I have several objectives in this class that have nothing to do with technology. One is to get all of my students to reflect on their practice, as a student and later as a professional. When you have your own classes you will not be getting a report card with grades on it. You will have to supply your own evaluations of yourself. That is why I have you do reflective questionnaires a number of times during the semester. I want you to practice doing this so that when you are a professional it will come naturally.
Today I have to add another word to that objective: honestly. Let me share with you the response to the midterm questionnaire from a real student in EDM310 this semester. I will call that student ZZZ.
Dear ZZZ:
In your midterm reflection you report that you have completed 9 (all) of your blog posts, 6 of your comments4kids, 5 of your comments4classmates, 2 comments4teachers. You also report that you did the reflective questionnaire within a week of 2/15. You say that you have done 2 of the extra assignments made on the class blog, that you add pictures to your blog regularly, that they comply with accessibility standards, that the link on your blog to the class blog works, that the link to your email works, that you regularly add links to your blog posts, that you have tried Vocaroo, that you are using Delicious and Twitter, that you are just starting your PLN, that you have an RSS feed that works and that your A is a bit shaky.
I find something quite different than you do.
You have not posted to your blog since February 28 and that was for the assignment due January 31. You have not completed any blog assignments for February, March or any of the added assignments.
You have not added pictures or links to any of your posts.
You do have an RSS feed for the class blog on your blog and that feed will take you to the class blog (so a link could be considered redundant).
There is no evidence on your blog that you have used Vocaroo or that you have developed a PLN (which you admit).
You have not made any posts on your blog that address the additional assignments made in the blog itself.
You did complete the 2/15 questionnaire on 2/18.
The email link on your blog does work.
I cannot find you on Twitter. What is your name on Twitter?
Please send me your Delicious name so that I can see how you are using Delicious.
The teacher assigned to you is AAA. She has made the following posts since I started the comments4teachers assignment on Feb 22:
March 8
March 7
March 6
Feb 28
Feb 26
and she made this post before the assignment started:
Feb 6
You have no comments on any of these posts.
You have only left one comment on a fellow student's blog (on January 24). You have not notified me of any instances in which you have tried to leave a comment but were not able to do so because the student had not done a post.
You have made no posts relative to your comments4kids assignments. Several kids somewhere in the world did not get a comment because you did not do your assignments.
You say that your A is "a bit shaky."
Why does your report of what you have done in this class vary so widely from mine? Why does your evaluation of the condition of the A with which your started this class disagree so widely from mine?
So class, here are some questions that come to mind:
1. Does ZZZ think I am asking for information about how much work ZZZ has done? No. I already have that. All of it. And most of those data I get automatically. I want ZZZ to think about what ZZZ is or is not doing!
2. Does ZZZ really think that ZZZ has done all of the work that I cannot find or see?
3. Is this an attempt to hustle me?
4. If ZZZ is so inaccurate with ZZZ's own evaluation, what will ZZZ's evaluations of ZZZ's students be like?
5. Would you like to have ZZZ as a colleague?
6. Would I want my children or grandchildren to be in ZZZ's class?
7. Would you want your children or grandchildren to be in ZZZ's class?
Comments welcome. If you have nothing to say, just say "I have read the post and the associated comments and have nothing to add." Note that I also want you to read the associated comments. That is always important when you participate in a conversation. When you leave a comment I will know that you came to the post and probably read it (or at least this sentence) since you will have left me a message - possibly this one. And remember, every comment I get on the blog is sent immediately to my gmail account where I can automatically sort by sender!
Honesty in our own self assessments is critical to our improvement in whatever we do!
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI have read this post and I think that ZZZ is a lazy person and thinks that if they lie on their midterm reflection that you won't check on it you will just believe it and move onto the next person. I DO NOT think that this class requires too much time. I think that the people that are complaining are people that can't figure things out for themselves and need their hand held on everything and (in my opinion) don't need to be teachers. I mean like you said this is class to get you ready for your profession. I mean what do they expect to happen when they become teachers for their principle to come in their class and tell them what to do? I also think that some people think this will be "an easy A" and they can get away with the bear minimum. I WOULD NOT want my child in their class and i would not want to have them for a colleague!!
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteWOW!! I am shocked that the results of ZZZ's questionnaire varied so much with the actual results of what he/she has done. When I did the questionnaire myself, I assumed you already knew the answers. I actually looked at it as a way to make sure I had completed everything I needed to up until that point. Yes, there is a lot of work required for this class, BUT it is usually manageable. You asked if I would want ZZZ as a colleague; my answer is NO. Honesty is a virtue that is highly valued in every aspect of life. Lying, especially when the teacher already KNOWS the answer is utterly pointless.
I have read this post and am not at all surprised by student ZZZ. In every education class I am in there are students I would never want my children to have as a teacher. I am shocked that they don't come to class, come late to class, or don't do the assigned work. I agree with Amy that this class does not require too much time. You MUST manage your time wisely. Not just for this class, but for everything.
ReplyDeleteYeah I agree with everyone before me. I use the questionnaire as a type of check list for me to make sure I haven't skipped anything.
ReplyDeleteThere will always be those who try to get by without doing what doing what should be done. It is sad that these are te same people who want to teach the next generation.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI have read your post and I believe that ZZZ was trying to hustle you. He or she thinks felt that you don't check up on students blog and tried to lie and got caught. ZZZ will just have to look forward to being in EDM 310 next semester.
Dr. Strange, Only took me about 3 minutes to read...maybe I'm just a fast reader! I'm not sure if ZZZ is trying to hustle you. Maybe he/she still hasn't figured out that you can see EVERYTHING, and by adjusting the answers it makes them fill better about the amount of work they have left to do!
ReplyDeleteWow interesting post. To put it simply, ZZZ needs to get their act together and just do the work rather than lying about it. Its funny that they assume you cant just check and see what or if they are doing the work.... Thats just silly!
