Dear Senator John Pederson,
I am appalled by your bill proposal SF1291. I am a college student majoring in Special Education and I believe this bill is violating those children's rights. Every child should have the right to the best education possible. All children are equal and no child should be left behind, especially in education. This bill is taking away the right of students with disabilities to the highest level of education. Children in the special education program are already at risk of being left behind, so why would you want to solidify it by your proposal. These students need qualified professionals to help them achieve the highest level of education possible.
If this bill were to pass we would be ensuring students in special education programs that they are different, and do not deserve the same education. Teachers and professionals in the field would be under much more pressure to help their students stay in school. The bill would strain teachers ability to receive the best education possible. I cannot believe that this bill was ever proposed and I am very disturbed by your actions in office. Please do not propose this bill again, or any bill against education. If we provide and give to education now, the benefits in the future will be more than what you will save if you cut education budgets.
Sincerely,
Kate Robinson
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Group 9: Chapter 13
The main focus of this chapter is to make sure we are motivating our students. Student motivation should be a real world experience, and should be personalized to the students. As a teacher these are some characteristic of a motivating teacher:
-Become a role model
-Be enthusiastic
-Get to know your students
-Set realistic performance goals
-Give praise and constructive criticism
-Give students as much control over their own education
Teacher planning is very important also. Teachers need to select topics that relate to students and have objectives. Some skills include: caring, personal, positive expectations, enthusiasm, organization, focus, introductory reviews, questioning, feedback, and closure and application. Also, a teacher needs to choose an instructional strategy that will provide students with the highest level of learning. There are four different of instruction strategies: Direct Instruction, Lecture-discussion, Guided Discovery, and Cooperative Learning. I believe students of the 21st century will relate most to the last two styles.
-Become a role model
-Be enthusiastic
-Get to know your students
-Set realistic performance goals
-Give praise and constructive criticism
-Give students as much control over their own education
Teacher planning is very important also. Teachers need to select topics that relate to students and have objectives. Some skills include: caring, personal, positive expectations, enthusiasm, organization, focus, introductory reviews, questioning, feedback, and closure and application. Also, a teacher needs to choose an instructional strategy that will provide students with the highest level of learning. There are four different of instruction strategies: Direct Instruction, Lecture-discussion, Guided Discovery, and Cooperative Learning. I believe students of the 21st century will relate most to the last two styles.
The Science Express
http://www.facebook.com/scienceexpress
On class Tuesday we went to visit the Science Express. This is a trailer that goes around to schools and provides hands on science experiences to all levels of students. The Science Express also provides teacher workshops, and that is what we did. We went through a simple pipetting experiment and then discussed the many benefits of hands-on experiences. The great thing about the Science Express is that it has a wide curriculum of activities for students. Also, modifications can be made to ensure that every student has a fun learning experience.
On class Tuesday we went to visit the Science Express. This is a trailer that goes around to schools and provides hands on science experiences to all levels of students. The Science Express also provides teacher workshops, and that is what we did. We went through a simple pipetting experiment and then discussed the many benefits of hands-on experiences. The great thing about the Science Express is that it has a wide curriculum of activities for students. Also, modifications can be made to ensure that every student has a fun learning experience.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
My Educational Philosophy
My educational philosophy has been influenced by many factors. It is also not complete; I believe my philosophy will continue to grow as I do. My calling to the field of special education came naturally to me. I couldn’t see myself being in any job field other than education. In my paper I will discuss the following topics in order: the role of the learner, the purpose of schools in society, the duties of teachers, preparing students for the 21st century, and my ideas on classroom organization. I will discuss how my philosophy of education fits into each of these categories.
As someone who believes in Progressivism and Social Reconstructionism, I believe that students should be able to explore and develop their own personal growth through education. The learning experience of students should be experimental, fun, and real-world based. Students should be able to relate to the information they are learning. Also, I believe the students should be their own teachers. They should be able to choose how they want to learn, and what they want to learn. Teachers should be guides to help students stay on track with the curriculum and help the student strive for success. This idea of teaching is completely student centered. As stated in The Finland Phenomenon, I believe students should do 60% of the talking and teaching and the teacher should do 40%. This allows students to become more responsible for their own educational success and gives them a sense of empowerment. Also, it allows student to have more hands-on experiences, more critical thinking, and problem solving.
The education system we have now in America is failing the majority of our students. There needs to be a complete reconstruction of the system in order to help our kids. Right now our schools are only concerned about the adult needs. We are trying so hard to protect the jobs and programs at schools we are failing to address the students. We continue to have failing educators who are under tenure and cannot be disposed of. Students must always be the number one concern in the schools, community, and budget. If our schools were more students based I believe we would have higher test scores and lower dropout rates. Students’ input helps them control their education, and if they feel in control they are more likely to want to achieve more.
Our classrooms need to be more open to different teaching styles. Students learn best through experience. Classrooms where there are hands-on activities and experiments will benefit students more than a lecture. Students can manipulate the experiences to fit their own style of learning and relate that to their own lives. Students can explore and find ways to make every lesson fun and educational. This will create a safe learning environment for all students and can indirectly affect many other areas of the school.
Lastly, I believe that schools must do a better job of preparing students for the “real world.” Instilling values that students will need in their everyday lives is imperative. Every school is different and some students are exposed to more diversity than others. It is every schools job to produce respectful and knowledgeable citizens. Also, another quality student learn through school are their social skills. So, by having an open area for expression is very important.
I believe that everyone has the potential to be an amazing teacher; they just need to be relatable. I know in every class I’ve really enjoyed and excelled in I had an amazing teacher. Your duty as a teacher is to help your students grow and learn, but also to been seen as an equal. As a teacher I think your students should think of you as an equal mind. We are not superior to our students; we are there to be with them on their educational journey. Also, I believe you must have compassion for every single student. An effective teacher is patient, understanding, relatable, and willing to spend extra time.
I feel very strongly that students learn best when the curriculum includes a hands-on learning. I think active learners are more engaged in their schooling. In special education I believe it is crucial for students to be able to use critical thinking and problem solving. Special education students really need that interaction in order to be engaged. Lecturing is a thing of the past, and has been proven to be ineffective. I believe Progressivism and Social Reconstructionism teaching are important factors in the ability to change the educational system.
As a student of the 21st century I realize the importance of change, especially with technology. It is of growing importance that students in the U.S. keep up with technology. I believe this mindset is actually become detrimental to students. They have become so dependent on technology their communication skills have suffered. Also, problem solving has taken the backseat to Google. Today’s employers are looking for people who are technologically savvy, but also great with communication and collaboration skills. If we implement a Progressivism and Social Reconstructionism philosophy students will have more opportunities to develop those skills.
America has been continuing to slip in global competitiveness. We are being surpassed by many countries by astonishing numbers. Companies are hiring people from other countries because they are equipped for the new 21st century jobs. The newly graduated students in America are just not up to standards that employers are looking for. They have little communication skills or problem solving skills. Also, many people have become completely dependent on technology. I believe we need technology to advance in the world, but the U.S. educational system must do a better job of incorporating technology with communication and analytical skills too.
In order to produce a safe and effective learning environment classroom organization is a must. In my classroom I want my students to feel comfortable to explore and grow. It is very crucial in helping students reach their full potential. If the student is detached from the room they will have a much harder time connecting to their education. A welcoming open environment that encourages positive attitudes is a classroom that will help students become more involved in their education.
Classroom management is imperative in every classroom. The classroom should be a safe place for students to grow and learn. So, there must be well established rules and procedures to ensure an effective learning environment. I believe students should have a role in deciding the rules and procedures they will be following. If they have input into the final product I think they will be more likely to follow the rules. The structure a classroom provides will help students in the future to establish a health and responsible lifestyle. Being proactive with your students will help establish an equal ground.
