Article

This article was interesting and a good way to look in the mirror. It is helpful to have specific things to look for when observing. I have done lots of observations over the years and I am always get something good every time I go. It is especially important for me to realize my own biases against particular settings or teachers (like ones who yell or a messy classroom). They all have their own style and it works for them. However, one thing that this article really didn’t suggest is talking to the teacher about what you saw and better yet, with the students. I once observed a teacher who literally went 45 minutes without smiling and the entire time was saying "be quiet" even though it was pretty calm. I was so sure that the kids would not like her because at the time I was doing a survey on what turns kids on or off and those two things were huge offenders. Turns out, she is one of the most popular teachers in the school! So while we can have our lenses on and try to not be biased, I have always found it helpful to do a little more talking before and after, just to get an idea.

I especially liked the part in the article that had the views of three teachers on "Peter". I wonder which one I will be? It is scary how quick we can judge and convict a person and sentence them to the role we see fit. Observation helps me realize what I can do better and see what I could use or leave behind.