Professional Goal: Increase my knowledge of learning theories, pedagogies, and evidence-based practices related to kindergarten and school-age development, including the practice of inclusion and differentiation to create equitable learning opportunities.
Professional Learning Activities:
Review Learning Theories, including theories related to Erik Erikson, John Dewey, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Vygotsky and Piaget.
Look into the research behind the roots of empathy program targeted for school-age children.
Jo Boaler's Mathematical Mindsets - A look into cognitive brain development in childhood.
Shelley Moore Videos on Inclusive education
Learning for All Reading - Ontario's Guide to Inclusion through Universal Design
Timelines:
Learning for All - September 2021
Review of Learning Theories - December 2021
Jo Boaler's Mathematical Mindsets - August 2022
Shelley Moore Videos - April 2022
Professional Goal: Grow my understanding of Early Childhood Mental Health and document how I construct and incorporate practices that support a sense of belonging and positive sense of well-being in my work with children and families.
Professional Learning Activities:
Love Builds Brains by Dr. Jean Clinton - A book on the importance of early childhood experiences extending to the adolescent brain.
Stay up to date on efforts and opportunities from Children's Mental Health Ontario and the Association for Children's Mental Health
Read Research from SickKids on children's mental health during COVID-19
Timelines:
Love Builds Brains - April 2022 or when available
SickKids Research - August to September 2021
Professional Goal: Take part in creating learning environments that support children's holistic development while maintaining health and safety in the midst and wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Professional Learning Activities:
Look for Research on learning environments during and after COVID-19
Engage in communities of practice and professional discussions with colleagues on how learning environments have changed and can be improved to support children's learning.
Reflect on the role of technology in education to support health and safety during a pandemic while also reflecting on how to support children's physical health and well-being.
Timelines:
Professional Discussions - September 2021 to April 2022
Read Research on Learning Environments - December 2021
Reflection on the Role of Technology - April 2022