Week 6 Discussion – Mr. Holland’s Opus

After completing this week’s Readings and Resources, access the link below and watch the video clip.

Link:

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ad5pKiflwew 

After you have watched the video clip, look carefully at the Large-Group Participation and the Key Observations in your text. It is interesting to note that the fact the coach’s challenge to be a better teacher was instrumental in Mr. Holland’s trying to teach more effectively. Our goal is to create school communities where peers can push each other in this way. It doesn’t work nearly as well coming from the principal!

• How do you respond to the last statement?
• Is it really true that teachers respond better to each other in the challenge to become better at what they do rather than when it comes from the principal? If so, what does that say to how you will handle those situations when you become a school principal?
• How could the coach get away with saying, “Then you’re a lousy teacher?” (It is probably logical that you would not use those kinds of words to your teachers, or would you)?

Mr. Holland did not succeed with his first few attempts, but he kept trying. These are the tough times for teachers.

How will you ensure support when the tough times come?

Your initial response is due by 11:55 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday and should be between 200-250 words. The initial posting should be a statement of your point of view on the question, supported by the required readings.