Welcome to #EngSSChat, the combined #EngChat and #SSChat! Please take a moment to introduce yourself, what you teach, etc.
(Bonus question: if you had a SNOW DAY today, tell us how you spent it (minus 2 points if you did any grading))
Thanks for joining us this evening! We'll be starting the questions in just a few minutes, after the introductions. Make sure you stick around for the big resource share at the end - the last question! #EngSSChat
I'm Ben, a Chicago-area middle school science, social studies, and ELA teacher. I'm also the #TeachWriting co-founder and an NWP teacher, also a co-director for our local Writing Project site (@IllinoisWP) . . . Welcome! #EngSSChat
Hi all! My name is Hannah, and I am a student teacher from OSU! I am currently student teaching in a 5th grade social studies and ELA classroom. #engsschat#osussmce
I'm Chris from Bloomington, IN. I teach world history for a private online HS affiliated w/ Indiana Univ. I'm also on the leadership team of #sschat and the @TalkinSS podcast. Gearing up for #NCSS18 where I'll be talking podcasting w/ @STLinOK :) #engsschat
#engsschat is beginning now. Join a national PLC discussing reflective writing tonight. What a great way to come back from the Thanksgiving break! Just follow that hashtag to participate.
We're having our combined #engsschat tonight. This happens the final Monday of each month. It's an awesome chance to collaborate with our ELA colleagues. Please join us!
I’m the other half of the #NCSS18@TalkinSS Tech Lounge fun. Sad to miss yet ANOTHER #sschat / #engsschat... but only three weeks left of my Mon night Grad School class! (So I can quit just reading archives).
I'm Chris from Bloomington, IN. I teach world history for a private online HS affiliated w/ Indiana Univ. I'm also on the leadership team of #sschat and the @TalkinSS podcast. Gearing up for #NCSS18 where I'll be talking podcasting w/ @STLinOK :) #engsschat
A1 Absolutely agree. Reflecting inward is what reveals successes, failures, misconceptions, or missteps in action. Recognizing these within experiences through reflection is what drives true learning. #osussmce#engsschat
A1) I agree because reflection allows you to think about how to respond to a similar experience in the future. You can identify what you did well and what needs improvement, therefore promoting learning. #engsschat#osusschat
We're having our combined #engsschat tonight. This happens the final Monday of each month. It's an awesome chance to collaborate with our ELA colleagues. Please join us!
A1: We can't base learning on one standard side of any spectrum. Some might learn from reflecting on experience while others may learn by actually being involved in the experience. Its best to stay away from one strict mindset. #engsschat
A:1 I agree. Reflecting is when you process what truly occurred and can learn from what happened. Without reflecting on an experience, the experience is nothing. #osussmce#engsschat
A1) I agree - we learn from reflecting on our experiences. If we don't reflect we may not realize the misconceptions and misinterpretations we have. Reflecting is necessary to process learning. #osussmce#engsschat
Agree - I feel like there have been a lot of experiences that I didn't learn ANYTHING from. Partly because they just sort of happened, and partly because I didn't really think about it . . . #EngSSChat
A1) I’m a big believer in reflecting, revising and reinventing. I am always changing how I approach teaching to meet the needs of my students, sometimes even adjusting btwn class periods #engsschat
A1) If we're just learning facts and skills but not thinking about how we learned them, what we can do with them, etc., they don't have a lot of meaning or connection to our lives. #engsschat
Q2: If the goal is to promote deeper, long-term understanding of your discipline, when is the best time for your students to reflect on what they know or have learned - before, during, immediately after, much later? Some combination? Why do you think that? #engsschat
Yes, and honestly, not every experience is equal in importance. Some can be fleeting. Some should be a moment for reflection. And some may slip by without deserved thought. How we learn is partially determined by what we decide to give time to. #engsschat
A1 Just as it is with student learning, unless you look back on your teaching, identifying strengths within the lesson or opportunities for growth, then It quickly becomes “just another activity” with little meaning or learning. #engsschat
Love doing that - it's the best part of teaching the same thing more than once. You adjust. Especially when you know how your classes differ, and how to change to fit other kids. #EngSSChat
A2) I think including reflection before, during, and after an activity or discussion is beneficial. This allows students to consider their beliefs and biases, what they’re learning, and how their thoughts changed or stayed the same. #engsschat#osussmce
A1Hi everyone, Tish in Austin representing DVISD social studies Ts.We DO learn more from our own reflection about our experiences, We experience a host of things ...unless we think about our planning & responses to those experiences, wemiss valuable life lessons. #engsschat
A2: A combination of before, during, right after, a few weeks later. The more our students reflect the more we help them deepen their understanding of our discipline #engsschat
A1 Throughout the entire process! Students should reflect on what they do and do not know before completing a task, what they are doing and why during the task, and what they could change and did well after the task. #osussmce#EngSSChat
A2) I believe reflecting on what students THINK they know before lessons begin is important to determine students' misconceptions. Then, reflecting thru out the learning process, immediately, and long after is crucial for ultimately becoming active citizens. #osussmce#engsschat
