Personally, I felt that this class was one of my favorites of the semester. Although I wasn't too fond of the ungraded system at times, there were still other times where I felt like it did benefit me. Most of the latter instances were times where we were given extra time to turn in work, or to study before a practice test. Overall, I am extremely proud of my determination to meet my goals both inside and outside of the classroom, and felt that I did so to the best of my ability.
As of this first week of class, I am aware of the basics of Earth Science/Geology.
I know that planet Earth is located in the Milky Way Galaxy. That it is round, and rotates the sun along with its fellow planets: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
I know that there are also the five dwarf planets: Eris, Makemake, Haumea, Ceres, and most notably, Pluto.
I am aware of how gravity works.
I know a little bit about rocks and minerals thanks to my middle school's teachings.
I am aware of how much our Earth has shifted in its long lifespan.
I would however, like to focus more on the inner workings of the planet, i.e. it's core, the tectonic plates, etc. As well as better identifying the different minerals and rock types.
As far as the Student Learning Outcomes are concerned, though I do not have nearly enough knowledge or cognizance with any of them, I hope to change this by the time I write my final reflection.
As stated in my designated "Goals and Outcomes" pages, my overall SMART goal for both the class and the semester as a whole is to truly be involved. Whether that is in the lessons, the participation, the group projects, or the time spent studying the material, I wish most of all to be present and aware of what is being taught.
Now, at the end of the semester, I feel confident that I was able to meet each of these.
Methods that helped me achieve my goals and do the best that I could as a student include putting in as much, if not more, time and effort outside the classroom. This was in the form of studying, applying my growing knowledge to the geologic world around me in my daily life, and going out of my way to find the answers to any questions that arose throughout the semester. I made sure I always kept up with my work, and even on days that I had to miss class for illnesses or other, I never once missed an assignment or allowed myself to slack off.
This semester was one I will never forget. It taught me a lot about discipline, both my own and the ones placed unto me by others, as well as my ability to learn under pressure and compartmentalize the important information to help me in the future. The ungraded system made me realize that although I do prefer when teachers are far stricter and more disciplined with students, it is no longer up to them to meet these requirements at the college level. It is my job to stay on top of my studies and my classwork for my own benefit, and it will be an extremely helpful skill to carry with me when I leave.
In terms of the assignments I completed, I did my best not to miss a single one. And as for my presence, unless absolutely necessary, I did not miss too many classes as I know how important it is to be there in person for such an intricate class. Each class period reminded me that there was a lot to learn.
I felt that I ended up comparing and connecting much of what I learned in class to my every day life when it came to geology, granting me the knowledge and experience to pass what I had discovered onto the people around me who otherwise would not have known how mountains were formed, or where certain types of sedimentary rocks are formed.
With the utmost humility, I would grant myself an A for all of the time, effort, practice, and heart I poured into this class. Either way, I am grateful for the time I had in Geology 101 here at Victor Valley College.