In conclusion, my philosophy of education focuses on the students. I want all of my students to reach the highest level of achievement possible. My calling is to become a special education teacher and I believe my style of Progressivism and Social Reconstructionism is perfect for changing the educational experience of my students. I want my students to realize their potential and that they can achieve great things. Every child should get the highest level of education, and I will be there to help them along their journey. I will provide a safe open environment where my students can express their feelings and grow. I will be one of those teachers who makes a difference in my students’ education and lives.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Field Experience Reflection
For my field experience I was placed in 4th grade math at Kennedy Elementary. My cooperating teacher was Mrs. Ramler. I was scheduled to be there Monday’s from 12:00-2:00. I want to start out by saying that having a busy schedule and getting sick is very difficult. I had gone to one day of my experience before I became sick with mono. So I missed a few days because of being sick and rescheduled softball games.
In my classroom my teacher actually had me teaching the lessons in groups to the class. We did a lot of work with whiteboards and dry erase markers, and always worked in groups. Many of the lessons we did were related to preparation for the state testing. Also, my teacher did not leave time at the end of the class for me to teach the FERMI math our pre course had said we would. Which was fine with me, I really enjoyed being engaged in the students’ actual curriculum.
My first day was actually on Valentine’s Day! The first hour of my time was spent helping my teacher and the students with their geography work. After that we had a short math lesson which was split up into groups. With thirty minutes left in school the students had their Valentine’s Day party. I brought a candy treat for each of the students. I didn’t not have a candy bag, so some of the students were nice enough to share theirs with me. I was very nervous for this first day, but it ended up being very fun and easy!
I have completed six days of my field experience so far. I have two days to finish yet. My days spent in Mrs. Ramlers class were very useful to me. She does a great job of engaging her students, and provides a fun and efficient learning environment. Also, she knows how to get and keep the attention of her students. She uses a simple clapping tune to get her students attention. Instantly when her students hear that sound they are quiet and have all eyes on the teacher. Also, Mrs. Ramler uses a ticket system. Student can receive tickets for good behavior, work ethic, and assignments. The students then collect the ticket until they have enough to get a small treat. If a student misbehaved she would simply stick out her hand and ask for their ticket. The student cannot object to her authority, and this I believe gets students to gain respect for the teacher.
When I was working with students in group work this ticketing system was very helpful. I would pass out tickets at the beginning, and if the students did a good job and paid attention got to keep their tickets. Otherwise, I would hold out my hand and the students knew to hand over their ticket for the misbehavior. Even being just a field experience student, my students respected me and thought of me as authority.
I have really enjoyed my field experience thus far. I have learned many techniques I can use in my future. I was able to develop my skills and really learn through experience. The only problem I had with my experience is that there isn’t much diversity. In my class there is one African American girl, and one American Indian girl. There is also another student who is part of the special education program. I am very upset that this student is not mainstreamed into the class at all. I can tell Mrs. Ramler would love to have this student in her classroom more often, but he just isn’t allowed. It blows my mind and I feel terrible because I have never even talked to him before, I don’t even know his name.
I really would have loved to be place in a classroom that had more diversity. I really want to gain that experience of working with students of different backgrounds. I know being in a diverse environment would help me strengthen my cultural competency. In the future I hope I am placed in a school with more chances to experience these differences. I have enjoyed my class very much, and the students have been fantastic. For my overall experience I would put this at 3 out of 5. I know I could have built my skills and gained great experience in a more diverse classroom. Overall though it was an amazing experience, one that will help me create a future as a teacher.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Ideal Teacher Prep Program
There are many things that can be done to improve teacher preparation.
1. Give student teachers more time and experience. I believe this is the most important change that can be made. We have required hours that we must fulfill before we can graduate. But sometimes we still don't experience many of the situations that a first year teacher would.
2. Requiring teachers to take a second language. Student diversity is becoming more and more apparent in all schools. Learning a second language and studying another culture can help with closing the achievement gap for minority students.
3. Having all education majors take more diversity and special education courses. This will benefit all students in our classrooms. Incoming teachers will have more experience in student diversity, and how to help and teach students with special needs. This will help mainstreaming and helping all students achieve their highest educational ability.
1. Give student teachers more time and experience. I believe this is the most important change that can be made. We have required hours that we must fulfill before we can graduate. But sometimes we still don't experience many of the situations that a first year teacher would.
2. Requiring teachers to take a second language. Student diversity is becoming more and more apparent in all schools. Learning a second language and studying another culture can help with closing the achievement gap for minority students.
3. Having all education majors take more diversity and special education courses. This will benefit all students in our classrooms. Incoming teachers will have more experience in student diversity, and how to help and teach students with special needs. This will help mainstreaming and helping all students achieve their highest educational ability.
Philosophy of Education
In class we took a test that exames your philosophy of education. There are four different categories: Perennialism, essentialism, progressivism, and social reconstructionism. I scored highest in social reconstruction, then progressivism, then perennialism, and the lowest in essentialism. Social reconstruction teachers believe in asking social questions, questions about society. It's about improving the world around them and making students think critical and make their own conclusions. Progressivism is a student centered way of learning. The idea that you learn by doing or doing hands- on scientific experiements for example. These two types of teaching really fit me. I want to better my students and help them reach their highest potential. These types of teaching push students to work out problems on their own and use a teacher as a guide, instead of for the answers. Taking this test helped me put into words how I wish to be as a teacher. My educational philosophy will emphasize a students' role in their own education.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Group 7: Chapter 10
Chapter 10 discusses the many areas of school law. It's main focus was on the ethics and legal influences on teaching. The U.S. legal system includes: constitutional amendments, state, local, and the overlapping legal systems. The ethics involved in teaching is a very controversial topic. As teachers we must have professional ethics. We must know how to bridge the student/teacher relationship. A hot topic of discussion is facebook. Should student and teacher be allowed to be friends on facebook? I say no, for many reasons, but the debate is still going. The NEA (National Education Association) provides teachers with great resources to help them get started. Also, they provide protection in the event of legal matters. Teacher's rights and responsibilities include: licensure, contracts, collective bargaining, tenure and dismissal, teacher liability, academic freedom, copyright laws, teachers' private lives, and child abuse. All of these things are a part of the ethics of teachers.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
The Global Achievement Gap: Chapter 5
This chapter focused on 5 main points.
1. The first concern is about the poor work ethic in our youth. Is it poor work ethic, or are today's students just differently motivated?
2. Today's students are extremely technology orientated. Students feel the need to multi-task. They feel that they should be doing more than one thing at a time. Is this affecting their ability to concentrate on and finish one task at a time?
3. Young people in this day and age strive for immediate access to information. This makes us less patient and obviously more demanding. The internet gives us easy to access to any information we need. So this is becoming interrelated with technology.
4. Technology has been growing at increasing rate and it is important to understand the various ways that students are learning in today's world. We should incorporate technology into our lessons because students are familiar with it.
5. "Most students want learning to be active, not passive." Students want to be challenged and given more opportunities for creativity and self-expression. The student-teacher relationship is important! Our students need to feel like they can relate and talk to teachers.
1. The first concern is about the poor work ethic in our youth. Is it poor work ethic, or are today's students just differently motivated?
2. Today's students are extremely technology orientated. Students feel the need to multi-task. They feel that they should be doing more than one thing at a time. Is this affecting their ability to concentrate on and finish one task at a time?
