PDT-TchGN-58 - What We Say and How We Say It Matter: Teacher Talk That Improves Student Learning and Behavior
Course Description
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This program is traditionally a face-to-face classroom training program, but the Spring 2021 semester section will be held online as we prioritize distance learning in response to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).
We all have the best of intentions when it comes to our students. We want our students to be self-motivated--to have energy and enthusiasm for schoolwork and to be driven from within to do great work. We want to create warm, equitable, supportive, and collaborative learning environments. We want students to grow in their capacity to be responsible, kind, and ethical. And yet … we may find ourselves in language habits that actually undermine many of these (and other) positive goals for students.
For example, we want students to feel ownership of work, but when we say, "Here are the three things you're going to do for me in this next activity," we accidentally imply that we own the work and kids are working for us. “I like the way Mark is sitting so quietly!” is meant to make Mark feel good and promote positive behavior among his classmates. In fact, it may create resentment towards Mark and make others feel devalued.
“Wow! You did that math problem so quickly! You’re so smart!” is meant to reinforce and boost confidence, but it likely puts students in a fixed mindset and reduces their chance of taking on challenges or taking risks in math. Although we want our students to view work as enjoyable, when we say, "If you can work hard for the next twenty minutes, we'll do something fun," we clearly indicate that whatever is happening in the next twenty minutes is not fun.
So, what should we say? That’s what this workshop is all about! Through an active and interactive format, educators will:
- Learn key content about effective language
- Consider many language habits that support student motivation and engagement
- Engage in rich discussions with colleagues
- Learn a process for changing language
- Create a personalized plan for shifting a language habit
- Gain access to an online binder of resources for further reflection and to share with colleagues