My Aha's!
I would have to say my greatest aha moment came when I finally conquered the fear of randomly clicking to make things in technology happen. I am proud to say that working through all of the assigned projects has given me more confidence in my abilities to figure things out and respond to those that are struggling along with me. As an educator, this is significant. We must be able to allow for personal deficiencies in order to lead the way into understanding. The whole premise of my philosophy was built on the concepts that students are individuals and as such, show varying levels of confidence and courage in questioning the world around them. If they are not comfortable, they will not seek. I feel that as an early childhood teacher I am in the best place to instill that love of learning and confidence within each student. By allowing for mistakes, questions, observations, and answer -seeking in the classroom there will not be any future technological advancement they will not embrace. Through this, the world is their classroom and I can be the interpreter and guide.
In developing the projects, I found opportunities that will allow me to teach by example. Examples of curiosity, building on current knowledge, chances for further study, collaborative/interactive educational opportunities, and fearlessness will be my directive.
My educational philosophy did not really change at all. My confidence changed, but not my beliefs. It was an important learning curve for me to listen to my own advice/words. I will strive for my students to be contributors and builders, not just sponges! Lofty goals, but worth every challenge.
It is so important that your confidence changed and for the better! You did a great job this semester.
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