3. Young people in this day and age strive for immediate access to information. This makes us less patient and obviously more demanding. The internet gives us easy to access to any information we need. So this is becoming interrelated with technology.
4. Technology has been growing at increasing rate and it is important to understand the various ways that students are learning in today's world. We should incorporate technology into our lessons because students are familiar with it.
5. "Most students want learning to be active, not passive." Students want to be challenged and given more opportunities for creativity and self-expression. The student-teacher relationship is important! Our students need to feel like they can relate and talk to teachers.
Group 6:Chapter 9
This chapter was based on how schools are funded. There is major funding inequities in Minnesota between urban and suburban schools. Each district has different needs and require different amounts of funding. Many schools try to pass local levies. The more commercial property in a district the less levies cost. This depends largely upon city planning and the concentration of poverty.
The "funding formula" must be revised in order to get schools the proper funding they need. There are many ideas floating around such as: giving more control to school boards and mayoral control. The central issue is low performing schools in urban areas. 96% of schools are controlled by school boards, but some people believe that mayoral control would be beneficial for urban school districts.
The "funding formula" must be revised in order to get schools the proper funding they need. There are many ideas floating around such as: giving more control to school boards and mayoral control. The central issue is low performing schools in urban areas. 96% of schools are controlled by school boards, but some people believe that mayoral control would be beneficial for urban school districts.
The Finland Phenomenon
Finland is considered the highest ranked country in education. They have continually scored highest in most areas of the PISA tests. Why is this? Well families in Finland value education and it is a top priority. The educational system there is also based off of one core curriculum. Also, the class size is much smaller and students stay with the same teacher for many years. This is beneficial in helping students with learning teaching techniques. Finland teachers are stressed to teach students how to think. They say it is up to the student to learn and discover. Less teacher time and more student time. Also, when they reach a certain level, students are allowed to pick between an academic track or a vocational track. The educational system in Finland is based on trust. There is very little testing of students and evaluation of teachers.
The 3 different ways teachers are prepared in Finland are.
1. The students must study hard and have excellent grades to have a chance at being excepted into college. Then the student must pass with high scores on an entrance exam to get into a teacher program.
2. Teachers in Finland go through a 5-year course study. 3 years will be spent in a graduates program and 2 years in a masters program.
3. Teachers in training are required to have a great deal of classroom observation. They will critique others and will be critiqued themselves. This is all in order to help teachers build experience to become great teachers.
The 3 different ways teachers are prepared in Finland are.
1. The students must study hard and have excellent grades to have a chance at being excepted into college. Then the student must pass with high scores on an entrance exam to get into a teacher program.
2. Teachers in Finland go through a 5-year course study. 3 years will be spent in a graduates program and 2 years in a masters program.
3. Teachers in training are required to have a great deal of classroom observation. They will critique others and will be critiqued themselves. This is all in order to help teachers build experience to become great teachers.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Anti-Bullying Law in Minnesota
http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2011/04/06/bullying-bill/
It's refreshing that there are people out there that are fighting for our students and their safety. But, for the senate to decline the bill saying that our standards are adequate. Why should our students only receive adequate protection against bullying. Why can't we provide them with equipped teachers and preventive programs. Most teacher are willing to take some refresher courses on bullying. I think that this law would greatly benefit our students and protect them before a situation occurs.
It's refreshing that there are people out there that are fighting for our students and their safety. But, for the senate to decline the bill saying that our standards are adequate. Why should our students only receive adequate protection against bullying. Why can't we provide them with equipped teachers and preventive programs. Most teacher are willing to take some refresher courses on bullying. I think that this law would greatly benefit our students and protect them before a situation occurs.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Students First
The Students First website was created by the former chancellor of the D.C. public schools, Michelle Rhee. She created the site after she was fired by the new mayor of D.C. The site was made to help safe the jobs of effective teachers. Every year thousands of effective teachers are loosing their jobs because of budget cuts. Meanwhile, teachers on ten year, whether effective or not, keep their jobs at their fixed pay.
The mission of this site is to develop a new model of "kids first." Too often the adults in control forget all about the needs of our future leaders. Children are experiencing all the heat when it comes to decisions made. They have no say in their own education. We need to flip politicians and unions minds and make them stop thinking about the adults and put their concern for the children. This is a great website to future teachers who will be in this category of "high risk." Effective teachers are the most important thing in educating students. We need to protect them and our children because our future depends on them.
The mission of this site is to develop a new model of "kids first." Too often the adults in control forget all about the needs of our future leaders. Children are experiencing all the heat when it comes to decisions made. They have no say in their own education. We need to flip politicians and unions minds and make them stop thinking about the adults and put their concern for the children. This is a great website to future teachers who will be in this category of "high risk." Effective teachers are the most important thing in educating students. We need to protect them and our children because our future depends on them.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Yemen's School of Democracy
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/video/2011/mar/21/yemen-school-democracy-video
In Yemen they are preparing students to vote on a peer to represent them in the Children's Parliament. They are electing these peers to help better life for children in Yemen. Students are pushing for better school conditions including: classroom supplies, toilets, playgrounds, and libraries. Students in Yemen are also worried about the job opportunities there. There is a shortage of jobs in Yemen, and the students want to know how that will affect them. The student in Parliament will also be fighting to stop child labour, so children can focus on school instead.
In Yemen they are preparing students to vote on a peer to represent them in the Children's Parliament. They are electing these peers to help better life for children in Yemen. Students are pushing for better school conditions including: classroom supplies, toilets, playgrounds, and libraries. Students in Yemen are also worried about the job opportunities there. There is a shortage of jobs in Yemen, and the students want to know how that will affect them. The student in Parliament will also be fighting to stop child labour, so children can focus on school instead.
Group 5: Chapter 8 (School Organization)
A school is defined as a social institution. They have academic goals, social and civic goals, vocational goals, and personal goals. They are made up of many different professionals. They include: principal, vice principal, guidance counselor, school psychologist, health-care provider, secretaries/receptionists, instructional support staff, custodians/cafeteria workers, and lastly teachers. Schools are split into three divisions: elementary schools (K-5), middle schools (6-8), and high schools (9-12).
Schools have many different factors that lead to their success or failure. The optimal class size is twenty students or less. They must have a clear academic focus and high collective efficiency. Interactive instruction leads to a higher level of learning. Frequent assessment is necessary to follow students progress and comprehension. Schools that have a safe and orderly environment are much more successful. The last major factor in a successful school is parent involvement. Chapter 8 also discusses virtual schools, a 4 day week, and charter schools.
How was my school organized? List the pros and cons.
My school was organized into an elementary school (2-6) and high school (K,1, 7-12). The seperation of kindergartners and first graders from the elementary was due to the lack of space and growing class sizes. They had a seperate wing of the high school that was prohibited to older students. I really liked how our school was organized. The 7th and 8th graders lockers were on the first floor as well as most of their classes, then the 9-12 was upstairs. The 9-12 was spilt up by hallways, each grade got their own hallway section of lockers. I think this type of set up is quite beneficial to students. The 7th and 8th graders are not bombarded by the upperclassmen, yet they have a chance to see that environment. The only con I had with my school was that kids in the special education program were not mainstreamed into classes well. Also, many of the para professionals were not only distracting to their students, but everyone in the classroom. All but a few were very rude and mean to thier students and that really bothered me.
Schools have many different factors that lead to their success or failure. The optimal class size is twenty students or less. They must have a clear academic focus and high collective efficiency. Interactive instruction leads to a higher level of learning. Frequent assessment is necessary to follow students progress and comprehension. Schools that have a safe and orderly environment are much more successful. The last major factor in a successful school is parent involvement. Chapter 8 also discusses virtual schools, a 4 day week, and charter schools.