In order to help students become reflective, we have to model what that looks like (especially since they're not often asked to do it + it's not innate). With my @Skyline_WC peer tutors, I often show them this graphic to help them see *why* we reflect. #engsschat
In reply to
@Betsy_writes, @bkuhl2you, @Skyline_WC
A2 Students should reflect on learning multiple times throughout the learning process; before helps connect to prior knowledge, during helps them self-track progress, right after helps synthesize knowledge, much later reinforces/assesses learning #osussmce#engsschat
A2: I don't think we will always know the best time, partly b/c reflection for someone else is best decided by them. Young people are learning, so we must decide based on what we know @ them when to give time for this import. work. #engsschat
A2: A mixture of all times for reflection are important. This allows students to understand how their thinking and interpretation is changing. Reflection after a good amount of time is also beneficial because the student is able to digest what occurred. #osussmce#engsschat
I'd be inclined to agree, while experiential learning is definitely valid and has shown proven results, I personally think that reflecting upon one's experience is what allows us to learn and grow. I don't think it's necessarily black and white, though. #engsschat
A2 - I think that it helps to have them reflect before, after, and then much after. I like the before - it helps them recognize their learning when it happens. I like the after of course. And I like the "much after" - it helps them think about long term value. #EngSSChat
A2: A combination of reflection is important. So often learning is about the process and less about the final product. I see great reflections when Ss self-evaluate speeches and papers at the end of a unit or summative, though. #engsschat
A2: Immediately after. Make sure they have all of the information they need in order to come to a conclusion, but don’t let them forget what they’ve learned #engsschat
A1) Reflecting doesn't have to be a formal process and not every experience needs in-depth refelction. But there are times that we learn best from our reflection. #engsschat
Many adults would also benefit. It is not innate and I didn't realize this until I was an adult surrounded by a variety of people with varying degrees of reflective capabilities. I am still learning too! #engsschat
In order to help students become reflective, we have to model what that looks like (especially since they're not often asked to do it + it's not innate). With my @Skyline_WC peer tutors, I often show them this graphic to help them see *why* we reflect. #engsschat
In reply to
@Betsy_writes, @bkuhl2you, @Skyline_WC
A2: To me reflection needs to be involved before, during and after. Having students reflect at each stage will better improve their understandings! #engsschat#unietd
A2: I think reflection is a continuous process and should occur throughout the learning process. By reflecting before you are demonstrating prior knowledge, during can help students understand how they learn and after can show growth #EngSSChat
I believe before and after reflections are an excellent way students can see the change in their understanding and learning in order to help better their education! #engsschat
A2: Reflection is appropriate throughout the lesson, but I have found that it is most effective after students have engaged in intensive reading/discussion or have to process new learning within a lesson. #engsschat
Hi, I'm Teresa- no snow day here- just rain☔️...to melt the snow😉I'm a kdg teacher, but also support #k5 teachers with ss instruction and I'm a huge believer of reflective practices for both students and adults. #engsschat#engchat#sschat
A1: First of all, I love that we're basing on Dewey, one of the "original" pedagogists IMHO. I'm indecisive about the claim. It seems meta-cognitive to me. I mean, to have meta-cognition, you first need to conceive something. right? #engsschat
A2 Reflection needs to occur throughout instruction.Survey what Ss know first to guide planning; Check 4 understanding during helps determine pacing; post reflection guides reteaching needs as well as planning for future years. It's an ongoing process for both Ts & Ss #engsschat
A2 All of the above. If you using essential questions, or something like them, your thinking will change as you synthesize new information. So , yes, before, during, immediately after, and later. #engsschat
A2: I believe before and after Reflections are an excellent way for students to see the change in their understanding and learning in hopes of bettering their education! #engsschat
A2: In my own learning experiences, reflection immediately after learning, and then again much later has been immensely effective. Reflection immediately after allows students to process their experiences, and then much later they can contextualize those experiences. #engsschat
Q2: If the goal is to promote deeper, long-term understanding of your discipline, when is the best time for your students to reflect on what they know or have learned - before, during, immediately after, much later? Some combination? Why do you think that? #engsschat
A3: I always try to reflect on my teaching. I think it’s a way to make me a more effective tool for students, and it allows me to tackle the challenges that come with every new year and find what works. #Engsschat
A3) Yes! One way that I have reflected on my teaching as a pre-service teacher is by video recording a few of my lessons! Watching myself teach easily allows me to identify my strengths and areas for improvement. #engsschat#osussmce
