Chapter 3

Being that I am new to teaching I am still testing out what approaches I like most and which I find to be the most effective. I am constantly comparing how I was taught growing up to how I want to teach moving forward. Being in the classroom now during my student teaching has shown me how teaching has moved away from being "teacher-centered" and is now leaning towards being "student-centered." One of the staff developers I work with during my after school teaching job told me how important it is for students to self-evaluate themselves and their own work. The text defines this as a form of metacognition. If a student is able to evaluate their own work they are able to see first hand what they did wrong, what they are missing and how they can improve it for the future. Being self-aware is a big thing for student's in today's world!

I, as both a teacher and a student, am a big supporter in using the internet as a major resource if and only if it is done properly. Children need to learn that not everything on the internet is going to be accurate or helpful and they need to be shown the correct way to weed out what isn't and isn't a proper resource. The major benefit of the internet is that students are able to access information without constantly needing answers or constant direction from a teacher. Their are so many interactive websites and games that can help promote critical thinking and problem solving skills. I remember when I was in school we would play "Where In The World Is Carmen San Diego?" It was such a fun game that promoted problem solving and content area studies at the same time and I as a student didn't even realize because I was having fun.

As a teacher I am finding the internet to be an awesome way to collaborate and connect with other teachers. Whether it be reading their blogs, glancing at sample lessons or even visiting teacherspayteachers.com to find cute and inventive ideas to incorporate into an another wise boring lesson! It is the quickest way to keep up to date with what is going on in the world of education. It is also a way to communicate with students, parents and other community members alike.


One thing I've learned throughout my ED TPA certification expierence is how important inquiry-based learning is. All any scorer on this exam portfolio wants to see is that you are engaging your students in activities that help promote learning and collaboration in the forms of differentiation, group work and partner work.