Janice Newkirk
Personal Frame of Reference
Life doesnt require that we be the best, only that we try our best H. Jackson Brown, Jr
Establishing a Frame of Reference is an important aspect of entering into the teaching
profession, as it is a reflection of an individuals beliefs about learning and the classroom
community. Constructing a Frame of Reference is a challenging but meaningful task as it
encourages one to be mindful of personal opinions, beliefs and methodologies as a
Student Teacher. My goal as a Student Teacher is to be inclusive and supportive to
learners in all abilities on their learning journey. All students are capable of learning, and it
is important to recognize the value of their efforts; trying is learning. I feel that students
learn best when they are comfortable and are aware of the rules and guidelines for the
classroom. I hope to create an environment that is consistent and compassionate.
A few guiding principles that are important to me are as follows:
Students are diverse learners.
Children learn in a variety of ways and their experiences shape their motivation and
approaches to learning. Rather than teaching children that we are all the same, I feel it is
important to acknowledge difference and emphasize some of the positive aspects of our
differences. For example, some students may require special seating arrangements
within the class, or the use of classroom tools to help them learn. As a Student Teacher I
hope to encourage students to recognize and accept these differences in a variety of
ways. Additionally I will work hard to incorporate kinesthetic, visual and auditory learning
styles when constructing my lesson plans and leading classroom routines.
Students develop best when they have secure relationships.
Creating a safe learning place for children is very important for their successful cognitive
development as, emotions are the primary gatekeeper to learning. (OECD p.4) As a
Student Teacher I actively use a variety of strategies to build positive relationships with
students in my class. This includes acknowledging students for their accomplishments
and effort, and listening to and encouraging them to listen to others. I believe that it is
best to maintain a caring yet firm relationship with students. Establishing a consistent
classroom routine with clear expectations and consequences is essential to creating
healthy relationships with students. Promoting and modelling positive behaviour is an
important aspect of this, as is encouraging positive relationships with peers. Positive
relationships not only encourage learning, but also play a significant role in influencing
the social and emotional development of students.
Proactive classroom management is key.
Organizing the classroom in a way that creates a positive environment requires
anticipating possible challenges students may face and establishing routines, lessons,
and disciplinary strategies that both teach students and allow them to be active agents in
their own self-regulation. Consistent classroom routines where all students are aware of
expectations should be followed from the very start of the school year. Classroom norms
can be created collaboratively with your students as a strategy to promote engagement
and self-discipline. I firmly believe that all classrooms should have a variety of tools for
students to use as aids for self-regulation. For example, creating a calm area in your
classroom with soft light, figits and cushions. However, as your students change and
develop so should your strategies. Being flexible with classroom management strategies
and tailoring your classroom to suit your classs changing needs throughout the school
year is extremely important.
Life doesnt require that we be the best, only that we try our best.
I feel it is my responsibility to help students realize that there is no single best. I want
students to be happy with their progress and feel like they are an important part of the
classroom community. Classrooms should be safe environments where we shouldnt fear
failure but instead be encouraged to explore ideas and take risks. Students shouldnt fear
their mistakes or be afraid to ask for help when needed. Additionally, as a Student
teacher I shouldnt be afraid of trying new approaches or teaching strategies out of fear
they will not work. Mistakes are proof that we are trying.
References
OECD (2010). The Nature of Learning: Using Research to Inspire Practice. OECD
Principles of Effective Learning Environments. OECD Publications.
