Essay Reflections

A Journey of Lifelong Learning and Professional Growth

Image Credit: Michigan State University

A Journey of Lifelong Learning and Professional Growth

Master of Arts in Educational Technology Goals:

Even before I became an educator, my love for learning was a core part of who I am. In my early twenties, I created a personal mission statement that embraced the Japanese concept of "Kaizen," symbolizing my commitment to continual growth and learning. This philosophy guided me as I contemplated pursuing a master's degree.

For years, I sought a master's program that would not only fulfill my passion for learning, love of educational technology, but also advance my career goals. Initially, my career ambitions were primarily focused on opportunities within secondary education. I gravitated toward Michigan State University(MSU) due to its Graduate Certificate in Computer Science Education. Through course work, I not only achieved this goal but also earned my programming and software development endorsement—an accomplishment that felt monumental.

Goal Progress

My Master of Arts in Educational Technology experience transcends mere certification; it catalyzes profound personal and professional growth. Coming from a business background and not having a formal degree in education, my initial goal was to obtain more knowledge in the realm of teaching and learning strategies. This program provided me with the opportunity to apply learning theories in practice, solve real-world problems, and integrate advanced frameworks into my pedagogy. I designed lessons with purposeful technological integration, which not only enhanced my teaching practice but also deepened my understanding of how technology can be harnessed to facilitate learning.

These experiences have deepened my understanding and broadened my capabilities beyond my original goals. The implantation of computational thinking and computer science concepts into my teaching has enabled students to engage in critical thinking while fostering interactive learning environments. I have developed a comprehensive understanding of how to use technology as a tool to enhance student engagement and achievement, which has become a cornerstone of my pedagogy.

Goal Changes

Embracing change is a complex journey, often challenging yet deeply rewarding. One significant shift has been in my teaching philosophy, which I completely rewrote to more accurately reflect the breadth of knowledge and insights gained over the past two years. This process required delving into the layers of my values as a leader, educator, and learner. My journey toward a graduate degree has been instrumental in piecing together these elements, creating a cohesive mosaic that represents my evolved understanding and approach to education. Additionally, the knowledge and skills I acquired opened new pathways for my career, and I no longer feel confined to a specific educational sector. Instead, I realize the vast potential of my skills in diverse educational settings and beyond.

Conclusion

Completing my master's degree not only fulfilled my initial goals, but has also profoundly enriched my educational journey in ways I had not anticipated. I am well equipped to inspire and prepare my students to meet the challenges of technology-driven learning environments. This process has reaffirmed my commitment to lifelong learning and my dedication to fostering transformative educational outcomes. It has broadened my vision, allowing me to see a wider array of career possibilities and teaching me not to limit my prospects.

Looking ahead, I am eager to leverage the insights and expertise I've acquired to further evolve as an educator. I am devoted to nurturing an environment where innovation and creativity lead the way, guiding my efforts to inspire and empower my students and colleagues. Lifelong learning is a continual journey, and I am enthusiastic about exploring new horizons, driven by the values and capabilities I have cultivated through my master's program.

image credit: globalstudentnetwork.com

Navigating Change:

My Path to Continuous Growth

As a veteran computer science teacher, the pursuit of learning never ceases, both in and out of the classroom. The field of Information Technology is in a constant state of evolution, presenting the challenge of keeping pace with emerging technologies through continuous classes and workshops. My learning goals are ever-evolving to ensure that I remain relevant and effective in my role. In this essay, I will outline three specific topics for future study that will aid in achieving my career, professional, and personal goals.

Advance Programming Skills

Earning a Graduate Certificate in Computer Science Education was just the tip of the iceberg. In the rapidly evolving world of technology, advancing my programming skills is essential not only for personal growth but also for professional effectiveness. The programming landscape is diverse, with languages and frameworks evolving at an unprecedented pace. One of my primary goals is to earn a knowledge pillar certification in a programming language, such as Python or Java. These certifications are more than mere accolades; they represent a mastery of skills that are crucial for staying relevant in the field. For instance, Python is increasingly being used in data science, artificial intelligence making it a versatile tool in my educational toolkit.

The decision to pursue this certification stems from a desire to enhance my capabilities as an educator. I have been asked to teach concurrent enrollment (college courses). By deepening my understanding of programming languages, I can bring richer, more engaging content to my students. This not only prepares them for careers in technology but also equips them with skills that are transferable to various other fields. Furthermore, having certifications allows me to offer programming-specific certifications to my students, such as those in advanced Python or web development, which can be pivotal in their career paths.

Leadership

Leadership in Career & Technical Education (CTE) has always been a significant interest of mine, especially in advancing initiatives related to concurrent college enrollment and career readiness. After completing my master's degree, I had aimed to transition into administration as a CTE Coordinator. This role would allow me to influence policy and practice at a higher level, potentially impacting a broader range of students. However, a change in personal circumstances, such as my husband’s new position in Indiana, has redirected my path, yet my commitment to leadership in education remains unwavering.

Starting a new position in a different state poses both challenges and opportunities. It may require me to learn new technologies, programming languages, AI, or curriculum components specific to the institution. This adaptability is crucial for effective leadership. My focus will be on understanding the local educational landscape and integrating technology and curriculum in ways that best serve the students and community. Resources such as the Achieving Personal and Professional Success Specialization offered by the University of Pennsylvania on Coursera emphasize consistency and follow-through—key attributes in effective leadership. This specialization provides practical tools and strategies that will aid in my transition and help me maintain a high standard of educational leadership.

Social Psychology

Understanding human behavior and the psychology of persuasion is invaluable in the realm of education. My goal is to delve deeply into social psychology to enhance my effectiveness as an educator. By exploring Robert Cialdini's principles of persuasion, including commitment and consistency, I aim to develop strategies that improve my communication and engagement with students. This understanding will be crucial in implementing change, adopting new technologies, and fostering a collaborative learning environment. To support this goal, I will study Cialdini's Influence and other relevant resources, allowing me to integrate psychological insights into my teaching practice. This knowledge will enable me to navigate classroom dynamics more effectively and support my students in achieving their learning objectives.

The ability to persuade and influence others is particularly important when implementing change or new technology in an educational setting. Resistance to change is natural, and understanding the underlying psychological principles can help overcome barriers and foster a collaborative environment. By studying Cialdini's work, I aim to develop strategies that enhance my communication and leadership skills, making me a more effective educator and leader. This knowledge will be especially beneficial in navigating the challenges of a new educational environment, where building rapport and trust with colleagues and students is crucial.

In conclusion, my continuous learning journey is driven by the desire to adapt to changing circumstances and the evolving landscape of education. By advancing my programming skills, focusing on furthering my leadership abilities, and exploring the power of persuasion, I aim to enrich my teaching practice and leadership capabilities. These goals not only support my professional growth but also empower me to provide more significant opportunities for my students. As I navigate these learning paths, I am committed to maintaining the flexibility and resilience needed to achieve success in any educational environment. My journey exemplifies a lifelong commitment to learning, adapting, and leading, ensuring that I remain a dynamic and effective force in the field of education.

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