Before the co-teaching
In recent years, peer observation is viewed as a vehicle for collaborative professional development that improves teaching practices and student performance. As a member of the Hsinchu City English Consulting Team, it’s an obligatory for me to open my class to other teachers.
Teaching in front of students never rattles my nerves, but as soon as teachers and administrators walk in the door, it’s a completely different story. I tried to convince myself it would not be a big deal and I woulddo what I normally do in class. However, it’s not as easy as what I thought. I was overwhelmed by anxiety and fear.
As we know, a well-constructed lesson plan helps a teacher to confidently and cohesively impart the content and strategies to his/her students.Therefore, lesson planning is crucial in teaching preparation. To have a good start, I met with my fellows in the English Consulting Team.We worked together as a team to share ideas and brainstorm the lesson. I also discussed with my co-teacherabout my lesson plan. Through continuous communication and negotiation, we worked out some practical ways to make teaching more fun.
The process of teaching preparation makes me realize the importance of collaboration with your team or co-teacher. I have learned that you might have a good idea for the lesson, but another teacher might be able to add that idea and make it better.
During the co-teaching
Co-teaching does not always come easily. My co-teacher, Lukas, is a great guy to work with, but our co-teaching relationship is by no means perfect, especially at the beginning. However, we respect each other. When encountering a problem, we tried towork it out. In time we found a rhythm that worked for us and for our students.We collaborated together and supported each other whether in planning or in teaching.
Our lesson here is based on the student-centered approach. That is to say, students have increased responsibilities for their own learning. To develop the ability of problem-solving and critical thinking, group work isapplied in the classroom.Here is the lesson plan of our co-teaching.
| Lesson Plan |
|
|
| Teaching Demonstration |
| Survey (What do you like?) |
|
| |
After the co-teaching
The discussion after teaching demonstration is very helpful. It provides an opportunity to get feedback on my teaching, and it is a way of developing self-awareness of my own teaching. Besides, it provides a chance to see how other teachers had seen in my class. I also appreciate the positive feedbacks from observers that give me the strength to move on and become a better teacher.
My reflection
In words, it’s an unforgettable experience. I enjoy the process of collaborating with other teachers. Although it takes effort, it’s worth it.Furthermore, the role of being observed makes me become a “learner” again. I learned that two heads are better than one. Cooperation is very important in student learning as well as in teaching.
|