ReplyDeleteI have read this comment and I believe ZZZ is not being professional and is not at this time be a effective teacher. Maybe ZZZ is not aware that they have not completed what they said they have completed but ZZZ is not working with an A right now
ReplyDeleteEvery time a teacher gives a speech like this, I'm freaked out that ZZZ is me. It isn't of course. I've completed the majority of my course work. I feel bad for ZZZ though. How embarrassing. I guess they should have been more on top of things.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteThat post fascinates me! I also use the questionnaires a a check list for myself so please continue to post them!
I have read this comment and I think ZZZ did not realize that you would check to see if her/she did their assignments. In the future ZZZ should be honest and get help for the assignments that he/she has not completed. ZZZ should use the reflection as a checklist to go back to make sure all assignments and projects are completed.
ReplyDeleteWow, ZZZ is a gambler and rolled the dice and looks like they rolled snake eyes. I will be honest and admit I have answered yes and should have answered "well kinda" to some of the questions. ZZZ you should attend class because Dr. Strange told us that he could view our progress in the class via a spreadsheet before he posted the questionnaire. This is about like getting caught cheating in class, what a drag. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Caitlyn! It always makes me nervous too until I realized that I have done my work as well. This class is different. It takes up a lot of time and I'm not always sure about how to do things, but I complete them. ZZZ probably wasn't at class the day Dr. Strange told us he could see the progress like Jennifer said. It isn't fun being caught lying! This class requires us to manage time and become professionals. Sorry ZZZ!
ReplyDeleteWow i kind of feel bad that they got caught lying, but on the other hand I'm glad they did. It wouldn't be right if they get an A in the class just because they lied and got away with it. I think this class is a lot of work and constantly gives me anxiety about if I've done everything I'm supposed to in a satisfactory way, so the mid-term reflection and the other questionnaire have helped assure me that I'm at least completing everything. I thought that's what it was for?
ReplyDeleteI read the post and the associated comments and agree with many of them. I hope ZZZ realizes what he/she has done and can catch up. As a parent of a child who will be entering kindergarten next year it scares me to think what type of teachers he may end up with. I would first offer help before I threw them under the bus though. I do not wish failure upon anyone.
ReplyDeleteI read the post and, well, there's not too much to add after Dr. Strange's 7 wrap up points, in my opinion. College, nor anything we do in life is about checking the box or getting by on chance. It all happens for a reason, or doesn't happen by our own will. Triage is not a successful way to go through college...
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteIt is clear that there are students that think that what they do is correct and up to date, but every time we meet in class we have to help people catch up with their blogs. They think that they can still turn it in late and keep a good grade. I can see how there is confusion with regard to the syllabus as it is difficult to determine how the course is structured and how grading will be accomplished. I'm not saying that ZZZ is right or has any excuses for not completing his\her assignment, many of us have been keeping up to date. It is apparent that some students think that since there are so many blog assignments that they can skip a time or two and still have an A. In some cases this has a greater impact than a persons grade in this class; it is not right to leave a kids blog without a comment when everyone else in their class has one. I believe many of the students who aren't posting and think that it's okay should not come back to class or rethink being a teacher. But I think it would be a huge help for those of us who are putting in the effort to have more feedback on our work and a more firm idea of what our grades are through out the semester. This would help us all to know if our understanding of the material is correct.
I am not shocked at this. There always seems to be someone in the class that does the bare minimum or tries to slip by. Some say they are shocked by this. Dr Strange, were you shocked when you found this out? ZZZ obviously does not look at the class blog daily and did the midterm reflection because he/she knew they had to. We, as future educators, need to take initiative and be proactive. We need to be able to attempt things on our own and hold ourselves responsible.
ReplyDeleteI have read this post and I am also not shocked to see that some one is lying to you while not doing the work that they are supposed to do. Sometimes it happens and it is sad for that person and irritating to the professor. Honesty is key with any aspect of life.
ReplyDeleteWow. That is ridiculous! ZZZ needs to find a new career- maybe one that doesn't require much work, or much honesty, for that matter. If he/she does succeed (eventually) in becoming an educator, I hope that he/she does not end up teaching my children. I hope EDM310 goes better for him/her next semester. Maybe ZZZ is on the 10 year Bachelor plan...
ReplyDeleteI have read this post! It does not surprise me that someone lied about what they have done in this class. He/she needs to get it together and hopefully they do!!
ReplyDeleteIt was made very clear to us that you (Dr. Strange) or our professor assigned to our course, will be looking at our blogs and grading our work week by week. I believe that this student's dishonesty about the questionnaire is an act of laziness which most of my fellow classmates had mentioned in their comments. Many students are shocked at this dishonesty, however, I feel that being human this person chose to be dishonest. This person made the choice to lie about their grade and clearly does not want to give the effort to do the work.
ReplyDeleteI have read this post as well as the other comments I agree with Lauren about that this does not surprise me at all. People lie all the time even if it is for the most simple thing. I can only hope and pray that zzz and other people like he or she will get his or her act together before he or she gets out into the professional world.
ReplyDeleteI'm a little surprised that someone would think they could get away with not telling the truth about the work they've done. All Dr. Strange has to do is look at their blog and obviously he did and caught ZZZ in a lie. I think ZZZ has a lot of learning to do.
ReplyDeleteWow. It's nice to know that such honest people exist. I suppose ZZZ was just trying to pull a fast one on you, Dr. Strange. S/he is hoping that you are taking the survey in good faith that she is answering honestly. Either that, or she thought that she had completed her blogs and posts, but there was an internet complication, however I couldn't possibly imagine that s/he could be so oblivious to the fact that none of her posts were completed. How sad. If you can't trust her/him as a student, how can s/he be trusted as an instructor?
