Tied to the measurement world
As a teacher the Michelangelo analogy was very strong for me. Do I see my students as infinite potential or am I just there to deliver the curriculum and compare them to other students? It’s a hard thing to rejoice in an individual’s abilities when the parents too are asking how are they doing compared to the rest of the class or the state. This measurement world is very strong and is continually being used as justification and blame on those who do not measure up and those who are charged with the job of raising people up to those invented standards. I have to admit that I myself have been focusing on measurements throughout this course and get stressed at each activity, wondering if I have done what is required to satisfy the course requirements rather than being a contribution to those around me in my academic community, both inside and outside the course.
One thing I can say is that I am quite energized by this book and I hope I can find a way to let myself give up my measurement driven way of thinking to something more uplifting. I’m enjoying this book so much that I am recommending my wife read it to give her tools to help with managing people at her work.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete@ PETER:
ReplyDeleteI had the opposite reaction to the Video of Benjamin Zander giving his TED talk. I had read much of the book prior to viewing the video, and the verbatim repetition of the storytelling was a bit disappointing. However, I would like to respond to your point about the Michaelangelo analogy. It is so hard sometimes to look at my students and bring to mind the potential that lies within. It is so frustrating to work with students and find a lack of effort, attention, and interest in their own learning. So little motivation and initiative. I think I will do a piece of WordArt (MICHAELANGELO) and post it in my classroom as a reminder…perhaps on the ceiling! In fact, it really was just yesterday that I was imagining giving my students an assignment where they would have to work on the floor, under their desks. They would have to complete a writing assignment on a sheet of paper taped to the underside of their desks. I was thinking about how to help students relate to a different point of view, or perspective.
I also have enjoyed reading the book, and find it an “easy to take” reminder to step back and observe the “possibilities” of my classroom, and focus less on the frustrating moments. Thanks.
Peter,
ReplyDeleteI also liked watching the TED video before reading the book. Interesting perspective you have on measurement, I liked how you related it to the teaching profession. As I have gotten to know you this year I find it hard to believe you are just a deliverer of the curriculum. (Look at the President’s song) I believe you will help your students’ to find their infinite potential and chip away any obstacles they may face to reach it.
@Peter,
ReplyDeleteI agree that the TED video was a very good setup to reading the book. Now that you mention hearing his voice, I too hear the same as I go back to reference, thanks :). I really like your comments comparing the measurement of your students. In today's world, it seems like we place too much emphasis on who is doing better. I think this is a great book to help open all of our eyes up to what might be better to do with our students to help them reach their full potential.
Peter,
ReplyDeleteI think it is easy for us all to get caught up in the measurement world. We are “trained” at a young age to compare ourselves to what/how others are doing. I have been focusing on the measurement world in this course as well; always wondering if I followed the requirements enough to get that A and checking my grades daily to see how I’m doing. As teachers, I think it is especially hard to look at your class and not compare the students.
I agree that this book is very interesting and is making me really think about how I view things!
@Peter
ReplyDeleteI agree with your assessment of the book and this weeks reading. I unfortunately had not watched the video until after I had done the reading, but I too found the British accent to be a joy, and the video a perfect complement to the reading. I too am trying to get my wife to read the book now as I think that she would find it a great benefit as I myself do.
"One thing I can say is that I am quite energized by this book and I hope I can find a way to let myself give up my measurement driven way of thinking to something more uplifting."
ReplyDeleteThis is the exact reason why we introduce Zander and The Art of Possibility here... After such an intense year of work and reflection, students are so worried about just finishing... hit the requirements that often times they lose sight of the magnificent journey they've been on and many adventures that await them after graduation.
Peter you are primed and ready to succeed far beyond this course and this program. Trust yourself in getting there and don't forget to enjoy the view.
PS - I really enjoy the pics you include in your posts!
ReplyDelete