"Don't limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do. You can go as far as your mind lets you. What you believe, you can achieve." -- Mary Kay Ash
Today's session started off on a good note, I was able to look at the calendar of events, and then start a rough draft of the Midterm Self-Reflection. What I did was take the calendar of events, and write down what I have accomplished, and what still needs to be done. Now all I need to do is reflect on what needs more attention, and get an idea of how I am going to organize my time. I know that time is of the essence, and I do need to start some of the activities, especially planning out some of the Family Literacy Celebrations which will take place towards the end of the semester. As I was going through the midterm self-reflection reminder, emailed by Dr. Rivera, I couldn't help but stumble over the last task. We are supposed to assess our work, and assign ourselves a grade. I was sharing with Dr. Rivera that, I think this is the most difficult task. We are our worst critics, and I know for one, I am most definitely hard on myself. As a teacher, having to assign grades is what I hate the most, because I believe all students learn regardless of what their letter grades dictate. Improvement has been made throughout the course of learning, and to assign an appropriate grade is somewhat a struggle. What is the determining factor of intelligence? What is the determining factor of learning? Just something to think about.
Later in the session we were joined by one of Dr. Rivera's students from another class. It was very helpful and encouraging to know, and finally make connections with others whom have gone through the program. They were discussing some of their course work, and I was able to contribute a little to their discussions. It was nice to hear another perspective. I look forward to our future meetings.
Image Taken From: http://evolvingelle.wordpress.com/2011/05/22/my-sunday-a-time-for-self-reflection/
Quote Taken From: http://ripplemaker.hubpages.com/hub/50_Inspirational_Quotes_for_Teachers
Joe,
ReplyDeleteAs we reach the midpoint of the semester, it's necessary to reflect on all that you've done in your training. I concur that assessing is not an easy task and there are various factors involved. The determining factor of learning is what will ultimately be accomplished with regards to objectives and essentially genuine understanding of what is being taught. Of course, our target should always be lifelong learning. We truly want the best for our students, so that they can succeed in life.
Indeed, collaboration with others is essential, and that's why I invited Lorna to join us and share her experience with you. As a graduate of the Language and Literacy Program, she has gone through the same challenges/training that you are facing now. She has expressed that you are doing great and that you are capable of passing the PRAXIS II for reading. I couldn't agree more. You can do it!
Best regards,
Dr. Rivera