A3 As a stu teacher, reflecting on my own teaching has been the most meaningful way for me to learn in the classroom. It helps to have video footage for me to see exactly where I could have made specific moments more meaningful during a lesson #osussmce#engsschat
A2: I think reflection should be a constant. It keeps concepts fresh in their memory and allows them to add to what they have learned and improve upon it. #EngSSChat
A3) As a student teacher, I am constantly reflecting on my teaching throughout lessons and even revising before the next group of students comes in. The sooner I reflect on a lesson the more beneficial I find it to be. #osussmce#engsschat
A:3 I reflect on my teaching by video footage and also by checking with my mentor teacher on how my instruction is. Seeing how students react to my teaching is also a way I reflect on my teaching. A simple thumbs test is very beneficial. #osussmce#engsschat
A3: I think basing the success of teaching should come from tbe student's reactions and educational intake. Use what they retained and why as a reflection of one's own personal teaching methods. #engsschat
You're definitely right, I used the wrong phrase to express what I meant. I think what I meant to talk about was learning styles of individual students (visual/spatial/physical etc). Sorry! #Engsschat
A3: A lot of my reflection comes through writing about what I am doing, writing about my experiences, and really thinking about what happened. I usually land in a valley with a lot accomplished & many things yet to accomplish. #engsschat
A3: I try to talk ideas out with colleagues and friends. I also ask my Ss to provide continual feedback and open the floor to discuss what did and did not work. We are always growing! Self-reflection and feedback is critical to teaching! #engsschat
A3: Many of my professors @scomorrison require reflections paper after we teach. It is useful to get all my thought down on paper & edTPA prep. It is good practice to reflect on what went well & ways to improve. #engsschat
Yep! Becoming a reflective practitioner is a long journey + I'm still walking the path. The more reflective I've gotten + the more willing I've been to accept feedback, the more my teaching has improved. I've also had really great reflective mentors to help me along. #engsschat
A3) Yes I reflect on my teaching because it allows me to make sense of what happened vs what I expected to happen. Its effectiveness can depend on many factors though. #engsschat
I'm never a fan of watching video of my own teaching. It always looks different than I think it does. But it's a powerful learning opportunity - because obviously you don't teach inside your own head . . . #EngSSChat
A3 I like to jot down some notes about things that happened during the lesson and walk through it again in my head the next day. This helps me separate myself from the lesson and organize my thoughts to figure out what worked and what didn’t. #EngSSChat#osussmce
A3: The way I have reflected on my teaching is by conducting student surveys. The next step I would like to take is recording my lessons to watch over and see where there is room for improvement. #engsschat
A3) Reflecting on teaching is soooo important. Back in the day, I would write notes on paper lesson plans. Now I keep a doc of changes I want to make. Sometimes I make changes to lessons on the fly based on student responses & feedback. #engsschat
And this is usually how I know it worked. The reflection that is. B/C if I ended feeling like I did it all perfect or everything went as planned I wasn't spontaneous enough. I can still be proud but humble. #engsschat
A3: after lessons I take notes on what occurred vs. what my intentions were. I force myself to list both positives and needs for growth. I have a tendency to be super critical so it helps me to try to actively celebrate at least one thing before I focus on the bad #EngSSChat
A3) As a pre-service teacher I am always reflecting on what I could have done better or questions I should have asked. I have mini meetings with my mentor after a lesson where I say how I felt and he gives me advice. That collaboration really helps me reflect. #engsschat
@bkuhl2you a1: yes, I completely agree. We do a lot of reflection in our MEd program and to sit back and think on your practice brings out a lot of perspective on how you practice #engsschat#sschat#ssvpln
I used to observe other teachers frequently, and I learned a lot from that. I haven't done that in years. Maybe I should ask a few people? Once you're a salty old veteran, it's a bit humbling to admit that you want to learn, but still important. #engsschat
A3 After my answers about how important reflection is, I must admit I don't do it near enough. I blogged for awhile. I write sticky notes and attach to my lesson plans. Some days I reflect on today and how tomorrow should be different. #engsschat
ABSOLUTELY! Informally by thinking as I drive home, going over the day; formally by student & parent survey; verbally each unit with the students through circles; I ask kids, "What did I miss? What could I do better to help you understand this more?" With PLC partners #engsschat
A3: I tend to consult other educators for advice and guidance on what I could've done better and what went well, I tend to write down whatever they've told me for future reference. I've found it helpful as well to analyze student reactions to my actions/assignments #EngSSChat
Q4: Do you think allowing students to use pictures to reflect - i.e. choosing an emoji, drawing a face on a circle, selecting from different images, or illustrating their reflection - helps them learn? How do you know? #engsschat
Librarians often serve as sounding boards for reflective teachers. We are educators like you, we're an authentic, non-judgmental audience. Try us! #engsschat
