Today we finally had students. It is an amazing feeling to be back in the classroom, since I haven't taught since May. I only had two classes today, since we are on a block schedule. I taught the first and last block of the day. The second block, out of five, I had my advisory students, but they had an assembly. Here are some of my observations from the first day.
First, the students are amazing. They are world travelers who have had a lot of great experiences and they bring these experiences to the class. They want to learn, and were really willing to participate in the discussions today, on the first day. The students are open to new ideas as well, and are very technology saavy.
Second, there is a lot more student freedom. The school has a college feel to it, since there are no bells, and there are a lot of breaks for the students. The students have 10 minutes in between each class. They also have a 20 minute break after the second block, and a 35 minute lunch break after the fourth block. During these times they are free to be anywhere on campus. There are students in the halls, in the cafeteria, outside, everywhere. Since all the students are on lunch, it isn't like they are disrupting classes. The students can go to the cafeteria during passing periods and get snacks or drinks as well.
Third, it is really a relaxed, student centered environment. The assembly today was run by the student council, with other students coming up to speak on behalf of their groups.
Finally, the students want to do well. They are really concerned about being prepared for their exams. They want to succeed.
A lot of the characteristics of the students apply to the students I taught in the States, but the students there did not have as many chances to be worldly and I think that definitely impacts them.
All in all, a great first day. Tomorrow is another first day, seeing my other to sections for the first time.
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