“Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.” – Peter Drucker
Courtesy: Rosa Say
I honestly believe that I would be further along if I had implemented the discipline of reflection earlier. Students would have benefited greatly if they had learned to reflect as well. Honest reflection is powerful! During these Ka lā hiki ola weeks, it is good to take the time, not only to reflect but to develop the discipline of reflection. Until it becomes a habit, it might require that you set an appointment for yourself, just like you would for any other commitment. Set aside time to reflect.
Reflection helps us understand ourselves
Reflection helps us understand ourselves well enough to discover how to use our gifts to teach students. Aloha teaching requires a commitment to ongoing personal development. And, that cannot happen without regular, protracted times of reflection.
Reflection is needed to stay on track
How easy it is to move off target. One degree a day can result in being 50 degrees off target by the end of a quarter! At that rate, without intervention, you will be 180 degrees off target by the end of a 180 day school year. Starting one direction and ending up going the exact opposite direction can happen without sustained times of reflection.
Reflection helps us implement our plans
Reflection helps us turn great ideas into great results. Your role as teacher requires wise planning. But, the best planning can deteriorate quickly without reflection. In the business world, companies typically realize only about 60% of their strategies’ potential value because of defects and breakdowns in planning and execution. And, this breakdown can be easily traced back to a lack of reflection.
Reflection helps us know our students
Again, from the business world, in a Bain & Company’s survey of the customers of 362 companies. Only 8% of them described their experience as “superior,” yet 80% of the companies surveyed believed that the experience they had been providing was indeed superior. I don’t know of any such study focused on the learning experience in schools, but what if the results are similar? Reflection, involving students and parents, is vital if we are to be excellent. Understanding our students’ experiences is important; reflection of those experiences and making any necessary changes are critical to becoming the best we can be (KÅ«lia i ka nu’u).
Here is a list of eight qualities that might help you reflect on your teaching. How closely do these describe you?
Communication
- Actively listens to the ideas and concerns of others
- Analyzes information from varying perspectives, establishes the pivotal element of an issue, and reaches a logical conclusion through the process.
- Expresses ideas clearly, concisely, directly and willingly.
Leadership
- Has built a solid foundation of trust by leading through example.
- Clearly defines expectations and charts the course for successful implementation.
- Delegates appropriately, empowering students to manage challenges.
Adaptability
- Deals effectively with diverse work styles and in differing environments.
- Adjusts constructively to setbacks and plans for change.
- Encourages creativity, innovation and risk-taking.
Relationships
- Is sensitive to the feelings of students and contributes to a positive, cooperative classroom.
Task Management
- Uses technology, resources and time efficiently.
- Learns quickly and applies current information to appropriate tasks.
Production
- Initiates action. Is assertive and decisive.
- Overcomes obstacles to achieve high-quality, beneficial results.
Development of Students
- Coaches effectively.
- Provides timely, objective assessments.
- Gives recognition to top-notch work and extra effort.
- Is enthusiastic and promotes positive attitudes.
- Displays a high level of energy, persistence and a positive outlook. Learns from mistakes
and constructive criticism and continuously seeks ways to improve.
Now, it’s time to make a life changing decision that will magnify your teaching quality. Implement the discipline of reflection!
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