Power of Three

Learning to manage technology: It still boggles my mind when I think that students of today don’t know a world without iPads, iPhones, social media… I often wonder how this constant exposure to screen time affects their development both physically and socially. As much as I love what technology can do, I worry when I see a student’s default mode is on their phone, mindlessly looking through Snapchat.
“How do you feel when you don’t have access to technology? Can you describe what you do when you have free time at school or at home?”

Problem-solving skills: I teach a lot of really good learners, but my students don’t always like to think. I teach Math and they are good at regurgitating and copying steps but will put their heels up when the context seems unfamiliar.
“What is your initial reaction when you encounter a problem that seems unfamiliar?”

Shifting their definition of success: I’m not sure if I am more aware of student anxiety or if is increasing since I started teaching. A lot of my students, especially Grade 12s, are extremely mark driven (a vicious cycle of the high stakes marks play in University acceptance). I want to instill a love for learning, but too often their benchmark for success is a percentage and that’s a lot of pressure to put on oneself and also not an easy perspective to change.
“Tell me more about what you think success in the classroom looks like. Give me an example of a time you were successful.”

Food for thought…