In my new role as ESL teacher I am learning self-discipline and patience, even before the school year begins. Although I can be self-disciplined when I need to be, I am not a very patient person. I am thrown off course when confronted with ambiguous situations and unresolved issues, such as not knowing exactly what I'll be doing or how many students I will be responsible for, or even if I'll have many students to work with. I want to get started on my classroom, study the curriculum, plan for the first week with students, but I can't. Instead I'm forced to wait and let things take shape. It's a good exercise for me. When I'm feeling calm I think that everything will work itself out. But, when I'm feeling unsure of myself (much of the time) I start doubting myself. I revert to ineffective habits: if I'm focused on negative outcomes then when they happen I won't be blind sided. Because that's something else I don't like: surprises. S...
This blog is a place to ruminate on the problems of teaching. If I am thinking thoughtfully, my posts will hopefully raise more questions than answers. By problematizing teaching we reflect on those questions that are constantly behind, in front, and at center of everything we do in the classroom. Feel free to comment. I'd love to hear what other teachers are thinking about on these and other issues. Cheers! Elisa