Competency 002
The teacher considers environmental factors that may affect learning in designing a supportive and responsive classroom community that promotes all students� learning and self-esteem.
During this class I read an article about the effect of technology on the self-esteem and achievement levels of students. In the article, the author suggested that by exposing low-performing students to the use of technology in the classroom, the achievement level of these students was higher. Through technology, students can be proud of a product they�ve created to demonstrate knowledge about a subject area.
Competency 003
The teacher appreciates human diversity, recognizing how diversity in the classroom and the community may affect learning and creating a classroom environment in which both the diversity of groups and the uniqueness of individuals are recognized and celebrated.
During this class I was exposed to several articles dealing with the topic of cultural diversity in the classroom. I was the facilitator for an article discussing a classroom where the teacher did not use teachable moments to discuss with students topics that interested them about their culture. I believe that it is the responsibility of the teacher to take these times in a classroom when students are curious about a topic, and use these moments to make an impact on the lives of students.
Competency 009
The teacher uses a variety of instructional materials and resources (including human and technological resources) to support individual and group learning.
During this class I read an article about a school that is beginning to use technology more and more in the classroom. The author of this article proposes questions about how much technology is too much in the classroom. The author goes on to say that teachers are irreplaceable and will always be needed to make an impact on the lives of students.
Competency 0010
The teacher uses processes of informal and formal assessment to understand individual learners, monitor instructional effectiveness, and shape instruction.
During this class I worked one-on-one with a student named Nichole. Nichole is a 6th grade ESL student who has some literacy problems due to her language barrier. As an assignment for this class, I performed an assessment on Nichole, the Ekwall-Shanker Reading Inventory. From the results of this assessment I was able to make suggestions to her parents and teachers as to the types of instruction that may best benefit her needs. I believe that all assessments should inform instruction.
Competency 0012
The teacher is a reflective practitioner who knows how to promote his or her own professional growth and can work cooperatively with other professionals in the system to create a school culture that enhances learning and encourages positive change.
During this class, I had the opportunity to survey teachers on my campus concerning their beliefs about writing. This survey was interesting to me because I noticed that on the middle school campus where I teach, most of the teachers believe that writing should be integrated with reading. I am encouraged to know that through surveys such as this, I can work with teachers and create an environment where professionals work together to benefit the instruction of students. |