ReplyDeleteI believe that student ZZZ should be honest and not try to bluff their way through. Having said that, I honestly do not think I would have taken this class if I had known what all it entailed. As a returning student I did not have a clue how to find out more about the class. And having to take night classes I was limited in my choices. I showed up to this class asking for a paper sysllabus. I missed the first week due to a death in the family and was already behind before I started. I was clueless. And with THAT being said, I will say I have learned quite a bit that will help me teach my students. I will utilize most everything I have learned that my school has access to. So I may not have an A but hopefully a strong B.
ReplyDeleteStudent Zzz shouldn't have lied about having the assignments done. If you haven't had the time to get to it or you just haven't done the work be honest about it. I know this class is challenging but I believe everyone can do it if they put their minds to it. I think its kind of mean for everyone to be hating on this student, people mess up, they shouldn't be mocked for the whole class to see, even if it is anonymous.
ReplyDeleteI was a little shocked to see that someone would lie on the questionnaire to you, Dr. Strange. ZZZ should have known better than to lie to the teacher who sees exactly what ZZZ is doing. The next questionnaire from the student might be a little more accurate now. Inaccurate answers such as those are not what I would really want in someone who should be a child's role model or adult. I am sorry if I sound harsh.
ReplyDeleteI have read your post. I really can't say much about person ZZZ but that it wasn't right to lie.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI read your post and I think ZZZ should have checked their assignments and made sure they were completed before answering. I went back on some things and made sure they were done before I answered some questions. I believe it is not only important to be honest with others but honest with yourself too...
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI have read the post and the associated comments. We all know our assignments. It is our responsibility to complete the assignments on time and our instructors responsibility to grade them accordingly and promptly. The truth will prevail on the transcript at the end of the semester.
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteHe or she shouldn't have lied. I'm not saying anything else. Not my place.
I have read the post and I do not think it was right that ZZZ lied but other than that I have nothing else to say it isn't my place.
ReplyDeleteIf you aren't even keeping up with the blog posts, how do you think you deserve an A? I wouldn't think I deserved one if I was behind.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteThey should not have lied to you. Nothing else should be said; it isn't our place to judge.
To everybody else who is saying stuff about other students who shouldn't be teachers,
Who are you to judge? How do you know that something isn't going on in his or her life at that exact moment that he or she just hasn't told you? Maybe there have been arguments with family or friends, maybe he or she couldn't concentrate because the library is too quiet but his or her roommates are too loud! How dare people judge others just because they are procrastinators! I had this one teacher in middle school who was a procrastinator and very, very messy but that did NOT effect his teaching whats so ever! As a matter of fact, he is one of the BEST teachers I have ever had because he was that way! I am one of those who has fallen behind and struggling to catch back up. I do not believe that this means I am not going to be a phenomenal teacher later on. I have been in front of students and have been able to teach them and keep them interested in what I was saying. Yes, this class is a wonderful tool to use as a lesson in deadlines and such, but I do not believe it was set up this way for students to crucify each other. Everyone learns differently. I for one am completely appalled by one girls comment about those of us who believe this class is difficult are the ones who have to have our hand held in order to do things. I most certainly do NOT! I get very confused easily and sometimes I have to take a step back and figure out what I am doing. That does not mean that I need my hand to be held! I do not understand some of the things we are doing and some of the things we do I'm not exactly sure how we will use it in our classrooms (Ex. PLNs. I'm not completely sure what it is or how we could use it). I think all of you should be ashamed of yourselves because if any students comes on here they are going to think not only is it Okay for them to judge and go onto a forum like this one on the internet and say it, completely humiliating the person they refer to; they are going to think all of their teachers won't care if something important comes up and they had to miss an assignment or if they don't understand something. Think about that before you openly judge people next time please.
Oh just so we are clear, I in no way believe I deserve an A in this class. I believe I deserve a low B or high C because I am making an effort to catch up, but I know I do NOT deserve an A.
ReplyDeleteI have read the post and all of the comments. Its never right to lie or to judge others with out walking in their shoes.
ReplyDeleteWell, I read the post and perhaps ZZZ just flew through the questionniare and didn't honestly check if they had done the assignments. In addition to this, I bet a lot of the students who feel ZZZ is a lazy student haven't completed all of the assingments as well. I believe ZZZ is not alone, and before you're critical, you should reflect on your blog.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI agree with your post and many of the students' comments. As Education majors, we should be the ones who set the example for our future students. We expected to be the type of students who desire to learn more and then be able to teach others. How can we do this if we cannot even turn in our own assignments or come to class? If we aren't willing, why should we expect our students to want to learn? I think that it is absolutely ridiculous that this person has not done his/her work and then lie about it. We are in college and if there has been circumstances that has prevented the person from doing the work, he/she should have contacted you to let you know. We aren't children anymore, and people need to take responsibility so we can perform to the best of our ability.
Ok - let's be honest. All of you guys who are going on and on about ZZZ being lazy - one finger pointing at someone else results in 5 fingers pointing back at you. Where you 100% honest on that survey? I want to "yes, I truly was" but HONESTLY I don't remember every question ask so I can't say for sure.
ReplyDeleteI get what you are saying Dr. Strange. Say what you mean, mean what you say or nobody will think you are worth a darn.
Being responsible for our own learning is a new concept and it is taking a while to get used to. I like being pushed to learn and I appreciate that. I may grumble but I have learned things this quarter in EDM 310. I HONESTLY may not have met every requirement thus far but is that what you are wanting from me. If the end result is I have learned something then you can smile because you get an A+ as my teacher. That is all I can hope for with my future students - they learned in my class.
Interesting...
ReplyDeleteI'm not really sure what ZZZ was thinking. It's not like you don't already know if that particular person is meeting the requirements. Now, I'm sure, as the person above me stated, many people probably fibbed a little on the reflection even if they were trying not to. But to so blatantly and purposefully lie? Ridiculous. I wouldn't want any child of mine in the classroom of such an individual.
