25 Biggest Mistakes Teachers Make and How to Avoid Them

222 25 Biggest Mistakes Teachers Make and How to Avoid Them
she had ADHD. When I spoke to her about it, she quickly apologized for asking “too
many questions.” She apologized for having ADHD. I quickly explained to her that
she did nothing wrong, and that I was at fault.
Motive Probe
28.1. Describe the problem and your specific role in it.
I caused this student to be afraid to ask questions.
28.2. Why did you do what you did?
I was not aware of the students’ medical histories, and did not know how
to properly redirect the behavior.
28.3. What emotions or feelings were you experiencing at the time?
I was angry at her constant questioning, but after learning that she was
ADHD, I was very ashamed of my initial reaction.
28.4. Was your behavior justified? If so, why?
No, definitely not because this student’s ability to communicate was
impeded by my lack of knowledge.
28.5. Do you regret your action(s)?
Yes!
28.6. Do you ever think about this incident? If yes, approximately how
often since the occurrence(s)?
Yes, for about 5 years.
28.7. If faced with the same or a similar situation, what would you do?
Commentary
Oh, in education, I am faced with this situation periodically and I now
have the tools to better (properly) handle the students.
For the teacher in this scenario, the problem is still opaque. Although she
admits she is at fault, she cannot clearly see her part in it. When asked what
she would do in a similar situation, she says she can now handle students
better. To avoid making the same mistake this teacher made, teachers should
recognize that help seeking is difficult for most students. If they care enough
to ask a question, respect their right to do so as many times as is necessary.
Answering questions is a critical part of every teacher’s job. Don’t be too
quick to judge. Find out if the child has special needs such as the one in this