What was I inquiring into?
I was inquiring into MLE and boys... I have come to the understanding that the MLE part of my inquiry shouldn't hold me back or pigeon hole me into thinking that you would only do the things I have tried out this year in a MLE.
Would I differentiate my class programme to suit all of my learners if I was in a single cell classroom? Yes
Would I limit tasks of my children who were struggling to complete these tasks to a high standard? Yes
Would I allocate learning areas (or god forbid, desks!!) for children who struggle with choosing an appropriate learning area/partner? Yes
Would I allocate zones in my classroom for different types of learning? Yes
How did my inquiry go?
I have thoroughly enjoyed my inquiry as it was very relevant to my position this year. I am in a newly established MLE which has a few young men who have attributed to my greying hair.
At the beginning of the year when we had set our expectations with the whole class about how many must dos they were to complete in a week/where they can work/who they can work with/presenting quality work we started to notice that a few of these gentlemen were starting to show that their wheels were coming off as there were too many choices for them to make in a day.
I took a step back and analysed what was holding them back from having a successful day (at first and then a successful week later in the term).
Choice! Choice! Choice! was what it boiled down to. The choices ranged from...
- which room should I work in?
- who should I work with?
- what must do should I start with?
- do I do the long date or short date?
- pencil or pen?
What did I find out?
I was right! Choice is too much of a distraction for some children. These boys needed boundaries and routines and realistic expectations. I feel I gave my boys this and that's why we have had a successful year.
How has it changed my practise?
My practise is very flexible which has helped a lot, as you can't initiate change without being willing to take risks. And sometimes risks means everything will fall around your feet. Just roll with it.
I will implement all of the changes I experienced this year into my practise but also leave myself open to new changes as they come along...
