Introduction to Education
After graduating from high school in 1990, I opted not to go to college, but decided to enter the workforce instead. Years later, I came to the realization that getting my college degree was necessary if I wanted my childhood dream of becoming a teacher to become a reality. One of the many classes that I have taken towards my elementary education degree is Introduction to Education. This class has given me a glimpse into what it is like to be a quality teacher. During my service learning experience, I have been able to work with special needs students. I found that what these students really need is more time, and a one-on-one student/teacher ratio in order to get their work done more efficiently. I have learned that organization is something that I, as a teacher, must be so I can pass this positive trait onto my students. I need to continue on with my education, and be a lifelong learner so I can be current on the changes going on in the education field. Although I will predominantly be working in my classroom with my students, they are not the only relationships I will need to develop. Having parents involved in their child’s education is something I will encourage. Establishing a good rapport with faculty members, and other school officials is important so we can collaborate and share information and ideas. As a teacher, I want to be a role model for my students, and set good examples for them to follow. Below you will find some links expressing my passion for becoming a teacher, and my enthusiasm in working with students to help them grow and learn to their fullest potential.
| philosophy.pdf |
In my philosophy, I discovered just how far I have come in my journey to becoming a teacher, and I am very proud of my accomplishments so far. I feel that I have a long way to go with my own schooling until I receive my teaching certificate, and can become a qualified teacher, but I know now what it takes to achieve my goals. I was also reminded during my service learning experience this semester of the urgent need for qualified teachers, especially in the special education field. I believe that children today deserve a good education with a quality teacher, and I plan on being the teacher that provides the tools and guidance necessary for them to learn and grow.
| kozolpresentationquestions.pdf |
Along with another student in my class, we lead a discussion on Chapter 13 of Jonathan Kozol’s book entitled Letters to a Young Teacher. The chapter we read, and wrote discussion questions about, based upon Blooms Taxonomy of Thinking Skills for Instructional Planning, was called Loss Of Innocence: More Reflections on the Middle Schools and High Schools. The other student’s in the class really thought hard about the questions we asked, and came up with some really interesting and thought provoking responses. Jonathan Kozol’s book is an excellent book to read for any person who is thinking about getting into the education field, or for a new teacher who is just beginning their journey.
| reflection.pdf |
Service learning is a something that every future teacher should be involved in. It is a great way to experience what being a teacher is all about because of the interaction with students that takes place in a classroom environment. I learned so much while helping out the students in my 1st and 4th grade resource service learning classroom at Settler's Point Elementary School. I observed so many things about teaching that will help me when I become a teacher in the near future.
