"The Power of Connection"- Rita Palmer.
This connection is so important for our students. All students need this to feel a sense of mana whenua (belonging) and mana atua (wellbeing) that comes from a personal connection in their learning environment. They need to feel like their special interests, passions and thoughts are valued. Often for gifted students in particular these interests may seem a bit 'left field' or they delve into them in a more intense way. They are looking for a connection on lots of levels. A connection with their passion areas, a connection through friendships, with their environment, a connection with an educator who is passionate and shows an interest in them as a person.
Not only do students not learn from people they don't like, I think it can sometimes make them disengage from their learning space completely. If they don't have that champion who understands them, then for a gifted student their potential is left on the 'back burner.'
That joy of learning needs to fostered through the power of connection. Every child needs a champion. Be that person who cares enough to step up and be there for them.
Nga Mihi,
Bex
giftED Blog Challenge 2018 #1
Hi Bex! It's great to have you in this challenge. I think you're right - if the connection isn't there students definitely do disengage. How can we work together to change the thinking?
ReplyDeleteHi Justine, that's a great question! I think if teachers are given the chance to drive their own PD into areas they are passionate about and gives them joy they can then feedback in a meaningful way to staff. Perhaps if it was based around the areas in the Disability and Learning Support Action Plan.
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