Ruth’s game plan is impressive given that it’s so in depth. I agree that flexibility is an issue some teachers have to struggle with, given the diversity of the students and that there is a considerable amount of anxiety for everyone, teachers and students alike, at the beginning of every school year. I also agree that a lot of problems can be avoided with enough anticipatory guidance and some manipulation of the physical environment, the classroom. However, I noticed the ideas, while good, are a bit unrealistic.

Some of the things listed are unrealistic and time consuming. They may be thorough but I think they can be accomplished well, if at all, only if I were teaching one very, very small class and only one very, very small class. I think that Ruth’s ideas have potential and I agree with some of them, however they’re very idealistic and in, the end, inflexible. I agree wholeheartedly with Janet’s belief that technology to be the most effective management and instructional timesaving strategy.

A lot of the time spent planning and pre-empting, I could otherwise spend actively interacting and learning with my students. It may be unrealistic to expect that all students can afford the hardware necessary to participate in this online forum. Still, establishing an online community with my students makes teaching fun as well as educational. I can monitor their progress personally and some students who tend to be reticent in class grow more confident online.

Homeworks can be submitted online and personal feedbacks can be given in a less confrontative manner. The class bulletin could be a helpful tool for information dissemination and as an interactive corner. Students needing help and offering help can be addressed there. Classroom rules can also be posted in this bulletin, making all students aware of what behavior is expected in the “real” classroom for the school year to come.