At TCEA last week, I talked to a lot of teachers who stopped by our booth. Many of them talked about the exciting things they were doing with their students, and how student-centered technology was a key part of their vision.
One teacher came up and asked if we had software that could track how students were doing on their TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills). I said no, that what our programs do is to create opportunities for students to create authentic projects that show what they know, rather than taking a test.
We talked for a bit more, and she said rather sadly, “well, it’s too bad that I can’t do things like this, because this is what I really believe in, this is how kids really learn.” As she walked away, I wondered what the difference was between this teacher and the others. They are all working under the same state-wide directives, yet their approaches and attitudes are very different.
So, here’s the question — how do you maintain your enthusiasm and passion when your vision is not mainstream? What is the impact on you and your students if you feel in conflict with what you are being asked to do?
Sylvia
