Most of us teachers teach from the heart. I know I do. I look at them and I analyze them to figure out what works, what does not work. It’s all about instinct, experience, gut feeling and of course, asking the kids what do they want in their teaching and learning process.
Thus, it was rather baffling to answer the question whether I have implemented PLE in my class. Only after I heard the others’ examples then I realized that ‘Hey, I do implement PLE in class!’ It was not technologically-based but by giving the kids the freedom to act out any interesting scene in the assigned chapter from the novel Step By Wicked Step, I have empowered them to actively engage in the learning of the novel. The learning environment for this activity is owned by both the kids and I. I as the facilitator and the kids ask questions in regards of their acting scene to assist their understanding.
After reading Dorenda’s conclusion, ‘it is the learner’s autonomy to create his/her own learning ground’, there are few things for me to ponder on. First, I have to read PLE again. Secondly, I’m thinking about the use of blog by the kids for journal writing. Thirdly, PLE produces independent learners with various skills like self-directed learning and problem-solving skills. But, is PLE a common concept in Malaysian education?
KJ liked
ReplyDelete"Most of us teachers teach from the heart. I know I do. I look at them and I analyze them to figure out what works, what does not work. It’s all about instinct, experience, gut feeling and of course, asking the kids what do they want in their teaching and learning process."
However, I strongly think that knowing the facts/theories/structures of any learning approach will give a clearer picture/direction of our approaches. It will reinforce our approach. After all, things seemed more __________ (couldn't think of the suitable vocab, english teachers help pls) when both intuitive & empirical approach points to the same direction.
tqvm kj.....you are right about having the knowledge of theories and concepts as they help to make the gut feeling and instinct has substance and essence...
ReplyDeleteKJ, do you think "synchronized" is a good word to use here?
ReplyDeleteYin, liked your expression "teach from the heart". when a teacher teaches from the heart there is more soul to his/her teaching and will prompt the teacher to go an extra mile for the students. the students know it too. i also agree with KJ that if the teacher knew the theories/concepts behind what he/she is doing it'll add more depth and understanding to the task, thus enhancing it. Good reflections!
ReplyDeleteyin, as for me..i like the PLE we're practising right now. I mean in the PXGT 6110..Madam Ng allows us to learn and explore this subject/course according to our way or the way which we're comfortable with.Eventhough she knows that we're (am I generalising?) illiterate in the theories of TL using internet, she direct /guide us according to our pace.
ReplyDeleteReally hope I can be like her in my teaching.