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI agree that ZZZ was wrong for lying. I wouldn't want them as a colleague.I do believe that she needs to go ahead and get all her work done so she won't be in this class again.I do believe she is not a bad person just needs to get her act together.
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI use the questioners as a check list for what all I need to stay on top of for this class. Talking to other classmates, and my professor also helps. Lying on the questioners isn't a good idea, obviously. I like the questioners, I think that they are a helpful tool. Please continue to post them!!!!
I read it,ZZZ is either crazy or tired of doing surveys. I think a lot of the people above me are crazy, if they think this class is the end all be all of teaching then I guess they deserve the biggest A in the world and five gold stars. Thanks for the post.
ReplyDeleteI think ZZZ needs to be more involved. Making an effort to do a few of the assignments is ok but is not going to get the grade.
ReplyDeleteI agree with everyone. I have to keep up and I wonder If ZZZZ has kids, a job, like I do. I know it's hard to wrap your head around everything you have to in this class, but I have to admit I'm learning new things.
ReplyDeleteI think the questionnaires are very helpful. I use them as a personal checklist to make sure I'm up to date with all assignments. I still have a few to catch up on, but I think I'm in a better situation than ZZZ!
ReplyDeleteThis student has made wrong choices when it comes to getting his/her work done. It is up to the student to his/her work. The student may have some things going on in his/her life and can't keep up.....
ReplyDeleteI use the questionnaires to make sure I am up to date with my assignments. I still get behind sometimes.
ReplyDeleteThis post is definitely a wake up call. I also used that questionnaire as check list, and I realize how easy it is to get behind. I answered honestly - but not because I knew Dr. Strange would know anyway.
ReplyDeletePersonally, blogging wasn't my favorite assignment in the beginning, but now it's barely even an assignment. I know I do my blogs, and I answered as honestly as I could on the surveys regarding them and the other projects. I don't really think it's fair to point fingers, but I also don't think it's fair for ZZZ to get an A. I know I'm behind in some areas, too, but I don't expect something that I'm not working for. Just because I may need a little extra help or think that the workload is a bit overwhelming does NOT mean that I need to have my hand held; not everyone is on the same level, and as future educators, everyone in this class should realize that. When so many people are overwhelmed, perhaps some accommodations should be made - not to say that they should get an easy ride. I have said it before, and I think I have proved my point again: this class would be better for some students if it were split into two semesters; not everyone is advanced enough to keep up with such an advanced class, and just because some may be better off than others doesn't put them in a position to point fingers and degrade others' efforts with such snobby remarks.
Dr. Strange, I am not a student in your class but I do read your blog posts. It's amazing to me that so many students responded to your prompt. What I think it sad is that zzz is missing out on perhaps the greatest metacognitive lesson he will ever get; that is the power of self-reflection. Really, what it boils down to is that zzz has missed the boat on learning the value to HIM/HERSELF of self reflection. I hope everyone else continues to use this tool even once they graduate!
ReplyDeleteIt is a shame. It sounds as if ZZZ should have dropped the class if it was too much for him/her rather than lie on the questionnaire. It sounds as if ZZZ needs to be more dedicated to his education or possibly he/she needs to take less of a load or change, quit or take a break from work and/or college.
ReplyDeleteI have read the post and all of the comments. I clearly have understood your expectations from the beginning, and I find it hard to believe that someone would try to pull one over on you, Dr. Strange. Although I have been behind at times and am still playing catch up, the assignments are relative and are beginning to make for a fun class. With the help of this post, I have been motivated to work harder and smarter and more promptly in this class and use this as a reminder to incorporate more self-reflection in my life. Honesty is the best policy and working hard will make you proud of yourself.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange this is pretty shocking that somebody would say this to you knowing that you get an email every time that we do something new. I think that ZZZ should pick up the pace or just get out of the class completely. Because, I would not want this person teaching my kids at all.
ReplyDeleteWow!! Sounds like Triple Z's needs more work. I do try my very best to answer honestly as much as I can. If I answer a question a little bit off, it would be because I could not remember if it has been awhile. And no, I would not want ZZZ to teach my kids at all!!
ReplyDeleteI have read your post. Not good for ZZZ but its not my problem so I could care less. So ZZZ lied on a survey..I'm sure many others who have already commented this post have done the same in the past. That doesn't mean ZZZ will be a bad teacher. I really do not find it shocking at all that someone said they did it all when they actually did not. Oh well.
ReplyDeleteMr. ZZZ is behind, and he shouldn't have lied about it in the questionnaire, but it's not the end of the world. In the end we will all get what we deserve. I really don't see what is so shocking about this. I'm sure everybody in the class fudged a little on the survey.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteZZZ is behind and should not have lied. Since I don't know the person, I do not think there is enough to decide whether I would want he/she as a colleague or not. But if this is a direct indication of how this person acts as a professional then I would say no.
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteNo, I would not want this person teaching my daughter. I have been behind all semester, but I haven't tried to hide that fact from anyone and when asked on the survey I said my "A" was gone forever, since I have been late on every post I have done except for the first couple of assignments. I agree with Jessica that sometime I feel overwhelmed with class,but I just keep doing the best that I can and hope it is enough. I don't know if the class should be two semesters, but I don't think the class should be an hybrid or online class. I feel that if were learning the applications together in the computer lab with support,like Dr. Alice Christie's interns, I think there would be few problems, and few students dropping the class. As Jessica pointed out in her response, everybody's computers skill are different. I viewed the survey as a reflection test, so for someone to out right lie that much on it, to be is the same as cheating,because if Dr.Strange had given us grades based on what we said we did, this person would have gotten a grade they didn't deserve, and that wouldn't have been fair to the students that have done everything on time.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI have read the post and all of the comments. I think ZZZ was unaware that the class progress is being monitored. Thus, he/she decided to be untruthful. Now, I am wavering on having a person like ZZZ as a colleague because they may decide to cut corners educating our children. I think his/her actions warns being monitored for a month or so, to see can he/she redeem his/herself.
