Sunday, September 28, 2008

Term Project

Through discussions in class this weekend I had many different ideas for my class project. I now realize what I want to do and need to do. I plan on looking at curriculum in terms of Principal Supervision. I often observe teachers and look at the lesson, classroom management, teaching strategies, etc. This process should be deeper. I would like to discuss why teachers are teaching what they present. To do this I need to understand how I look at curriculum and understand individual differences of teachers in regards to curriculum. Is it right to think an entire staff should be on the same page in terms of curriculum. As a Principal, I have to also look at the accountability factor with parents. Any comments?

Administration supervising teachers need to have an open mind regarding curriculum. They can not enter a classroom thinking they always know best. It is important to understand individual differences in the delivery and understanding of curriculum. When thinking of the wrong approach this video came to mind. The students and teachers are the important people in the classroom while the supervisor should be there to help.






I am currently looking at the PAA curriculum. This isn't the first time! However, I am looking at the guide from a critical perspective. I am realizing two completely different approaches. One is to help students develop for employment purposes. It is stated that if a student wants to use this class towards apprenticeship, the teacher must pass a course if they are not a journeyperson in the particular field. What other course in school mandates a teacher to take another course and pass a test? There are many teachers currently teaching classes they are not formally trained to teach. Should they have to now take an extra class and write a test to prove they have the correct knowledge to deliver the material?

Principles of Education

Perhaps I am simplifying this too much. I believe the main principle of education is learning for everyone. In the past learning was strictly focused on the student. Through professional development teachers are continuing to learn although this aspect needs to occur for all teachers. Schools are now beginning to include the community in learning. We are all learning together and from each other.

Definition of Curriculum

I look at curriculum as a guide to help teachers in the journey of further learning for both students and teachers. Curriculum guides are extremely beneficial to new teachers and teachers with new assigned courses. Curriculum is knowledge based - both gained and shared.