How was my school organized? List the pros and cons.
My school was organized into an elementary school (2-6) and high school (K,1, 7-12). The seperation of kindergartners and first graders from the elementary was due to the lack of space and growing class sizes. They had a seperate wing of the high school that was prohibited to older students. I really liked how our school was organized. The 7th and 8th graders lockers were on the first floor as well as most of their classes, then the 9-12 was upstairs. The 9-12 was spilt up by hallways, each grade got their own hallway section of lockers. I think this type of set up is quite beneficial to students. The 7th and 8th graders are not bombarded by the upperclassmen, yet they have a chance to see that environment. The only con I had with my school was that kids in the special education program were not mainstreamed into classes well. Also, many of the para professionals were not only distracting to their students, but everyone in the classroom. All but a few were very rude and mean to thier students and that really bothered me.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
2 Million Minutes
The main focus of this documentary was to show the major differences in education between America, India, and China. America does not realize it is in competition with the rest of the world in terms of education. We are loosing our competitive edge. In America K-12 has been a failure for the past 25 years. We have not been challenging our students enough, especially in the areas on math and science. There is a definite difference in mindsets between American students and Chinese and Indian students.
In America the students get to make the decisions about their future. In China and India the parents basically decide their child's future. Parents India and China hold very high expectations and invest a great amount of time and energy into their children. For people in these countries an education is a passport out of poverty. Many students choose career paths in math, science, or engineering. These students spend a longer amount of time in school, also they spend twice as many hours studying than Americans. Economic mobility is a key factor in driving students from China and India to succeed.
In America the students get to make the decisions about their future. In China and India the parents basically decide their child's future. Parents India and China hold very high expectations and invest a great amount of time and energy into their children. For people in these countries an education is a passport out of poverty. Many students choose career paths in math, science, or engineering. These students spend a longer amount of time in school, also they spend twice as many hours studying than Americans. Economic mobility is a key factor in driving students from China and India to succeed.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Group 4: Chapter 7 (Educational Philosophy-The Intellectual Foundations of American Education)
There are 4 major philosophies of education. The first is Perennialism, which states human nature is constant and schools should teach classic knowledge. This philosophy is teacher-centered, and it emphasizes personal development. Important subject matter include: math, science, history, etc. The second philosophy is Essentialism. Essentialism focuses on a critical core of knowledge and skills. It is also teacher-centered and it focuses on essential skills. Important subject matter are: reading, writing, math, literature. Progressivism is the third philosophy. It focuses on real world problem solving and individual development. It is student-centered, and hands-on activities are important to "learn by doing." The last philosophy is social reconstruction. This philosophy emphasizes that schools, teachers, and students should lead in alleviating social inequities in our society. Social reform and social questioning are key factors. This philosophy emphasizes on teaching more drug, sex, bullying, etc. education.
Group 3: Chapter 6 (Education in the United States-Historical Roots)
Much education now is too controlled and industrialized. With all the advancements in technology, we are banning some of them in our schools. As future teachers we need to find a way to bridge technology, the community, and schools. Incorporating 21st century thinking can conquer the achievement gap we have. The system of standardized testing has proven to not be beneficial economically.
In our history, religion was the main reason for schools in the colonial period. The first period was the colonial period, second the national period, and third the common school period. All of these periods had distinct factors that defined them. There has been major changes just within the past 15 years. An example is the change of Native American to American Indian. Yet some people have not embraced these changes.
In our history, religion was the main reason for schools in the colonial period. The first period was the colonial period, second the national period, and third the common school period. All of these periods had distinct factors that defined them. There has been major changes just within the past 15 years. An example is the change of Native American to American Indian. Yet some people have not embraced these changes.
Group 2: Chapter 5 (Student Diversity-Development, Ability, and Exceptionalities)
The chapter focuses on the differences in development, ability, and exceptionalities your students may have. Firstly, development depends upon a students experiences. These experiences come from parents, teachers, other adults, and peers. Development can be cognitive, moral, personal, or social. The second area involves a students ability. Intelligence is made up of three components: the capacity to acquire knowledge, the ability to think and reason in abstract, and the ability to problem solve. Learning styles emphasize differences in the ways students prefer to learn in the classroom. A student's ability to learn is different from one student to the next. Effective teaching is sensitive to these differences and adapt their teaching accordingly. Lastly, is the topic of students with exceptionalities. IDEA has set standards on how we provide for those who have exceptionalities. These students fall into four major categories: learning disabilities, communication disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and behavior disabilities. Also, a majority of these students are also gifted and talented. IEP's are a set of instructions to meet the learning needs of these students. Effective teachers use different types of learning to give these students the highest level of education. We must help all of our students reach their academic success.
Group 1: Chapter 4 (Student Diversity-Culture, Language, and Gender)
The main point in this chapter is the student diversity in our schools. Cultural diversity influences learning, so how do teachers respond to this diversity effectively. Some of the cultural values and attitudes complement our school learning. Also, adapting instruction to integrate home and school patterns. Teacher who have ELL students have an exciting opportunity to help their students. Providing multiple opportunities for students to practice their developing language skills with their peers.
Lastly, the chapter explores how gender differences influence school success. Not only are students genetically different, they are different because of society. Powers play a very important role in gender differences. As teachers we must ensure that gender differences don't become gender inequalities.
Lastly, the chapter explores how gender differences influence school success. Not only are students genetically different, they are different because of society. Powers play a very important role in gender differences. As teachers we must ensure that gender differences don't become gender inequalities.
The Global Achievement Gap: Chapters 3 & 4
Chapter 3:
This chapter focuses on a few different aspects of the No Child Left Behind law. This law requires state testing to hold schools accountable for yearly progress. Wagner asks if these tests are assessing the skills that students are going to need for work and college? His second question is, what is the impact of teaching for the tests on students motivation to stay in school? Employers are looking for people who are professional and have a good work ethic. Also, oral and written communication, critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and leadership are essential to employers.
The PISA tests are based on scientific and mathematical literacy. The PISA results show that American adolescents are very unprepared in these subjects compared to other countries. Yet, I feel that this does not quite make sense. If employers are not intrested in these areas, why should students study them. It is just another area that is attributing to our educational achievement gap. I think these types of information are continuing the confusion of what our students should be learning. How are we as future teacher going to address this problem?
Chapter 4:
The main idea of this chapter is to reinvent education. It is not as easy as it seems, showing from Tony Wagner's workshop. It is hard to come to consensus between administrators and teachers. In order to reinvent education we must understand how educators are prepared to teach. How different people learn and interact with their fellow teachers. As new teachers we must consider and weigh our experiences. We want to create an effective curiculum, but how will we do that? Is it going to take me a few years of failure to become a beneficial teacher? I hope not, I will learn from my experiences and provide the best education to my students.
Tony speaks about what a new type of teacher could be. New requirements could make teachers more prepared, and provide supervision that is more effective. Teacher preparation would look like a system of internships, with more hands on experience and mentoring. I feel like this is a great idea for future educators. The more real life experince we have the better we can be. I would love to see this implemented in the near future, possibly even before I graduate. During my field experience now I learn so much, I can only imagine the benefits of this type of preparation. This educational reinvention could possibly change the achievement gap of our students.
This chapter focuses on a few different aspects of the No Child Left Behind law. This law requires state testing to hold schools accountable for yearly progress. Wagner asks if these tests are assessing the skills that students are going to need for work and college? His second question is, what is the impact of teaching for the tests on students motivation to stay in school? Employers are looking for people who are professional and have a good work ethic. Also, oral and written communication, critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and leadership are essential to employers.
