We are all lifelong learners, even though it’s something that I often neglect to consider. As a pre-service teacher the notion of continual professional development has been heavily front loaded. It manifests in self-reflections, assessments, workshops and Pro-D days. However, during Trevor MacKenzie’s presentation, he highlights our need to not only learn but to unlearn.
As educators self-awareness is crucial. We need to consider the knowledge and experiences we bring into the classroom, as well as the strategies we’ve developed throughout our own education. Taking note of what and how we’ve been taught, because it may not necessarily work for the students in our classroom. Trevor suggests that we step back from our preconceived notions and remain open to the diversity of our classrooms. In other words, educators need to be active members in their own learning in order to encourage students to be active in theirs.
Our value system is a core element of this, it is the backbone of our education practice. These values manifest in our beliefs, goals and actions. Being able to communicate these and share them with our students will support community building and creating mutual understandings. At the end of the day, inquiry is not just a term for defining lessons, but a lens to interpret who we are and who we want to be as educators.
Check out Trevor MacKenzie’s website for further insights into the world of inquiry based learning and professional development: https://www.trevormackenzie.com
ashleyadmoore
03/29/2021 — 1:18 PM
“We need to consider the knowledge and experiences we bring into the classroom, as well as the strategies we’ve developed throughout our own education.” *Snaps* I am thankful that we have had wonderful educators in our class to share how they reflect.