Crazy Journey Through Social Studies Methods

I have learned so much this past semester. I knew this class was going to challenge me in many different ways from reading the letters in the beginning of the class. For me the biggest challenge was teaching by myself for the first time. I had worked with small groups, but never taught the whole class let alone by myself. When I found out I was going by myself I was very nervous. I knew that this was going to push me out of my comfort zone. After teaching the first day my confidence grew tremendously. By the second day I was excited and eager to teach. Even though this was one of the most nerve racking experience, I am so grateful that I had it. Teaching alone pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me grow as a teacher. I had no choice but to step up and be the best teacher I could be. The only thing I wish I could have changed was being able to have a partner to collaborate with on lesson plans. Even though Dr .Smirvnova was extremely helpful I think it would have even nice to learn to work collaboratly with my peers. I think that this is an essential skill for all teachers. At times it was a little overwhelming planning all of my lessons by myself, overall teaching alone was a great experience and something that I believe greatly prepared me for fieldwork.

Here is video from my first time teaching.

Another great part of this course was watching my peers teach. I learned so much through observing them. It was great to see different ways and methods to teach the same material. We all teaching the American Revolution, but had very different approaches. One thing I enjoyed was the QR codes taught by two of peers. I had never used these before and once I saw them in action I really liked them.This is a great way to incorporate technology into the classroom. The students really also loved this! I also liked the idea of the trading cards that one group did.  I really feel like this is a great way to bring people and historical figures to life. This experience was just as beneficial as teaching the class. Kathleen Casson says "A GOOD TEACHER IS ALWAYS BECOMING A BETTER TEACHER. One of the most powerful ways to do this is to observe other teachers. You should observe teachers who teach your grade level or subject." and I couldn't agree more with this statement. Teachers should always be willing to learn from one another. 

I learned so much about technology in this class. I always knew how important it was,but never how to use it in the classroom. I can confidently say my skills have increased. I also learned how much the students truly love using technology ! In all of the lessons with technology, the students were engaged and eager to learn. My goal as a teacher is to continue to keep up with technology otherwise I am doing a disservice to my students.

Reference

Observing other teachers. (n.d.). Retrieved May 12, 2015, from http://www.learnnc.org/lp/pages/739?ref=search