Throughout this journey, I have used many techniques highlighted with in my coursework such as Literature Circles, Response Journals, Scaffolding, Project Based Inquiry and technology. It is my job as an educator to ready my students for 21 century learning. In doing so, I must continue to enhance each lesson to better motivate and reach each child.
Through literature circles, students were 51% more motivated to finish reading their novel and enjoyed the selection of novels provided. Vygotsky said: "The true direction of the development of thinking is not from the individual to the social, but from the social to the individual." This proves true with my students as they enjoyed the social aspect of a literature circle as they were able to delve into the novel and discuss what they loved and what frustrated them. Using response journals in their work better enabled students to go back and reflect upon parts of the novel for discussion and assessment. Vygotsky also stated: "What a child can do today with assistance, she can do herself tomorrow." By scaffolding reading materials and lessons, each students has a chance to comprehend using the gradual release of responsibility. When a student feels confident and able to succeed on their own, they become more motivated. By utilizing PBI in my classes, students are equipped with digital reading comprehension, have a say in what they study and can create a final product using technology. Much like literature circles, they love to bounce ideas off each other and work harmoniously together. Learning how to use new and interesting technology in class also prompts more interest and acts as a catalyst for them to delve deeply into their inquiry. I have grown tremendously as a person and as an educator throughout my graduate school experience. I think it is essential to continue to reinvent yourself as an educator, to stay current and up to date. Otherwise, what chance do we have to reach our children? This experience provided a much needed revamp in my teaching style to reach my 21st century learners and I find it invaluable. |
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