Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
This is a tough one. Finding balance is always my ultimate goal. I think probably changing student hearts. The most important way to reach a child is building unique relationships with your kids. I was a pretty closed person growing up. Becoming a teacher opened me up and made me realize the power of relationships. I try to keep my heart open for every kid and continue to build a special and unique relationship with all of them. I could probably improve on changing lives. In my position I don’t have a lot of contact hours in the classroom so I think most of my focus is listening to them and changing minds. I teach PE so teaching sportsmanship, perseverance, and getting/staying healthy. Although just the other day I found a card made by a student in 2007. Pictures color, telling me how much she loved being in my class. Today she is a 6th grade teacher in the building I am at. She tells me all the time, I am the reason she became a teacher. So I guess that’s a good example of changing a child’s life.
ReplyDeleteI am most adept at "Ways teachers change students hearts." I think as a very empathetic person, this way is most natural to me. I am always trying to get a sense for the room and make sure all are feeling supported and included. Additionally, I always see the best in people and also see who they can become. I understand that an individual might not see themselves the way I do, but I strive to get individuals to see something greater for themselves, whatever that may be.
ReplyDeleteLeast adept "Ways teachers change lives."
I think this is the most challenging concept she mentions. It is difficult to understand the difference we may be making in others lives. I think one takeaway I had from the ted talk was the importance of being focused and intentional on the day to day process of learning. It takes discipline to stick to the process of learning and all that comes with it. I think this level of commitment ultimately generates change in people's lives.
Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteChanging students' hearts, changing minds, and changing lives.
I feel that when I was teaching, I was adept at changing hearts. Again, relationships are at the heart of being able to relate to students and gain their trust and really show them that I truly cared about them. I developed relationships with so many students throughout the years; I have a "treasure box" of notes, cards, gifts, and letters that I received from students that serve as a reminder that I really did change their hearts.
I probably did not do the best at changing the minds of my students, but when I think of that, do we really want to change the minds of our students? I would like to think that I did a good job of "opening" their minds, and I think that is just as good as changing their minds. Before changing of a mind, it needs to be opened.
I feel like I can improve greatly in all three ways of changing students, but if I have to choose, I'd say I'm best as changing their hearts. I love my students and want them to know that I'd do whatever I need to help them succeed in school and in life. I give hugs everyday and spend time listening to their stories and worries. It's a wonderful feeling to see former students go out into the world and become successful adults. I need to work on changing lives. I need to find better opportunities for learning in a real world way, things that students can take with them when they leave and use in their daily lives.
ReplyDeleteI have many ideas floating around in my head right now. As I was listening, I was thinking of ways I succeed and ways I need to improve in all three areas! One area I feel is a strength for me is changing hearts. I am currently an Early Interventionist for children Birth to age 3. Just yesterday I had a meeting with a family who just moved into one of the districts we serve. I learned they have very reserved feelings for Early Intervention due to some past experiences. At the end of the meeting, both caregivers had huge smiles on their faces and asked if I would be willing to conduct weekly home visits! I am not an expert and I learn and grow each and every day. I feel my attitude, drive, and personality make changing hearts somewhat natural for me. I need to work on changing lives. I have recently been assigned to serve 3 different communities in our district. I do not know enough about all of the available community partners and resources to effectively coach some of the families I work with. I need to take time to immerse myself into these communities and dig a bit deeper!
ReplyDeleteI feel that I could definitely improve in all three ways. If I had to choose just one that I feel most adept at, it would be changing minds. Coming from a poverty-stricken home where my mother worked 3 jobs to make ends meet, growing up I always felt that I was so much less than other students in my class. I know that feeling of 'not being good enough'. It's easy for me to share my story with some of my students that I see going through the same things. Giving them the encouragement and 'tough love' that they need to see themselves in a different light always puts a smile on my face. One thing that I know I need to improve on is the heart. Sometimes I feel that when children grow up in a hard home they tend to have this tough exterior and they don't need anybody. That was me growing up. It's what kept me moving forward so I have a difficult time with this and helping other children with their hearts.
ReplyDeleteChanging Hearts, Changing Minds, Changing Lives: I believe the one that comes the easiest for me is changing hearts. I work with students who do not come from 2 parents homes or are being raised by a grandparent, usually an elderly grandmother. The students are very needy when it comes to attention and understanding. I have over 30 grandchildren and 10 great so I do know a bit about letting children know you care and that they are loved. It does take awhile to earn the trust and convince them they are important to me. The one I have the most trouble with would be changing minds, this goes along with convincing them they are worthy and to believe in themselves. I need more time, of which there is never enough of. I will continue to love, respect and show that I care as long as I can.
ReplyDeleteI would have to say that I am most adept at changing students hearts. I am Irish and I wear my heart on my sleeve. I have a great deal of affection and empathy for students and I know it makes a difference, even if they're only with us for 5 days, and being semi-retired, I may only see them one teaching day. Just yesterday, we had a class with a little guy who was really having a rough day. I finally sat down next to him, looked him in the eye and asked what was going on. I had never met him before yesterday. He looked at me and was quiet for a minute and said he was really tired. I asked him if he was up playing video games all night like many of our students are. He said he wasn't, that he couldn't sleep because he was too sad and he was thinking about his Grandpa. It seems his Grandpa just died two weeks ago. I talked to him about how hard it is to lost your Grandpa and we talked for quite awhile. I held his hand and he just talked and talked. The class was starting a new, really fun activity and I asked him if he felt up to joining them. To my delight he did and soon he was engaged and smiling. He didn't know me before yesterday, but he does now. I think I helped him a little in handling his grief. Our students write us letters on their last day of STARBASE and tell us about their favorite activities, some of the things they learned and whatever else they want to share. I have a whole folder of these letters I have saved, because so many of the students have told me I was their favorite SB teacher. Many said that I was so kind and they felt like I cared so much about them. I even had one little boy tell me he wished he were mine and that he could go home with me. I sat and sobbed after I read that one. I knew a little of his back story and it was heart breaking. I know I may sound like I'm bragging, but I'm not, I'm just sharing that I know I change hearts. I may not be as good about changing minds, but I work hard on that one too. I respect everyone's right to their own opinion, but if a student has a belief in something that is truly a misconception, I do my best in a kind, but factual manner to present evidence for the true concept and point out the reason for the misconception. I have found that fortunately, it's easier to change 5th graders minds that it is adults.