ReplyDeleteI think that ZZZ has underestimated the effort needed to pass this class. I know that we all fall behind every now and again, but it is no excuse for lying about his/her work. I'm sure the student is aware that acting like the work is done when it's not, does not help him/her at all, it only hinders progress.
ReplyDeleteI have read the post. All I have to add is ZZZ needs to pick it up.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI think ZZZ should have been honest, but maybe was embarrassed about his/her standing on the class. I do not really think it makes them a bad person. We cannot judge what is going in this person's life. ZZZ needs to get caught up on their assignments and learn the importance of honesty.
Dear Dr.strange, I have read the your assigned blog post and I must say that I agree with what you are saying. ZZZ should not have lied! Thank you for sharing this with us.
ReplyDeletebrookemcquillanedm310.blogspot.com
I have to say first off that there is a lot of responsibility in this class but at the same time it's not that hard to do. I think this student needs to be honest and if possible try to get back on track ( if they aren't too far gone). Hopefully this post will be somewhat of a wake up call.
ReplyDeleteWow! That is crazy that ZZZ would lie about all of those assignments. I hope that after ZZZ received your message that they reflected on what they have been doing or not doing. I hope that this will be an eye opener for them and they will be encouraged to be honest and get their work done. These assignments are just so that you have something to grade, they are so that we learn how to become better teachers and better learners. Thank you Dr. Strange.
ReplyDeleteHonesty is key in any relationship--friends, family, teacher-student, etc. Who knows what was going on with ZZZ, but the point is if he/she wants to pass this class (if that's still possible), he/she needs to kick it into high gear and get with the program!
ReplyDeleteI have read your post, ZZZ needs to pick it up before it's to late. I think its great that read and make sure assignments are being completed. It shows that you care about our education.
ReplyDeleteWow! I am not all the way done with all my assignments, but I am definitely not even remotely that behind.I think that ZZZ probably did not think that you would read or even check any of his work. Like the old saying goes, "Honesty is the best policy."
ReplyDeleteInteresting thread of posts John. Reminds me of my late night reflection on grades about this time last year.
ReplyDeletehttp://ponderingpaige.blogspot.com/2009/05/evaluation-time-grades.html
Honesty is a huge factor in everyday life, and the midterm reflection should have been taken seriously. I'm not going to add anything else because it's not my place to say what I think because honestly my opinion doesn't really matter on this subject.
ReplyDeleteHONESTLY I think we should gossiping about this ZZZ!!! I do not know this person but feel kind of bad for them. If they want to flunk the class then so be it; It is not the classmates' or the teacher's place to post it for everyone to see. I feel this is a little immature...
ReplyDeleteI have done all but a few assignments on time. I know that I SHOULD have an A. I feel like we should worry about ourselves and no one else.
Thanks!
I have read this post and some of the comments, but I have nothing to say. I don't feel it is any of my business what somebody else is doing, I am only concerned for my own grade.
ReplyDeleteI have come to the conclusion that some people just want to get by. It's sad to think that ZZZ is going to be a teacher one day.
ReplyDeleteAs many of the other students have said, I use the questionnaires as a checklist to make sure I have done all of the assignments. I think it is very sad that a student would lie on the questionnaires and think that they could just get by. I think that it is the student's own business though and that if he or she wants to fail, let them fail.
ReplyDeleteI know that I have worked for my A and the questionnaires reassure me of that.
I personally don't think it is anyones business but the student and the professor. There is no need to throw him/her under the bus. They know who they are.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the post for about 2 minutes, I didn't even need to finish reading it to understand what it was coming to. I believe you hit all the all the right points with your post and there is not too much to add after that! Fascinating post!
I have read the post, and all I have to add is that I do agree ZZZ needs to get caught up or either drop and try again next semester. I also will say after this embarrassment it is probably safe to say that he will drop. No, he should not have lied, but I am not sure if it is right for everyone to jump on his case. He is an adult who makes his own decisions and will have to pay for his mistakes in the end. Just like everyone else I am not fond of liar's, but sorry Dr. Strange I am not one to point fingers and point out someones flaws to a 100 students even though u did not mention a name. In my opinion it was up to you or Mr. Tashbin to talk to this person and inform him that you knew about the lie, your disappointment, and his failure in EDM310.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange, I have read this post, and I do not think it was right for ZZZ to lie to you. They knew they didn't do the work, and clearly you are able to see every piece of work that we do in this class. It is our responsibility to do the work, and be honest about it.
ReplyDeleteI don't agree with the fact that ZZZ lied. Honesty is one of the most important qualities that an educator should have. I hope that ZZZ is able to get his or her act together and pass this class. It'll be amazing if they want to keep taking this class after the public web bashing that they had to undergo from all of his or her classmates. If I were in ZZZ's shoes, I wouldn't know where to find the motivation to succeed after all of these comments. I also hope that he or she is able to come from this situation with a shred of their dignity in tact. I don't feel that this was an effective method for dealing with a student with this issue at hand. Your students are watching, what are they learning?
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI would say that ZZZ probably did not realize that all of the information about what work they actually had completed was available to you. In an attempt to hustle you, they obviously did not honestly complete the midterm reflection. I don't think ZZZ believes they have done all of the work you cannot see. I wouldn't really want them as a colleague, because I feel they likely have some type of issue with being dishonest. I probably would prefer someone more professional to be a teacher for any of my family members.
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI have read this and all i can say is....
BUSTED!!! ZZZ just got burned! booya!
