How Real Teachers Learn to Engage All Learners
By (author) Sarah J. Noonan
Not available to order
Publication date:
16 June 2013Length of book:
200 pagesPublisher
R&L EducationISBN-13: 9781475804614
The first few years of teaching represent an intense period of experimentation and learning, leading to the adoption of learner-centered practices to help students achieve. A critical incident or nagging problem triggers critical reflection on practice, experimentation, the adoption of new approaches, and permanent changes in practice. When teachers improve their practice through action research and collaboration with colleagues, students predictably learn more. Inspecting the “core” areas of teaching and learning helps teachers critically reflect on practice to improve and innovate. Drawing on research and best practices from education and psychology, readers learn how four “motivational pathways” attract even the most reluctant and resistant learners to learning. While many recognize the importance of well prepared and accomplished teachers in helping students learn, too few recognize the need for continuous learning as the surest route to gaining expertise in teaching and increasing student achievement. Practical models and strategies presented in this book will help teachers address the important challenges facing schools today, including supporting disadvantaged learners, raising student achievement, and challenging all students to achieve their potential.
A compelling and unvarnished look at the art and science of teaching, Noonan eloquently captures the essence of education in the new millennium. A masterful storyteller, Noonan creates authentic characters, vignettes, and dilemmas, which transforms the reader to a sacred place to rediscover the challenges and opportunities for students and teachers of the twenty-first century. Practitioners at all stages of their careers will readily identify with the complex nature of teaching. Noonan skillfully builds a bridge for the reader to reflect and use relevant data and scenarios to capture the nuances of our profession. Each chapter offers mentor teachers, teacher leaders, and principals a rare opportunity to examine teaching and leaning at its subliminal core. Use this text as a perfect companion for your professional learning community. Find a comfortable space in your professional practice, open your eyes, and allow yourself to discover the REAL opportunities to harness the potential of all learners and teachers!