Principal's Corner

Making Mistakes

Making mistakes is something we all do. What we learn from our mistakes and what we do with that new knowledge is what helps us become a better version of ourselves. Reflecting on this recently made me think about my own lack of confidence  and where it stems from. Growing up I remember constantly hearing, “No, that’s not how you do it, let me do it.” Maybe it wasn’t too much but it was enough to affect me.  I don’t blame my parents but I acknowledge the fact that intervening inadvertently sent the message that I needed help and couldn't do it on my own. As an adults I have learned, through my own mistakes, that I have it within me to learn from them and do better.  

If we answer for students after they have given the wrong answer we are taking away their learning and could be making them dependent on us to respond in the future. By giving students the opportunity to make errors and fix them them they can build the confidence and resilience to continue on their learning path with a growth mindset. Knowing that allowing students to make mistakes and learn from them will help them how can we as educators encourage and uplift our students? 

How can we implement this in the classroom? Here are five ways from the article linked below. 

• Adjust the learning context: "Let’s try this another way."
• Encourage persistence: “Keep trying. Don’t give up!”
• Model self-compassion: “Be kind to yourself when you’re confused; it’s okay.”
• Build positive relationships with students: “I see your strengths, and I believe in you.”
• Focus on resilience: “Even though this is tough, you will find your way.”

For more details on the actions above check out this article:

https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/why_we_should_embrace_mistakes_in_school