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteWell, ZZZ just needs to get their act together. I understand that there are many assignments, but the assignments are "do-able." I am sorry that ZZZ lied about all the "work" they have done, but fact is fact. Get it together ZZZ! I agree with Matthew "BUSTED"
well, that's just "strange" ... I wouldn't say that I had completed everything especially if I hadn't done any blog posts... thats the most obvious thing that the teacher would view..
ReplyDeleteWell, I think I'm just like everyone else, but I've completed most assignments for this class. But it's not right to lie about anything, just be honest. Just take your time and ask questions and do your work, there are classmates who would like to help.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on the honesty issue. I know that people make mistaked, and I, myself, could have slipped up and said 6 when I only did 5. But I would not purposely lie about any work that was done. To lie about everything, intentionally though, is not right at all, and obviously that is what ZZZ did.
ReplyDeleteIt's wrong for ZZZ to lie about doing their work. It's time to accept responsibility and say " I have not completed all of the assignments but I am working on them." That would be a better way of going about the situation. Better luck next time.
ReplyDeleteApparently ZZZ does not understand how to evaluate himself correctly. I would not want ZZZ to be the teacher of my children or my grandchildren. If ZZZ can not evaluate himself correctly, then how could he possibly help my children. Also, I would prefer to not have ZZZ as a work partner.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI agree that ZZZ should not have said that he completed assignments that in actuality he did not.
This is Haley Green from class A. I think that zzz is giving the rest of the class a terrible name. As you know we have been complaining a little about the work load, and as far as I can see you have done everything you can to better understand what we need from you. This zzz is making us, the students, look like we are just lazy. I hope that this person does not make you aggravated with the rest of us.
ReplyDeleteI try to make sure I am up on everything before I do the questionnaire. It is wrong for someone to flat out lie throughout the whole questionnaire. I would think that they would realize that you do if fact read the answers. I will be honest that some questions I answer yes to I don't know right off hand what it is but I try to make sure I do it all.
ReplyDeletewow, after reading this i was shocked. Lieing isnt the right way to go and will get you no where but in a deaper whole. I try my best to be honest durning the questionnaires.
ReplyDeleteWhen I started reading this, I tried to give ZZZ the benefit of the doubt. Maybe he/she has a lot going on or something of that nature. But after seeing that they lied about the work completely changed my point of view. I feel that if you are behind on your work at least be honest with yourself.
ReplyDeleteI don't really have a comment. I have read the post and everyone else's comments and there are some I agree with and some I do not agree with! I do not think they should have lied. Honesty is the best policy!
ReplyDeleteI have read the post and the associated comments and have nothing to add.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI agree with most people who have also left comments on the post "Honest Reflection." I must say that I do believe "Zzzzz" was trying to quote 'hustle' you simply because with a click of the mouse you can confirm whether or not this person (and all other EDM 310 students) gave honest reflections. I imagine he/she assumed you wouldn't bother checking his blog if his answers appeared to represent the number of assignments that we all should have completed by now. It's ironic that if this was indeed his/her plan to hustle you, it definitely backfired and I would feel pretty stupid if it was me reading your post and all 99 (plus my own equals 100) comments.
On the other hand, if Zzzzz had no intentions of trying to hustle you and he/she gave you a reflection that he believed to be "honest", then I'd say his/her perception of reality is beyond far fetched.
Sometimes people lie so badly to themselves that by the time they have to tell the lie to someone else (like a superior), they have already convinced themselves that their lie is actually the truth.
NO, I would not be a happy parent if my child was a student in Mr./Mrs. ZZzz's Class. I would be requesting a teacher change immediately. Lying is never respected and most certainly not expected from the person you send your children to be with 8 hours/day.
I definitely think that the student described here is definitely lazy and needs to get on top of his or her game. I would not like for my child to be in a classroom like that. Lying is under NO circumstances appropriate for a professional (or for professionals in training like us).
ReplyDeleteWhen I started reading this I knew exactly where this was going. I try my best to keep up with all my assignments and I try to make sure everything is up to date with my assignments before I do my questionaires. If I am late on something I do not lie about it but if I dont have it I go and do as soon as I can. Yes, my comments for teachers is behind but its because my blog wasnt working one day on my teacher and thats my fault for not checking it. However, everything else is up to date as far as I know. Students shouldnt lie that just makes them look bad and puts the teacher in an awkward place.
ReplyDeleteHey Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to say that I could not believe that the following individual would lie on their reflection when the teacher could easy check the following students work and see that that did not even come close to completing any of the following assignments. I could understand how someone could get a little behind in his or her assignments but that much neglect is just embarrassing.
Its seems this student is either unaware of the work he needs to do or he's just trying to lie so he won't get in trouble. You should send him a report or something of what he's missing.
ReplyDeleteI don't think students should lie but teachers should never call their students out in public where everybody knows somebody that you teach is making mistakes.
ReplyDeleteI have read the post.
ReplyDeleteI read this post and the comments. I have no comment...
ReplyDeleteI have read the post and I agree with most everybody that says no one should lie. However, everybody does lie every now and again. But ZZZ should have not stretched the truth so far just for a better grade. Or they were too embarrassed to tell the truth. However, I hope in the future they learn from this mistake.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI know that you are just trying to teach us how to be independent learners. In the beginning of this semester I was very confused and frustrated. After asking Mr. Sullivan some questions earlier this semester it really cleared things up for me. I got caught up on all of my assignments and figured out your syllabus. Now I am not saying I have never been behind, because there are still a couple things I am getting caught up on, but the majority of things I am up to date on. I do think there is a lot to do in this class, but on the other hand it is DEFINITELY doable it just takes time. Just like any other class.
I have read the post and the associated comments and have nothing to add.
ReplyDeleteI have read the post and the associated comments and have nothing to add.
