I still cannot forget the moment that I first walked into my mentor's classroom. I was so nervous. The students were playing the name game.. they had to tell their friends' name before they introduced themselves. I tried to remember their names even though I knew that I cannot memorize the students' name in one day. I was actually worried about this, because I'm not really good at memorizing the person' name.
I know who are in my mentor's classes, but I cannot recall a few students' name. So, I'm still glancing at seating chart that my mentor gave to me. I'm working on it, however, I wish I can notice all of my students' name someday. I would telling them that I care about them... however, I don't think I could really say this until I know their name.
It seems small thing, however...
Recognizing students' name = Acknowledge their presence + Respect the students' identity.
I think that you're right to place real importance on this issue, Seung, and I think the equation that concludes your posting is apt.
ReplyDeleteWhat about pictures, Seung? Maybe you've done this, but getting pictures of your students can be a big help in connecting names and faces (a task which is expecially hard when you're only there twice a week). If your mentor is willing, maybe you could make public your project to learn all the names..it could be a nice way to bond with your students.