Wk 2 Reading: We all have something to contribute

We all hav something to contribute!

Diverse backgrounds help to culminate how people perceive the world and construct information that is read and reviewed. But I personally believe that it is more than just perception that determines what is seen, but also the personality of the individual. The assumptions we make are often that of our own benefit and not the benefit of the common good of all involved. Often times, we tend to see what will benefit us or we keep our perceptions within our own comfort zones or orms rather than moving from the limitations of what is into a world of new possibilities. The text states that we perceive only sensations we are programmed to receive. Then my question is what or who are the programmers and what influence do they have on our overall thought processes and how we really perceive what we see.

Possibilities exits by the standards that are placed on situations. The fact is that we as individuals cannot possibly know and understand all the realities or situations that we are faced with in daily life. Yet we ten to measure up our situations by what we know and how we feel, again based off our perceptions. I do believe that it is true that when we take the worry out of being in control of our situations, we do tend to take more risks and experience more success than buy what we limit or the standard of measure we hold to our own capabilities.

This is also true in how we see others. In chapter 3, "Giving an A", there is a great example of we as educators must view not only our students, but also our fellow co-teachers. There must be the will to make a positive difference in the lives al all we come in contact. Though I do not agree with beginning with an A, I do believe we must give credit for effort while taking into account the final product. It si important that we realize the growth our students achieve in comparison to where they began before and after completing their assignments and assessments. Starting with an A may work best with older children and maybe with elementary level students who will strive to maintain. But something happens with 7th and 8th graders. In my personal experience, a vast majority of this age group do not try as hard so it makes it risky to start with an A and not encourage them to work hard to earn the A. Though this could me my own perception based off my personal experiences that have helped to shape my ideas on the matter.

The art of being a contributor in the world around you makes a lot of sense to me. I liked the assignment the author gave to his students to describe themselves in light of contribution. I can't help but think about my students and how they really don't understand, some of them, how important they are to the world around them. It is clear that contributing to the life of others in a positive manner casuses rewards that have no limits from within, just as the writer expressed in his visit to the center where he gave his presentation to the elderly who he helped to realize new possibilities in their own lives.