ReplyDeleteI honestly agree with all you have said and I also acknowledge that I fall in more than one of those categories. However, Dr. Strange, I feel that you are a tad delusional and do not consider that some of the techniques or even ideas are foreign to learn. Most of the questions presented to Mr. Sullivan is very unknown. He guesses on a lot of outcomes and answers. I am present in class every session and I find it unfair that some people may be much more timely on their assignments yet we never see a face. Also, consider that some people such as myself work two jobs, have PC issues, and unavailable to monetary needs to solve the PC issues and all of which may cause a student to fall behind. You say we are free to e-mail or twitter yet I tried contacting you on twitter and never received a response. My twitter name is danilogn@twitter just in case you wanted to know. However, getting caught up and getting an understanding from a very in tuned classmate has enlighten me much. Know that it is quite difficult to reach out to you when we never see much of you while every other response from Mr. Sullivan is I think. That does not give much clarity yet on the upside I must take more responsibility but I don't feel like I am alone. But on the contrary, I will know much once I am done with the class.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I think this student might have had a lot going on, and possibly had difficulties keeping up with his assignments, it's always best to be honest, especially in a situation where the person you aren't being truthful with can check on the honesty of your statements. But also just because it's the best way. If you let a professor know that you are in a tough situation, many many times that professor will be willing to work with you.
ReplyDeleteI can't really think of a reason for ZZZ to have lied on the reflection. I guess they thought that you would not be checking our work, and instead just trusting the reflection itself. It seems like they really didn't think things through. I hope that he/she is able to catch up and finish the class, but they really need to get their priorities straight.
ReplyDeleteWow...this sounds like something I would do. haha..(joke) I do have a good bit of catching up to do, but ZZZ this is a little out of hand. Maybe ZZZ just went through and wrote answers without reading the question correctly. Especially if they have that much make up work. :) Good luck to ZZZ and myself on getting caught up :)
ReplyDeleteI have read this post and all associated comments. I have nothing to add.
ReplyDeleteHello Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI have to admit I am surprised by your post. Since that you asked that I comment and you seem to appreciate honesty, I hope you will respect the following honest words. Even if you have already outlined in your syllabus that certain criteria would be peer-assessed, I think that this post is inappropriate. Though I understand your frustration with dishonesty coming from students, this kind of assessment should absolutely be kept between the student and the teacher. None of us here have the right to judge how this student would perform as a teacher in a classroom, because their blogging habits don't necessarily indicate that. We may not know who ZZZ is, but ZZZ knows, and that person will come to this post and witness his/herself being publicly humiliated and judged based on one moment of his/her school life. Our lives are made up of so many moments, so many complex interactions, I would hate to think that one moment, one decision I made, would create and tarnish my professional identity indefinitely (and self confidence), especially when that decision should not have become public. Self-reflection should be honest or it is useless, but teacher evaluation should also be respectful.
To ZZZ, you don't need to be defined by your single moment. Next time, though, be honest. Honest reflection will help you grow personally and professionally. I know I changed dramatically throughout my four years of University. I don't know what stage you're at the game, but there is always room to grow. No teacher, or person, is perfect. When we learn from reflecting on our actions and experiences, we start to really know ourselves as educators.
ZZZ, is not aware that this class and work is for a grade so therefore they must work to get the grade.
ReplyDeleteThose of you that replied that ZZZ should not be judged need to realize you are working toward being a professional judge. Assessment is a judgment comparing ability to content created. You will also be called upon (way too often) to judge the content of your students' character. If you don't think ZZZ needed to be called out publicly then make sure you do not require your students to report their grades aloud, or post their graded papers on the walls.
ReplyDeleteZZZ made a poor decision by lying. ZZZ should take this as a learning opportunity and really self-evaluate his/her motivations.
To ZZZ,
You made a mistake, what are you going to do about it? Making mistakes is a very important part of the educational process. You have the opportunity to learn from this mistake and become a better person. There is no shame in needing help, but you have to ask for it.
Mr. C
Dont Lie!! Its always best to tell the truth. I understand stretching the truth but this is crazy!! You never know what might have happend if ZZZ would have been more upfront about the situation. ZZZ's Professor would have probably worked with them. I know we all have alot going on, and this class requires alot of work, but its no excuse to fabricate everything that way.
ReplyDeleteWow, I'm sure that is pretty embarrassing for ZZZ. I think that this person probably didn't realize that you were able to find out whether they did the work or not otherwise I have no idea why the person would have lied.
ReplyDeleteAs an outsider (both in terms of your class and culturally) I have been fascinated by this post and the following conversation. Which I must hasten to add has occured in a public space and so I am adding my 2 bobs worth....
ReplyDeleteTwo comments:
1.Ten years into the 21st century I am amazed by educated folk who still haven't understood that once you start using digital tools most of your acts are traceable. So it is getting almost impossible to lie about events online. I must assume that ZZZ is one of the people who most needs this course because s/he hasn't yet understood about digital accountability. I administer large domains for teachers in my district and I am amazed by teachers who lie about having been online and attempting to do a required task because in my Administrator's page it tells me the last date/time they logged in!
This is something that teachers and students need to get their heads around urgently.
2. This point is dear to my heart because many of you students have been leaving comments on blogs of children who I work with. I wish I could come over and meet you (or bring you all over to NZ) and explain to you what a HUGE profound difference you make in the lives of individual children when you affirm them by reading their work, looking at their graphics, watching their movie, or listening to their podcast AND leaving them a comment. The positive affirmation is fantastic, but you people go beyond that and leave feedback which indicates that you did listen and you connected with what they were trying to say. That simple act has the power to change lives. I know you need your A grades, but our kids need people such as you to interact with them and their learning.
Please don't let this just be about grades - whether we are talking about this course or teaching as a career - make it ALWAYS be about the kids.
Dorothy
Auckland, NZ
God I hope the ZZZ person got the hint I think this class does take a lot of time but we are in college if you can't do the work then you need to drop the class. I'm just glad ZZZ isn't me.
