Students in this generation, especially secondary students, need structure. Especially in the public schools, which is where I have done all of my student teaching experience, many students come from broken families or unstable lifestyles. I believe it is my duty as an educator show the students how having structure can be beneficial. However, I like to call my structure "guided freedom". This is because while I believe it is important for students to have structure and discipline, I still think students learn best on their own through trial and error.
The concepts of a flipped classroom and project-based learning has always appealed to me because it allows students to learn based on their own strengths. Specifically, a flipped classroom, which is mostly student driven, allows students to teach themselves and others after having done the introduction of the lesson on their own as homework. I love this idea because it allows for them to use prior knowledge to complete the work at home first. This pedagogical technique also allows so much more time to be spent on projects, exercises, and discussions during class time. The less time spent in class introducing the basic concepts, the more time available to deepen the knowledge they need. This is a technique that can be difficult to implement, especially in the first years of teaching, so I plan on working my way into using this technique on a regular basis. Once I become more comfortable with classroom functions, I will begin implementing it with my students in a progressive way. This means I will ease them into this technique based off of class capability. I look forward to mastering this technique over the years.
I believe that the implementation of project-based learning is great to join with a flipped classroom. Project-based learning is a pedagogical technique that allows students to drive discussions and work together. Project-based learning also allows for students to work for an extended period of time on difficult concepts. I believe this is great because it allows students to really focus on the topic and flex their knowledge obtaining skills. Project-based learning is always focused on student learning goals, so there is always a set outcome that is being looked for from the student. I also like project-based learning because students have to use all levels of Bloom's Taxonomy to complete the project/goals. Beyond having a flipped classroom revolving around project-based learning, I also want to create an environment in my classroom that is comfortable and welcoming. This, again, goes back to the fact that many students don't have this kind of environment at home. I believe showing the students that I care about them as people as well as students is important to the education process because it shows students that I'm not just some drill sergeant teaching them what they need then sending them on their way. I believe this kind of relationship will gain me student's respect as well as allow me to understand where the students are coming from. This will help me sympathize with students who may be going through a hard time at home.
Overall, I want students to become as passionate as I am about Language Arts. I believe this will be accomplished through a flipped classroom that revolves around project-based learning. These pedagogical techniques will hopefully produce in students a greater understanding and appreciation of Language Arts and all that it encompasses. I also believe that through encouragement, I will be able to connect with students in the classroom in ways that I wouldn't be able to otherwise.
