Mid Term Evaluation

After reading the five dimensions of learning and reflecting on the four major strands of work and my time in class, I feel as if I have made significant progress in the short time we’ve met as a class.  Of the four strands of work, my ability to collaborate has seen the biggest change; while my strength and love for technology has taken a beating.  The greatest challenge of this class has not been to complete the homework assignments, course readings, etc.  It has been to apply the concepts of this very course in a real school setting.  I can’t think of a better way to learn than trial by fire.  Though painful at times, it is effective. By simply working with my two students, I am learning how to be a flexible thinker.   This has significant application in my situation. It is not to be optimistic in my recognition of cultural diversity, per say, but to learn the individual strengths of my students and adjust my thinking to fit them. 

My ability to collaborate with other pre-service teachers has been an invaluable tool during this course.  To hear their stories, to brainstorm solutions, and share common goals has given new meaning to me for authentic learning.  This ability to pool resources is a strategy that I look forward to as I prepare for my own classroom. It alleviates some of the stress I feel as I take my final step in becoming a teacher.   

I’ve always felt comfortable with technology.  I have always understood the importance of including technology into the classroom. The experience with posting blogs on Tripod has been the most frustrating occurrence I’ve faced in reference to computers.  From that frustration I’ve reflected on how applicable this situation is in the classroom.  I have to recognize that there is diversity in relationship to children’s proximity to different technology. 

For the remainder of the course, I look forward to seeing how my student’s stories evolve.  I hope to learn more about the writing process and more about classroom practices.  From the instructor, I hope to have opportunity to see “real” application of how diversity is celebrated in the school system, not just cultural diversity but the uniqueness that each student brings into the community.

As I continue to learn and grow, I will maintain my ability to be on time to class, be present and participate in class, as well as complete assignments.  I feel I am performing on an exception level  (A) by taking ownership of my learning as well as continuing to adapt my professional identity.