ReplyDeleteIt seems like ZZZ is trying to pull the wool over your eyes but it's not working!!!
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange I read your post about ZZZ, and I think I might know that student. Although this behavior is unacceptable, it is quite common. It happens all the time in other classes, too. Quite frankly, it makes me angry. I have a family, full-time job, AND I am a student and somehow I manage to complete my assignments. ZZZ is going to get out of life exactly what ZZZ puts into it. I would say poor poor ZZZ, but it sounds to me like ZZZ needs to get his/her butt in gear and look up the definition of honestly.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange, It has always been my policy to tell the truth no matter what and if you see that you cannot get an assignment or project completed by the deadline that you go to your boss or teacher and let them know before it is late. You always work with the idea that someone knows what you are doing. You never assume that you are the only one in the know. Have some morals for goodness sakes. Tell the truth.
ReplyDeleteDr Strange, I read your post about ZZZ! I also think that ZZZ is a very lazy person. I think that this person needs to get their act together! They continue to lie when you know the truth! You have to manage your time very wisely in order to stay on track in this class. It is not hard and it is possible.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange:
ReplyDeleteI honestly think it is a good objective to try to get students to reflect on what they are doing, why they are doing it, how, etc. etc. I don't think enough educators add this to their objectives.
It's obvious you have the information that you question us about on our midterm questionnaire. I hope that ZZZ is an anomaly, and not the norm.
I read this post about ZZZ, and I have mixed feelings about it. I do not condone lying about work that has clearly not been submitted. If the work is not done, own up to it and try your best to regain your footing on it. As far as being behind on assignments, I know that everyone is not able to get EVERYTHING in EXACTLY ON TIME. I do not think ZZZ should be as behind as they are, but I think for some students to act as if this class is just a walk in the park is a little extreme. Because I am not as computer literate as I should be and do not have time in between classes to always make it to the lab, the assignments begin to pile up from time to time. When that happens, I literally have to take a day off and just pour over my computer and press and play with things until they are as correct as I can make them. ZZZ was not a model student to say the least, and mistakes are often made, but ownership and responsibility is the key lesson here.
ReplyDeleteDo not quite understand how somebody can have such a distorted view of what work they have actually done. would not want my kids in this persons class.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI have read this post and its comments,and I think the key word here is honesty. Although I do sympathize with student ZZZ's situation, there is no excuse for lying. If one is to be a professional, one should be ready to accept consequences for one's actions, even when the results are not in one's favor.
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI have read the post and the comments that follow it. I love the idea of getting students to reflect on what they are doing, and what they are learning in your class. ZZZ is crazy for trying to hustle you!
Hi Dr. Strange!
ReplyDeleteI am not certain if this is something Spring 2011 EDM 310 students will need to complete as well or not. However, in preparing for the course, I read Fall 2010's syllabus, and therefore, this blog. I did not read all the comments, but did read the blog. I love the ideas of honest self-reflection and self-motivated learning. The best teachers I have had did this and taught their students to do so as well. I am very much looking forward to this course, even though I can already tell it will be cutting severely into my facebooking time. :)
Hi Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI am also uncertain if this is something you wanted Spring 2011 EDM 310 to comment on but I did read the post and a lot of the comments. What I found interesting was not only the issue of ZZZ being dishonest but how other people responded to the post. To me not only did you probably hit home with ZZZ but to a lot of other students in the class.
Hello Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI am from your most recent EDM 310 class. I was just reading about ZZZ, and I love the message that you are conveying.I've only been in this class for approximately two weeks.I've already been inspired to do my very best, and I also know that this class will require a great deal of integrity. I am excited to be in your class Dr. Strange, and take this commendable journey!
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI just read this about ZZZ when I clicked on the link in your Information Manual for EDM 310. I know that with any profession in life you have to be honest with your employer, colleagues, and yourself! I do not agree with how ZZZ acted and responded. ZZZ should have looked at this as an opportunity to be honest with his self/herself and wake up and smell the coffee. I know that this class takes a lot of time and motivation, but doesn't every goal in life take time and dedication? I hope ZZZ learned his/her lesson. To answer your questions, I would not want ZZZ as a colleague or to be my child's teacher.
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI also just read about ZZZ from a link in activity #2. I agree with you about honesty. It is very important to have honesty not only in a personal setting but also to yourself. It keeps you on track and to able to meet your goals and expectations.
Dr.Strange,
ReplyDeleteI just read your post and it never ceases to amaze me how grown people think they can pull one over on their teachers! I believe ZZZ is obviously in denial or a pathological liar! Either way he or she should know you have access to all work. I have five children and it is very important to me that a potential teacher would be honest not only to his or her teacher but to themselves! If they are not honest with themselves then what are we to expect from them as our future teachers? Not much!
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteIt honestly blows my mind that there are people who think they can pull a fast one like this without getting caught. ZZZ definitely does not sound like the kind of teacher I would want to have, and I wouldn't want anyone to have a teacher that is so dishonest like that. I would fear for my own grades if ZZZ was my teacher!
I really enjoyed this post, and your point was clearly made. We must be accountable for ourselves, and responsible for our work.
ReplyDeleteDr. Strange
ReplyDeleteThere will always be people who want to get by without actually putting forth any effort. This class is designed to prevent any sort of hustle to be successful. Student ZZZ should not be responsible for the eduction of anyone.
Dr. Strange,
ReplyDeleteI have read your post about ZZZ, and I absolutely believe that honesty is a major key to success. If ZZZ would have been honest with you from the beginning then he or she could have felt a little less embarrassed. ZZZ, in my opinion, should not be an educator, because he or she is not a good role model for children. How can ZZZ expect his or her students to follow through with their work if ZZZ cannot commit to his or her own work?