ERRR #056. Sammy Kempner on Teaching with Group Work, Accountability, and Chants
Aug 1, 2021
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Sammy Kempner, an expert in teaching with group work, accountability, and chants, discusses the purpose of school-based education in combating socioeconomic inequality. He shares transformative changes in math education, focusing on boosting student engagement and accountability. The podcast explores strategies for enhancing student learning through peer partnerships and navigating the challenges of group work in teaching.
Establish clear boundaries for new teachers to succeed in the classroom.
Address socio-economic disparities and foster a socially conscious citizenry in schools.
Use concise language and economy of words in math instruction for effective teaching.
Peer accountability and group work enhance learning outcomes and foster collaboration.
Encourage intrinsic motivation among students to promote active participation in learning.
Reflect on teaching practices for continuous improvement and optimize instructional approaches.
Deep dives
Setting Boundaries for New Teachers
New teachers are advised to establish clear boundaries as a crucial tip for their success in the classroom.
Impact of Automation on Jobs
44% of jobs are projected to be automated, raising concerns about the future of employment and potential cycles of disadvantage.
Success Story: Math Department at Todgeridge Academy
The math department at Todgeridge Academy in North London witnessed significant improvement over the past five years, leading to remarkable academic achievements and prestigious awards for the team and teachers.
Importance of School Education for Equality and Social Awareness
Schools play a vital role in addressing socio-economic disparities and fostering a socially conscious citizenry, aiming to create a positive impact on society and environmental issues.
Facilitating Effective Math Teaching through Clear and Concise Instruction
Facilitating effective math teaching involves using concise language to explain concepts clearly. It is crucial to focus on the essence of a learning episode and use minimal words to convey ideas. The teacher's persona in math instruction is akin to stepping on stage, needing to remember key lines to engage students effectively. By using concise language and economy of words, teachers can impart essential knowledge to students, helping them achieve learning objectives.
Enhancing Learning through Peer Accountability and Group Work
Peer accountability and group work play a vital role in enhancing learning outcomes. Encouraging students to teach each other fosters deeper understanding and reinforces concepts effectively. When structuring group work, arranging students in groups of three to four members is ideal for facilitating teaching among peers. By placing high achievers with lower attainers, students are challenged to guide and support each other, creating a collaborative and engaging learning environment.
Cultivating Intrinsic Motivation and Foster Collaboration
Cultivating intrinsic motivation among students is essential for fostering collaboration and active participation in the learning process. By emphasizing the significance of helping each other understand concepts, students can develop a sense of responsibility and care for their peers' learning. Encouraging students to ask questions and guide each other in group work promotes critical thinking and reinforces learning outcomes. Creating a culture where students support and challenge each other leads to a more engaging and collaborative classroom environment.
Navigating Challenges in Group Work and Balancing Student Needs
While implementing group work and peer teaching strategies, challenges such as addressing varying student needs and attitudes may arise. Teachers must navigate situations where high achievers seek more challenging tasks or differ in their approach to collaborative learning. When students exhibit reluctance towards group work, interventions such as highlighting the intellectual challenge and fostering a supportive learning culture can help address resistance and promote active student engagement.
The Importance of Teacher-Student Alignment
It is crucial that teachers convey their expectations clearly and ensure students are on the same page with their teaching methods. By maintaining control of behavior and fostering a culture of learning, teachers can instill independence in students' learning.
Effective Revision Strategies and Accountability
Encouraging students to engage in effective revision practices, such as self-testing and explaining concepts to peers, can enhance their understanding. Implementing methods like reviewing test mistakes as a group emphasizes accountability and reinforces learning outcomes.
Balancing Scaffolding and Independence in Education
While scaffolding and support are essential for effective teaching, it is crucial to cultivate students' independence in learning. Encouraging students to critically review their understanding and engage in self-directed study prepares them for lifelong learning.
Continuous Improvement and Reflective Practice
Emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and reflective practice in teaching allows educators to refine their methods. By reflecting on teaching practices and seeking ways to enhance student learning experiences, teachers can adapt and optimize their instructional approaches.
