Commitment to Students and Student Learning

OCT Section: The Standards of Practice for the Teaching Profession

Focus: Commitment to Students and Student Learning

OCT Expectations: “Members are dedicated in their care and commitment to students. They treat students equitably and with respect and are sensitive to factors that influence individual student learning. Members facilitate the development of students as contributing citizens of Canadian society” (Ontario College of Teachers Foundations of Professional Practice, 2012, p.13).

Curated Materials: TED Talk by Rita Pierson, Every Child Needs a Champion:

Analysis/Reflection:

Definition of Commitment to Students and Student Learning

            Commitment to Students and Student Learning involves teaching that is meaningful and brings happiness and excitement to the students. As stated in the TED Talk by Rita Pierson, “how powerful would our world be if we had kids who were not afraid to take risks, who were not afraid to think, and who had a champion? Every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be” (said in TED Talk at 06:59). We need to show that we are committed to students and student learning by allowing students to take risks and not be afraid to express themselves.

Why the Resource informs my understanding of the OCT standard Commitment to Students and Student Learning

            Learning a new language can bring a lot of apprehension and resistance.  We need to be there for the students and show that we care, respect their efforts and our committed to help them succeed.  The TED Talk by Rita Pierson really helps educators understand that students need a champion who can encourage and motivate them to do their best without worrying about being judged.  Each student learns differently, and we need to be able foster their learning by differentiating instruction.  We need to build that connection with students to help them be the best that they can be.  Another text, which talks about how teachers need to be sensitive to diverse learning needs of students is a book written by Arnett K., titled “Languages for all: How to support and challenge students in a second language classroom”. Book suggests strategies, activities and various ways to support students who have limited or emerging proficiency in the language spoken at school.  On page 156, criteria for teachers to consider when developing activities and lesson plans for students whose second language is English are outlined (Arnett K., 2013).

Level of Reflection

            Being committed to students and student learning is essential.  We need to reflect on our own views and beliefs about students abilities, as that in turn will affect how we interact and guide them. I will need to provide students with ongoing feedback in order to help them learn from their mistakes and move forward. Many opportunities to express their thinking and understanding should be provided in order for students to practice and grow as learners. Different ways of expressing themselves should be incorporated in the learning process.    

References

Arnett, K. (2013). Languages for all: How to support and challenge

students in a second language classroom. Toronto, Ont.: Pearson Canada.

Ontario College of teachers, Foundations of Professional Practice booklet. (2012).

Toronto. ON: Author.

Rita Pierson (May 2013). TED Talks Education on Every kid needs a champion.

Retrieved November 28, 2015 From: https://www.ted.com/talks/rita_pierson_every_kid_needs_a_champion?language=en.