There's something completely nerve racking about having the class you teach observed by an "outsider." It's like having someone evaluate the way you walk, or talk (in fact, it is). I consider class time a sacred sort of rendezvous, not for everyone, just those invited. But, alas, I'm not the only one with power to make invitations (such is the life of a GA.) I think it went well, but the only thing I can say for sure is that I'm glad it's over. I guess I can understand the importance of monitoring our progress as bunting professors of knowledge, but it doesn't make it any easier. I make mistakes, say things I shouldn't, let my class out early (on occasion) and even *gasp* cancelled class on Friday. I don't teach out of the manual, so to speak; I teach on a much more human level. My students are not a bunch of walking statistics to me, they are people, with names and problems— and they make mistakes too. I guess, by making them myself, I'm showing my class that it's alright.

¶ 5:31 PM