I have been wondering why I'm struggling to reflect on 2016. Unexpectedly, Yong Zhao came to mind. He mentions how we tend to focus more on what the student hasn't achieved, met, accomplished, or is still developing. We should build upon their identified strengths. I am questioning why I focus more on what I didn't achieve or accomplish or why I don't feel content or satisfied....The deficit model of professional learning.
If you asked your students to label their strengths,
could they? Are they comfortable identifying their
strengths? With 2017 on the horizon, I'm sure many are thinking of goals based on challenges or identified 'areas for improvement' but have you ever had a goal based on your strengths? Education typically focuses on identifying shortcomings and challenges and
what is needed to improve (NAPLAN, PISA). I suggest we often forget to balance working on areas for improvement with strengths. These are my self-identified strengths.
- Present - Being truly present when interacting with someone.
- Generous - If you ask me to do something, I majority of time, I deliver.
- Passionate - I'm passionate about education. I have even apologised for that in the past.
Let's celebrate
being in education and identify your strengths. Name 3 of your strengths.
Be positive and proud!
Please use the hashtag #3strengths