ReplyDeleteJulie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteOf the three ways in which teachers help students change, I think the one I am most edept at is changing the trajectory of their lives. I have some of the most challenging students. Behavioral, emotional and social needs have held many of my students back from learning and growing. I have noticed this year, since changing to secondary, most of mine don't believe in themselves. They don't believe they can do anything with their lives. I watched as my elementary students would go off to secondary and join in things like choir or robot club. Now, my sixth graders don't believe they can do any of those things. My focus since August has been building up their belief about themselves. Slowly, they are seeing they can do big things no matter their disability or IEP. Slowly, they are participating in the extra things, wanting to come to school, and even liking school. Which I say, will change their trajectory.
As for the one I could do better at is the ways I can change their hearts. Sure the above one may fall under heart, but I also am aware that I struggle with the heart piece. I watch as one of my paras is so good at this. She listens and remembers things students say like, "I've never tried strawberries," or, "I've never ridden an escalator." Then she brings strawberries or starts planning a trip out of the building to experience an escalator. I need to make notes of what students say in these instances and intentionally plan solutions and ideas, so students experience things they are missing.
Julie discussed changing students' hearts, lives, and minds. I feel that I am most adapt to changing my student's hearts. I am really big on making connections. I think that it is very important to make connections with your students. Sometimes those connections are not as strong as others, but I truly make an effort with each one of my students. One that I could do better at is changing my student's minds. I teach technology. This world is driven by technology, and it is getting into our student's hands at a younger age each year. Having to change students minds that they are not only worthy, smart, deserving, heard, and cared for, but also changing their minds in how important it is to stay safe while using technology and how bad technology can be at times especially social media apps can be very challenging.
ReplyDeleteOne thing I think I'm good at is changing a child's heart. I teach 2nd grade and I feel like I am often given the "behavior" kids. I was told that happens because I can "handle them". I strive on making connections with my students especially those that have been labeled as "bad". I go out of my way to get to know those students: their likes, dislikes, their home life, etc...I make sure my students know I truly care about them. I also try to build relationships with their parents. I let my students get to know me. They know all about my kids, my parents, my dog. I read them my favorite stories from my childhood. I often have students that are now in high school or have graduated that ask me if I still read certain books that they remember.
ReplyDeleteOne thing I would like to do better at is changing lives. I teach these kiddos at such a young age. I've often thought, no one will remember their 2nd grade teacher when they're all grown up. Over the last couple of years many of my former students that are now adults have reached out to me to invite me to significant events in their lives. I've been invited to graduation parties, baby showers, birthday celebrations and most recently was asked to baby sit a former student's baby in the summer. Wow! My heart was so full. I was honored they all remembered me so much! These students were from my first couple of years of teaching. It got me wondering if I have that same kind of impact on my students today. I have begun to feel burnt out as a teacher and don't have that same kind of energy I did when I was 22 and fresh out of college. I can only hope I can continue to impact my students lives!
Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteThis is an area that is dear to me. My dad was in an orphanage. When he and his sister were adopted into a family together my dad was almost 8. He did not know how to read. He was placed into 2nd grade with his sister. The teacher took every lunch period of hers and taught my dad how to read. By the end of the school year my dad was devouring high school level books. My dad did spent his high school years getting grades that just got him by so he could play sports. He had a wrestling coach that had just graduated from college. Nobody shared with this teacher my dads traumatic childhood. When this teacher found out that my dad had written three books he and his wife called him and asked to buy all three. They are in their 90's now. My dad was a little nervous, although he was respectful when he wrote about this wrestling coach, he was factual and honest about some things that happened. It wasn't a week after the coach and his wife had received my dad's books when he got a call from his wrestling coach. The individual let my dad know nobody had ever shared with him the traumatic childhood he had and he was so sorry that he had not been more of a mentor to him. He and my dad spent a long time on the phone that dad and a situation came full circle and had a beautiful ending. I take my dad's stories and I do my best to teach with my heart, just as my dad's second grade teacher changed his heart, his mind and his life. My dad went on to college after he was in the Navy and served two tours in Vietnam. My grandma ran into his high school English teacher one day and she asked how my dad was doing. My grandma (who was born in the early 1900's and had a dad that required all 5 of his daughters to get a degree, that's another story!) and proudly beaming my grandma proclaimed he is at the University of Minnesota and he has been on the Dean's list every semester. The teacher was shocked and said, we all knew he had it in him. All of this inspires to be "very mindful of my impact."
Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteThe impact of teachers is such an important part of our profession. One of the impacts Hanson discussed that I excel at is the impact of minds. As a history teacher, my goal is for students to understand the significance of historical events on their lives today. I've always found the cause and effect of historical events for students to be sitting in a classroom in the United States is incredible. The good and bad of American history allows students to analyze and create their own opinions about historic events to create a better future for themselves and their children. I believe I need to improve on the impact of student lives and future. I can get caught up in the history classroom, trying to motivate students to my content area, I can tend to forget about the big picture of career choices and a variety of interests for students. To improve this, I can could definitely have students research the history of an interesting event/career to build motivation and interest. It would be an fun research project of student voice and use of historical skills.
I would say when I was teaching, I was most adept at changing student hearts. I tried to find real ways to connect with my students to build trust with them and give them a safe place. One way I did this was I tried to attend their sports events, art shows, or competitions. This gave me an opportunity to show them that I truly cared and gave us something to talk about and let me get to know them outside of the classroom a little bit.
