How could you adapt or change one of your class/course policies to reflect a moving mindset?  Is this a change you are willing to make?  Why or Why not?

The thing that really caught my attention and made me think about the way I'm teaching is all the emphasis on how education hasn't changed for decades.  When I saw the photo of the classroom from 100 years ago and then saw the photo of the classroom today . . . WOW!  They were identical!  That scares me.  Our society has changed and I firmly believe our classrooms need to change as well.  Something small I will try to do is to to give up control during instruction and learning.  I want students to feel free to move around and have discussions openly.  After an initial introduction to the skill I will give students the opportunity to collaborate.  They can work together and help one another with the repeated instruction as needed.  I will take my place as guide by the side, not a sage on the stage (anyone have Dr. DeGraffe at IUS?).

I will also move desks to group students together for more group work and learning.  I have always seen great benefits in group work, but am hesitant to move them in groups for seating arrangements because of the constant talking.  If I want to give up the "old school control" I need to allow them to communicate openly with one another.  My kiddos are going to be so excited Monday when we move around their desks into small groups!

I am more than willing to try new things in my classroom.  Finding what works for my students and me is the key.  Trial and error. . . Here we go!