“We find what we are looking for” says Chris Wejr. Teachers, look for student strengths!

Teachers, look for student strengths!

When I learned to drive, the instructor said to me, “You will steer in the direction of where you are looking, hence, keep your eyes on the road and look where you want to go”. He was so right! Ultimately teasing this further, the same holds true for everything in life, as it really boils down to perception is reality. Let’s look and see the positive!

Chris Wejr in his Ted Talk says, “We find what we are looking for”. This excellent video is embedded in this idea-packed blog post by angelokm. I couldn’t agree with these two teachers more, strengths-based teaching is the way to go. As Wejr says it is not overlooking the weaknesses but using strengths to leverage more growth and development in building new strengths. As he points out, so often our weaknesses become our greatest strength. Hmm, this brings to mind the stubborn child who is able to hold their own in the face of adversity.

Taking another pensive step, I reflect on the concept of the self-fulfilling prophecy. If we focus on strengths in our students are we not beginning from a point of accomplishment and celebration? If you believe someone is capable will this not foster support and encouragement rather than criticism or judgment? It seems to me, concentrating on strengths is an optimistic springing board to propel possibility and potential.

There were times over my career I struggled with doubt, wondering if I was being too optimistic, understanding, and celebratory of my students’ strengths. As Wejr reflects in his TED talk, the naysayers for strength-based education will question whether kids are being prepared for the big bad world. I wondered but ultimately stuck to my philosophy of positive strength-based education. I felt if I was going to make an error, I would rather it be positive rather than negative.

So I will leave you with three photos of handwritten letters I received from students. You be the judge. The first is by Steven, a student I taught for over two years ( grades 5,6, and part of 7 before I took maternity leave). To this day I have the ceramic dog he gifted me. He passed away at 16 from a tragic accident.

The second is from Jacob. Hmm, how do you teach self-control and trust? I believe through the platform of positive strength-based teaching.

Last, a quick note from a student I had in grade four.