Task 6: Reflecting on teaching practice

Links to standards 2, 3, 4, 5

 Using the takepū koha critically evaluate your personal strengths and identify areas for ongoing improvement.

6.1 - Select and discuss two experiences on practicum that highlight your strengths. Describe how your strengths align with one or more of the teacher codes and standards. 

Flexibility and Adaptability in the Event of Difficulties: 

• One of my practicum experiences involved a scenario in which technical difficulties prevented a scheduled activity from going as planned in a classroom. Rather than losing myself, I quickly adjusted the lesson and the activity to make sure that the students were still engaged and learning was going well. I successfully redirected the lesson by using my imaginative thinking as well as problem-solving abilities. 

• Another occurrence that I had during practicum was showing up to class while my associate teacher was away at a funeral, and the reliever who was scheduled to be with me for the day had to relieve a junior class since the teacher was absent. The next day, my associate teacher was present but had to relieve another class because the teacher was away sick. With excellent communication, my associate teacher was able to guide me through his expectations of myself and for the students. Being able to exercise complete control the previous week gave me the tools and knowledge I needed to face this situation. He had arranged some support for myself such as Whaea Rahuru popping in during first block, while Maatua Freddy offered behavioural support for any issues that may occur with the boys. Having that support system my associate was able to put in place gave me reassurance. Very thankful the class were very well behaved with no issues with the boys. This gave me the confidence to do the task. It was also helpful that the reading and numeracy group rotations had already been completed the previous week, allowing me to complete part of my lessons with the students. 

Alignment with the code:

This experience demonstrates my resilience and adaptability in responding to unexpected challenges, aligning with Standard 7 of the Practising Teacher Criteria. Standard 7 focuses on creating a supportive and challenging learning environment and maintaining professional relationships; Actively contribute, and work collegially, in the pursuit of improving my own and organisational practice, showing leadership, particularly in areas of responsibility. Being flexible in the face of challenges, and making sure that students continued to receive quality instruction, and encouragement, creating a positive and inclusive setting 

6.2 - Select and discuss two areas of weaknesses while out on practicum. Describe how they align with the teacher code and standards.

Classroom management:

One area of weakness I encountered was in classroom management at times. I found it challenging  to maintain a positive and eficient learning environment, particularly during transitions between activities or when addressing off-task behavior. This resulted in to disruptions of the teaching process and decreased engagement of one or two students.

Assessment/ Feedback:

I also discovered that my understanding of assessment and feedback techniques was lacking. It was challenging for me to ensure that student input was helpful and that assessments aligned with learning objectives while I was delivering them. As a result, students may not have received the required assistance and guidance to successfully enhance their learning. 

Linked to planning, discussions, evaluations, reflections, etc. My visiting Kaiako attended my Practicum observation and this was demonstrated. A couple of students were going off track and disinterested in the activity. It could have been due to my lack of direction that were given.

 Include evidence. This could be linked to planning, discussions, evaluations, reflections, etc.

6.3 - Write a one-page development plan or strategy to improve in these area/s.  Make reference to principles and theory (western and Māori).