The PISA tests are based on scientific and mathematical literacy. The PISA results show that American adolescents are very unprepared in these subjects compared to other countries. Yet, I feel that this does not quite make sense. If employers are not intrested in these areas, why should students study them. It is just another area that is attributing to our educational achievement gap. I think these types of information are continuing the confusion of what our students should be learning. How are we as future teacher going to address this problem?
Chapter 4:
The main idea of this chapter is to reinvent education. It is not as easy as it seems, showing from Tony Wagner's workshop. It is hard to come to consensus between administrators and teachers. In order to reinvent education we must understand how educators are prepared to teach. How different people learn and interact with their fellow teachers. As new teachers we must consider and weigh our experiences. We want to create an effective curiculum, but how will we do that? Is it going to take me a few years of failure to become a beneficial teacher? I hope not, I will learn from my experiences and provide the best education to my students.
Tony speaks about what a new type of teacher could be. New requirements could make teachers more prepared, and provide supervision that is more effective. Teacher preparation would look like a system of internships, with more hands on experience and mentoring. I feel like this is a great idea for future educators. The more real life experince we have the better we can be. I would love to see this implemented in the near future, possibly even before I graduate. During my field experience now I learn so much, I can only imagine the benefits of this type of preparation. This educational reinvention could possibly change the achievement gap of our students.
Monday, March 21, 2011
St. Paul School Board
http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2011/03/16/stpaul-school-plan/
This article is about how the St. Paul school district plans to restructure its schools. The school board plans to change the achievement gap between schools. To equalize the schools in the district, to cut down on the excessive busing. By changing the environment outside and inside the schools. This will help equalize the learning that takes place between magnet schools and urban schools. This way we give equal opportunity to every person, no matter their economic standings.
This article is about how the St. Paul school district plans to restructure its schools. The school board plans to change the achievement gap between schools. To equalize the schools in the district, to cut down on the excessive busing. By changing the environment outside and inside the schools. This will help equalize the learning that takes place between magnet schools and urban schools. This way we give equal opportunity to every person, no matter their economic standings.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Listening to America Video: Unequal Education
This video followed two young men in their schooling experience. Both live in New York City, one goes to a middle-class school, and the other a urban inner city school. Throughout the video there is a huge emphasis on the fact that there is a huge gap between middle-class and minority-rich urban schools. "Where you buy your house, you buy a school."
Urban schools have many uncertified teachers. In middle-class schools most all the teachers teach in their certified area. Also, the resources and after school activities are important in building students futures. In those schools where parents are involved have a higher rate of student success.
Free choice of parents is creating segregation. With government vouchers parents can afford to send their children to private school. But what people can afford these school, white middle-class families. No rich white family will send their children to a school with poor black kids. Federal mandates and vouchers are creating segregation. There needs to be an equitable school system. We need to see a shift from property tax funding of schools towards a different more equal source of funding.
Urban schools have many uncertified teachers. In middle-class schools most all the teachers teach in their certified area. Also, the resources and after school activities are important in building students futures. In those schools where parents are involved have a higher rate of student success.
Free choice of parents is creating segregation. With government vouchers parents can afford to send their children to private school. But what people can afford these school, white middle-class families. No rich white family will send their children to a school with poor black kids. Federal mandates and vouchers are creating segregation. There needs to be an equitable school system. We need to see a shift from property tax funding of schools towards a different more equal source of funding.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
The Global Achievement Gap: Chapter 2
There are a few key points in Chapter 2:
1. Gap is between what the academically able students are being taught vs. what is needed to succeed in today's world.
2. Right now are teachers are not teaching the skills that are needed for people to succeed in today's society. Some students are coming out with good test scores, but they have no hands-on-skills. High schools are supposed to be preparing students for college, and college is supposed to prepare students for their work force. But, after graduation students are not at the level they are expected to be at.
3. No Child Left Behind act is becoming one of the leading cause of the "test prep" teaching style that is becoming so common in our school systems. Teachers are not teaching for learning purposes, they are teaching preparation for the BIG test. These tests are being taken every two years, and are used for the accountability for the success of their students.
4. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development is the designer of a different standardized test. It assesses the skills need in life on a regular basis, through problem solving and other assessments.
1. Gap is between what the academically able students are being taught vs. what is needed to succeed in today's world.
2. Right now are teachers are not teaching the skills that are needed for people to succeed in today's society. Some students are coming out with good test scores, but they have no hands-on-skills. High schools are supposed to be preparing students for college, and college is supposed to prepare students for their work force. But, after graduation students are not at the level they are expected to be at.
3. No Child Left Behind act is becoming one of the leading cause of the "test prep" teaching style that is becoming so common in our school systems. Teachers are not teaching for learning purposes, they are teaching preparation for the BIG test. These tests are being taken every two years, and are used for the accountability for the success of their students.
4. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development is the designer of a different standardized test. It assesses the skills need in life on a regular basis, through problem solving and other assessments.
Field Experience: Day 2
Due to district holidays and being sick, I had my second day of my field experience this Monday. I felt like it was a very successful day! The class was split into three groups, and I taught each group about translations, reflections, and rotations. The groups were split up on the basis of ability. My teacher gave me a chance to work with each group and adjust to each. Helping teaching these students has given me a chance to really advance my methods. I am looking forward to the rest of my time at Kennedy Elementary.
21st Century Skills
Tony Wagner the author of The Global Achievement Gap has come up with seven survival skills. In his video he explains each of the survival skills in detail. The seven skills are:
1. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
2. Collaboration Across Networks and Leading by Influence
3. Agility and Adaptability
4. Initiative and Entrepreneurialism
5. Effective Oral and Written Communication
6. Accessing and Analyzing Information
7. Curiosity and Imagination
Tony stresses that in order for students to be successful they must have these seven skills. This is what our future employers are looking for. These skills are the "new basic skills" for work, learning, and citizenship in the 21st century. By training our teachers these skills it will be passed on to the future students pushing them even farther in their education.
1. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
2. Collaboration Across Networks and Leading by Influence
3. Agility and Adaptability
4. Initiative and Entrepreneurialism
5. Effective Oral and Written Communication
6. Accessing and Analyzing Information
7. Curiosity and Imagination
Tony stresses that in order for students to be successful they must have these seven skills. This is what our future employers are looking for. These skills are the "new basic skills" for work, learning, and citizenship in the 21st century. By training our teachers these skills it will be passed on to the future students pushing them even farther in their education.
Atomic Learning
Atomic Learning provides online tutorials and technology resources. It was designed for schools and higher educational facilities to use. A representative from the Curriculum Technology Center gave us a presentation on how to use Atomic Learning. This is a great resource for anyone looking into learning more about technology. It provides helpful tutorials on how to work almost any function of technology. You can look up resources on how to use Blogger, Skype, APA formatting, and many other things. I am lucky to have this program to help me with advancements in my educational experience. It is a great resource for anyone working with technology.
Japan's Push for More English
http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2011/mar/08/japan-launches-primary-english-push
Japan has been in last place in Asian countries in their English proficiency. With this new proposal Japanese students ages 10-12 will have English lessons once a week. By the time they leave primary school, the students will have learned 285 and 50 expressions. I think this will help the Japanese to climb higher in the standings in English proficiency. If the United States were to take these type of steps we could see definite strides in foreign language proficiency. Multilingualism will help student in the U.S. make strides towards a higher education, and put them in the runnings with other countries.
