One of the main reasons I have always wanted to be a teacher is to facilitate learning opportunities for my students (corny, I know). I think education is one of the primal opportunities for students, especially in low SES, etc. situations, to have a real chance to be successful. I think it is equally the responsibility of students and educators to make the most of every learning situation within the classroom. It is the responsibility to create the opportunity for learning through providing subject matter and content in a meaningful way, and it is the responsibility of the student to take ownership of the information presented and make it an integral part of their life.
Kuma stresses the importance of maximizing learning opportunities for students who are learning a second language. Learning opportunities to not start and stop at the lesson plan. Areas like a teacher’s syllabus specifications and teaching materials have limitations as far as providing meaningful, involved learning opportunities. Kuma explains that learner involvement in the classroom and an involved, questioning teacher can make all the difference in providing learner opportunities. This was very important for me to read. I really want to make my classroom an interactive learning center where everyone has a chance to grow and learn, including myself. This way, learners are able to take ownership of their learning and making it more meaningful for themselves and teachers are able to create an interactive, always-developing classroom environment.
I think it is great that you want to create learning opportunities for your students. I am pretty sure that is one thing all teachers want to do, and if not well then that is just odd. I wrote about this same chapter because it seemed important to me as well. I also liked what Kuma had to say on the matter. Learning opportunities are so important and it is a two way street for the learner and teacher to make and have learning opportunities. It is great you want your class to be an interactive learning center and be an interactive teacher. I hope to do the same!
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