Ending Project Reflection

[Intro]

Hi everyone, my name is Andrew Margarit and I'll be sharing my reflections on the journey I embarked upon throughout this course. I'll discuss how my understanding of various educational theories and concepts has evolved, and how these new insights will shape my future approach to learning and teaching.

[Part 1: Before the Course]

When I first started this course, my knowledge of concepts like Critical Pedagogy, Culturally Responsive Pedagogy, Pfiefer's Funds of Identity, and Critical Race Theory was practically non-existent. I knew OF them but not in any sort of actual real world understanding. Education, for me, was a straightforward field, especially in science and healthcare - it was all about teaching and learning. Little did I know that it's a vast, dynamic universe, teeming with concepts and theories that intersect with culture, race, and identity.

[Part 2: During the Course]

As I navigated through this course, I was introduced to a whole new world of ideas. Critical Pedagogy opened my eyes to the power dynamics in education, making me realize that teaching and learning are not just about transferring knowledge, but also about empowering learners. Culturally Responsive Pedagogy took it a step further, showing me how crucial it is to respect and incorporate every learner's unique cultural background into teaching practices.

Next came Pfiefer's Funds of Identity, which taught me to appreciate how our societal, cultural, and institutional surroundings shape our identities. I learned that we're not just products of our immediate environment, but also the broader systems that surround us.

But it was the Critical Race Theory that truly shook my understanding. It exposed me to the stark racial disparities in our education system, forcing me to recognize that race plays a significant role in determining educational opportunities and outcomes. I suppose I must have had blinders on during my experience through the educational system.

These concepts added a new layer to my understanding of education. Suddenly, the classroom wasn't just a place for teaching and learning, but also a platform for understanding and challenging societal norms, for promoting cultural respect and racial justice.

[Part 3: Personal Experiences]

Throughout this course, I had the opportunity to connect these academic theories with my own experiences. As someone who went straight from practicing to teaching, I didn't come into this course with a traditional educational background. However, I found that this unique journey of mine provided a rich tapestry of experiences that resonated with the course material.

Reflecting on my experiences, particularly through the lens of Pfiefer's Funds of Identity, I started to recognize how my identity as an educator has been shaped not just by my immediate environment, but by broader societal, cultural, and institutional factors. For example, the importance of helping, supporting, and motivating others, which I learned from my family, became the bedrock of my teaching philosophy.

My experiences as an educator, especially my struggle to relate to my students' experiences, resonated with the principles of Culturally Responsive Pedagogy. I realized that to create an inclusive classroom environment, it's crucial to acknowledge and respect the diverse cultural backgrounds of all students.

Through the lens of Critical Race Theory, I also started to see how race might have influenced my teaching experience and the experiences of my students. It made me think about the unconscious biases that we all carry, and the systemic issues that can create educational disparities. This realization was both eye-opening and humbling.

[Part 4: Change in Understanding]

This course hasn't just added to my knowledge – it has changed the way I view education entirely. Previously, my understanding of teaching was largely focused on imparting knowledge and developing skills. Now, I see that it's about so much more. It's about challenging power structures, promoting inclusion, and acknowledging the role of societal forces in shaping our identities and experiences.

Critical Pedagogy showed me that teaching isn't a neutral act - it carries power dynamics and biases that we need to recognize and challenge. Culturally Responsive Pedagogy taught me that education isn't just about the curriculum – it's also about honoring and incorporating the diverse cultures and backgrounds of our students.

The Funds of Identity concept helped me see that our identities aren't static or isolated – they're shaped by the complex interplay of societal, cultural, and institutional factors. And Critical Race Theory made me understand that education isn't a level playing field – systemic issues create disparities that we need to acknowledge and address.

This new understanding is more complex and nuanced, but it's also more realistic and inclusive. It makes me feel more prepared and motivated to make a positive impact as an educator.

[Part 5: Moving Forward]

Now, armed with this new understanding, I feel prepared to take my role as an educator to a whole new level. Understanding the principles of Critical Pedagogy, I'm motivated to create a learning environment that empowers students, challenges power dynamics, and fosters critical thinking.

With the insights from Culturally Responsive Pedagogy, I will strive to build an inclusive classroom that values and incorporates the diverse cultural backgrounds of all students. This is not just about celebrating diversity – it's about making every student feel valued, respected, and seen.

Guided by Pfiefer's Funds of Identity, I'll be more mindful of how broader societal, cultural, and institutional factors shape our identities. This will enable me to better understand and support my students, recognizing that their identities aren't static or isolated, but dynamically intertwined with their surroundings.

[Conclusion]

In closing, I'd like to express my gratitude for this transformative journey. This course has opened my eyes a little bit more, changed my perspective, and empowered me to strive to become a better educator. It has been a journey of self-discovery and growth, filled with challenges and insights. I'm excited to take these learnings and apply them in my practice. Here's to a future of inclusive, empowering, and equitable education. Thank you.