ReplyDeleteI think of these three, changing lives would be the one I could most improve in. I tried to make lessons real world applicable and give them something they could use outside of just passing a test. I know in some classes I was able to succeed in that but others I know I could have used more work. Since I quit teaching though I have had 2 students find me on Facebook and send me messages about how my classes impacted their lives. One in particular was looking to get into a welding career because of how much he enjoyed my welding class which was such an encouraging thing to hear that he found something he was passionate about because of the class I had taught. One way I could improve on this more though would have been to ask students what about this class could be something in the future you would want to do and find ways to bring that into the class.
Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteI feel that I am pretty good at changing people's hearts. Being their athletic trainer as well I feel that I can connect with them in a way that some of the other teachers might not. This may have to do with the fact that currently I do not have to grade them and they can be themselves in a little more casual way in the the athletic training room than they can in the classroom.
I could do better in the changing minds area. One reason for this is I don't currently have my own classroom. Second, I don't know that this has ever been my forte. I have mostly always been the person that presents the information and lets them do their own thing with the info. This may come from just how my personality is but it may also be from my background in school counseling. Counselors typically are thought to let people feel how they are going to feel.
I think one thing that I do best at is 'changing students minds'. By this, I mean their fixed mindset that either 1) work is not required to be successful or 2) they aren't smart enough to do the work. Its a constant battle as a high school math teacher, but I want kids to change kids' mind in how the value of work is part of learning and the work will make them smart enough!
ReplyDeleteOne thing I could do better is changing students hearts. I know that I have worked on this in the last 5 years since returning to teaching after being a stay at home mom. Math teachers have a reputation not being the one students confide in or that have a heart at all. My first year back at the school I was in, we were doing professional development in restorative practices. My principal pushed me to show the students that I care more about them than the math they learn. Over the past five years, I will say I've gotten better but still have work to do. I hope to be more there for students with each new school year.
I would say I am most adept at changing student hearts. I make an effort to build trust with them and create a safe space by finding meaningful ways to relate to them. One way I do this is by always listening to them. I also try to attend extracurricular activities, such as football games and cheer performances. This gives me the chance to show that I genuinely care and helps me get to know them outside of the classroom.
ReplyDeleteOut of these three areas, I think changing lives is where I have the most room for improvement. I work hard to make lessons relevant and applicable to the real world, giving my students something they can use beyond second grade. At times, I feel like it’s challenging to make a significant impact at this age, but I always strive to do my best to positively influence their lives. To improve in this area, I believe I can continue listening to my students and seek more ways to create a lasting impact in our second-grade classroom.
I am adept at changing students' hearts. As a para I am a student's biggest cheerleader. I want students to feel like they belong, feel like they can do the work with help. I help them see the good in themselves. I have also shown them love by purchasing shoes for a student. The student's shoes were too small and falling apart. I gave the shoes to the classroom teacher to give to the student. The teacher gave them to the student and said someone who loves you gave you these shoes. I didn't want the student to brag to the other students I worked with. I just wanted her to have what she needs. Another student had new glasses that wouldn't stay on her nose. I gave her something that connected to her glasses and helped them stay on her face.
ReplyDeleteI could improve upon changing students' lives. I could encourage them to make goals and how to achieve them. If they set their minds to do something, and put in the hard work, they can do anything. I could encourage them more and tell them I believe in them.
I think that I am most adept at changing students minds. I have many middle school students that do not like the subject of Math. But I work very hard to change their minds & realize how they will use math every day of their lives & to be successful at it. I use many hands on manipulatives. I also have a bell ringer each day that invokes dice or playing cards. Many times I’ll hear them say that they didn’t realize how many math skills they were using! They didn’t realize that they could have fun while doing it too. This skill involves changing their lives also. The way that I could use improvement, is with teaching from the heart. I think this is difficult at the middle school level because many of them have put up walls. I think I could improve this area would be to have smaller groups with math & get to know them on a more personal level. Another way would be to play math games with a few at a time in study hall to develop closer relationships.
ReplyDeleteI am the most adept at changing students' minds. I do my best to get them to see themselves as learners and readers. I try my best to get them involved in engaging novels and discussions that lead to future reading without involving it as "just school work". My class is currently working on a summarizing unit on a novel that connects to our social studies standards, and my students are absolutely eating it up, even some of my reluctant readers. I hope they remember this when they need to read independently or in future grades.
ReplyDeleteOne way I could improve upon is changing students' lives. It's so challenging to feel or know that I'm doing so with students after they leave my room, especially because I teach the oldest grade level in my school. One thing I have been doing is sending my most at-risk students little notes in our district's mail, just something to let them know that I'm thinking of them and believe in them. I could continue this or get more consistent at it, as I know I haven't done it as often as I wish I would.
Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteI think I am probably the most adept at changing students hearts. I love to make connections with the kids. I try to take the approach "if I show interest in what they're doing and make it important, they'll show interest in what I'm doing and make it important" (subject content). I want to be able to visit with them during the day about things outside of the classroom. My hope is that they always feel comfortable and welcome in the music room at any time!
I think I would say I want to improve at changing students lives, specifically relating to music. Music can continue on for so long in their lives and provide so many awesome opportunities! I need to be better at showing them how much more band is than 60 minutes of practice each week. We talk all the time about how being part of band/choir/etc. is being part of a team, so just starting with that is prepping them for a lot of different life skills.
Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteI believe that I am the most adept at changing students hearts. I feel like I value each an every students, as some of the teachers that I have had. I feel like we as educators need to be stern but compassionate towards these students. Also I feel like I can improve on this as well to keep striving to foster a welcoming gym that each student will belong. Some of the concrete things that I can do to improve students lives would be to reach out and have conversations with these students that are struggling to find out what they actually need. Another thing I can do is to have the students set out goals and push them to achieve the goal by the end of the quarter or year.
