I believe every student needs a teacher to help them put on their cardboard jetpack. Students need a teacher who provides a space where they will explore ideas, create masterpieces, and learn how to think. Every student needs a teacher who wants to learn alongside them.

When working with students, I believe they deserve the freedom to figure out answers for themselves. I’ve found that there is a very fine line between too much freedom, and too much guidance. To combat that issue I ask my students questions, and respond to their questions with questions.

 

Student: “Do you think my jet pack works?”

Me: “I’m not sure! Why don’t you try it out?”

-insert student jumping with impressive sound effects-

Student: (Shrugging) “Yeah, it works pretty good!”

 

Granted, most teachers might not feel comfortable with boisterous students jumping around. My point is that students need to be given the opportunity to imagine and explore ways to become intellectuals without sitting down and memorizing answers to pass exams. Instead, allow for circumstances that they can explore art and core subjects. How long do the straps need to be for the jet pack? Here, take this ruler and try to see how many inches you will need from the top to bottom. Keep in mind it is curving, so you’ll want to add a few more.

 

I believe that working with my students, rather than telling them, creates a respectful relationship. This respectful learning environment that allows them to perform to the best of their ability. Of course this takes time and a great deal of patience to build. A way I have found to aid this process is to occasionally step back and show your students that you are there waiting and willing to help them once they come around. Through demonstrations, conversations, and observations students cultivate trust, curiosity, imagination, and logic.

 

I believe the art room is a place of freedom and success. This environment is a great tool when learning how to create, but also when learning to think. There are so many different ways to create, which allows for so many different types of problem solving. With all of these different ways to learn happening in the classroom, I think it is one of the best environments for differentiated instruction. Each student has the freedom to zip across the finish line, each with his or her own path. 

 

I want my class to be full of cardboard jetpacks, and I want to be the one preparing them for takeoff.