4e: Growing and Developing Professionally

As in other professions, the complexity of teaching requires continued growth and development in order for teachers to remain current. Continuing to stay informed and increasing their skills allows teachers to become ever more effective and to exercise leadership among their colleagues. The academic disciplines themselves evolve, and educators constantly refine their understanding of how to engage students in learning; thus, growth in content, pedagogy, and information technology are essential to good teaching. Networking with colleagues through such activities as joint planning, study groups, and lesson study provides opportunities for teachers to learn from one another. These activities allow for job-embedded professional development. In addition, professional educators increase their effectiveness in the classroom by belonging to professional organizations, reading professional journals, attending educational conferences, and taking university classes. As they gain experience and expertise, educators find ways to contribute to their colleagues and to the profession.

(Danielson, C. 2013)

Artifact 4e-1

This is an observation my mentor teacher had filled out for me. It was for my senior practicum class. She observed the lesson I was teaching to her class and gave me some great feedback on how I can do better. I loved how she looked at the positives and then gave suggestions. This was very beneficial in helping me grow and learn professionally.

Artifact 4e-2

This is a journal I did in my Social Studies class. This chapter we were working on was talking about how we can best educate the students and help them grow in the world and in learning. I loved this chapter and being able to express ways I believe can make students successful and understand their purpose in the real world. My goal is to take these notes with me to my future classroom and even future students to best help them feel like they are a part of something.