On Tuesday math class didn't go as well as I wanted it to so when we had math again on Thursday, I told students that I went home and analyzed the class. My analysis demonstrated that a few changes would improve the teaching and learning--changes such as a few seat changes and pacing changes too. I made the changes and the class went well. I wanted to show children that when things aren't going well, we can analyze the situation and make better. As we all know that's a valuable life lesson.
When focus shifts occur with regard to the learning we generally have to step back and determine what other changes have to happen to support the focus change. For example a switch from teamwork to what I call "follow the leader" lessons meant that it was more important for students to be in seats that allow them to see the front of the room better. Also a more explicit review of details and specific concepts meant that some students who have already mastered the learning needed a different place to learn and different assignments too. Educators have to be flexible thinkers who are always assessing the situation and making needed changes to support those changes. Sharing our teaching decisions, analysis, and efforts is another way that we teach children well.
