The sessions before prac were a wealth of information. It was after the rush of the week that I had time to reflect on the content covered. Each session had something very valuable to offer. Gleaning from each a morsel that would make my time at the school more profitable. Overall, the content that was covered was comprehensive and presented in an enjoyable way. Much was learnt that set a good foundation for the days ahead.
The setting of goals is a task that I am learning. I tend figure it out as I go. Having to sit down and create some goals was a challenge. Davis refers to goal setting as a necessary task to reduce stress. He alludes to the fact that small achieve able goals will have the best chance of success. (Davis at el. 2008 pg 223-248) So in my goal setting I chose to pick 3 that could be measurable and attainable.
Element 5.2.1 – Maintain consistent, fair and equitable interactions with students to establish rapport and lead them to display these same characteristics in their interactions with one another. (NSWIT 2004)
My first goal is to get to know the students. To build a classroom setting that has mutual respect for teacher and students alike. To be able to use strategies that will bring out responses from those not willing to contribute because each student’s contribution is valuable. Observation has shown that a number of the students do not contribute but quietly stay in the background.
Element 4.2.5 – Create, select and use a variety of appropriate teaching strategies and resources including ICT and other technologies to make content meaningful to students. (NSWIT 2004)
Second, would be to increase my knowledge and practical use of ICT. The school has a high distance education enrolment and to survive as a teacher I will need to conquer my fears of high tech ICT. The creating of online content and podcasts will be an essential part of my tasks each day.
Element 2.1.5 – Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of specific strategies for teaching: (NSWIT 2004)
The third and final goal is to gain a better understanding of programming and lesson structure for specific classes. During our training we have a good grasp of curriculum content but not of true experience of students in the classroom. I would like a better understanding of the integration of tasks that cover a diverse classroom. To have specific students in mind when planning will enhance this learning further.
As I embark on this new adventure I am thankful for the tour guides we have had on the way, especially those who have prepared us with the resources to find the information we need. Thank you.
References:
Davis, Martha Eshelman, Elizabeth, McKay, Matthew (2008) The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook – 6th Edition New Harbinger Publications, Inc. Oakland, CA
NSWIT (2004) Professional Teaching Standards, NSW Institute of Teachers. Sydney.