Japan has been in last place in Asian countries in their English proficiency. With this new proposal Japanese students ages 10-12 will have English lessons once a week. By the time they leave primary school, the students will have learned 285 and 50 expressions. I think this will help the Japanese to climb higher in the standings in English proficiency. If the United States were to take these type of steps we could see definite strides in foreign language proficiency. Multilingualism will help student in the U.S. make strides towards a higher education, and put them in the runnings with other countries.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Speaking in Tongues
In class we watch the movie Speaking in Tongues. This movie was a documentary of sorts, showing us about immersion schools. We saw three Chinese immersion schools and one Spanish. The video showed both sides of the story, pros and cons. There are many benefits of have bilingual students. If taught at a young age, students can learn both English and another language with great proficiency. It has also been shown that these students are test at the same level or higher than their monolingual peers. Some parents had concerns that if they are learning all their subjects in the foreign language how will they ever be able to do it properly in English. They also thought that if we are in America and the national language is English, than that is what their children should be learning.
I believe that the United States does not have one national language. We have always been a country of differences and opportunities, so why hold ourselves to any one way of thought. I think by making our students bilingual it will greatly benefit many areas of our country. Students will be able to communicate better with those who do not speak English. Also, in our competitive job market, employers are really looking for people who are bilingual and adaptable.
I believe that the United States does not have one national language. We have always been a country of differences and opportunities, so why hold ourselves to any one way of thought. I think by making our students bilingual it will greatly benefit many areas of our country. Students will be able to communicate better with those who do not speak English. Also, in our competitive job market, employers are really looking for people who are bilingual and adaptable.
Honoring the "6th Man"
http://www.sctimes.com/article/20110301/SPORTS03/103010007/-1/highschool
The Apollo high school basketball team honored one of its greatest fans. Ross Evans was given a basketball jersey with the number 6 on it. Honor him as the 6th man on the court, always cheering his team on to victory. Ross is a senior at Apollo and he is the Eagles biggest fan.
This story really won me over. I think it is amazing when we as students and educators find ways to incorporate everyone regardless of any differences. Many schools and students are in need of this type of interaction. There is such a divide between "normal" and "exceptional" students. I believe programs that incorporate both types of students is very beneficial. Students are able to see that there are not really any differences between them, they are both students looking to reach a higher education. I wish that you would hear more of these types of stories now a days. Making students feel "normal" can be the most beneficial way of helping them reach their goals.
The Apollo high school basketball team honored one of its greatest fans. Ross Evans was given a basketball jersey with the number 6 on it. Honor him as the 6th man on the court, always cheering his team on to victory. Ross is a senior at Apollo and he is the Eagles biggest fan.
This story really won me over. I think it is amazing when we as students and educators find ways to incorporate everyone regardless of any differences. Many schools and students are in need of this type of interaction. There is such a divide between "normal" and "exceptional" students. I believe programs that incorporate both types of students is very beneficial. Students are able to see that there are not really any differences between them, they are both students looking to reach a higher education. I wish that you would hear more of these types of stories now a days. Making students feel "normal" can be the most beneficial way of helping them reach their goals.
Canadian School for Low-Income Students
http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/02/02/402468_ap.html
I think the main idea behind the school is great. Some students of lower SES backgrounds are not receiving the adequate education. They are behind in their school and therefore worsening their chances of ever getting out of their poverty. This new school would bus the low income students in Niagara area to school. The school would also provide breakfast, lunch, and after-school programs.
Though this is a great stride towards helping education, it shows definite flaws. I do not like the idea of separating students on the basis of their economic background. I really think that all school should try and make strides towards providing these amenities to their students. The charter school can only help a number of children chosen through a lottery, so what happens to the rest of the children. I realize many of our schools do not have the funding to provide these students with the amenities they need to succeed. Changes in government spending would greatly benefit education, and in the long run lower certain costs such as our prison facilities. So, yes I do believe charter schools are a great thing, but not a the cost of creating more division between economic levels of students.
I think the main idea behind the school is great. Some students of lower SES backgrounds are not receiving the adequate education. They are behind in their school and therefore worsening their chances of ever getting out of their poverty. This new school would bus the low income students in Niagara area to school. The school would also provide breakfast, lunch, and after-school programs.
Though this is a great stride towards helping education, it shows definite flaws. I do not like the idea of separating students on the basis of their economic background. I really think that all school should try and make strides towards providing these amenities to their students. The charter school can only help a number of children chosen through a lottery, so what happens to the rest of the children. I realize many of our schools do not have the funding to provide these students with the amenities they need to succeed. Changes in government spending would greatly benefit education, and in the long run lower certain costs such as our prison facilities. So, yes I do believe charter schools are a great thing, but not a the cost of creating more division between economic levels of students.
Intercultural Development Inventory
Last week in class we took a test that measured our Intercultural Competency. It measured our competency on several different levels that include: denial, polarization, minimization, acceptance, and adaptation. Denial is at the far lower end of the spectrum, denial does not recognize the deeper cultural differences between cultures. At the opposite end of the spectrum is adaptation. Adaptation is an orientation that is capable of shifting cultural perspectives. As teachers we must reach this higher level of thinking if we ever want to change and adapt with the ever changing cultures of our students.
My results came back with my perceived orientation was 122.85, which is within the acceptance category. However, my developmental orientation came back at 97.47, which is withing the minimization category. I am not surprised by my results. I came from a small non-diverse school district, so I have not experienced many things students from more populated districts have. I do perceive myself in an acceptance stage, but in all actuality I'm not sure what I would do in certain situation because I have not been exposed to them before. As a future teacher I want to keep moving to the acceptance and adaptation stages. Educators must be able to adapt to their students different learning patterns/styles. Creating awareness to me now, I now have a better understanding of where I am at, and where I need to be to become a successful teacher.
My results came back with my perceived orientation was 122.85, which is within the acceptance category. However, my developmental orientation came back at 97.47, which is withing the minimization category. I am not surprised by my results. I came from a small non-diverse school district, so I have not experienced many things students from more populated districts have. I do perceive myself in an acceptance stage, but in all actuality I'm not sure what I would do in certain situation because I have not been exposed to them before. As a future teacher I want to keep moving to the acceptance and adaptation stages. Educators must be able to adapt to their students different learning patterns/styles. Creating awareness to me now, I now have a better understanding of where I am at, and where I need to be to become a successful teacher.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
U of M student rally
http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2011/02/22/student-protest/
I think these rallies are an important step in getting our legislature to hear us. The educational system is key for all other areas of our country. We need to fund schooling in order to produce the workers our companies are in need of.
I think if we can turn around the governments thoughts on education we'd see an improvement in all areas of the economy. We need to keep rallying and get our legislature to consider stopping the funding cuts.
I think these rallies are an important step in getting our legislature to hear us. The educational system is key for all other areas of our country. We need to fund schooling in order to produce the workers our companies are in need of.
I think if we can turn around the governments thoughts on education we'd see an improvement in all areas of the economy. We need to keep rallying and get our legislature to consider stopping the funding cuts.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Reinventing English in France
http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2011/feb/08/tefl-france
France's education minister Luc Chatel is looking at new ways to incorporate English into education. He is suggesting that teaching English around age 3 has shown promising benefits. He has also been looking at different computer programs to help aid students, but this area is still under some controversy.
This advancement in English would be very beneficial to students in many areas. Being multilingual has shown to be very beneficial in education and in the work force. I think that if other countries can get their children to start with English at a younger age, then so can the United States. I think it would benefit our students greatly, and help them with their future education. This could be a great starting point to incorporation a more multicultural curriculum in many schools.
France's education minister Luc Chatel is looking at new ways to incorporate English into education. He is suggesting that teaching English around age 3 has shown promising benefits. He has also been looking at different computer programs to help aid students, but this area is still under some controversy.
