I did it! 10 weeks of practicum and it is over! Just like that. At one point, I did not think it would be over but just like that its done. This last week has been all about marking, and getting final assignments back. Also about students getting their assignments to me as my SAs are not responsible for making them. Several students are not getting their things in but they have had ample warning. It has certainly taken the 10 weeks, maybe about 8 to get the groove of planning, teaching and “the other stuff”. I was happy to pick up that last class as I could get really organized and manage my time much better. I did not find taking on that last class was too hard, but I was prepared for it and so that made a difference.
What have a learned? One thing is that you really learn how to teach by teaching. There are a lot of theories we learn in school but you need to get into the classroom to really figure it out. I wish we had a bit more instruction on the basics as there were lots of “other stuff” that I wish I was prepared for. I can see the theories kicking in, but only once you get your feet grounded, and formed that relationship with the students. I also learned that you can plan and plan but things can change so don’t be married to your plans – its ok to change them and stay flexible. I learned this from schedule changes but also from just working with the students. They are the ones who are dictating how your lessons go. I think if I had the students from the beginning it would be different too – hard to come in and just “be the teacher” and “listen to me now” when they have formed a bond with the teacher already for the last 6 months.
I am exhausted from this practicum and looking forward to my CFE and classes again. But, as stressed as I was, the experience was good and I learned a lot and I am looking forward to my (2nd) career as a teacher.
