Reflecting on Reflecting





"Adults do not learn from experience, they learn from processing experience"  
(Arline-Krupp, 1997)

As a coach, my job is to support teachers in processing their experiences.  Coaching must be more than talking in generalizations and big ideas, finding resources, and being "helpful."

I must be an active listener,
a keen observer,
intentional with my language,
a powerful question asker.

If I can do these things, a teacher may process their experience in a different way.  In a way that makes them think differently about their instruction.

Today I got to spend the morning in the classroom of two wonderful teachers who were kind enough to allow me to reflect with them.  Their classroom is bustling with energy, excitement, and deep thinkers. It's an inspiring a bright and inspiring space to be in.

After observing the morning, the three of us sat down to reflect.  We were able to process the experiences of the morning together.  I think I was an active listener and a keen observer.  I could have been more intentional with my language and I wish my questions were more powerful.  However, I know there was power in us taking the time to intentionally reflect and process together.

Writing this post tonight is my attempt at reflecting on the reflection from earlier today.  It is important that I take the time to reflect that I am encouraging everyone to take. Processing my experiences is what will help me become a more active listener, a keener observer, more intentional with my language, and a more powerful question asker.

Comments

  1. I love those reflective, engaging conversations! It sounds like you were intentional with your coaching. Way to go!

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  2. Writing is such a powerful tool for reflection. I am glad that you are thinking about the value in keen observations and reflection and look forward to seeing more glimpses into your on-going growth as a literacy leader.

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