In groups – separated by common inquiry interests – we discussed the resources we collected, the comments we received, and the ways in which this process has helped to reshape our thinking. My group, in particular, dealt with the themes of interest, engagement, and motivation – topics reflected in my own inquiry question:
How do you teach students who have no desire to be there?
My own research placed a focus on the topic of emotional connectivity, and how the teacher is able to play an active role in classroom motivation. I think, if anything, this discussion only furthers and enriches my belief that teachers need to actively acknowledge their responsibility as not only an active facilitator of knowledge, but emotion as well. The way we choose to conduct ourselves, and interact with our students will have subtle consequences -whether they be for the better or worse. My hope is that we choose to see this as not only a responsibility, but also as an opportunity.
