I experienced my first Japanese School graduation, and it was interesting... I really like this year group, and was expecting myself to get all emotional, but didn't.
It's really touching to see how hard the teachers work for their students, and it's obvious how they - even the most delinquent students - appreciate it. I've known this set of students for over a year, and I think the teachers have done a great job, and to be honest, and it's made me realise even more how envious I am.
It's often mentioned by ALTs that teachers are too "friendly" with students, and because of that they're not respected. In some cases, perhaps so, but I respect the fact that they make the time to connect with students on a personal level. Teachers that take the time and effort to nurture student-teacher relationships beyond the typical can create a very positive learning environment, and this is definitely something that I should learn more about and adapt to my own practice. There were delinquents who used to get angry at their teachers' - there were some cases where they'd physically lashed out - and had verbally insulted them, and not attend class. Up until the end, they still didn't attend class, but who do they run to for help and advise everytime? Their teacher. It's no easy task getting the challenging ones to respect you, and when they do, it becomes easier to offer them guidance - whether they take it into account or not is another matter - and it makes life a little less stressful.
When I only see students once a week, in a school of around 700, not to mention that the Japanese teachers don't involve, let alone inform, the ALT of their daily duties and what happens around the school, and hey, language barrier too, it's difficult to really bond with the students... which is something I miss doing. In Hong Kong, even though I wasn't a homeroom teacher, I got to see my students everyday, sometimes twice, and really built up a good connection with them.
The new academic year starts in April, so what can I do to improve the situation? All I can think of right now is to gatecrash (of course, I'll ask permission beforehand) other peoples' lessons, students' clubs and committees; persistently insist on being informed about the goings-on of the school; and become annoyingly helpful.
3 comments:
I am sure, by now you will realise there are many ways of making a contact with the'Lower Echelons'.
Several Years ago I used to walk to work (as a School Crossing Patrol @ a Primary School) which entailed walking through a passage full of Smokers having their 'Last Drag' before starting their High School Day, they were so rude and ignorant. Every Xmas I gave my young (Primary) friends a Lollipop, so decided to give one to my older (High School) enemies one. What a difference, they became very pleasant wished me a 'Good Day' and even pushed some of the igtnorant ones out of my way.
One day one my way to school I received the usual good wishes apart from a Stranger who was rude. This appeared to upset my new found friends and one of them grabbed the 6 ft idiot by his collar, pulled down to his height and said "You do not talk to him (me) like that.
MORAL. There are ways and means of making contact with our fellow citizens???
The candy way has been tried and tested, I always make sure not to forget anyone when buying omiyage (souvenirs) for colleagues and yet... Im missed out when they give out theirs, it kind of hurts, but brewing over it won't solve anything. I will have to try other ways. Thank you for your advise and encouragement Ron.
Who cares? Their ignorance only emphasises your high standards. St Peter will not refuse you entrance.
Post a Comment