Module 9: EDU6526

There is nothing easy about teaching, and I believe that some educators think that teachers who choose to use direct instruction are trying to take the easy way out.  I disagree with this opinion because Direct instruction, like all instructional models, is one of a variety of tools that an educator can call upon to teach.  They can also choose to use combine direct instruction with others to create a more successful lesson.  According to Dell’Olio & Donk (2007), “Studies have pointed to the positive effects of Direct Instruction when coupled with cooperative learning and other experiential learning strategies in the classroom” (p. 95).  Just because it is possible to create a direct instruction lesson in less time than an inquiry lesson does not mean that all direct instruction lessons take little time to create.  On the contrary, I believe that if there is less time spent (by the teacher) doing thoughtless activities such as counting beads or making copies, then more time can be spent for the teacher to do many other useful activities such as learning about their students needs, reflecting on their teaching practices, and learning about new discoveries in educational practice.

I also believe in the power of the Classics, especially in literature.  If a person desires to be smart, it only seems logical for that person to read the writings of the smartest writers in history.  Not only were these writers smart, but they made a significant impact on history.  If students want to make a significant impact, it is important for them to gain inspiration from those who have done so in the past.

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