It has been my aspiration for many years to become an educator. My experience has shifted me towards teaching at the middle school level in the areas of math, science, and technology. It delights me to be a part in shaping the future by challenging children to think creatively.
My belief is that both the student and the teacher share responsibility in shaping the students' development, academically, socially, and morally. This objective is completed positively when the teacher integrates multiple teaching methods to meets the individual needs of each student. Communication with parents is key in forming an academic plan that is ideal for their child. Parents should understand the goals that are set for a child and how we can work together to achieve them. Goal setting has played an important role in my life and I often engage in this practice with my students and their parents. A child's reflection on his or her strengths and weaknesses with a plan for growth allows them to take more control over their learning.
Students experience accelerated growth in a least restrictive environment that fosters diversity, acceptance, encouragement, and varied instruction. Methods of scaffolding and reciprocal teaching are important in a successful classroom. Students should be guided to reach their full potential and learn to communicate the concepts that they understand to their peers. I often encourage students to engage in problem solving by collaborating and utilizing each other's strengths. For example, I may ask the students to think-pair-share: The student would then know to take a moment to construct a response, discuss their ideas with the person next to them, and then share what they discussed with the class.
Inquiry is the most authentic form of learning. My summers spent as a camp counselor were filled with teachable moments where campers would make observations and ask questions about their environments. I used these opportunities to facilitate learning through guidance rather than just providing information. Lessons in the classroom should begin by observing and questioning, followed by building on prior knowledge. Students should also be challenged at their individual levels to apply that knowledge to real-life situations.
Technology plays an important role in education. Students learn to communicate their understanding in limitless forms including podcasts, movies, blogs, images, presentations or whatever best fits the topic. It is essential that students also learn to use ethical behavior and to be safe when communicating and receiving information. In my class, students learn media literacy skills and internet safety rules. We utilize technology by playing content specific games, researching topics, and presenting projects.
I find it necessary to incorporate social and personal development with academic learning. Furthermore, to shape a stable moral base, and to expose students to challenges that will allow them to discover their unique abilities and traits. These goals for my students are best accomplished in an environment where students feel comfortable sharing, inquiring, and experiencing new ideas.