I had to watch this video twice, because I have a hard time separating the three because they all seem to go so hand-in-hand to me. If I had to choose I would say the one I am most adept at is changing students minds. I try to get my curriculum to challenge their thinking and see things from other perspectives. In February, we do a mini brown-eyes blue-eyes inspired experiment. The 8th grade year is packed with some heavy ELA content such as The Holocaust, so that material is going to challenge their thinking and hopefully open their mind (and in the process I feel it changes their heart too!)
ReplyDeleteThe one I would say that I could improve on is changing student lives. I live in a small community and I know there are many more opportunities for outreach that I could participate in to make connections with those kids. I could do better at introducing the students to the various things available in our community that would benefit them and their family. And many days, I feel like there are so many of them and we have so much we need to cover that I wish I could just take more time to build relationships with them.
The way teachers help students change in which I feel most adept is changing minds. I teach Spanish, and so am consistently providing students with other world perspectives. Also, most students that take my class have little to no knowledge of the language, so at the end of the year, their understanding of the vocabulary, grammar, and cultural concepts shows great growth.
ReplyDeleteThe area where I'd like to improve is changing hearts. I do well at modeling compassion but I'd really like to see more students implement it in my classroom and our school. I so long for my room to be a place of safety, comfort, and reassurance in the difficult world we live in....but I'm not sure how to make students more compassionate apart from being compassionate myself, calling out and thanking students when I see kindness, and sharing cultural examples. Sometimes students can be so thoughtless with their rude comments, whether it's directly to me/students or about someone not in the room. I'm constantly saying ¡Sé amable! (Be kind!) when I hear negative talk like that, but I know it's not enough to just call students out on their behavior, but provide real opportunities for growth and change. Perhaps if I intentionally structure lessons at the beginning of the year to promote these positive character traits, but research ways to tailor it to high school students so they actually find it meaningful and not cheesy. I can ask other teachers in my building as well. I've also thought about taking some time for one-on-one interviews with kids, just to check in and see how they are doing, not just academically but personally.
Changing lives is the goal of every teacher, myself included. I hope to achieve this through mindful connections with students and the community, both in and out of the classroom setting. For now, I'm just going to keep learning, reflecting, and seeking the advice of other teachers so I can show up the best I can be each day.
Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteOf the three ways discussed in which teachers help students change, I would say I am most adept at changing student hearts. I say that because I tend to be very relationship driven. Building relationship with my students by taking an interest in them as individuals and showing them that I care about them has always been at the core of my teaching.
The area I would probably most need to improve on would be changing their lives only because it is sometimes difficult to convince students and help them put into practice what they have learned.
I believe all three of the ways teachers help students change go hand in hand so it is hard to separate them and say I am better at one than another. I suppose I could improve on modeling change for my students and teach them more how to use their hearts and minds to make change.
The Julie Hasson way I feel I best impact students is by changing their hearts. I strongly believe that relationships are the key to education. As their librarian, I work hard to get to know all 700 students to the best of my ability. Yes, I know all of their names and what they read, but I also know their siblings and best friends. I ask them about their favorite subjects, their struggle areas, and what they do in their free time. I give snacks and help when I see kids struggling with the day. I want each and every one of my students to know I care about them. I want them to know their library is “theirs” and that they are safe and loved there.
ReplyDeleteThe area in which I can improve is changing lives. I try to reach all 700 students every year, that I may not deeply connect with them enough to help them change their lives. One way I could improve on this is to reach out to guardians more and share sunshine about their students when specific things happen at school or I notice how their kid rocked a project. I think personal notes to kids when I know they are going through something big or are really nervous could also be a way I could help change their lives. This is a toughie.
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ReplyDeleteChanging Hearts, Minds and Lives go hand in hand and it's hard for me to say that I excel at one. I would like to say that I need to work on all of them. I have not been in a formal classroom for 7 years and when I did it's hard to establish relationships with 500 students you see once a week for 50 minutes. If anything, I'm good at making a heart connection and being compassionate. Often times in art, I get those quiet kids who are not good academically, not good at sports, maybe don't have a lot of friends, but they have a passion for art and they find a sense of belonging in the art room. I think in the future if given the opportunity, I need to be more aware of the outliers and see if art can be the bond to form a relationship. It's the relationship that can form between you and someone who doesn't have that adult in their life that shows interest in them, that can be life changing. So it's the initial heart connection that can lead to seeing the potential in someone who can go on and do great things.
DeleteI believe that I am most adept at changing their hearts. I can help shape not just what children know but who they become. My students are so young, their hearts and minds are curious and impressionable. I help guide their earliest experiences with love, empathy, kindness, confidence, and connection. I get comments about how teaching preschool must be so easy because I only have to teach simple things like the alphabet. But what most don’t understand is that I am teaching way beyond academics.
ReplyDeleteI need to improve on changing the lives of my students. I get the opportunity to be most of my students' first school experience and that is a powerful opportunity to influence their lives. But they are also so young, I struggle feeling like I am making a huge impact. There are days when I need to listen more deeply and be more present. I need to remember that I’m there when they learn how to share, make friends, and manage those big feelings. I hope those moments stay with them and they will remember me being there in a positive way.
First of all, what a powerful TEDtalk! Of the 3 ways teachers change students, I feel I am more adept at changing their hearts. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to teach a some students who have really challenged me as a teacher. As much as they tested me and challenged me, they are students who, at the end of the year, are the ones who hug me and tell me that they don't want to leave my class because I have made them feel important. I gave them the time when no one else would. These are the moments that validate all the hard days when you wonder why am I doing this.
ReplyDeleteAn area where I could improve would be changing student lives. I feel like I get stuck in the day to day routines and teaching the standards that I'm not focused on the bigger picture of providing different opportunities for students. One way to address this would be to do project learning opportunities where students can focus on skill they excel at or challenge them to try something that they might not have considered. These opportunities could open new doors for them.
