As a graduate student in Michigan State University's Master of Arts in Educational Technology program, I had opportunities to create several artifacts as I reflected on my learning and planned to better to my own teaching. Thus, please find a showcase of these artifacts below organized as such: reflections on what I've learned and applications to my role as a third grade teacher.
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Click on the images below to view. Enjoy!
REFLECTIONS ON LEARNING
3X3X3: ASSESSMENT OF CREATIVITY IN ARTS AND STEM-INTEGRATED PEDAGOGY BY PRE-SERVICE TEACHERS
I summarized the three main parts and three key takeaways of an academic research article in less than three minutes, all the while channeling my inner Dr. Seuss. I presented a large, overwhelming source of material within a three minute bite-sized chunk that could be easily understood by all. Of course, teachers must do this daily!
LEARNING BY FAILURE
Colleagues and I conducted a survey of teachers to analyze their views on failure's role in the classroom. We theorized on their responses, and I created an infographic. The infographic serves as a way to catch the eye of those not necessary interested in the topic and provide factual information in an engaging way.
A NEWLY MINTED UKE PLAYER
Charged with the task of learning a brand new skill using only online resources, I semi-successfully learned to play the ukulele! Check out the "how" behind my (semi) success. Also, seeking to learn something new on a budget? The Internet has endless resources-- get to it!
PLEASURE AND PEDAGOGY
Seeking answers to the question, "Does self-selected silent reading have a pedagogical purpose in the elementary classroom?," I authored a literature review that answers, "Yes." I am now confident in my ability to research when weighing pedagogical decisions that will greatly affect my students.
INTENTIONS FOR TEACHING
DREAM CLASSROOM DESIGN
Using Sketch Up and literature surrounding the best learning environments for children, I designed my dream third grade classroom. While not all is feasible, there are some great ideas that would apply to any classroom. It is my hope that my classroom set-ups both present and future reflect what I've learned.
GOOGLE DRAWINGS FIELD TRIP REFLECTION LESSON PLAN
I crafted a well-designed lesson plan that used Google Drawings to enhance instruction. The use of quality technology that fits the pedagogical task at hand can be so powerful given the correct context. I consistently seek to utilize this combination each day in my classroom!
MAKERFAIRE MAGIC
Together with colleagues, IÂ planned and hosted a MakerFaire at Michigan State University's Library. I designed a circuitry challenge using SquishyCircuits. I watched student creativity come alive in those few hours and now, I watch student creativity come alive in my own classroom as students conquer new challenges.
LEARNING THEORIES NEWSLETTER
I created a beginning-of-the-year newsletter for the parents in my third grade class, informing them of some of the ins and outs of third grade. My own beliefs about behaviorism, cognitivism, and growth mindset are reflected as I communicate with parents in a meaningful and informative way.
