Steph's research 7/17/07

"If we knew what it was we were doing, it would not be called research, would it?" - Albert Einstein

I keep getting stuck on this quote for my research. I want to find out more about what it is that I'm doing in my classes in the research I have or why what I'm doing here and there works in my classroom. I have ordered the Gallas books recommended to me by Cindy, but haven't received them yet. But, I am somewhat hesitant about my project focusing on information I already know. But then again I don't really know where to go from where I am now---reading research. I am currently reading (skipping around) the book Natalie loaned me about abstract thinking and the arts. It spends some time on philosophy (Plato, Aristotle) and their opposing views of abstract thinking's value, or lack thereof. It's so fascinating to me.

But I can't disregard the great and insightful comments made by the AI about an interest in my writing something about what I do in my classes, either. I am still just stuck on the idea of retelling what happens---it makes it sound like my classes are all full of genius children and they are that way all because of me---which is TOTALLY not the case! Ha!

I need to find a happy medium among all of these things and see what comes out of it, maybe. I will keep researching as I prepare to go back to school sooner than later (sorry to bring that up!!!) and reflect on my poetry unit and classroom setting for a reader/conference attendee who doesn't know me or my school...more later as I reread my research schedule! I am both intimidated and excited about it: it's a lot, but it gives me a definite focus for the upcoming year!!!