This is a great presentation that helps us reflect on past teachers and their impact along with our current teaching and how we impact students. I feel that I am most adept to changing students hearts. In fifth grade I feel that students are truly beginning the pull and push of social situations around them and that it carries a big weight in their year. I work really hard to foster a place in which those big feelings can exist but we can begin to look at the bigger picture and how our actions and words effect the other. Even with out the social piece, it comes down to their view of themselves. Do they feel confident, do they know when to ask for help, do they leap towards passions? I think that most to all teachers do leave an impact on students hearts.
ReplyDeleteAn area for growth would be changing lives. I hope that I am making a lasting positive impression but do not always know because of time and movement. I think that changing lives won't happen with every student that crosses your path, but instead that one that becomes an established relationship and you are able to meet them on a level that maybe other adults have not been able to do. This person is able to change because you are someone who believed them when no one else would.
Changing Hearts, Changing Minds, Changing Lives
ReplyDeleteThe one that comes easiest for me is changing hearts. I have worked at an ALC with at-risk kids for the past 15 years, and one thing I have learned is that many of these students come from tough backgrounds. Some are being raised by single mothers who are working more than one job, grandparents, extended family members, or even the parents of a boyfriend or girlfriend. Some are what we call "couch jumpers," moving from one friend’s house to another just to have a place to sleep.
These kids need someone who is consistent, someone who genuinely cares about them as a person, not just a student. That is where I put in the most effort. I work hard at building strong relationships with my students so they know they can trust me. I make it a point to be there when they need to talk, whether it’s about school, their personal lives, or even just something they are into. That connection is where it all starts.
The one I struggle with the most is changing minds. Helping students believe in themselves, to see that they are capable and worthy, is tough, especially when they have never really felt successful in school. That feeling is often passed down, too. Many of their parents or caregivers didn’t have positive school experiences either. It is hard to undo years of self-doubt in the short time I have with them. But I show up every day and do what I can. I try to show them that I care, that I respect them, and that someone is in their corner. Sometimes, that little bit of belief is what starts to change everything.
Out of changing hearts, minds, and lives, I believe I am most adept at changing hearts. I feel like I do well with students that can be difficult for many other teachers. Dont' get me wrong, I still struggle with these kids. However, I have learned to move past challenges quickly and that each day is a new day and I treat them as such and let them know this. I also make it a point to build relationships with my more difficult students and usually these students become some of the easiest to have conversations with. I make it a point at the start of the year to let students know that above all, I want them to be good, kind people. I reiterate this throughout the year and hopefully students see this and learn the importance of it!
ReplyDeleteThe thing that I need to improve upon the most is changing lives. As a math teacher, it is easy to get focused on covering standards and trying to get through them prior to state testing. I need to be more intentional to bring in projects or activities that students may remember forever. These things could lead to connecting with students more through the content, just like when Hamish Brewer had special class projects. Also, I create good relationships with students and they usually work well for me and enjoy my classes, but I feel like I could do much more that will go beyond their year in my classroom. Things that would help include being more intentional to talk with students about things that they are struggling with or leaving them positive notes, etc.
She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteThe way that I help students change is by helping their hearts. I greet my students in a way that hopefully makes them feel like they are the highlight of my day. If no one else in their day is excited to see them, I want them to reflect and think back that I made them feel important. In the world of special ed, my students already feel burdened and sometimes overwhelmed just being at school. I work to make my classroom a place of refuge with them knowing that I am cheering for them and every ounce of growth they make.
The area that I could grow in is changing minds. It's not that I'm failing to teach them, but I need to do better connecting what we are working on to the world they live in and where they want to go in life. Concrete examples of that would be to further dive into the prefixes, suffixes, latin bases, and root words to connect to vocabulary words. Building the bridge between those things, vocabulary words, and their life will open up doors of understanding and comprehension.
Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteAs a middle school Family and Consumer Science (FCS) teacher, I excel at building relationships. My subject naturally lends itself to hands-on, real-world learning, which creates many opportunities to connect with students personally. I learn their interests, talk with them about their lives, and use humor and empathy daily. Students often feel comfortable opening up in my class, which builds trust and motivation. I think an area of improvement I could make is While I’m encouraging, I recognize there are moments when I unintentionally underestimate what a student can achieve—especially those who may seem disengaged or struggle academically. I need to be more intentional about helping all students see potential in themselves, even when they don't see it yet.
Some concrete ways I can improve are to set stretch goals with students and celebrate even small progress. I can use positive affirmations and consistent feedback that highlights growth, not just results. I can incorporate stories of past students who overcame challenges. I can Keep a "strengths spotlight" bulletin board to showcase students' skills and creativity. I can have regular one-on-one check-ins to reinforce that I see their potential and believe in their ability to succeed.
Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteI feel like this is a tough one! Out of the three ways mentioned to help students change, I feel like I am the most adept at changing students hearts. I am very intentional about building students up and trying to make them feel loved. I focus on making students feel like they belong in my classroom and feel worthy. I want our students to be noticed and recognized so they can feel good about themselves. I often write them cards thanking them for being awesome or kind - nothing to do with academics. I also started a math and science student of the month project last year where we give out 6 awards (one for each teacher) every month to recognize more students.
I definitely need to improve on changing students minds and changing students lives. As a math teacher, I have a great opportunity at facilitating critical thinking, and it is just something I am not super strong with. I also would love to do a better job at applying lessons we learn in math to other areas of life. As far as changing students lives, I need to find a way to create opportunities in order to do that. One thing my husband and I did last year to hopefully help and change students lives was becoming foster parents. We did this so our kids in our schools can stay and not be placed outside of our school district if they don't have to be. We know that we have a very special school and community in Milbank and if a student is forced to leave home for awful circumstances - we wanted to try to be able to help keep them in our community where there is so much support for them.
