Teacher Reflections

Mrs Frederique Tonkin

How have you generally approached distance learning?

I was a bit nervous at first and it is fair to say that my first Zoom session was not a resounding success!

However I came up with a different structure for my sessions. I have used Zoom for every lesson and this has helped to keep in touch with my students and  thanks to this we were able to continue with practising the oral component of my subject which is very important. Using the breakout rooms on Zoom for this was great.

What has been successful?

I think I have been able to keep an eye on my students progress and also continue to communicate regularly with them. It was nice to see their faces and to chat like we would normally.

What was even more pleasing was that we have actually covered more content that we normally would!

What has surprised you?

It wasn’t really a surprise but I am very impressed with the students willingness to work in a very different context and the flexibility with which they have adapted.

Their positivity and eagerness to learn were very inspiring.

What are you doing for your own wellbeing?

I have been able to do a little bit more workouts from home which always help with my wellbeing.

I have made sure that I went outside every day and walked Jazzy our energetic Labrador who has loved having me home so much.

And of course I have spent a fair bit of time talking to friends and family, especially those in France where the situation with Covid-19 was very challenging.

How might things be different once you’re back at school because of this experience?

We have all missed the social interactions that usually happen in our normal school routine. I look forward to being in the classroom with my students and to interact with all of them. I have been back with my Year 11 and 12 students last week and they seemed very happy and enthusiastic to be back together and to work again as a group.

I also look forward to seeing all of my colleagues as I have missed their collegiality and friendly support.

Mr Steve Vine

On the same day as it was announced that we would be remote learning in Term Two, Mr Martin loaned me a book called The Resilience Project. The author, Hugh van Cuylenburg writes about contrasts and lower levels of gratitude in young people in Australia compared to the greater appreciation expressed by children he was teaching in remote Northern India. He reflects on the differences between his experiences growing up and teaching in Melbourne to those he was now experiencing in India through the central themes of gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness.

Hugh reflects on a young Indian boy who cannot say the word This, instead he pronounces it 'Dis. Dis is something the young boy and Hugh often use to label things that are important in their lives, living in the moment and acknowledging that something is important by labelling it 'Dis. The concept of Dis has been explored by almost every major sporting code in Australia. Players from many teams go to the extent of writing 'Dis on their wrists before a game. The point of 'Dis being, enjoy the moment. When playing footy, cricket, netball, making music, acting, dancing, painting or reading, appreciate how great this moment is, make sure you enjoy it! I've enjoyed being home, doing yard duty by throwing a ball for my dog and enjoying a walk after lunch. 

The empathetic aspect of the book explores the concept through to the term compassion. Compassion is the word that springs to mind at the pain and loss for many people worldwide. The world's experience is in stark contrast to that of the community in which I live. Others experience sadness while I have the luxury of bonding via Zoom and facetime, all while living in the relative peace and security of regional Victoria. Resolving the difficulty of care for others while not punishing oneself involves self-compassion. Sharing my love of music has allowed me to enjoy teaching trombone online, have a few laughs at my technical blunders, "You're on mute again Mr Vine!", enjoyed writing new curriculum and having Zoom meetings while visiting the sheep in the vineyard. 

The final component of the book is mindfulness. Hugh focuses on seeking perspective, inner calm, realising that we shape our responses to our experiences through our inner state and slowing down a little. Bob Marley said, "The day you stop racing is the day you win". 

Some personal things to sign-off with. The pleasure of face-to-face teaching and reconnecting with students is exciting. It also brings the enjoyment of face-to-face connection with my colleagues who are a delightful, dedicated, and caring group of people. Returning to a more traditional work routine is also unnerving. Did I set a morning alarm? Did I iron my shirt? Are Ugg boots considered part of the uniform or professional dress? Can I wear runners and jeans to work, Mr Crickmore?