This advancement in English would be very beneficial to students in many areas. Being multilingual has shown to be very beneficial in education and in the work force. I think that if other countries can get their children to start with English at a younger age, then so can the United States. I think it would benefit our students greatly, and help them with their future education. This could be a great starting point to incorporation a more multicultural curriculum in many schools.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Field Experience: Day 1
Today was my first day in my field experience. I was placed in a 4th grade math at Kennedy Elementary in St. Joseph. I really enjoyed my first day, especially because it was Valentines day! We cut our math time down so we could exchange and share treats. I really enjoy the teacher and helpers, and I am excited to be in their classroom.
Waiting for Superman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFN0nf6Hqk0
Today I watch the new release called Waiting for Superman. I thought this movie was eye-opening and very informative. It was a documentary on the United State's educational system. It showed startling statistics for many metro areas. I recommend this movie to anyone going into education. We all can work together to make a change in our failing educational system.
I want to be the teacher that can make a change. I want my students to know I care about their education and future. I will work towards changing our failing schools, even if it takes one student at a time. To prepare myself I will keep updated on news and policies that are happening. I will listen to suggestion to change and help others do the same. I believe with our new generation of teachers we can make the difference we want to see in the world.
Today I watch the new release called Waiting for Superman. I thought this movie was eye-opening and very informative. It was a documentary on the United State's educational system. It showed startling statistics for many metro areas. I recommend this movie to anyone going into education. We all can work together to make a change in our failing educational system.
I want to be the teacher that can make a change. I want my students to know I care about their education and future. I will work towards changing our failing schools, even if it takes one student at a time. To prepare myself I will keep updated on news and policies that are happening. I will listen to suggestion to change and help others do the same. I believe with our new generation of teachers we can make the difference we want to see in the world.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Bullying in Anoka-Hennepin School District
http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2010/12/17/report-no-link-with-bullying-and-anoka-suicides/
I think this article is a real piece of work. To say that none of these suicides happened because of bullying is wrong. They are trying to make there school district sound perfect by basically saying there is no bullying there. Maybe not all of the suicides were an act from being bullied, but you don't know what else would give them reason. Students often do not report bullying issues, because they are afraid that the bullying will get worse. What they do not realize is that it can only get better if they report it. Then it is put upon the educators shoulders to make sure that the situation is handled and stopped. If we do not provide schools with enough information and training in these situations, the bullying will never stop, and our students will still be in danger. I think it is very sad for this school district to be denying the suicides were not partially a result of bullying. And I am sorry for the students in that school district who may not be getting the help they need from their educators. Bullying is a problem everywhere, and you cannot deny that it doesn't happen even when you have a no bullying policy.
I think this article is a real piece of work. To say that none of these suicides happened because of bullying is wrong. They are trying to make there school district sound perfect by basically saying there is no bullying there. Maybe not all of the suicides were an act from being bullied, but you don't know what else would give them reason. Students often do not report bullying issues, because they are afraid that the bullying will get worse. What they do not realize is that it can only get better if they report it. Then it is put upon the educators shoulders to make sure that the situation is handled and stopped. If we do not provide schools with enough information and training in these situations, the bullying will never stop, and our students will still be in danger. I think it is very sad for this school district to be denying the suicides were not partially a result of bullying. And I am sorry for the students in that school district who may not be getting the help they need from their educators. Bullying is a problem everywhere, and you cannot deny that it doesn't happen even when you have a no bullying policy.
Bullied
http://www.tolerance.org/bullied
Today I watched the movie Bullied. As a future teacher I will always be a protector of my students. The schooling system should be a safe haven for students to learn and grow. Our students should be able to come to any one of their teachers and get help. I would never give up on a student if they were in trouble. No matter the situation and my personal beliefs about it, I would help my students. How are students supposed to know if it's ok to stand up to something, if their teachers never do. No matter the situation, students should not be subjected to the cruelty of bullying.
Today I watched the movie Bullied. As a future teacher I will always be a protector of my students. The schooling system should be a safe haven for students to learn and grow. Our students should be able to come to any one of their teachers and get help. I would never give up on a student if they were in trouble. No matter the situation and my personal beliefs about it, I would help my students. How are students supposed to know if it's ok to stand up to something, if their teachers never do. No matter the situation, students should not be subjected to the cruelty of bullying.
Monday, February 7, 2011
The Global Achievement Gap: Chapter 1
The author of The Global Achievement Gap, Tony Wagner, raises awareness about the United States education. The U.S. is continually falling behind other nations in education. We have become more concerned if our teachers are teaching well, rather than if our students are learning. The introduction of standardized testing has forced teachers to make sure that their students are prepped for the information on the test, rather than problem solving and critical thinking.
Tony introduces seven important survival skills that everyone should have. They are:
1. Critical thinking and problem solving
-These skills are important not only in the classroom, but also in the workplace. Employees need to be able to use these skills to make changes and advancements in their company or workplace.
2. Collaborations across networks and leading by influence
-In this section Tony presses that teamwork and collaboration are changing terms. Students today lack leadership and teamwork skills, which are important factors in the workplace.
3. Agility and adaptability
-This section talks about jobs, and how they are ever-changing. This forces workers to be able to adapt and change along with their job and be able to excel.
4. Initiative and entrepreneurship
-There are more opportunities for people to go out and create ideas and strategies.
5. Effective oral and written communication
-High school and college graduates do not have effective communication skills. Companies are looking for people who can communicate their thoughts and ideas, and newly graduated students do not possess these skills.
6. Accessing and analyzing information
-There is so much information out there for people to access now, but students do not know what is relevant and important.
7. Curiosity and imagination
-New employees need to be able to come up with new and creative ideas to put their company on top. They need to have the ideas to compete and excel in their field.
Finally, Wagner discusses that we cannot succeed if we do not approach our goal with a global perspective. Our world is so diverse, and even in the United States we are so diverse, we need to know what's going on around us. Our students in the U.S. are falling behind because of the "mono" school system. Diversity in our schooling systems is a great engine for developing a more global curriculum. I think it would be very beneficial for students to be bi or multilingual and have more global perspectives classes. If this happens we can put the U.S. back in the runnings in education.
Tony introduces seven important survival skills that everyone should have. They are:
1. Critical thinking and problem solving
-These skills are important not only in the classroom, but also in the workplace. Employees need to be able to use these skills to make changes and advancements in their company or workplace.
2. Collaborations across networks and leading by influence
-In this section Tony presses that teamwork and collaboration are changing terms. Students today lack leadership and teamwork skills, which are important factors in the workplace.
3. Agility and adaptability
-This section talks about jobs, and how they are ever-changing. This forces workers to be able to adapt and change along with their job and be able to excel.
4. Initiative and entrepreneurship
-There are more opportunities for people to go out and create ideas and strategies.
5. Effective oral and written communication
-High school and college graduates do not have effective communication skills. Companies are looking for people who can communicate their thoughts and ideas, and newly graduated students do not possess these skills.
6. Accessing and analyzing information
-There is so much information out there for people to access now, but students do not know what is relevant and important.
7. Curiosity and imagination
-New employees need to be able to come up with new and creative ideas to put their company on top. They need to have the ideas to compete and excel in their field.
Finally, Wagner discusses that we cannot succeed if we do not approach our goal with a global perspective. Our world is so diverse, and even in the United States we are so diverse, we need to know what's going on around us. Our students in the U.S. are falling behind because of the "mono" school system. Diversity in our schooling systems is a great engine for developing a more global curriculum. I think it would be very beneficial for students to be bi or multilingual and have more global perspectives classes. If this happens we can put the U.S. back in the runnings in education.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
India's outcasts put faith in English
http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2011/jan/11/learning-english-india-dalits-rahman
I thought this article was extremely interesting and important. English is important in many countries, because it can separate rich from poor. The Dalits are building this temple to free them from the oppression of a caste system. School teachers in India are mostly from a high class and mistreat Dalits. With this new temple they are hoping to break from the barrier that separates the castes.
