Talkin' 'bout my cerebration.

The last lessons of the term offer a unique opportunity for me as a teacher to interact with my students in real life learning.  For these lessons I search out relevant stories for us to indulge in and reflect upon.  There is a common undercurrent of emotional inspiration to the stories I collect for this purpose.  Sharing these stories and the discussions that result are times when I feel most like a teacher for life long students.  We’re not restricted by the syllabus and its requirements of the learnings that students elected to be a part of when they enrolled.  These lessons provide a small window to experience valid and valued learning.  I understand many teachers’ need to offer a relaxing or recreational lesson, however I find enjoyment in the company of my students with the discussions about inspirational characters overcoming disadvantage.

This term I sought the help of my PLN to gather stories from inspirational people who have overcome a physical disability.  I added an exceptional story from a African child soldier.  So my playlist for the lesson was as below;

1. Emmanuel Jal – rescued child soldier
2. Stephen Hawking – amazing intellectual
3. Bethany Hamilton – teenage surfer who lost an arm in a shark attack
4. Aimee Mullins – double amputee pioneering prosthetic development
5. Dick Hoyt – amazing story of a dedicated father who carries disabled son through Hawaii Ironman
6. Clay Dyer – bass fisherman born with no legs, one disformed arm
7. Randy Pausch – famous professor whose last lecture teaches us to live our childhood dreams

During each of the videos I played, there was absolute silence from the students.  At the end of each there was some discussion of the context, with an overriding expression of awe.  Each of these stories taught us a number of things, but most important was – I really don’t have it that bad.

I’d encourage any teacher to take the opportunity to indulge in these opportunities when you can.  The benefit to the relationships within the class is huge.  The learning experiences is immeasurable.