Good Teaching

Life can be full of regrets.  This is a choice.  We can dwell on them.  We get stuck, never move forwards, unable to see what’s good.  Life will always be a rain cloud.

Yesterday, I gave a workshop to a team of Aboriginal Education teachers about implementing the First Nations perspective in the mathematics curriculum.  I did not make a summary handout or feedback form like I usually do for my Assessment for Learning workshops.  I had a moment of regret when the workshop ended.  I walked out flat, not knowing how the workshop went.  I did not assume the worst but I had no idea if the teachers found the workshop worthwhile.

Mental note, provide feedback forms to ALL workshops I provide.  If I desire feedback on my performance and content, I need to provide a feedback form.  The best part about teaching… learning that is incurred when making mistakes.  No regrets… looking forward… making it better for the next time.

To my surprise, I started receiving emails from my colleagues who attended the workshop.  The first email was a general thank you to everyone… to the presenter… to the PD rep… to the participants.  That was nice to be acknowledged amongst these practitioners.  The second email was a thank you expressing her excitement to connect with math teachers.  That is so AWESOME.  I am excited for her.  The third email was from a good friend.  She said that I was a good teacher.  GASP.  That meant a lot to me.  No sarcasm.  And finally, I received an email this morning commenting on my teaching abilities, willingness to give back, and thanking me for becoming a teacher.  At this point, I have no words to describe how I feel.

At some level I knew the workshop went well.  Although I did receive hugs, smiles, and ‘thank you’s’ after the workshop, the email feedback was exceptional.  The gift is knowing that other people acknowledge my work, my love for teaching, and the quality of my teaching.  I love teaching.  It more than just saying it, it’s about living it.  Thank you for your feedback.