Finding and sustaining a community of bloggers will to engage in reflective practice is my best route to better teaching. #engsschat (https://t.co/EXggk5FX6c)
A4) Definitely! Using pictures, emojis, etc. to show reflection can often present ideas or feelings that can’t accurately be communicated through words. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words! #engsschat#osussmce
A2 - I also ask students to formally reflect after each assessment and think about their performance, set goals, reflect what went wrong; was it teaching, lack of effort, misunderstanding, etc.? #engsschat
@bkuhl2you A2: this is a tough one . I’m curious to know about other people’s experiences . I would think it would have to be a combo, depending on the individual #engsschat#sschat#ssvpln
A4) We actually used drawings today, to help our students visualize a character from the novel we are reading. I think it helps bring more meaning and understanding to things, such as a challenging novel. #engsschat#osussmce
A4: I think reflection is a personal choice and has to be meaningful to that individual person. If pictures and emojis work for students and helps them then to me that’s all that matters. #EngSSChat
A4: I have students who LOVE to draw and when I give them the opportunity to draw their response, I find them much more engaged in the material I am teaching. #osussmce#engsschat
A4: Students love a creative way to express themselves. A colleague of mine (@Ms_Fuzak) shared once how she had students post GIFs to show how they felt at points of their research project - I’ve stolen that and used it for plenty of self reflection activities #EngSSChat
Q4: Do you think allowing students to use pictures to reflect - i.e. choosing an emoji, drawing a face on a circle, selecting from different images, or illustrating their reflection - helps them learn? How do you know? #engsschat
A4 I think that can be an effective method! Any way students can show and explain their thought process is worth using as long as it fits within the requirements #EngSSChat#osussmce
A4: Yes, there absolutely different ways to reflect, which includes visual representation. Depending upon learning style and purpose, drawing and art can be a powerful reflection tool. #engsschat
This is SO needed by veterans; it also helps to model our constant search for improvement. I still learn more from watching other teachers than I do in any other way. #engsschat
I used to observe other teachers frequently, and I learned a lot from that. I haven't done that in years. Maybe I should ask a few people? Once you're a salty old veteran, it's a bit humbling to admit that you want to learn, but still important. #engsschat
@bkuhl2you A3: I am always reflecting on my own teaching! Particularly,because I ama preservice teacher, I want to make sure I am continually learning and growing #engsschat#sschat#ssvpln
A4: For visual learners and my artistically inclined students, absolutely! If a student finds that method helpful, I have no problem with them using emojis or appropriate pictures. #EngSSChat
A4) I definitely think images are a great tool for students to use to reflect. These images can help students articulate how they are feeling. Using various forms of reflection is key to reach all students. #osussmce#engsschat
It's really helpful with ELL's, too, who often struggle with the language. It's an effective scaffold. It's also something that kids often do outside of school - a means of expression they have in the "real world." #EngSSChat
A4: Absolutely! Images and emojis can help students visualize and reflect in a different way. (Also allowing Ss to reflect in diff spaces. Bonus points if you go outside) #engsschat
A2: Great Qs tonight! Not exactly reflection, bit this makes me think of KWL charts (before), and adding an extra page in tests, for Ss to show what else they know (after). This is Julie Arsenault's (@SciGeekJulie?) idea. #engsschat
Talking. Small conversations, big conversations, one-on-one conversations. If I'm going to help Ss be more reflective I have to know them, how they think, and what matters to them. It's my first step .#engsschat
A4 I think short forms of reflection can help, but it probably helps the teacher more as formative assessment. S gets "it" or not. Sometimes that's all time allows, though. #engsschat
If you really want to engage your students in thoughtful articulation of nuance, have them explain an emoji, or compare two emojis and how their meanings differ. That's a fun one - especially when they disagree. #engsschat
A4My immediate answer is no, I don't think something as simple as choosing an emoji/face drawing/image would help their learning process. Letting students create something artistic to reflect may work, but I think the choosing process is too surface-level to be helpful.#engsschat
Q4: Do you think allowing students to use pictures to reflect - i.e. choosing an emoji, drawing a face on a circle, selecting from different images, or illustrating their reflection - helps them learn? How do you know? #engsschat
A4 It depends upon age of child, mental maturity, and ability.Emojis are fine 4 kids who can't read or write yet & even some older students who need a little prompting.I think older students need to do more than just circle a feeling although it could get them started #engsschat
A4 Absolutely! My students love to express themselves/reactions/reflections through various forms of images and media. Memes have been a fun way for my students to represent their ideas in a creative way. Great to get students excited/engaged with learning #osussmce#engsschat
@bkuhl2you A4: I think it can if they do so in a meaningful way -art can be very expressive . I think talking about their drawing or having them write a short explanation with it will help demonstrate their learning #engsschat#sschat#ssvpln
