Building Relationships

Describe a great classroom activity that you observed. What made it great? What was the impact on student learning?

Today we began our first day of UWB classes during our September Experience. I was reminded today how valuable and powerful the relationships we build are. One of the most important jobs as teachers is to "let each of your students know that you care." If we can take the time out of each day to connect with our students individually through communication we can quickly gain a better understanding of their personalities even if it simply by asking a question about their day, their dislikes and likes or their favorite hobbies. When I look back on my own learning throughout grade school I really appreciated those of my teachers who took the time to teach us who they are not only as teachers but as people. Today I was lucky enough to learn some of the things that my teacher enjoys and a favorite hobby of hers. I believe that if students can see teachers as people that their ability to create a positive relationship is more easily accessible.

The activity I observed today involved a white water paddle and some questions. We were encouraged to ask her anything about the paddle that might help us to learn more about her as a person. I learned that eventhough she loved to partake in this sport now she wasn't always so comfortable participating in such a high adrenaline-rushing activity. She overcame her fears of being underwater and discovered a passion of hers. She made the decision to start her life over after she moved her a couple of years ago. I found her activity to be extremely engaging and inspiring! I appreciated the time she took to share with us a part of who she is. She allowed us to ask her any question which allowed us to be creative, personal, and engaged.

If I was able to do this same type of activity with my own classroom I think I would bring in my snowmobile helmet. Because my helmet looks like an average helmet I think my students would begin to ask me more and more about why I brought in such a helmet. I would love to share with them a fun activity that I enjoy doing with family during the cold winter months. I think the most interesting thing to reflect on would be how I took the time to learn a new activity that was sometimes scarey. I overcame some of my fears and was able to explore areas I might not have otherwise had the opportunity to see. I enjoy trying new things as long as the safety risk isn't too high. I am the type of person who is extremely greatful towards those who take the time to teach me something new.