Reading for Research

So I am back with a bang for module three, and although I haven't been present on the blog as much, I have been spending every evening researching, reading and note taking various literature in order to formulate my data ready for collection after the half-term.

I have found that in my line of inquiry (teaching in secondary education) that there are a wide range of educational theorists that all have conflicting opinions on my specific area of development.  Having taught in a private dance school for years, the move to secondary education was an eye-opener.  I was suddenly teaching students that misbehaved, were unmotivated and who failed to share my passion as well as failing to see the positive merits of dance.  Having researched a range of  theories I have found it useful to chart the key elements of each theory to see what overlaps and can therefore short list the theories I want to turn my attention to first.

However, upon receiving my feedback I realised that I may have become somewhat institutionalised and metaphorically stuck within this educational fold.  I had neglected to look into the dance theorists and so was helpfully pointed in the right direction by Maria.

I am sure that others have not made this 'mistake' but if people are looking for more educational literature I would like to recommend the following books...

Learning Theories Simplified and How to Use Them by Bob Bates and,
When the Adult Changes, Everything Changes by Paul Dix.

These are great for helping to improve the way you look at students and the way you look at yourself.  I am aware this part of 'classroom management' is a key factor for my inquiry.  To ensure I was focusing on the correct area, I arranged an observation from a senior member of staff at the start of this term and they affirmed in my EBI's that this was my weak spot.  I am aware that this will not be a 12 week fix and will be something that needs to continue to grow after the course is complete.  I am interested to see where this part of the inquiry leads though in an attempt to improve my teaching.

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