A5)I think asking students to share what they’ve learned through reflection can be a powerful learning experience. Obviously, teachers should be mindful of what reflections are appropriate to ask students to share, but that doesn’t mean it should never occur.#engsschat#osussmce
A4) I think it can be helpful for students to reflect in a variety of ways and/or have choice in the format they use for reflection. The thinking is the important thing. #engsschat
Q5: How personal should a student’s reflection be - is it appropriate to ask them to share with peers or an outside audience? Should they always be able to choose, or does it help to kick them out of the nest and make them learn to fly? #engsschat
@bkuhl2you A4: I think it can if they do so in a meaningful way -art can be very expressive . I think talking about their drawing or having them write a short explanation with it will help demonstrate their learning #engsschat#sschat#ssvpln
Good point - it's not a substitute for actually being able to explain your thinking, and it shouldn't be. As a way to promote their thinking, or as formative assessment - or just as a means of reflecting - it works. Totally agree though - kids still need to write. #EngSSChat
@bkuhl2you A4: I think any practice that levels the playing field for all learners helps them learn. Using pics to reflect does that. While taking the pressure off Ss who might be struggling w writing, it also allows all Ss to think/reflect more deeply. #engsschat#sschat
Q4: Do you think allowing students to use pictures to reflect - i.e. choosing an emoji, drawing a face on a circle, selecting from different images, or illustrating their reflection - helps them learn? How do you know? #engsschat
Oh I like that! I'm always eager to have student feedback about how I'm doing as their instructor, but I also worry that constantly asking them to reflect and review how I'm doing might become a hinderance or annoyance to them. #engsschat
A2 - I also ask students to formally reflect after each assessment and think about their performance, set goals, reflect what went wrong; was it teaching, lack of effort, misunderstanding, etc.? #engsschat
Lots of people focusing on emojis - which are deliberately oversimplified faces - but what about asking kids to find a real picture? Visual literacy stuff? That's a whole chat right there. "Find a picture of how you feel about your writing right now." #engsschat
A5-It depends. Ts know their kids, know the what the relationship can and can't handle. Those boundaries need to be respected. Ts can model their own reflection to open kids up more to sharing. #engsschat
Most times I keep@the reflection centered on process and content, but stretching it to include personal instructional needs or questions they still have is completely appropriate. #engsschat
@bkuhl2you A5: wow these are some tough questions! Start out by letting them choose but eventually have sharing moments - with ample warning that they will share #engsschat#sschat#ssvpln
A4Now that I'm seeing what everyone else says about the use of pictures, my mind is opening a bit more, I feel dumb for having forgotten how images could level the playing field for students who might be ELLs or simply not gifted with expressing themselves in words #engsschat
A3: 1. I think all Ts must reflect if they want to improve. 2. I look at my goals and success measures I set for the lesson at first, I see if I met them, and I try to understand what I did right or wrong. If my reflection was effective, the next lesson will be better. #engsschat
A5) Student comfortability is key here. Very personal reflections should be at the students' discretion, but encouraging students to share is important. Creating a strong classroom community will allow for this to happen effectively. #osussmce#engsschat
A5. Learning occurs in dialogue. It's appropriate to ask Ss to share pieces of their reflections if they know there will be an audience before they write it. --
Been lurking. Kim Williams, HS English teacher and instructional coach #Engsschat
Nice explanation - because it takes the pressure off the kid to find the words for their reflection, and puts the pressure back onto the thinking about how they've learned, or the experience, or the learning itself. #EngSSChat
A5: When students share their work, they are more likely to engage deeper with the content and take more thoughtful time crafting their words. Sharing to a real audience has powerful effects, but it does not always have to be public. #engsschat
A5 I think it really depends on the student and the situation. I want students to be able to reflect confidently and if they know they have to open up to their peers like that they may be reluctant to fully engage in the process #EngSSChat#osussmce
Love this idea too. Cartoons (both entertainment & political) come to mind as do graphic novels, geographyB & historical pictures that show concepts being studied, etc. #engsschat
A5: I think it depends on the assignment and the culture of the class and student. I think there is power in the reflective process and showing students the different stages of learning but also not creating a situation where a student shuts down #Engsschat
A5: That's a tough q. I think it depends on what they are reflecting on. If they are reflecting on an assessment I would say maybe personal. If they are reflecting on an activity I would say in partners/groups/class #engsschat
Reflection is the basis of humanity. We can project into the future and predict probable outcomes only by reflecting on the past. Tis a shame the genre of argumentation, wrapped in Western male hegemony ascended as highest form of writing. #engsschat (https://t.co/XYJoZN35WQ)
