POST #9

WHAT I'VE LEARNED THIS YEAR...
This is exactly the kind of reading that I need to do. This blog is a list of  lessons a new teacher learned about himself during his first year of teaching. I have to say that it is refreshing and encouraging to be reminded that I am not the only one with fears. I am scared to think about the possibility that I could be less than excellent to my employers and my students. I am scared of computers. I want more than anything else in the world to be a good listener, communicator and team player. Mr. McClung's blog has helped to get my perspective back in check.
He tells teachers to be focused on student comprehension and in order to do this we must be flexible with, have an open line of communication with, and have the utmost respect for all of our students. I truly believe that if this advice is not taken, teacher could do more damage than good. If we can't make changes on the fly opportunities for learning can be missed. If we don't know and respect our students how do we expect for them to know and respect and learn form us?
I felt as if he was speaking directly to me when he advised against a fear of technology. I have made it no secret that computers and other gizmos scare me. They make me wonder about the very direction of humanity (that's no joke), but I have to admit, computers and the concept of a PLN are potentially unmatched by any other methods of learning that I am aware of. This blog reminds me that this is a fear that has to be completely overcome.
Finally, and most importantly, Mr. McClung tells teachers to never stop learning. We, as, not only professionals, but people, must learn and grow. Without a fresh mind we cannot advocate our students.