Reflections

Notably, one continuous key strength, was the creation of a peer led space. Encouraging students to step-up if they are familiar with any scientific processes or observations, we may encounter on the field trip, allows their voices and knowledge to lead the day, and guides them to engage with the world more critically. For example, I had a second grader who was knowledgeable about the significance of Camas to indigenous peoples. He was encouraged to step up into a leadership role, and he did, teaching all of us about the traditional harvesting and cooking methods of the plant. My voice and knowledge then followed to support their findings, guide their engagement, and integrate stewardship and science into their experience. I hope to continue to be a mentor that supports the leadership of others. 

I have also received beneficial constructive feedback. An area of improvement is maintaining a strong and steady rhythm when educating, especially in the classroom. This was particularly pointed out to me when I would begin the lessons, so over the next few lessons I was mindful about speaking more confidently to grab and maintain attention. Another area of improvement is to model activities and give more detailed instructions. I appreciated this feedback because when I am educating it is difficult to tell which sections of the lesson the students are not understanding. My project manager suggested we break directions down into threes (step 1, step 2, step 3...) After implementation of this recommendation, I found the more thorough the explanation of the activity, the more positively students engaged. I appreciated having a support system who was readily willing to suggest new strategies. There will always be areas of improvement, and I hope to continue adapting and shaping my approach.