Professional development is an integral component of my teaching philosophy. Below is a list of workshops I attended during the completion of my Bachelor of Education. These experiences enriched my teaching practice and encouraged me to become a self-reflective educator. I look forward to seeking out continued opportunities for growth and learning as I continue my practice.

• Authentic, Innovative Literacy Learning with Technology, Karen Lirenman (May 2014)
• Cultivating Creativity in Your Classroom, Destination Imagination (May 2014)
• Teaching Tennis, TennisBC (Feb. 2014)
• HeartSmart Kids, Heart & Stroke Foundation (Feb. 2014)
• FunFriends K-2, Roxanne Jones (Feb. 2014)
• Gifted Education, Tiffany Poirier (Feb. 2014)
• Child Abuse Prevention, Roxanne Jones (Jan. 2014)
• Adventure Education, Sheldon Fraken (Jan. 2014)
• MindUP!, Andy Powell-Williams (Jan. 2014)
• Healthy Living, ActionSchools! BC (Nov. 2013)
• Cooperative Classrooms, Mike Galliford & Holly Stibbs (Oct. 2013)
• Social and Emotional Learning, Shelley Hymel (Oct. 2013)
• LGBTQ Issues and Social Justice in the Classroom, Out In Schools (Oct. 2013)

The Authentic, Innovative Literacy Learning Utilizing Technology workshop was particularly relevant to my professional inquiry. This session provided numerous teaching strategies to integrate video conferencing, blogging, and social media into the primary curriculum.  In particular, I appreciated Karen’s idea of video conferencing with classes in other communities or with experts in a related field of study to provide students with authentic and meaningful learning experiences. This suggestion illustrates how incorporating technology into primary classrooms not only provides the opportunity for integral skills development, but also allows students to meet people, content, and knowledge in new ways. Check out how I integrated technology into a Grade 2 Canadian Animals unit to increase student engagement!