I think that I am most adept at changing hearts, I try and change minds and lives, but I think creating relationships is the most important thing that you can do. Once you have a good relationship with your students then you can start doing the other things, but very little will happen without a relationship.
ReplyDeleteI have to say changing lives is my weakest point, I try to build confidence and find opportunities for my students, but it is hard for me because I don’t teach so called normal students. I have spent a majority of my career teaching students who live in poverty, and not just normal poverty, I teach Native American students who live on the reservation. When teaching reservation students, you are dealing with cultural issues, poverty issues, and political issues. You can set up a student for success at what they want but if the family doesn’t agree it’s not going to happen. Transportation can be an issue, housing can be a factor, little things that you never thought about being an issue are suddenly becoming a problem. I had a student ready for college and even found scholarships for them, the family came around and decided it was a good thing, however when I called to see how their first day went, they told me that they hadn’t registered yet and that they would probably next week. I had to explain that it was not like high school, you could not just register whenever you wanted to, but you had to do it in advance. I realized that I had not explained everything necessary to that student. They are doing fine now but that hiccup taught me a valuable lesson, never assume that a student knows 100 percent of they need to do.
ReplyDeleteI believe that I am most adept at changing hearts. I make it my mission everyday to ensure my students understand that they are important. I want them to leave each day with an awareness of their value in this world. I want them to realize that they are loved and appreciated for who they are. I want them to exit the building believing that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to.
The area that I need to work on is changing students’ lives. I need to work on developing stronger relationships with my students families. Building relationships with caregivers will allow them to see that we are a team. In addition, each team member has one common goal to help that student be successful. I need to be more aware of families basic needs to ensure individual student success. For example, I could take a meal over to a family who is struggling. I could also donate my children’s good used clothes to someone. I could make positive phone calls home more often. All of these practices will help change student’s lives!
I believe that I am adept at changing students hearts. I try my best everyday to make sure that each and every one of my students knows that they are an important part of our classroom. I hope the realize they are loved and they have all touched my heart as I hope I have done for them.
ReplyDeleteThe area I need to work on is changing students lives. The area I work in school isn't always a priority to families. I need to be better at building those relationships with families to hopefully help make them want to send their child to school more consistently. Also I can help them learn more about the resources we have at school for families who may be struggling.
I believe I'm probably the best at changing students hearts. I try very hard every year to get to know my students. I start every morning off meeting my students out in front of the classroom with either a hug, high five, or fist bump. We have time in our day during duties and small groups to chat and get to know their outside activities.
ReplyDeleteThe area I could work on is changing students lives. There is always something more I could do for struggling families. I could also make more positive phone calls home more often. I tent to get caught up in the day to day hustle and forget about making those phone calls. Another thing I could do is reach out to the school counselor and see if there is anything she can think of to help my families who may be in hardship.
Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteI think I most excel in changing hearts. Relationships with my students is where I put a great deal of my energy and I feel pretty successful. Kids tend to open their hearts and talk to me about whatever is on their mind.
Changing minds is where I need help. So many of my students believe they can't succeed. It's a barrier I struggle to hurdle. I can tell them I believe in them until I am blue in the face, but I need them to change their mind about their own ability to succeed.
I think the way I am most adept at is "changing hearts." Around my third year of teaching, I realized that my strength is building relationships/connections with students. From that moment on, I made a point to listen to students and learn about what they are interested in. When students know you care, most of the time they try to do well in your class. They feel comfortable asking questions because they know I care about them.
ReplyDeleteI think the way I need to improve on the most is "changing minds." Especially students' perceptions of themself or their self-confidence. I need to work on redirecting their language or thought. When students make a mistake, they fall quickly into saying, "I'm dumb." It could be something as simple as telling them "You are not dumb, you just didn't know the answer yet or you didn't have the tools to get to the answer yet." I could even start the class with an affirmation or a quick journal entry over the application of an affirmation. This would also be in changing their mind when it comes to making mistakes or failing, and seeing these as opportunities to grow.
Julie Hasson, in her TED talk “The Teachers We Remember”, states, “We don’t remember being taught. We remember being transformed.” She discusses three main ways in which teachers help students change. Of these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteI am most adept in changing students' minds. I have very high expectations of my students and I challenge them daily. I know our standards and our curriculum so I am able to provide the learning that the students deserve. We have a growth mindset in our class and we can do hard things.
While I love my students and take the time to build relationships and show them they are important, I feel changing students' hearts would be an area for me to work on as I feel I can always do better in showing my students I care about them.
Some things I can do in addition to what I already do is, have a personal goodbye at the end of the day like I do for a morning greeting. I could also show them I appreciate them more and value their contributions by providing feedback and praise at times apart from working on curriculum, like noticing when they see trash and pick it up and throw it away without being asked, or they offer a pencil to a classmate. Sometimes I get so wrapped up in what I "need" to teach and get through in a day that I miss those opportunities.
In Julie Hasson's TED talk she talks about the impact teachers make on the lives of their students in "The Teachers we Remember". She specifically talks about they way teachers change students hearts, minds and lives. In my role as a school nurse I think I am most adept at changing students hearts and lives. I have a lot of students that struggle with various social emotional issues and see me as a safe space. By showing these students unconditional love I am able to make a positive impact on their day, their week and their year. I love getting the opportunity to love on hard to love kids, and hopefully make their days better and connect them more to their school community. I have been working with a very dependent type 1 diabetic student for the past couple of years. I feel like I have changed his live by teaching him ways to care for himself and his disease in a way that no one else has been able to. Because of some different factors in his home life, his mom has been doing everything for him without explanation, which has been a disservice as he is old enough, and capable enough, to start taking responsibility for a lot of his care. I think that pushing through some barriers and not giving up because it was hard, will make some major impacts on his life. An area that I would like to continue to grow is changing minds. I feel less capable in this area because I am not an educator by trade. I would like to work on this by really working to build grit and resilience in my students to help them grow and thrive as they get older.
