Summative Assessment

Throughout this semester in SED 407 instructional methods, design, and literacy I have learned many valuable lessons that have had a tremendous impact on me as a future teacher. In this course we have learned literacy based teaching methods and strategies through reading, research, observation, and implementation. In addition to learning how to be a good teacher I also discovered things like who I want to be as a teacher and what makes a good teacher. I have learned about teaching and teaching methods in SED 407 through many valuable learning experiences such as classroom observations, various panels, and through the implementation of two lesson plans in a history class.

            Classroom observations were a very valuable learning experience for me throughout the duration of SED 407. I was able to see examples of both good and bad teaching and implementation of the teaching strategies that we learned in class and in through readings. I also learned how to observe in a classroom through different protocols where we were asked to look at things like classroom management, questions, understanding by design, and student and teacher actions. These observations also allowed me to see what it is like for teachers and students in an “urban” high school that has a diverse array of students with different educational needs and how these needs addressed and met by teachers.

            The various panels that we participated in throughout the semester were another great learning experience for me. We were able to discuss many important subjects with teachers, administrators, students, parents, and student teachers. One of the most important things that I learned from these panels is what all of these different people think makes a good teacher. Though I believe what the teachers, administrators, parents, and student teachers had to say about this subject I think that the most important and my favorite answer to this question came from the student panel on September 18^th. The students said that they believe a good teacher makes learning fun, connects with and cares about their students, knows and loves their subject, is kind, understanding, patient, a friend, and a mentor. This answer was very valuable to me and is something that will stay with me in my future career as a teacher. 

            The most important learning experience that I had this semester was teaching and implementing two lesson plans in a class at CF High. This was my first time ever teaching in front of actual students and I have to admit I was a little nervous. Overall I believe the lessons went well. Most students were engaged, participating, and doing their work. I did learn that it is difficult deal with classroom management and teach at the same time. I enjoyed having the opportunity to actually implement some of the reading and writing strategies that we learned about in class in a real life situation. I came out of teaching these lessons feeling confident in my teaching skills and that this is really what I want to do as a career.

            Based on the RIC Conceptual Framework I believe that I was able to successfully experience and accomplish planning, action, and reflection during many different experiences in this class such as the three important ones that I have previously discussed. I also believe that I was able successfully experience and accomplish the course outcomes through these activities. I learned about and implemented various reading and writing strategies and how to use them as a teacher of history including Understanding by Design, cooperative learning, and direct instruction. I was able to analyze my teaching beliefs and practices and discover who I want to be as a teacher. Finally I was able to broaden my professional identity and gain confidence by leaning from Dr. Horwitz, various members of the CF High community, my peers, and my cooperating teacher.

            Now for the most difficult part of this assessment, grading myself. I honestly believe that I deserve a B plus in this class. I tried my best at everything I did throughout the semester however I know that there are some areas where I could have done better. I know that classroom discussion played a major role in this class and I often did not speak up during discussions. One major reason for this is that I think very deeply before I talk. Maybe I should have just gone with my gut instinct and said whatever was on my mind without the fear of being judged. I know that this is something that I need to work on as a professional and is something I strive to get better at.

            Overall I have found SED 407 to be an extremely valuable and enjoyable experience in my journey towards becoming a teacher. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to take this class at CF High. I learned many important lessons from my experiences in this class and look forward to implementing what I have learned in my next chapter of teacher education and throughout my future teaching career.