This past week was really a trying week. The assignments for Module 2, Unit 2 had me starring blankly at my screen for hours producing little if any work. I needed a data set to work with, apply Hattie’s research to it, and create a pictograph, AND create 3 case studies for students who need differentiation in the classroom, then record a Zoom call with a peer group to discuss. It was almost too much, especially for those who work on assignments after and between jobs and familial obligations.
Thankfully, my peer group was very on top of their work and we scheduled our meeting Sunday night. That gave me two days to put together the case studies, but once we met and recorded, that one was done. The true struggle was with the data set. I don’t teach currently so I used a sample set of data. I wasn’t clear on the instructions or what I could or couldn’t do to make the questions fit this random faceless classroom of students.
Thankfully my cohort is super communicative and we all vented our frustrations and answered some questions. However, I ended up emailing the instructor and her response was so clarifying! I was able to pull together the needed information and get started on my pictograph easily.
Aside from learning how to make a pictograph (which was incedibly fun for me!) I learned quite a few things about myself this week:
- If I don’t understand something my brain instantly fills in the blank with the maximum amount of work possible. For example, if the instructions say ‘make cookies’, I am going to think I need 12 dozen cookies of exactly two inches in circumference since that what a google search said the standard cookie size was, and maybe make 12 different kids since I am not sure what kind I am supposed to do. Actually, after emailing the chef, I just need 5-6 cookies of any size or kind. Why do I do this to myself?
- Beware the rabbit holes! If something is super interesting I will start reading and clicking a research 20 minutes to HOURS. This is time wasted when it comes to deadlines and objectives. Bookmark and come back later Leah!
- I get fixated on the creative aspect. Did I need to spend that much time dragging elements and lining them up perfectly and picking colors on Piktochart? No. But it was so enjoyable for me…maybe just save the creative aspects for last.
Next week we will be looking at learning disabilities and special education which I am excited for. I will admit I am a bit emotionally invested in this subject as my brother has special needs, but I hope I can apply what I learned about my habits and maybe some real worked experience to finish without the same amount of stress this week gave me!