ReplyDeleteOf these three ways, which are you most adept at? Explain. Of these three ways, which do you need to improve upon? What are some concrete things you could do to improve in this area?
ReplyDeleteChanging minds, I feel is something that stood out to me the most. Helping students be able to see the confidence they do have within the classroom, even if they don't see it. As a counselor I care about all students that walk through our doors, and want to see them be successful in the classroom as well as socially in the school setting. I think sometimes they lack the confidence in who they are and that limits their overall experience. Small groups is where I have seen students thrive. They love the smaller group because it allows more one on one time and time to focus on them and their struggles and things that they excel at. If we can find those things that we notice and bring them it up it creates a sense of calm and confidence in students. I would love to have more students in small groups, but that won't always happen, which is a downfall because I have seen great successes in students.
I feel I'm most adept in changing students hearts to help students know they matter and they belong in my classroom. I open up about myself and I feel this makes them feel comfortable with me and willing to be open with me. I like to give them the opportunity to share things with me by telling me, writing to me, drawing for me. I also hold students to my expectations and push them to be their best even if they don't think they are capable. I had students leave my room crying for the summer, so I feel that I have made my students feel loved and hopefully they will come back to see me in the future. I feel I need to improve in changing minds. Not only in the way that they feel about learning, but also how they feel about themselves. I can change students minds about what we are learning by relating it to what is going on in todays world or in their world. I try to stay in the loop with what is trending and tie content to it. Some topics are hard to teach especially when kids ask why they need to know this and I don't have a relevant answer for them. When I do, I notice students are more engaged and willing to tackle the concept. I also want to be able to change their minds if they don't have confidence in themselves that they should because they are smart and capable by showing them what they can do and what they are good at.
ReplyDeleteChanging Hearts, Changing Minds, Changing Lives: I feel most adept in changing student's hearts. I hope to give them every equal opportunity and show care, love and empathy to each of them. My goal is that they enjoy spending time with me and feel they are loved. I could work on changing lives. I think in my profession that is difficult as I only work with each child typically one time per week so I don't have the daily day to day ability to help students in all the ways that they may need.
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteJulie talks about changing students hearts, lives and minds. Changing hearts and lives are the two categories that are adept to me. As an alternative education educator, my job can be challenging. Some of my students have a terrible home life and have no one to go home to. I try as teacher to build strong positive relationships with each student. I feel that when I actually have a conversation and get to know the student better, they learn more as an individual and a student. So I try my hardest to show love and empathy for my students to know that I care for them and that they can always count on me. In alternative education, our success rate is 50-50. Some students go online, drop out, or stay the course of continuing their classes with us. The students that stay with us throughout their 3 or 4 years usually end up graduating high school. We're constantly changing their lives because without our motivation and success, they would've dropped out.
I would like to improve on changing the mind. I would like to help students gain confidence in the classroom so they can see their little successes through their eyes. I think having goals and them achieving their goals each week or day can really make a difference with students.
I'm not sure what I do the best. I like changing students minds. Some of my students think some stereotypical things that are wrong. I like changing their minds on these thoughts.
ReplyDeleteI like the thought of helping them with how they think about their lives. I like giving them some new positive thoughts on their home situations. I give them some examples of how my life was not good when I was their age, but I rose above those situations. It is doable. It is possible to have a good life even when we have no so good starts.
I would like to get better at changing lives. I would like to help students get more confidence and good thoughts in order to be productive and positive in this area.
According to Julie, in the best case scenario, we change the students' hearts, minds, and lives. Of the three, I believe that I am the best at changing students' hearts. I know my students well. We say affirmations and conduct special person interviews. I greet them at the door. I ask questions about their personal lives. However, I could do a better job of changing their minds. I have really high expectations. The students know that I have their backs but sometimes, because my expectations on their assessments are not realistic, their hearts get hurt/trust is damaged because they are putting forth their all, and their grade is not as high of a grade as they had hoped because the test I created is above where their level could be. Therefore, I feel like I jockey between hearts and minds. This year, I am going to spend extra time making sure the test is aligned with where ACTFL states their proficiency should be. I need to go back to writing samples and practice grading them so that I don't mark my students lower than what the guidelines say they are. I feel like once I iron this out we are going to have an amazing year!
ReplyDeleteI think all of these are intertwined. If a teacher transforms a student’s heart it will transform a student’s mind and life. If I have to pick one I guess I am most adept at transforming the lives of my students. I have to tell myself that we see students 1/80 of their life. I always challenge myself to see how I can help them in the long run. Examples include getting students the support they need. Support includes advocating for students to be placed in accelerated science courses, connecting them with special education services, providing resources if they need additional support, or helping them discover that they can overcome a challenging obstacle. When students realize they can do something difficult they often begin to enjoy science.
ReplyDeleteI think one I could work on is working on transforming minds. 7th graders often struggle with critical thinking skills as that part of their brain has not developed yet. They often make impulsive decisions and are not able to process the consequences of their choices until a couple of days later. One way I could be better at transforming minds is to continue to find ways for students to reflect on their thinking. I could do this through lab activities, puzzles, and discussions on how to process difficult concepts/decisions—allowing students to think about their thinking and provide frequent feedback.
I think the area that I am best at is changing student's minds. Many of students will rush through things or give up when it's hard. When you have a class of 30, it can be hard to stop and work through it with each student, but when you do and help the student through and show them that they can do it can change a mind quickly. When I help my student through a problem, they see that they just need a little push, but in all reality they knew what they were doing, they just needed reassurance.
ReplyDeleteThe area of improve is students' hearts. Each semester I have roughly 100 students, so it not always the easiest to make an impact on all of them. I tend to have conversations with the students who want to be seeked out and not so much those who hide in the classroom. This is an area where I can improve on and just make more of an effort to seek those out who are not as outgoing as the rest. Every student needs an advocate in their corner and creating that relationship can mean the world to them and have an impact on them for the rest of their lives.