I believe this is a great step for education in India. Everyone, no matter your status or amount of money can get an education. This can help many families, because an education person can get a job. The lower caste can work to keep their families out of poverty.
I thought this article was extremely interesting and important. English is important in many countries, because it can separate rich from poor. The Dalits are building this temple to free them from the oppression of a caste system. School teachers in India are mostly from a high class and mistreat Dalits. With this new temple they are hoping to break from the barrier that separates the castes.
I believe this is a great step for education in India. Everyone, no matter your status or amount of money can get an education. This can help many families, because an education person can get a job. The lower caste can work to keep their families out of poverty.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
The Freedom Writers
http://www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/site/c.kqIXL2PFJtH/b.5183373/k.DD8B/FWF_Home.htm
1. What are some of the hopes and expectations Erin has prior to starting her first job?
Erin was expecting to go into her classroom and be able to teach and change her students right away. She quickly realized that she had much more of a challenge than she originally anticipated.
2. What realities and challenges confronted her in the beginning of the year?
She had a group of students who had been categorized as "unteachable." They were very diverse and had been exposed to some of the most dangerous situations in life. The students already had a mind set that they would never be able to succeed.
3. What were some of the case scenarios of the lived experiences of the students she had in class?
A student named Ava was in a great deal of trouble. Her father was in jail, and she was expected to lie under oath because of the gang she belonged to. Many of the students in her class grew up with a unstable family. They had many family and friends killed, due to gang involvement, drugs, money, etc.
4. How did the student's attitudes towards learning impact their learning performance?
The students in room 203 had a very negative attitude towards learning. They were never told that they could learn and accomplish anything. Their previous teachers had never expected anything from them, so why should they feel like they could.
5. What strategies did Erin incorporate to break down the barriers between the students and the teacher?
Erin promoted a very diverse educational philosophy. She kept them involved by using life experiences and conversation. Erin was resilient with her class, she showed up everyday with a lesson and a purpose. She believed in every one of her students, and would not give up.
6. What kinds of teaching methods worked with the students?
The students stayed engaged in activities that included conversation and open mindedness. The students kept journals that they could be open and honest in. They were able to express their thoughts and opinion without controversy. After she captured her students, Erin started taking them on field trips, had speakers, and began using more traditional learning methods.
7. How did Erin develop curriculum that connected with the students?
She had to find something that all her students could connect with. The problem was that she had to get them out of the inner city and its troubles. The story of the holocaust and Anne Frank was what she chose. The students read her diary, and were awoken to issues outside of their own. They also met with a holocaust survivor and were able to ask her question and thank her.
8. What were the attitudes and challenges from other teachers and administrators in the school?
Erin was faced with the argument that these students were not worth the time or money. They would never accomplish anything, all they do is ruin the school. This was a struggle for Erin, because she couldn't get the support she needed to get them books and field trips. Many teachers became resentful towards Erin, because they realized the difference she was making that they couldn't.
9. What role did Erin's expectations for the students have on their learning?
Erin always had a plan for her students. She knew that everyone of them had potential, it just needed to be presented to them. She had to make them realize that they were important, and from there they knew they were. Her students knew that Erin cared, and they didn't want to disappoint her because she cared.
10. What lessons did you learn from this in regards to your first year of teaching?
It made me realize that you cannot give up. Everyone has potential, it is just harder to make some realize it. I need to go into my first year with a philosophy that honors diversity, and lets students be unique and express their feelings. I want to create a safe environment for them to be, somewhere to escape and learn.
1. What are some of the hopes and expectations Erin has prior to starting her first job?
Erin was expecting to go into her classroom and be able to teach and change her students right away. She quickly realized that she had much more of a challenge than she originally anticipated.
2. What realities and challenges confronted her in the beginning of the year?
She had a group of students who had been categorized as "unteachable." They were very diverse and had been exposed to some of the most dangerous situations in life. The students already had a mind set that they would never be able to succeed.
3. What were some of the case scenarios of the lived experiences of the students she had in class?
A student named Ava was in a great deal of trouble. Her father was in jail, and she was expected to lie under oath because of the gang she belonged to. Many of the students in her class grew up with a unstable family. They had many family and friends killed, due to gang involvement, drugs, money, etc.
4. How did the student's attitudes towards learning impact their learning performance?
The students in room 203 had a very negative attitude towards learning. They were never told that they could learn and accomplish anything. Their previous teachers had never expected anything from them, so why should they feel like they could.
5. What strategies did Erin incorporate to break down the barriers between the students and the teacher?
Erin promoted a very diverse educational philosophy. She kept them involved by using life experiences and conversation. Erin was resilient with her class, she showed up everyday with a lesson and a purpose. She believed in every one of her students, and would not give up.
6. What kinds of teaching methods worked with the students?
The students stayed engaged in activities that included conversation and open mindedness. The students kept journals that they could be open and honest in. They were able to express their thoughts and opinion without controversy. After she captured her students, Erin started taking them on field trips, had speakers, and began using more traditional learning methods.
7. How did Erin develop curriculum that connected with the students?
She had to find something that all her students could connect with. The problem was that she had to get them out of the inner city and its troubles. The story of the holocaust and Anne Frank was what she chose. The students read her diary, and were awoken to issues outside of their own. They also met with a holocaust survivor and were able to ask her question and thank her.
8. What were the attitudes and challenges from other teachers and administrators in the school?
Erin was faced with the argument that these students were not worth the time or money. They would never accomplish anything, all they do is ruin the school. This was a struggle for Erin, because she couldn't get the support she needed to get them books and field trips. Many teachers became resentful towards Erin, because they realized the difference she was making that they couldn't.
9. What role did Erin's expectations for the students have on their learning?
Erin always had a plan for her students. She knew that everyone of them had potential, it just needed to be presented to them. She had to make them realize that they were important, and from there they knew they were. Her students knew that Erin cared, and they didn't want to disappoint her because she cared.
10. What lessons did you learn from this in regards to your first year of teaching?
It made me realize that you cannot give up. Everyone has potential, it is just harder to make some realize it. I need to go into my first year with a philosophy that honors diversity, and lets students be unique and express their feelings. I want to create a safe environment for them to be, somewhere to escape and learn.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Alternative Teacher Licensure in Minnesota
http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=900178
I think that an alternative teaching license can be a great think for Minnesota. However, I believe that it should only be implemented for certain areas of education. Areas of mathematics, science, and foreign language are of great demand in Minnesota. With this alternative license, teachers can be placed into school settings and start filling in where schools are in need. After a certain amount of time, those who have alternative licenses can go and work towards their teacher licensure if they want.
I think that an alternative teaching license can be a great think for Minnesota. However, I believe that it should only be implemented for certain areas of education. Areas of mathematics, science, and foreign language are of great demand in Minnesota. With this alternative license, teachers can be placed into school settings and start filling in where schools are in need. After a certain amount of time, those who have alternative licenses can go and work towards their teacher licensure if they want.
Why do I want to become a teacher?
Special Education has always had a role in my life. My mother is a para professional at my high school. After watching her work with students for many years I realized that it was what I wanted to do also. I've always wanted to work in a school setting, and I think I've found my niche in special education. I would like to work in a high school setting, and work with students who have behavioral disorders.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)