This also being the week we received our teacher value added data that is a part of our OTES (Ohio Teacher Evaluation System) score, my colleagues and I had much discussion on the same topic. I see amazing teachers who put their whole lives into their jobs questioning themselves. The whole thing is simply unproductive. I thought to myself, “How do I really learn?” My husband's thoughts also resonated with me. He says he makes all of his decisions as an educator by asking himself, "Would this be good enough for my own children?" Of course. “What do I really want to focus on for my own children?” I came to the conclusion that I choose to live a life of learning; below (right) is how I believe learning, growth, and success should be measured in the real world that we live in each day. That is SO very different from living a test-based life (left) that I hope no one chooses to live in each day. To both teachers and students-you are WAY more than a score.
Living a Test-based Life
How tests measure learning, growth, and success:
One moment’s time- a snapshot Multiple choice, short answer, extended response One try, you’re out No questions allowed Fixed mindset: “I can or can’t do this.” “I’m not good at this... or I am. That’s it.” Answers that might “trick” you (distractors) Prescribed content
Everyone fits, or needs to squeeze to fit, into the same mold.
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Living a Life of Learning
How we really (should) measure learning, growth, and success in the real world:
Application of content in an authentic way Discussion with others, time to collaborate and reflect When failure occurs, pick yourself back up and try again-learn from your mistakes, and adapt accordingly. Persevere. Questioning is encouraged and momentum is gained through inquiry Status quo is challenged through questioning; change for the better happens! Growth mindset: “I need to work hard to pursue my goals.” “I can’t do this...yet.” “I will get better the more I work and the harder I try.” Creativity in problem solving rewarded; realization that there are multiple solutions and strategies to arrive at answers Content that is driven by choice and passions Individuality is celebrated |
If you are a fellow educator, parent, or even student;
What life do YOU choose to live? Where will you focus YOUR energy?
