During the summer I was offered a part-time position to teach computer skills to home school (high school) students — and I was hesitant to take the job. Honestly, I was scared. My preferred level is elementary — and though I had taught 7th grade for one year (in Hawaii no less and left — which lets you know how much 7th grade and I got along) — I was just not comfy with the thought of being with students who I would give the right to challenge me. Preschoolers adore me — High Schoolers terrified me.
But after some reflection, prayer, and doing what I am telling others to do with taking “baby steps” — in actuality I flung myself into the job. It was an 1.5 hour commitment every other Tuesday. 12 hours total — I can do this.
And I need to tell you — they are amazing me.
I am not being the typical teacher that I used to be. In fact, I am a bit vague and letting them build upon the thoughts themselves.
And they amaze me.
Right now — they are 1/2 way through preparing their Florida Vacations. In actuality, I want to see that they can build a spreadsheet, that they can create a presentation (and share that presentation), and that they can follow directions and take things into consideration when making choices and options. But I am not making a big deal about that……they will figure it out on their own.
And they amaze me.
Several have started google docs — and invited me to view (without prompting from me to do so.) Several have added to the wiki. A few have sent me emails. I need and want them to keep me in the loop — but am not dictating how they do so.
Yesterday — for the last 1/2 hour of class I gave them time to work on their projects and wandered around making sure everyone was on task. Which they were……amazing. When we regrouped, I gave each group time to share a few things they had accomplished in that 25ish minutes……which they did. And from that, they were learning from each other.
And they are having a blast. And working it beyond class. And working as teams. And thinking outside the box.
They are amazing me. And between you and me, I am very glad I decided to take that step to join them.
You can view the project here: http://dcshstech.pbworks.com/ProjectOne
What an awesome project Jen! Being from an elementary background, high school kids scare me as well. Your post has inspired me to step out of my comfort zone a bit and do some team teaching with a high school class. Hopefully I won’t call them “boys and girls” by accident!
It sure sounds like you’re having fun! Isn’t that what makes this profession so great?