A5 I don't think there is a limit to how personal a reflection can be depending on a student's comfort level, but choice is important when it comes to looking inward. This will be a process that students will evolve with throughout the year as they grow #osussmce#engsschat
A5) I believe that students should be personal with their reflections, however, if it is triggering or something that is too hard for them to speak about, especially in front of their peers then it should be kept private. #engsschat#osussmce
Q6: What mode of writing produces the best results, in your opinion - handwritten reflection, typed or electronic, recorded or audio, video, drawn, some combination of these? Why do you think that? #engsschat
Empower students to reflect through privacy. Encourage privacy through data empowerment. When students truly own their thinking and spaces for learning reflection and learning occur. #engsschat (https://t.co/KYVKigvhN3)
A6) Because students have different learning styles and interests, I think incorporating all of these modes of writing can produce great results! #engsschat#osussmce
A4: I think it's very important to give many options for Ss to express themselves. Just like we regard different learning styles. It doesn't matter HOW Ss reflect, if the process improves their learning, then it's effective. #engsschat
A6: We have got to be open to all these types of writing. As a 3rd grade teacher I have Ss who work well in a binder, some who do best in a notebook. others rock it on a chromebook, it isn't about me. It's about them. #engsschat
A6: It depends on where they are in the reflection process. For an end of unit reflection more formal. But reflection can also be done as a exit ticket on a piece of paper #engsschat
A6 - This is a hard questions. I think kids at all levels need to experiment to find their own best process. I tend to find that handwriting is slower, more meditative and thoughtful, and more dense. Shorter, too. If that's what you want, it works. #engsschat
A6 I think this will vary by student. There are many modes of literacy that students will engage with in different ways with different effectiveness. A combo of these literary modes will produce holistic results that will reach all students! #osussmce#engsschat
A5: 2/2 or opening them to potential social ostracism from peers on the basis of being "different" or "less than," students have to feel emotionally safe in order to be able to learn properly. #engsschat
A5: I think this is entirely dependent on the subject matter at hand, though I would lean towards having students keeping their reflections upon their own learning experiences private unless they actively choose to share, to prevent students from feeling embarrassed 1/2#engsschat
@bkuhl2you A6: it is really dependent on the individual and how they best express themselves. I keep handwritten journals for reflection but I love electronic forms for writing short stories . #engsschat#sschat#ssvpln
A6-Again depends on the kid. Most immediate is hand written or even notes to the side of a product. Post-its allow short reflections; typing in a google classroom venue also can work. Also depends on what kind of reflecting you want. #engsschat
A6: Typing often allows Ss to produce the most detailed and easiest to share reflection, but I really do like using other modes as well. @Flipgrid is great for fast videos that Ss can share. #engsschat
A6) Incorporating a combination of these modes allow for students to build upon different literacy skills, while also be given the opportunity to show what they know in the way they feel most confident. #osussmce#engsschat
A6:I think it depends on however students feel most comfortable. Handwritten or typing is great because I can think and write down exactly what is on my mind. Some S’s might enjoy to talk and explain their thinking rather than taking a slower route of writing #osussmce#engsschat
A5: I think it's different for each S. Sometimes it helps when they know they have to share it in public, but sometimes it's way out of their comfort zone. In any case, they need to show their reflection to the T. This forces them to articulate their thoughts. #engsschat
A6 Some combination of these would definitely enhance ideal. Giving students multiple ways to demonstrate their knowledge can not only engage different types of learners, but also get them thinking in different ways #EngSSChat#osussmce
A5: I think the students comfort level is an important factor in determining this, but whatever they feel is important to share should be acknowledged #Engsschat
A6: I like handwriting my reflections usually in a plus/delta format because it forces me to really focus. I use technology all day and it becomes mind numbing. To sit down and hand write things I’m forced to really dig deep and be actively reflecting #Engsschat
Student voice and choice by choosing how they respond would be optimal; however, not always logistically possible. When it is possible, choice empowers our students. I have seen some incredible student reflections with #flipgrid. And some interesting sketch notes. #engsschat
A6: Truthfully, I don't have enough experience to offer an informed opinion on this topic, but I personally have found handwritten reflection to be the most helpful tool for MYSELF, I haven't had an opportunity to try any of these other methods with students yet. #engsschat
Q6: What mode of writing produces the best results, in your opinion - handwritten reflection, typed or electronic, recorded or audio, video, drawn, some combination of these? Why do you think that? #engsschat
In and out quickly tonight (typical Monday) - but looking forward to seeing the #sschat and #engsschat crew at #NCSS18 in Chicago - unconference on Friday!!!
