Janice Newkirk

Personal Frame of Reference

Life doesnt require that we be the best, only that we try our best H. Jackson Brown, Jr

Establishing a Frame of Reference is an important aspect of entering into the teaching

profession, as it is a reflection of an individuals beliefs about learning and the classroom

community. Constructing a Frame of Reference is a challenging but meaningful task as it

encourages one to be mindful of personal opinions, beliefs and methodologies as a

Student Teacher. My goal as a Student Teacher is to be inclusive and supportive to

learners in all abilities on their learning journey. All students are capable of learning, and it

is important to recognize the value of their efforts; trying is learning. I feel that students

learn best when they are comfortable and are aware of the rules and guidelines for the

classroom. I hope to create an environment that is consistent and compassionate.

A few guiding principles that are important to me are as follows:

Students are diverse learners.

Children learn in a variety of ways and their experiences shape their motivation and

approaches to learning. Rather than teaching children that we are all the same, I feel it is

important to acknowledge difference and emphasize some of the positive aspects of our

differences. For example, some students may require special seating arrangements

within the class, or the use of classroom tools to help them learn. As a Student Teacher I

hope to encourage students to recognize and accept these differences in a variety of

ways. Additionally I will work hard to incorporate kinesthetic, visual and auditory learning

styles when constructing my lesson plans and leading classroom routines.

Students develop best when they have secure relationships.

Creating a safe learning place for children is very important for their successful cognitive

development as, emotions are the primary gatekeeper to learning. (OECD p.4) As a

Student Teacher I actively use a variety of strategies to build positive relationships with

students in my class. This includes acknowledging students for their accomplishments

and effort, and listening to and encouraging them to listen to others. I believe that it is

best to maintain a caring yet firm relationship with students. Establishing a consistent

classroom routine with clear expectations and consequences is essential to creating

healthy relationships with students. Promoting and modelling positive behaviour is an

important aspect of this, as is encouraging positive relationships with peers. Positive

relationships not only encourage learning, but also play a significant role in influencing

the social and emotional development of students.

Proactive classroom management is key.

Organizing the classroom in a way that creates a positive environment requires

anticipating possible challenges students may face and establishing routines, lessons,

and disciplinary strategies that both teach students and allow them to be active agents in

their own self-regulation. Consistent classroom routines where all students are aware of

expectations should be followed from the very start of the school year. Classroom norms

can be created collaboratively with your students as a strategy to promote engagement

and self-discipline. I firmly believe that all classrooms should have a variety of tools for

students to use as aids for self-regulation. For example, creating a calm area in your

classroom with soft light, figits and cushions. However, as your students change and

develop so should your strategies. Being flexible with classroom management strategies

and tailoring your classroom to suit your classs changing needs throughout the school

year is extremely important.

Life doesnt require that we be the best, only that we try our best.

I feel it is my responsibility to help students realize that there is no single best. I want

students to be happy with their progress and feel like they are an important part of the

classroom community. Classrooms should be safe environments where we shouldnt fear

failure but instead be encouraged to explore ideas and take risks. Students shouldnt fear

their mistakes or be afraid to ask for help when needed. Additionally, as a Student

teacher I shouldnt be afraid of trying new approaches or teaching strategies out of fear

they will not work. Mistakes are proof that we are trying.

References

OECD (2010). The Nature of Learning: Using Research to Inspire Practice. OECD

Principles of Effective Learning Environments. OECD Publications.