As I tried to think of my teaching metaphor, I struggled to find an image that encompassed everything I hope to be as a teacher. I want to be organized and enthusiastic while providing purposeful activities that are differentiated. I want to students to constantly be engaged throughout the day and to wake up excited to come to class each morning. I want to have a day that is structured around a routine but that allows for creativity.
In looking at these qualities, I chose a cruise director as my teaching metaphor. I know, it probably sounds cheesy but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that just as a cruise director leads his/her passengers to new and exciting places, I want to offer that same sort of experience to my students. Before a cruise ever sets sail, the director must do an enormous amount of preparation. They are responsible for ordering countless materials, making sure that everything is set up before the passengers arrive, and developing a thorough schedule (both daily and for the entire trip). As a teacher, I hope to put a similar amount of effort into preparing for my class. I want to have all the materials that I need for any lesson organized and accessible. Additionally, I want for my students to walk into a classroom that has been thoughtfully prepared to be a safe and stimulating learning environment. Also, just as a cruise director develops a schedule, I also aim to create a sense of routine in the classroom. A cruise director must develop a broad plan that covers the various cities that the boat will visit much like a teacher's unit or semester-long outline that addresses broader learning goals. Along with this large plan, a cruise director must provide a daily schedule of events for guests (mealtimes, special activities, etc.) similar to a teacher's lesson plan for the day.
In addition to their attention to preparation, a cruise director also tries to create a fun and meaningful experience for his/her guests. They plan activities that stimulate the passengers and offer commentary on the various places the ship visits. The cruise director is in charge of making sure each guest has a fulfilling vacation that is tailored to their specific needs. If a family has small children, the cruise director is responsible for setting up daycare or if an elderly couple is enjoying a second honeymoon, it is the cruise director's job to ensure they have a pleasant experience. Similarly, I hope to be the sort of teacher that creates a stimulating environment for my students. Just as a cruise director tailors the activities to meet each guests needs, I want to provide adequate differentiation for students of all abilities. I also want to establish a hands-on learning environment in which students actively participate in the construction of knowledge (just as cruise guests visit different locations).
Ultimately, I want to run a classroom in which students are aware of the daily routines while still feeling flexible to express their creativity. I hope to create an exciting environment with instruction that is fits each student's personal needs. As the cruise director of my class (ha ha), I will strive to prepare thoroughly for each day, create an explicit schedule, and make learning interesting and meaningful for everyone.
