Artifact 5

For the unit plan that I created for my EDCI 353 class, I created a reward system. This reward system includes what is known as "Des Dollars". I created "Des Dollars" as a unique reward token that cannot be duplicated by a student. This reward system that I will be using in my classroom, implements positive reinforcement.

Having the opportunity to student-teach at Lewisburg and Desoto-Central primary schools, I was able to see how much having a positive reinforcement system makes a difference. One of the classrooms has a system similar to the one above, while the other incorporates a system using color/clip charts. There are pros and cons to each, of course. However, I noticed a huge difference in student behavior when the teacher mentioned rewarding good behavior with a "Dollar" versus objectively punishing a student by having them move their color. Positive reinforcement can be critical when analyzing and implementing classroom management.

InTASC Standard 4: Content Knowledge   

The teacher understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he or she teaches and creates learning experiences that make the discipline accessible and meaningful for learners to assure mastery of the content.

InTASC Standard 6: Assessment

The teacher understands and uses multiple methods of assessment to engage learners in their own growth, to monitor learner progress, and to guide the teacher's and learner's decision-making.

This artifact is evidence of growth in this standard because the student-teacher acknowledges the importance of positive reinforcement in the classroom and will be incorporating it into future classrooms.