Reflection
I believe reflection and lifelong learning are two fundamental elements of being an educator. There is power, knowledge and insight gained when one is able to look back and learn from experience.
“Sometimes, you have to look back in order to understand the things that lie ahead.” ― Yvonne Woon
Here are some of the important questions that I am reflecting on as an emerging teacher:
What are your own experiences as a learner?
I was born and raised in a small town in BC where I began my journey as a learner through Kindergarten to Grade 12. I then ventured backpacking around the world, moved off to University where I obtained a Spanish Degree, and after that I was fortunate enough to acquire a position as an Educational Assistant and Spanish teacher at an Independent School back in my hometown. With that practice I learned more than I ever could have dreamt of and felt inspired to challenge myself further to continue making a difference in the lives of children and possibly the world. With the support of everyone at the Independent School I now find myself here in the University of Calgary Education program, eager to become an official teacher.
What works for you and what does not?
I personally learn well surrounded by positive, inspiring and curious people. I enjoy diving into a project whole-heartedly to explore a new world of knowledge. I feel as though I am forever evolving, growing and finding new future aspirations to chase. I am a visual and kinaesthetic learner and believe that I can take my understanding of these learning styles and apply it to other learns similar to me but to also know that others may learn in very different ways and that I need to be conscious and accommodate these needs in the classroom as well. I enjoy being creative and having a choice in what I am learning and how I present my obtained knowledge. I think as a teacher it is also important to provide these opportunities to my students as well to empower them as well as give them a sense of ownership in their work.
From past experience I know that I do not work well when I am highly anxious or uncomfortable. As a teacher, I will aim to make all students feel welcomed and safe to reduce these emotions which can impede learning.
What impact is the reading package having as you begin to understand the role of teacher?
I found the reading package very enlightening. It was wonderful to explore which type of an adult learner I am as well as understand unique perspectives on learning and teaching. One piece that really spoke to me was The Heart of a Teacher, Identity and Integrity in Teaching by Parker J. Palmer. The author's words allowed me to see the deeper angle of teaching and truly demonstrated what an important role teachers play in their students' lives. Furthermore, Palmer states, "We became teachers for reasons of the heart, animated by a passion for the subject and for helping people to learn" (p. 18). This metaphor had a powerful impact on me as it illuminated how I feel about being able to teach something that I love (Spanish) as well as my decision to dedicate my life to helping others learn and grow.
What resonates with you? What would you like to pursue further?
Working with my CoP was a very meaningful experience for me. It resonates with me because all five of Awning Red's members come from very unique backgrounds and are very different people. Despite our different opinions and learning styles, I found joy working with this group of individuals and gained a lot of interesting insight from everyone. I was so moved and inspired by some of the members in my group and their bravery during our metaphor presentation. It was very authentic and meaningful in my eyes.
Why is this course included in the program? Why must teachers be life-long learners, to what end?
This course is included in the program because teachers must be able to continue to learn and grow throughout their entire career and life. Its essential to be able to look back and look for ways to improve for you and your students. Fortunately for me I love learning, reading, discovering and exploring so I am thrilled to be embarking into a career that requires constant growth of knowledge.
What have you learned by interacting with others in this course and in other courses in the program?
I learned that you may not agree with everything that everyone says, BUT there is something to be learned from everyone that you work with. Rather than becoming upset if things are not going how you're used to them going, try and learn from these people and take new knowledge that could be useful in the future in some way. I think that everyone crosses paths with you for a reason and there is truly something you can take away from your interactions.
What are your own experiences as a learner?
I was born and raised in a small town in BC where I began my journey as a learner through Kindergarten to Grade 12. I then ventured backpacking around the world, moved off to University where I obtained a Spanish Degree, and after that I was fortunate enough to acquire a position as an Educational Assistant and Spanish teacher at an Independent School back in my hometown. With that practice I learned more than I ever could have dreamt of and felt inspired to challenge myself further to continue making a difference in the lives of children and possibly the world. With the support of everyone at the Independent School I now find myself here in the University of Calgary Education program, eager to become an official teacher.
What works for you and what does not?
I personally learn well surrounded by positive, inspiring and curious people. I enjoy diving into a project whole-heartedly to explore a new world of knowledge. I feel as though I am forever evolving, growing and finding new future aspirations to chase. I am a visual and kinaesthetic learner and believe that I can take my understanding of these learning styles and apply it to other learns similar to me but to also know that others may learn in very different ways and that I need to be conscious and accommodate these needs in the classroom as well. I enjoy being creative and having a choice in what I am learning and how I present my obtained knowledge. I think as a teacher it is also important to provide these opportunities to my students as well to empower them as well as give them a sense of ownership in their work.
From past experience I know that I do not work well when I am highly anxious or uncomfortable. As a teacher, I will aim to make all students feel welcomed and safe to reduce these emotions which can impede learning.
What impact is the reading package having as you begin to understand the role of teacher?
I found the reading package very enlightening. It was wonderful to explore which type of an adult learner I am as well as understand unique perspectives on learning and teaching. One piece that really spoke to me was The Heart of a Teacher, Identity and Integrity in Teaching by Parker J. Palmer. The author's words allowed me to see the deeper angle of teaching and truly demonstrated what an important role teachers play in their students' lives. Furthermore, Palmer states, "We became teachers for reasons of the heart, animated by a passion for the subject and for helping people to learn" (p. 18). This metaphor had a powerful impact on me as it illuminated how I feel about being able to teach something that I love (Spanish) as well as my decision to dedicate my life to helping others learn and grow.
What resonates with you? What would you like to pursue further?
Working with my CoP was a very meaningful experience for me. It resonates with me because all five of Awning Red's members come from very unique backgrounds and are very different people. Despite our different opinions and learning styles, I found joy working with this group of individuals and gained a lot of interesting insight from everyone. I was so moved and inspired by some of the members in my group and their bravery during our metaphor presentation. It was very authentic and meaningful in my eyes.
Why is this course included in the program? Why must teachers be life-long learners, to what end?
This course is included in the program because teachers must be able to continue to learn and grow throughout their entire career and life. Its essential to be able to look back and look for ways to improve for you and your students. Fortunately for me I love learning, reading, discovering and exploring so I am thrilled to be embarking into a career that requires constant growth of knowledge.
What have you learned by interacting with others in this course and in other courses in the program?
I learned that you may not agree with everything that everyone says, BUT there is something to be learned from everyone that you work with. Rather than becoming upset if things are not going how you're used to them going, try and learn from these people and take new knowledge that could be useful in the future in some way. I think that everyone crosses paths with you for a reason and there is truly something you can take away from your interactions.
"The overall learning process can be understood as being cyclical and a lifelong process" -MacKeracher