Applying this as a SEN officer, it is important for me to be conscious of how I present myself in front of the students as they look up to me as a reference or a role model to exhibit appropriate behaviours. When working with students who lack in emotional regulation skills, it is essential that I practise using positive self-talk with our students. This means I help students acknowledge their feelings then think about how to turn that negative feeling around so that it does not stop them from continuing with their day. A lot of times the students let their negative emotions dictate the rest of their day. When showing to students that it is OK to feel what we feel but it is also important to think about how to turn the feeling around, it helps students to see that there is always a positive in any negative situation. This requires modelling from me and a lot of practice for students. Students will feel empowered once they are able to self-regulate and as a SEN officer, I need to “catch” them self-regulating to praise them which can motivate them to use the self-regulating skills next time they face negative emotions.

According to behaviourism, an individuals actions and behaviours are primarily dictated by rewards or consequence. However, this approach has its limitation whereby one does not actually teach the appropriate behaviours. The social cognitive approach provides a framework for one to educate and model the desired, appropriate behaviours. It involves the used of different types of figures to model and demonstrate a behaviours. It is interesting that there are different aspects of modelling strategy which can be done. Eg: “in-person” via social story, video modelling and even through the peer-approach. As SENO we need to be sensitive, observant and critical about the students interest and motivation. This would help us identify the most effective modelling approach.  

What I really like most is the different role play discussion on modeling. The 3 types of modeling- direct, symbolic and synthesized modeling.  I felt that unintentionally we have been doing all of these, but through which method of modeling. 

Lastly, I also realised that teaching others have better effects in learning as compared to practice doing. It is interesting that this is how effectiveness of learning is being ranked, because as someone who does not like to get out of comfort zone, it does require practice. And if I feel that it is a little too much to handle, having done self-regulation proper would be good. 

It has also made me reflect on how powerful my actions can be. As a SEN officer in the school, as my actions and words are being observed, I should be mindful and conscious so that the students can pick up the right actions. This is also linked to self regulation. If I am able to regulate my emotions especially when I am angry, it will reflect positively in my actions. This way, it will guide the students on self regulation as well.

With our students in school, they look up to us as role models. Thus it is important for us to model the right thoughts, words and action. 

 

I also enjoyed the self-activity (think of a personal goal that you wish to achieve but had difficulty achieving). The goal ladder specifically breaks down the steps to help achieve the goal. Useful strategy that i can use with my students in the future!