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Thursday, June 25, 2009
Mission Accomplished (I think)
When I started teaching last semester, I set very high goals for myself. I pushed my students and I think my expectations were too high for both myself and for them. I learned my lesson and decided to be more easygoing this semester as a teacher. While I'm not sure how much of it has to do with the students I had this semester (they were much better overall than the 1st semester students) or with my teaching approach, but I had a much, much better and easier semester. I simplified my goal too, only wishing for my students to gain confidence speaking English and to not be so afraid of making mistakes speaking English.And according to what many of my students have told me, either personally or through the evaluations they completed for me, I accomplished that goal. Which feels both great and...strange. I suppose because I wasn't expecting to achieve it in the first place. But it has made me so happy that my students feel more confident speaking English, "especially with foriegners." I can't say that their English has improved dramatically but the fact that they're willing to speak English more is really great for them. Because otherwise they'll never improve. So I'm glad that I was able to help them, even if it was only a little bit.
I can't believe I only have about 8 more days of teaching left. And most of those classes will be self-study time for thier finals so realy only 3 more days. It's an exremely bittersweet feeling. I've become much closer to the students this semester and it'll be hard to say goodbye.
I hate saying goodbye.