Christine’s Frame of Reference
Relationship building
In order to be effective as a teacher and as a person, one must first build relationships. Be they peer, student-teacher, personal, social, etc, each relationship is as important as the next.
A relationship between a teacher and a student can be strong or fragile – it depends on the people involved, but in particular, the teacher. If the teacher talks about trust and honesty, then behaves in a hypocritical manner, the trust is lost. Once trust is lost, it cannot be regained. As a coach and teacher, I always ‘walk my talk’. I have been let down by teachers and have vowed never to do the same to students/skaters. I have kept my word and always will. I am trustworthy and honour that trust. I try to instill the same in my students and have seen that they will emulate my behaviour. Therefore, my behaviour must be, and is, above reproach.
Safety and security in the classroom
Safety and inclusion within the classroom setting is essential for learning to be effective, memorable and worthwhile. If a student does not feel safe, that student will not thrive. For example if students pick on, excludes or tells tales about a student, that student is not safe. As a teacher it is my duty and moral obligation to ensure that does not happen. Should a student express a concern, or a student come to me and tell stories about another one, it is my duty to find out the truth. I do not, and never will, just believe what I am told. Students, young or older, will lie. My job is to find the truth and work out a solution. To vilify the victim is not in my book and should not be in anyone’s.
My classes are safe, positive and effective. As a teacher, I would have continued that into a classroom. I build community, pride and cooperation so that each child is safe, nurtured and encouraged. Small victories are celebrated, as well as larger ones.
Relationships with colleagues
Skating coaches are a breed among themselves. Although independent, we work together for the good of the skaters and the club. I have not been able to find similar relationships within my studies at this time. I have been supportive and protective of the students who have shown me kindness and support, but it has, by and large, not been reciprocated. This is an issue that stems from the way the program is set up at Vancouver Island University. When even the dean of the department cannot be trusted to be professional and unbiased, there is no hope.
Future plans
I am leaving this university and will not be returning, much to the disappointment of some of my colleagues. I do not feel this environment is safe, secure or worth the time and money. I may, in the future, continue my studies elsewhere, but at this point, I am returning to coaching where I am appreciated, rewarded and supported.
NB: Anyone planning to take anything at Vancouver Island University, keep in mind, do NOT take the unpopular position. They will crucify you. Teachers included. Just nod and smile and pretend to agree. It will go much easier on you.
Relationship building
In order to be effective as a teacher and as a person, one must first build relationships. Be they peer, student-teacher, personal, social, etc, each relationship is as important as the next.
A relationship between a teacher and a student can be strong or fragile – it depends on the people involved, but in particular, the teacher. If the teacher talks about trust and honesty, then behaves in a hypocritical manner, the trust is lost. Once trust is lost, it cannot be regained. As a coach and teacher, I always ‘walk my talk’. I have been let down by teachers and have vowed never to do the same to students/skaters. I have kept my word and always will. I am trustworthy and honour that trust. I try to instill the same in my students and have seen that they will emulate my behaviour. Therefore, my behaviour must be, and is, above reproach.
Safety and security in the classroom
Safety and inclusion within the classroom setting is essential for learning to be effective, memorable and worthwhile. If a student does not feel safe, that student will not thrive. For example if students pick on, excludes or tells tales about a student, that student is not safe. As a teacher it is my duty and moral obligation to ensure that does not happen. Should a student express a concern, or a student come to me and tell stories about another one, it is my duty to find out the truth. I do not, and never will, just believe what I am told. Students, young or older, will lie. My job is to find the truth and work out a solution. To vilify the victim is not in my book and should not be in anyone’s.
My classes are safe, positive and effective. As a teacher, I would have continued that into a classroom. I build community, pride and cooperation so that each child is safe, nurtured and encouraged. Small victories are celebrated, as well as larger ones.
Relationships with colleagues
Skating coaches are a breed among themselves. Although independent, we work together for the good of the skaters and the club. I have not been able to find similar relationships within my studies at this time. I have been supportive and protective of the students who have shown me kindness and support, but it has, by and large, not been reciprocated. This is an issue that stems from the way the program is set up at Vancouver Island University. When even the dean of the department cannot be trusted to be professional and unbiased, there is no hope.
Future plans
I am leaving this university and will not be returning, much to the disappointment of some of my colleagues. I do not feel this environment is safe, secure or worth the time and money. I may, in the future, continue my studies elsewhere, but at this point, I am returning to coaching where I am appreciated, rewarded and supported.
NB: Anyone planning to take anything at Vancouver Island University, keep in mind, do NOT take the unpopular position. They will crucify you. Teachers included. Just nod and smile and pretend to agree. It will go much easier on you.