The area that I feel most adept at is “changing student’s hearts”. For me this starts with trying to build a relationship/connection with my students. One way of going about this is the use of humor and having fun in class. Students have so much happening outside of the classroom that coming to class and having some fun mixed in with the learning helps them forget about the stress for a while, hopefully. By making these connections I want the students to know that they can come talk at any time about anything and I will help them. As stated in the book, “the most important thing is the people, the people, the people”!
ReplyDeleteThe area that I need help with would be “changing the student’s minds”. I find that any time students must use their math skills to answer questions, they give up because “it’s math and I hate math!” I have tried to walk them through the problems and they don’t want to hear a word I am saying. Many of the students, if they just listen and accept the help being offered, could find some small steps of success. I have tried to talk to them about their “hang up” with math and they just shut me out. So, I need to keep trying and hope that a breakthrough will happen. Can’t give up!
Of the three areas that were identified in the video I think I am most adept at changing students hearts. Many of the students that I work with are struggling readers. This is especially disheartening for students in 3rd-5th grade that read at a very low level. I work especially hard to build their skills and their confidence. I try to build relationships with them and make them feel safe to take risks and work hard. Many of these students are pulled out of their classrooms to come to my office to work in small groups. I rarely hear a student complain or dislike coming to my group to work. I take pride in the fact that they enjoy coming even though I know that the work we are doing is not easy for them. Many times other students try to ask me "When do I get to come with you?" This is how I know that I am taking care of their hearts.
ReplyDeleteThe area that I think I need to work on is changing students lives. I know that teaching kids to read will ultimately change their lives but I would like to try to do something that will change their lives now. I know there are many opportunities where students in my school need help outside of the academic areas. I would like to focus on one or two students this school year that I can help beyond the academic areas and change the opportunities for them. Maybe this is helping connect them to an art class or club, getting them involved in a group at the YMCA. I want to use my resources and reach out and change things for my students.
Of the three ways teachers help students change, I am most adept at changing students’ hearts. I try to see the needs of my students that are not being met. I’ve helped to coordinate getting and delivering a student and his brother new beds and mattresses when I heard they were sleeping on the floor. I’ve helped get students’ gloves when I found out they didn’t have any. I’ve also gotten students new clothes when I observed that the clothes they were wearing were painfully too small and would no longer button or zip. Of the three ways teachers help students change, I need to improve upon changing students’ lives. I tend to focus on my teaching responsibilities and l prefer not to get overly involved in my students’ lives outside of school. Something I could do to improve in this area would be to start going to the sporting events or music concerts that my students participate in. This would show them that I am interested in them as a whole person and would help me to build relationships with them so that they see me as a person they can come to when they need help.
ReplyDeleteI consider myself a work in progress for these three steps, and I wouldn't say I'm adept at any one step. The first step, "changing student's hearts," is probably the step I work on most in the classroom as it gives me the confidence to tackle tough love and student impact on each other. I tell all of my students that I will do everything in my power to ensure they are safe and they have a chance to reach their conceived level of success in the classroom. If that means merely passing or getting an A, I will be there for them. However, I also tell them that I'm not concerned with their ability to memorize facts and perform well on tests. I'm more concerned about how they develop as people. I want them to be able to work hard in a place where they feel safe being vulnerable. I understand my actions need to follow through as students recognize an empty gesture versus showing true honesty behind the gesture.
ReplyDeleteAs I become more adept at changing the hearts of students, I believe I will be more confident improving upon another step, "tough love." Tough love doesn't mean being strict or feared so much as it means showing persistence of student expectation. I'm involved in an MTSS committee at my school that reviews complicated areas such as academics, attendance, and behavior. We discuss how difficult it can be to keep students accountable and then continue to hold ourselves accountable for keeping the pressure on individual students. A concrete way we've found to become more adept at this step is to ask for help and rely on each other. I can bring in other teachers and admin to help look at complications from multiple perspectives, and we can motivate each other to keep pushing in our students in a positive direction.
Out of changing hearts, minds, and lives, I think I do well all three. I teach with passion, knowledge, and creativity. I have learned from many educational rock stars over the years. The one I enjoy the most is Changing minds. I teach social studies. There's many opportunities to engage in further learning of historical events. The one is want to work more diligently is lives. I teach economics in my lessons. For fun we also have local restaurants that I have a class set of their menu. I give them a budget and they have to stay within the budget. This is an eye opening experience for some of the kids.
ReplyDeleteI personally believe that I'm most adept at changing students hearts. My number one trait as a teacher is my ability to make connections and build relationships with my students. When you build meaningful relationships with students, I believe that the other traits will follow. When students know that you truly care about them they are more likely to work hard in your class. The trait that I need to improve on is 'Minds".
ReplyDeleteI could do a better job to make my lesson more creative or more interactive. I often use brain breaks in my room but I need to incorporate movement into my lesson as well. I know that sitting for 45 minutes is not a great way of learning, but I also get nervous about giving up "control" of my room and get anxious when the noise level gets loud. I need to feel more comfortable with my students moving knowing that they are getting more out of the lessons. I teach the curriculum, but need to make learning more fun!!
I feel I am best at changing hearts. One thing I have always done is tell my students I love them. For this reason I have a great bond with my students. They trust me and work hard in my class. I know that there is always room to improve no matter how good someone is on something, but I would say changing lives. This would take a great deal of time and understanding, and being a music teacher I am not granted that much time each week with my students!
ReplyDeleteI feel like I do best at changing minds, teaching early childhood special education, I notice the progress that is made throughout the year. I have data to show that I am changing minds.
ReplyDeleteChanging hearts, I feel like I do a good job with making connections and forming relationships with the children I connect with the most. My goal this year is to make sure that I have a good relationship with ALL students.
As teachers I feel that we are changing lives all the time and I think because I'm changing minds I am changing lives.