A hands-on lesson with my students during science class
During my final practicum, I made a conscious effort to attend a wide range of professional development sessions and seminars. These sessions covered a diverse array of topics, including inclusive education, teaching strategies, and more.
In the sessions on inclusive education, I learned about the importance of creating an environment that is welcoming and accommodating for all learners, regardless of their background or abilities. I also learned about the specific tools and strategies that can be used to help support diverse learners and create an inclusive classroom culture.
The sessions on teaching strategies were equally valuable, as I gained insight into a range of techniques for engaging students and promoting deep learning. From the latest technological tools to more traditional techniques like peer-to-peer learning and project-based instruction, I was able to explore a variety of approaches and determine which were most effective for my own teaching style and the needs of my learners.
In addition to these sessions, I also had the opportunity to attend workshops and conferences on related topics such as classroom management, assessment, and curriculum development. By taking advantage of every available opportunity for professional development, I was able to expand my skills and knowledge, preparing me for success in my final practicum and beyond.
A number of these critical thinking skills are being utilized as I write journal reflections on my course learnings
Growth:
This semester, I wrote a journal in my EDUC 2375 Effective Assessment course. The written journal assignment helped me exhibit “deep thinking through seminar responses, lesson critiques, and journal reflections” (PR10). I was able to compile my knowledge from the course and elaborate on it in concise, 250-word responses.
Goals:
As a goal, I plan to keep improving my critical thinking skills. In order to accomplish my goal, I will continue the use of reflective practice through journal writing throughout my remaining years in the Bachelor of Education program.
My certificate for completing the Wee Read program.
Growth:
This semester I completed the Wee Read modules. Wee Read is a great program for aspiring teachers because it's goal is to help children fall in love with reading. Wee Read is all about making reading fun and exciting for learners who will then grow to be confident readers themselves.
As a teacher, one must always be willing to grow and continue expanded their knowledge for education. This semester, even though it was delivered online, I had the opportunity to chat with my group of education students every week. I was able to learn from them and grow with them as teachers.
Another huge growth moment for me was getting to sit down and talk to my mentor teacher every week. She did not mind if we got caught up in conversation and shared ideas for hours. My mentor teacher provided me with so many resources and books that will make me a confident and knowledgeable ELA teacher.
Goals:
As far as my short term goals go, I plan on delving into the books that my mentor teacher has recommended. Over christmas break I plan to order and read a few of her favourites; The Daily 5, The CAFE Book, and Catching Readers Before They Fall.
As a yearly goal I plan on keeping in touch with my group from this semester, regardless of who we are grouped with next semester. I would love to continue growing and sharing my passion for teaching and learning with these people that I have met and conversed with.
In the summer I would like to volunteer with a reading buddy program through the Calgary Library in order to help children with reading, as well as to expand my teaching experiences.
A photo of Treaty 7 Territory. The Blackfoot, who helped me perform the round dance, inhabit this land.
Growth:
This semester exposed me to various forms of diversity in classrooms. I learned that every student may require different methods in order to learn effectively. Every student also has their own background that affects their school experience. I had the opportunity to attend a Round Dance with my kindergarten class. We all danced in a circle as two Indigenous advisors led us through a hands-on lesson that informed us about the communal benefits and historical importance that these dances have. Since I have Indigenous students in my field classroom, I have been able to apply my knowledge to my practicum.
Goals:
My goal over the next four years of my degree to ensure that I become more professionally responsible is to take more extra-curricular lessons that teach about diversity that I may encounter in the classroom. I would like to learn more about Canada's Indigenous peoples. I would also like to learn french in order to understand every student I may encounter.