FISH Philosophy

                                                                  
The concept of FISH, was unknown to me before I was exposed to it in my Education class. 'The Professional Teacher' is a class that is critical for all educators to take and is one that I believe I will take a lot out of when I enter the teaching world. Now what is FISH? I had this very question. I thoroughly puzzled by the title of this philosophy and how fish could possibly be included in an educational ideal. FISH is one of the most simple philosophies I have learned of; however, it speaks volumes and is difficult to adapt because it must be kept consciously in our minds throughout the day!

The video that introduced FISH to me was based out a fish market in Vancouver, British Columbia in which the workers decided that instead of dreading their job, they would make it fun, interactive, and worth dedicating hours of their time for work!

The first step is: BE THERE! The fish market workers held an attitude that concisely stated, if I am going to be at work I might as well have fun and give 100%! They had already made the choice to show up to work; therefore, they must follow through with that action, no matter what else is going on in their lives.  This can be translated to the classroom by starting fresh every morning, trying to have the best day possible, and be prepared for the day ahead.

The second step is: CHOOSE YOUR ATTITUDE! One fish market worker stated that he was tired because he made the choice to stay up to late with a group of friends, despite the fact he had to be at work at six AM. His attitude was positive, despite his tiredness, and this attitude was almost infectious to other workers and to customers. In my own class I must try hard to remember that if I have a happy attitude my class is more likely to have a good day. Less improvement will occur overall with a bad attitude!

Third: MAKE THEIR DAY The Fish market incorporated this into their job in many ways: entertainment, courteousness, and helpfulness are just a few examples. In the video, it is safe to say that all customers that were shown seemed to leave the market with a better feeling than when the entered.  I believe this is hard to do in a classroom becasue of all the unexpected events, stress, and activities that go on, it is easy to brush students aside. Students will remember this, and it will effect their self-esteem. Although it may be difficult in such large classes, it is important to have that face time with each individual student and discuss or give compliments. This will make the day run smoothly and the teacher-student relationship will be largely benefited.

Lastly: PLAY! At the Vancouver fish market, its most memorable feature is that the workers make time to fool around, be silly, and have fun with one another. The workers often throw the fish across their stall and let customers hold their own fish!

There is always plenty of laughter. It is also important to make time for fun in the classroom which is or is not academic related. Having laughter in a classroom will lighten the mood, engage students, and help them learn better.

Such a simplistic message, yet so many people need to incorporate this into their work, home, and lives in general. I know that FISH philosophy is something that I would like to use in my own classroom and in my life, as everyone always has room for a bit of FISH!