Weekly Reflection: Due September 6

“Kermit and the Keyboard”

At first, I could not understand Kermit’s problem.  He does not appear to be typical of most learners.  Most learners who become proficient at a certain skill usually develop a deep love and appreciation of the skill and continue to do what it takes to improve their skill.  Kermit does not seem to believe that there is any room for improvement.

 One area that I believe Kermit needs improvement is “working with others”.  Kermit does not seem to value collaboration.  He doesn’t see any need for it.  However, he is has a fear of boredom.  He became so bored that he dropped out of school before earning a degree in music performance.

 I think that part of Kermit’s problem is that he is only focusing on accomplishing tasks rather than developing a true love of whatever he does.  Rather than simply trying to learn and master skills, I believe that he should focus on areas that are truly meaningful to him.  What could Kermit do to avoid boredom?  He could have become a music teacher.  He could have developed his own orchestra.  He could have researched and developed a new musical instrument.  He could have challenged himself to do what he does not want to do: work with others.

 Kermit appears to be antisocial and possibly impatient.  Since he is a quick study, he probably becomes impatient with individual group members who do not “catch on” as quickly as he does (this is similar to what Gifted/Talented students sometimes experience in the regular classrooms).  Kermit is more concerned with “learning more” rather than simply enjoying the learning process and making it meaningful.  In addition, he is allowing his past to dictate his future plans.