Group Reflections | CISA

Strictness vs. Kindness

Be strict, but be kind. How do we strike the balance between these two?

We gave the class a group work and asked them to count off. They begged us to let them choose their group mates, but we stood our ground that they should count off. after the allotted time was up, we told them to enter the classroom so we could start with the presentations, whether they are finished or not. They asked for more time to practice, but we insisted that what they already practiced is enough.

Thinking back, we realized that what we did was already being strict. We realized that being strict doesn’t only mean we say no to all their pleas, it could also mean being firm on our decisions. We also realized that if we stand firm on our decisions, the students will comply with the instructions.

In their group work, we gave them the freedom to choose on what they will present. We also gave them the option to go out if they opt to practice outside. We went from one group to another and when they asked questions, we readily answered them. We gave them ideas on how they could present their presentations.

With this, we realized what being kind means. In our own way, we were being kind already. We learned that being kind doesn’t mean giving them the answers but rather helping them browse through their ideas to come up with the requirement. Also, being kind means giving them the freedom to choose from several options.

At the end of the day, we learned how to strike a balance between being kind and being strict. Even though it may sound hard, it actually is easy to achieve. We were able to do it in one meeting in our own simple way.

Students’ Differences

We were given the opportunity to observe two sections and were able to see the differences in their characteristics and learning styles.

The students of the first sections were quiet and more interested in really learning what is being taught. We also observed that they can easily absorb information and follow through the discussion.

On the other hand, the second section was more interested in playing and activities that require them to move and work. They absorb information faster in that way.

With this, we learned that students should be treated individually because they all have different characteristics. They differ in their motives for learning and so as their behaviors toward it. We believe that to teach is to vary the strategies to cater to the students’ needs. We should consider how they absorb information and what they give importance to.

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