away. Regardless of the reason, teachers adapted accordingly and moved forward with their day.
Category: Observations
During observations, with a consideration to technology used in classrooms, there were some applications that seemed to be a positive and effective addition to lessons and other situations that seemed to be an overuse or reliance on technology.
While observing in a grade 2 class, a noticeable strategy for addressing the diverse needs of students was the availability of earmuffs. Although only one student chose to use them on that particular day, there were a few hung on hooks at the front of the classroom available to any students that required them. In addition to them being available, this strategy normalized the use of them. Although there were not enough for the entire class, there was enough for about a third even though many students in the class may never feel the need to use them. The visibility and accessibility of the earmuffs addressed the needs of those who needed them while provided the option to others and normalizing the use of them.
During observations, there were many different examples of classroom management. A proactive strategy I saw in a grade 1 class was pre-tearing the paper towels for when students wash their hands. I have seen students in other situations washing their hands and pumping lengths longer than they are tall so this was something I noticed right away as it addressed that behavior before it could even take place. The students all knew to take a piece from the basket rather than reaching for the dispenser.