Learning Environment

Rationale for Artifact #1:

Description: This artifact was an application I utilized on the school issued iPad. In this app I inputted class rosters and was also able to rank certain students privately based on ability. The app then auto generated fair teams based on the rankings and parameters I preset when inputting class rosters. 

Connection: This artifact aligns with ITPS knowledge indicator 4A which states: "The competent teacher understands principles of and strategies for effective classroom and behavior management". By utilizing this application, I was able to efficiently use the time I had allotted per class period and therefore run a more efficient class. 

Importance: This app assisted me in utilizing my time efficiently within the 30 minutes I was given for each class period. This app also decreased the urges of students to try and force certain pairings for groups and helped the students get to know other students they would not otherwise interact with. 

Rationale for Artifact #2:

Description: This artifact is one I used frequently with the kindergarten level to establish rules and expectations when they entered the classroom. This slide was meant to illustrate what was expected when kindergarteners were in PE class. This artifact was created over time as we saw certain behaviors that needed to be constantly addressed. 

Connection: This artifact aligns with ITPS performance indicator 4J which states: "The competent teacher creates clear expectations and procedures for communication and behavior and a physical setting conducive to achieving classroom goals". Implementing this artifact illustrates a different way that I display clear expectations of behavior and procedures. 

Importance: This slide was essential for me in setting clear expectations in the classroom for kindergarten. Most kindergarten classes were in the process of having PE for the first time in their educational lives. This slide display at the beginning of each class was a more intentional way of setting these expectations so they could know what was expected not just that particular year but moving forward as they continued on in PE at other elementary levels.