Archive for October, 2011
Posted by teacher on
October 12, 2011
Every week you get up, go to class, study on occasion, eat, party and sleep. This is the routine you’ve been caught in for weeks. You feel like you are accomplishing all the things you are supposed to while having fun at the same time. Yet, something is missing. Let’s look at this scenario again. Our theoretical college student has his or her priorities straight. He is having fun while making the Dean’s List and many good friends. Still he does not feel quite whole. What could be lacking? If you are like many students, you might be dumfounded as to what the problem is.
The problem is that there are certain things in life that we overlook and therefore, underrate. These things give life a richer quality, but because they are so small, they are often missed and underappreciated. We just go through our days in an endless cycle of living and learning without taking time to experience the good things we should not take for granted. Small signs of affection do not cost a lot but they can be worth so much. Contrary to the media, even if you do not know the person, it is okay for you to be thoughtful to another human being. Smiles can brighten up the day for another person, and they are likely to pass the smile on. Kind words and a good conversation can turn almost any bad day around. Think hard. When was the last time you had a really good deep conversation, and no, how you clinched your final game of Beirut is NOT a meaningful conversation. Moving on to the overlooked good things that you can appreciate with those you know, how about a hug? They are often neglected when it comes down to it and we don’t really know why.
From the guy’s perspective, of course manly men don’t give hugs, but with the right girl (or girls, don’t be afraid to experiment), hugs can be electric. When guys find the right girl that fits in the crook of their shoulder, they shouldn’t let her go. Instead they should take her to a massage class. That’s right, after a man learns to give a truly first-rate massage, he will, without a doubt, find a partner masseuse who will justify learning the best technique. That is one of the single best things you should definitely not overlook. Trust us. And for those of us without the comfort of a loving significant other, there are always your friends. Those are the people who know you better than anyone else (especially in the close proximity of a college dorm) and can always find a way to cheer you up if the stresses of life get to you. If we all love our friends as much as we say we do, we should probably begin to show it because we might receive in return. Small gestures again are a good way to show appreciation. Cards, phone calls and e-mails are all good ways of letting someone you care about know you are thinking of them.
Another fulfilling and inspiring suggestion for those bored with the daily grind of college life is creating something. Whether you are interested in art, cooking, music or any other variety of things, any form of self-expression helps humans put their feelings into material objects and in general just keep your mind off of problems. We can personally attest to this as we are actually paid to write articles about our opinions on pretty much anything. Also, especially this time of year, we should take notice of nature and all its elements. Fall in New England is unlike anywhere else and I’m sure all of you have taken time to notice the beauty of the changing leaves. But have you also noticed the crisp smell of the fall air, or felt the nip of a cool wind across your rosy cheeks? Have you heard the geese’s sometimes incessant, but always familiar, honking as the seasons change? We can take comfort in their constancy, but at the same time be alert to their unpredictability (mainly during blizzard season).
Nature can help make you feel complete and for all you slackers out there, this one is especially good, because you don’t even have to do anything, just relax and enjoy. Although these small things may be known comforts to many of you, it is nice to review them every once in a while. If you remember even one today, it may make a difference to you or someone around you. As the school year wears on, we want you to live up to your potential and spend each day to its fullest because, as they say, these are the best years of your life.
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Posted by teacher on
October 10, 2011
The teacher who is an effective communicator is able to communicate with students, parents, colleagues, administrators, and community members using a variety of formats and media. He or she uses correct standard grammar and spelling to convey clear information to various recipients in a way that is appropriate to the audience.
The effective communicator is professional in their written and spoken communications, and does not engage in hear-say or betray confidential information about students, their families, or other professionals. He or she is able to collaborate with other teachers, instructional aides, administrators and parents, and knows how to access resources. The teacher is able to use media and communication technologies to support their teaching. He or she is able to effectively use questioning and reflective listening to engage their students in higher level and critical thinking about the content matter. I believe that EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR is most closely related to REFLECTIVE PRACTITIONER, STUDENT ENABLER, and LEADER & PROFESSIONAL.
Leader and Professional
The competent teacher candidate understands that teaching is a profession, and each teacher has a responsibility to themselves, their colleagues, students and community to conduct themselves in a professional manner. Only by acting professionally will teachers receive the respect due them. Professional conduct includes being where they are supposed to be, when they are supposed to be there, doing what they are supposed to do as professional teachers. Professional conduct also includes ethical issues of student record confidentiality. Being a professional and a leader means working together with colleagues, school families, and community members for the betterment of their school and community. The teacher as a leader and professional also demonstrates through their own example the importance of being a life-long learner, through professional development and continually striving to improve their teaching, learning more about their content area and the world around them.
Reflective Practitioner
I believe a reflective practitioner is a teacher who takes the time to stop and think about what they are doing, how they are doing it, whether or not what they are doing is working, and what they can do to make their teaching even better. They are concerned with staying current with topics and developments in their content area and in professional education. The reflective educational practitioner continually challenges themselves to grow and learn.
Posted by teacher on
October 8, 2011
In the success of any school, the direct, central and most important role is played by the teacher. In a non-formal school total responsibility of routine management, marketing, accounting, registration, admissions, provision of books and stationery to children, teaching, keeping track of student’s progress, submission of monthly progress report to the headquarters etc. lies solely with him/her. TFA, therefore trains its teacher’s diligently main features of the Teacher’s Training Centre are:
1. From identified disadvantaged areas, suitable candidates are hired for training.
2. The trainees are given free accomadation during the training.
3. During the training period, a stipend is awarded to the candidates.
4. The curriculum is divided into the following core courses:
Quranic Teachings & Islamic Studies, Pakistan Studies, Ideology of Pakistan, English (Comprehension and General Written English), Educational Psychology, Pedagogy General Science, Mathematics, Communication Skills, Physical Training, Computer Science, Accounting and Social Marketing (Networking & Community Linkages) Public Health and Hygiene, Family Planning.
5. Enough room for co-curricular and extra-curricular activities is provided to rightfully nurture mental and physical abilities of the candidates.
6. This initial training is followed by update courses and training workshops on a continuous basis.
7. The teachers are awarded the completion certificates and sent back to their respective hometowns at attractive salaries to start non-formal schools.
8. The monitoring & Support Department at the Taaleem for All Trust keeps an eye on the progress and performance of the teachers.
9. With the support of the local community and under the direction of the Trust, non-formal schools have the potential to evolve into more formal setups in a few years time.
Posted by teacher on
October 1, 2011
A parent teacher conference with your child’s caregiver is an ideal opportunity to listen and learn all about your child–habits, likes and dislikes, how he gets along with others, and whether she shares. Learn more how to ensure this time is well spent and positive!
Make The Most Of A Parent-Caregiver Conference
Talking with your child’s caregiver in a non-threatening, non-hurried setting is the best way to find out information that can enhance your child’s learning and growth. You might even find out some surprising traits about your child, such as he really will eat broccoli when you’re not around!
10 Tips For A Successful Parent Teacher Conference
The parent teacher conference is set. What should parents do to ensure the meeting is meaningful and positive.
