Watching Oneself Teach
Initial Publication Date: November 30, 2009
For all the faculty involved, the opportunity to watch themselves conducting class was a valuable and sometimes uncomfortable experience. Reflecting on this has led several to some new conclusions about their teaching.
Matt reflects on his experience of watching his own teaching—the energy required and the difficulty of "reading" student responses in class—as well as his own growth as a teacher and the challenge of turning mistakes into a learning opportunity. The joy of discovering new things to share with students is at the heart of Matt's passion for teaching.
Clara reflects on the perils and discomfort of seeing oneself in front of a class.
Christine reflects on the ongoing challenges of keeping the classroom student-centered and "reading" her students body language in class, including the "English moment" rule. Christine sees transitions and timing as areas for future growth.
Bill describes his reaction to watching himself on video and the insight he gained about how he uses classroom space and the blackboard.
Parna reflects on how she has changed over time and how watching the class video helped her to see how students react to different aspects of her teaching.
Greg reflects on his classroom strategies and how they have changed since arriving at Carleton. Finding the balance between lecture and discussion and creating active classes are areas for ongoing attention.
Stephen reflects on how he has become more comfortable in his teaching role and how that ease has improved student learning.