I like to learn new things. If I could afford it, I would always be in some class or earning a new certification. Since I can't afford that right now, I take advantage of free classes whenever I find one that interests me. Classes are good for me because they provide more structure than when I try to schedule learning time on my own. I will stick with a class more than I will stick with a self-imposed schedule. I would like to have enough discipline to teach myself methodically and stay with it, but right now, I'm not there.
Learning new things frequently serves at least two purposes. One, I am happier. Two, I have a better idea of what my students are going through.
Oh, sure. I was a student at one time, but memories fade. Right now, I'm working on Code Year and learning JavaScript. I had forgotten how hard it can be to learn something for which one does not have a natural affinity. Coding reminds me of math. It feels easy when I'm in class, I do well on homework and tests, but as soon as I take the test and move on, I forget it all.
And then there is the disparity between time and energy. When I have time to complete class work, I have no energy. When I have the energy, I have no time. I can't imagine how much more difficult this must be for those who have a family, a job, and school to take their time and energy.
Most days, I get home from work, eat, and say to myself, "You should work on Code Year."
Then my mind screams, "I don't wanna!"
All kinds of other ideas insist that they are more important. Check my RSS feed for new blog posts. Check my email. Trim my finger nails. Watch NCIS. Read my book. Write a cover letter. Bake cookies. Take a walk. Stare at the wall. My head is so foggy, anything but class work sounds appealing.
I've found the only way into more energy is to begin working. Most of the time, after a few exercises, my head clears and I enjoy what I'm learning. Other days, I get more and more tired and then I stop and catch up another day.
In the end, everything gets done and I'm glad I decided to take the class. Still, when working with students, it helps to have a fresh memory of how hard learning can be, even when the person enjoys the class and wants to be there.
Learning new things frequently serves at least two purposes. One, I am happier. Two, I have a better idea of what my students are going through.
Oh, sure. I was a student at one time, but memories fade. Right now, I'm working on Code Year and learning JavaScript. I had forgotten how hard it can be to learn something for which one does not have a natural affinity. Coding reminds me of math. It feels easy when I'm in class, I do well on homework and tests, but as soon as I take the test and move on, I forget it all.
And then there is the disparity between time and energy. When I have time to complete class work, I have no energy. When I have the energy, I have no time. I can't imagine how much more difficult this must be for those who have a family, a job, and school to take their time and energy.
Most days, I get home from work, eat, and say to myself, "You should work on Code Year."
Then my mind screams, "I don't wanna!"
All kinds of other ideas insist that they are more important. Check my RSS feed for new blog posts. Check my email. Trim my finger nails. Watch NCIS. Read my book. Write a cover letter. Bake cookies. Take a walk. Stare at the wall. My head is so foggy, anything but class work sounds appealing.
I've found the only way into more energy is to begin working. Most of the time, after a few exercises, my head clears and I enjoy what I'm learning. Other days, I get more and more tired and then I stop and catch up another day.
In the end, everything gets done and I'm glad I decided to take the class. Still, when working with students, it helps to have a fresh memory of how hard learning can be, even when the person enjoys the class and wants to be there.
RSS Feed
