Mind-Set No. 4: The Meaning is the Response
This mind-set requires a shift in responsibility. If you explain photosynthesis to your students and they don't understand it, you might be inclined to make a quick judgment. You might assume, for instance, that they are a bit slow, they didn't do their homework, the topic is too tough for their level of understanding. or it's just an off day for them. The problem with any of these assumptions is that none will accomplish the objective of ensuring that your students understand photosynthesis.
The solution? Acknowledge that regardless of how clearly you think you explained the material, the students didn't understand it. Remember, your commitment is to do what will make the students successful. Then repackage or reformat what you just said until your students get it. If you say "green" and they hear "red," simply try another approach until they receive the meaning you intended. The meaning of your communication is the response you get. This approach is known as flexible and responsible teaching. The mind-set is that of responsibility your words and actions.
This mind-set means that you will often reformulate what you say because you have ceased to blame misunderstanding on the students. Yet something exciting happens when you adopt this belief: the quality of your communication increases along with student rapport and respect. You shift from blaming others