Over the weekend, I was talking with my boyfriend about him going back to school. One of his mother's friends chimed in and said that it would obviously be great for him to get his degree, but he should do it soon since "he's not getting any younger". I was surprised she said that, since he's only 21, turning 22 in July. I've always been under the impression that it's never too late to go back and get a degree.
Afterwards, I was thinking about it, and I guess she was right. She went on to say that soon (not too soon) he'll be married and have kids and have a full time job, and not have time to go back. So here's the question: can it ever be too late to get your degree? I would still like to think no. My uncle was in the Navy for six years after he graduated high school, worked after that and didn't graduate college until this past May. He took night classes after working a full time job, and even though it took several years, he was still able to do it, with a 3.98 GPA. So yes, I think it is best if students get their degree as soon as possible, but if it is necessary, it is always possible to go back and get it even after getting a full time job, a family and unlimited responsibilities.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Last Lecture
Wow! It's been a long long time since I've posted. Sorry!
Ok. Well, this is in reaction to Susan's video that we all saw the other day. It really made me think about how important it is not to teach a subject, or teach material, but to remember that you're teaching students. What is it that you really want them to go away with when your class is over? Probably not just recalling facts and general information, but being able to think for themselves, form opinions, on things more than your subject area.
I know I want my students to be able to live a successful life. Doing so goes beyond teaching an academic subject, but teaching life in some ways. We talk about "teachable moments" and how important they are, and I think this video was a perfect teachable moment. It taught students not only what the lecture was about, but also not to be sorrowful. This man is about to die, and while most would choose to sulk and feel bad for themselves, he is continuing to spread a simple message of achieving childhood dreams. If I were in his shoes, I would like to say I'd be doing the same thing, but really, who knows.
Ok. Well, this is in reaction to Susan's video that we all saw the other day. It really made me think about how important it is not to teach a subject, or teach material, but to remember that you're teaching students. What is it that you really want them to go away with when your class is over? Probably not just recalling facts and general information, but being able to think for themselves, form opinions, on things more than your subject area.
I know I want my students to be able to live a successful life. Doing so goes beyond teaching an academic subject, but teaching life in some ways. We talk about "teachable moments" and how important they are, and I think this video was a perfect teachable moment. It taught students not only what the lecture was about, but also not to be sorrowful. This man is about to die, and while most would choose to sulk and feel bad for themselves, he is continuing to spread a simple message of achieving childhood dreams. If I were in his shoes, I would like to say I'd be doing the same thing, but really, who knows.
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