A4: I think it's very important to give many options for Ss to express themselves. Just like we regard different learning styles. It doesn't matter HOW Ss reflect, if the process improves their learning, then it's effective. #engsschat
A6 It depends on the student. Some have difficulty composing their thoughts on paper. Others hate video reflection. This is reason to offer multiple ways, so Ss can do what is comfortable and what is NOT comfortable. #engsschat
A4: pictures are an awesome source for both students with auditory or literary processing disorders as well as students who struggle with language barriers. In addition, sometimes students simply cannot express their feelings in words and pictures help them so much #Engsschat
Stop thinking you need to have a rubric for everything #engsschat, sure have criterion to lead to growth, but confer with the students and choose targeted areas of growth. Have them reflect on this target, success and struggles as they write (https://t.co/tTon5bhttR)
A6: but it’s what works for you. I have students that are better reflectors when talking through things and some who rather type and make comments on docs #Engsschat
A6) I agree with some others who said my best reflecting often comes when doing something else like walking, driving, or trying to sleep :/
I think there can be all kinds of valid ways of expressing it. #engsschat
A5: I think this is entirely dependent on the subject matter at hand, though I would lean towards having students keeping their reflections upon their own learning experiences private unless they actively choose to share, to prevent students from feeling embarrassed1/2 #engsschat
Q7: How does the content of the learning - math, music, etc. - affect how students reflect best? If the content is factual (like war dates) or conceptual (like causes), should that change how students reflect? Why/not? #engsschat
I think you can try to compare it to other adults/kids you know. Can you think of someone that expresses themselves better in a different method than writing? Do you understand what they're trying to "say"? #engsschat
A7 Content drives the reflection from how well Ss understand material to how what's learned can be used in real world to how those facts learned make Ss feel. It's up to Ts to show how to make reflection meaningful. #engsschat
Reflective podcast!! I set up mine 2toPonder it's a two minute microcast on me reflecting on learning. #engsschat I want to do with students. (https://t.co/eM4DJUhJKu)
I think that drawing fits sometimes with descriptive writing, math and science, but is really hard for music. I think it depends a lot on the person, too. #EngSSChat
A7I think that it is beneficial to connect the mode of reflection to the concepts you’re asking students to reflect on. For example,when presenting facts, like dates, it might be effective to ask students to reflect on their understanding by choosing an image.#engsschat#osussmce
A7 Students can always reflect on their learning no matter the content or area. It is about reflecting on their thought process and what they can change for the future #EngSSChat#osussmce
A7I definitely think conceptual content would help students reflect in a manner that's more in line with competency-based learning, and thematic teaching(which i love for SS).This obviously could be taken in a different way depending on someone's personal style though. #engsschat
Q7: How does the content of the learning - math, music, etc. - affect how students reflect best? If the content is factual (like war dates) or conceptual (like causes), should that change how students reflect? Why/not? #engsschat
But kids can reflect upon how easy/hard notes are to play; their struggles with reading music; how certain beats reflect certain emotions, etc. #engsschat
We set privacy at three levels in my class: just to me, just to class, open on the web. Of course private writing always possible and I don't know. #engsschat (https://t.co/yhHjR90Jua)
I think we all dream that kids will know best how they want to reflect in every situation. I think that tools like SeeSaw, where they can record a video, draw, talk, type, or combine all of these, help kids play and experiment. #engsschat
A7: I think it depends on the student/content. I know I reflect differently if I’m dealing with an unknown topic/situation. I often need to talk new things out #engsschat
A7) the content drives the way students reflect - allowing students to connect to the content in meaningful ways thru reflection is key #osussmce#engsschat
Q8: What do you think are the best tools - web-based, mobile tech, old school, whatever - for students to reflect? Please share links, examples, or related resources (personal blog posts about this are welcome). #EngSSChat
A7: Interesting Q! Never thought about it. Maybe it's like asking if your learning style changes for different things you learn. For me, I don't think so. However, it's been a LONG time since I was "forced" to learn something I didn't want, and was difficult for me. #engsschat
