What?

I would like to talk about a learning experience I had while on practicum this week. It happened not during my lesson in the classroom, but afterwards when I was reflecting upon how my observation had gone. The follow up with my faculty advisor shed some light on how my lesson had gone. For example, one of my take aways from the conversation was to have 3 things that you want the students to go home learning. My lesson that I taught was a read aloud about animal habitats. One take away for that lesson would be for, by the end of the story, to have my grade ones name one material that the bear’s use to create their habitat.

So What?

I think that this review and assessment of my teaching is impotent to being a good teacher and, in turn, reflects upon the students’ experiences in the classroom. This is something that we talk about in our classes at UBC. It is important that we, as teacher candidates, are very receptive to feedback from the School Associates, Faculty advisors, students, parents, peers, and others as we develop our teaching philosophy.

Now What?

As I learn about the new curriculum and come to understand the idea of core competencies, I really feel a new depth is being added to what students are learning. Reflection is something to be conscious of. It is very important to note and a key aspect of this teaching program. It will make you a better teacher. Students should be encouraged to reflect upon their work as well. One of the students in my cohort mentioned a math reflection journal that she has in her kindergarten classroom. It is a great way for students to keep track of what they are learning, to get parents involved, and to have accountability.