Fear of Failure… It’s Not Just the Students
I read an excellent blog post by John Spencer that included this video. (It’s worth the 2 1/2 minutes!)
As I reflect on my time at my school as its elementary digital learning specialist for the past fourteen years, I have witnessed unsure students. I have encouraged them to take risks and try things out. Often, the reaction was hesitation and even some cajoling may have taken place. And then more reassurance. In conjunction with many “Yes, you can” and “What do you think?” quips.
However, the students have not been the only ones who have been uncertain about taking leaps. Teachers also have taken pause about some of the suggestions and ideas that I have tossed out over the years. Doubts have been voiced. Choices to stay the course may have been made. Teachers want to do right by their students, and sometimes that brings extra caution with instructional practices.
John Spencer’s video is a good reminder that we, teachers, don’t have to be perfect. Trying something new can yield innovation or missteps. Both should be regarded as valuable because there is an opportunity to model how to handle success, “failure” and/or where to go next. Showing students how to approach these outcomes graciously and without shame is important for everyone’s growth.
What do you think of the Beta mindset?
What a great message!
I see that same ambivalence to take risks when I ask students to improvise on classroom instruments. I model something, sometimes it’s good, sometimes it’s “meh” but I tried. Then they try.
The first time they try it’s “meh” but the more turns they take and the
more they do it, the braver they become.
It’s great to watch.
A great example, Cathy! Performance IS such a risk.