This
semester’s course work has gone way too quickly. Although at a glimpse I may
feel I have learned very little from what we have accomplished this semester in
coursework alone, I am glad I have this opportunity to thoroughly reflect on
what has come of this semester. This semester was very different than last
semester. Last semester there was a very steep learning curve in figuring out
the basics and what teaching was all about. This semester seemed to have a
greater emphasis on technology. Specifically through EDSS 531, the most
important take away I feel I have learned is about being reflective.
Through
the activities, readings, and discussions in this semester, no matter the
topic, there was always a portion that asked us to reflect. The assignments
were to reflect on our biases, upon an aspect of our educational philosophy, or
on which teaching model we would align with our philosophy. I feel I have
learned more about how and why it is important to reflect rather than the
specific information I have reflected upon. Learning how to reflect has been a
struggle for me. The process has taken great amounts of time to just begin to
be a good reflective practitioner.
In
relation to specific assignments, the beginning of this course asked us to
reflect upon ourselves and other such things like our biases or how we meet
student’s needs. This gave me a chance to learn about the importance of knowing
who I am and how it affects me as an educator. Then we were able to write about
our educational philosophy. The assignment gave me the opportunity to think about
my beliefs as an educator. From there, I was able to compare and think about my
beliefs about who I am now, my philosophy about teaching, and how I can work to
become into the practitioner that fosters that philosophy throughout my
teaching. Lastly, we then experienced different teaching models in class. I
then reflected on how what I have recently learned, teaching models, can be
applied and used within my philosophy.
In
conclusion, I do feel I have learned about what to reflect on and how to
reflect in different situations concerning different topics. I have learned that
reflection is one of the most important aspects of teaching. Before this
semester, I was only thinking about how to teach and what others expected of me
to be able to do in the classroom. I was looking at others opinions and philosophies
rather than my own. Therefore, instead of comparing with other professionals or
teachers, I have learned to reflect upon myself. I am trying to make myself
better in every aspect in order to meet my goals. I am truly hoping to continue
this reflective aspect into my teaching as a permanent tool to continually help
me become the best teacher I can be.
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