Blog Post 10

I learned a lot of valuable information from Sir Ken Robinson's speech titled "Bring On the Education Revolution". Mr. Robinson eloquently articulated the idea of a much-needed revolution in our school systems. The model of standardization is not constructive, and the academic communities need to institute creativity and innovation in our schools. I believe wholeheartedly in Mr. Robinson's message and the idea of allowing students to display their knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes in the classroom. I believe Mr. Robinson values the non-traditional style of teaching, as opposed to the traditional style. It's the idea that the teacher is not the sole possessor of knowledge and information in the classroom. Mr. Robinson harped on the idea of allowing students to explore and identify their skills, talents, and abilities. It's key for an educator not to inhibit a child from pursuing their hopes, dreams, or aspirations. Mr. Robinson talked about how education should be an organic process. This fascinated me because I remember as a young student not being able to display my skills and talents. I was conformed to textbooks and worksheets in the classroom, and I had no desire or energy to pursue my passions.

I learned from Mr. Robinson the value of enjoying what you do in life. My passion is to educate and inspire students to live active and healthy lives. I believe I will enjoy educating students about the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables and exercising for at least thirty minutes a day. As educators, I believe it's important to understand that we did not select this profession because of the money. We choose this profession because we want to make a positive difference in students' lives. As a future teacher, I want to create a climate and culture for my students not to be afraid to ask questions. I want to be open and honest with my students and communicate to them that I am not the sole possessor of knowledge and information in the classroom. As educators, it's important to understand our students come from diverse backgrounds and practice different cultures, beliefs, and traditions. It's key that we accept and embrace those traits and apply them in the curriculum.

I learned from Mr. Robinson the understanding of not living in the past. I believe the idea of textbooks and worksheets are becoming a tool of the past and educators are adopting creative and innovative techniques to teach their students. Right now in the Baldwin County school system students are learning and creating valuable information on Mac computers and iPads. This method is fascinating because it allows students to express their artistic skills as well as it allows them to investigate information about interesting topics. At the end of his talk, Mr. Robinson articulated a poem by William Butler Yeats. The message of this poem and Mr. Robinson's talk was about the idea of parents and teachers embracing an individuals hopes and dreams rather than hindering them. We should invigorate students to learn, grow, create and thrive.