To consider the bases of comparison used in learning and teaching.
Evidence and reflection
Think about your own situation and experiences. Look carefully at Figure 3.3 in the Diagrams and Figures section and see whether any of the identified dilemmas provide a realistic reflection of those you are experiencing. Are there other dilemmas that relate to your specific context?
Having carried out this exercise, try to identify the three most pressing dilemmas that you are facing. Think carefully about each of these and consider whether there are any measures that you might take to help mitigate them (for example, discussions with relevant colleagues about developing approaches to behaviour management; changing classroom assessment practices in line with recent professional learning; researching the classroom behaviour of individuals/groups in order to have the evidence for curriculum development etc.).
The important point here is to start with one dilemma and consider what evidence you need to be able to address it effectively, and where that evidence might come from. Progress will often be slow and incremental, but such professional development has powerful potential for change.
Extension
Note that this Reflective Activity can lead to a more formalised piece of classroom-based research; this is considered in To identify a focus worthy of enquiry.