I think we all dream that kids will know best how they want to reflect in every situation. I think that tools like SeeSaw, where they can record a video, draw, talk, type, or combine all of these, help kids play and experiment. #engsschat
Oh sure - I just meant that kids might have a hard time drawing their music, unless they draw actual notes on a staff. It's different from drawing the Battle of Saratoga, or a water molecule, or a decagon. #EngSSChat
A7 I think that how/what students reflect will vary by content. Its important for students to reflect in multiple ways regardless of content, however; this makes it more meaningful and personal to students! #osussmce#EngSSChat
Truth be told, almost everyone I've met in college/while I've been paying attention to how people express themselves, I think I've only met one or two people who prefer methods other than writing. That said, their meaning usually comes across clearly. #engsschat
I think you can try to compare it to other adults/kids you know. Can you think of someone that expresses themselves better in a different method than writing? Do you understand what they're trying to "say"? #engsschat
It's pretty cool - kids seem to like it. I'm not convinced that they learn a lot more with it, but they definitely enjoy and play with it more than other tools, like blogging. #EngSSChat
A7) I think it’s all in how the teacher presents the information. For example if I were to present factual/chronological information I may have students respond with a picture or visual to put it more in perspective and take it further. #engsschat#osussmce
I love using @Flipgrid, Google Forms, and @Socrative for quick reflections. For longer reflections, blogging and student narratives are very powerful, too. #engsschat
A8) I love https://t.co/Mx7JjFAa5b! It allows students to create a video and share it with their peers (or just you), plus they can make it their own with edits and stickers! #osussmce#engsschat
@bkuhl2you A7: I think that when content is meaningfully framed (i.e. thru #inquiry ) Ss will develop an #inquirymindset regardless of whether it is factual or conceptual. Inquiry and reflection go hand in hand 🙂#engsschat#sschat
Q7: How does the content of the learning - math, music, etc. - affect how students reflect best? If the content is factual (like war dates) or conceptual (like causes), should that change how students reflect? Why/not? #engsschat
A8 @nearpod allows students to reflect through writing, drawing, "sticky notes", etc. all within a slideshow lesson! One stop shopping for multiple modes of learning and reflection. #osussmce#engsschat
A8: my school is focusing on digital portfolios for both students and teachers as a tool for reflection and evidence of growth. I also like just having a bullet journal to keep track. One day I’ll commit to a blog but until then I’ll keep up with my old school method #engsschat
A8) I think all can be useful! One quick way to get a read on how well students understand material is by asking them to hold a number, 1 to 3, to their chest. 1 means they are confused, and 3 means they have a good grasp on the content. #engsschat#osussmce
Lately, I've been encouraging people to stay with what they know. Use the tools you already have, don't try to spend a bunch of time learning a new tool when you already have something that works. Google does a bunch of stuff. It's not perfect, but it works. #engsschat
I also really like how integrated things are - like how you can make a note in Keep into a doc, or how forms create sheets, and so on. They want you to stay there, I guess. #engsschat
A8I'm a real stickler for old school handwritten reflection methods, but I think google docs could be a great way for students to share and reflect as an entire group. I don't have any resources for this just yet sadly but I'm eager to see what everyone else has! #engsschat
Q8: What do you think are the best tools - web-based, mobile tech, old school, whatever - for students to reflect? Please share links, examples, or related resources (personal blog posts about this are welcome). #EngSSChat
A8: I think what's important is the instruction the T gives, not the tool. The Ss need to follow the instruction, and explain their thoughts in any way they choose. Many Ts use tools that amplify #studentvoice, like @Flipgrid (obviously) but any creation tool will do. #engsschat
I stole a genre of blogposts from @cogdog called #backstage posts, when ever my students are learning a new medium or modality for writing, or processing a piece I ask for peak "backstage" #engsschat (https://t.co/feNDvf9nwE)
Apart from google, I've blogged with KidBlog, and used FlipGrid and SeeSaw. We've done some questions and stuff with Padlet, too - old but fun. #engsschat
Beyond classroom tools, I think Ss need adult & peer models of reflective practices, just as they need adult & peer models of thinking strategies. Can be hard to share/model your thought process with Ss in the moment, but goes a long way & has a lasting effect #engsschat#sschat
Something that hasn't been mentioned is the power of asking students to reflect on how a unit/lesson/resource connects to previous learning. #engsschat
