Rules For Posting To This Blog and Weekly Blog Question

1. Only use your first name (no last names, addresses, IM screen names, etc.)
2. Show respect and consideration of others when posting and commenting. This includes individuals, students, organizations, political parties, colleagues, etc.
3. Check all posts for spelling and grammar errors before posting.
4. Protect the privacy of others. Gain permission from other people before you write about them. Avoid sharing someone else's last name. Use job titles or pseudonyms when writing about experiences with your co-workers or students.
5. Watch your language. Use politically correct and non-offensive language.
6. Make sure you write about things that are factual.
7. Keep your postings education-oriented. Avoid discussing plans for the weekend, etc.

FINAL BLOG POST - OUR "DAILY TRIPLE" (DUE 12/1).
This week I would like you to use your imagination. You have just won the lottery and will leave your teaching post immediately to travel around the world. As you leave your keys you meet your replacement. You are asked to give this new teacher just ONE piece of advice. What would that be, and why? Enjoy your world expedition!

Blog Post - Week 7
This past week in my own teaching I felt a little disconnected which prompts my question to you, "What was the moment (or moments) when I felt most disconnected or disengaged as a teacher - the moment(s) I said to myself, I'm just going through the motions here?"

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 6
For the past couple of weeks you have experienced asynchronous online learning (doing modules by yourself). Previously this semester you have experienced synchronous online learning (all together in the Collaborate room). Which do you think is more effective and why do you think that? Which do you like better, and why?

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 5
This week we have what we call "open mic." You can write a post about anything related to your teaching that you would like responses from your classmates.

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 4
Here is this week's question: "What was the event that most took me surprise this week - and event that shook me up, caught me off guard, gave me a jolt, or made me unexpectedly happy?"

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 3
Please write a post about the following question, "In thinking about my past week teaching what is one thing I would do differently, and why?"

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 2
Please write a post about the following question, " In thinking about my teaching activities this past week, of what do I feel most proud? Why?"

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 1
Describe something you used in your program in the first weeks of school that you learned in the summer NTI program. How did it work? Did it get you off to a stronger start than last year?

Monday, March 23, 2009

The most important thing I have learned>>>>take 2

The most important thing I have learned about myself as a teacher is that I can do a great deal more than I ever thought I could. I learned how to be even more organized and time efficient so that I don't have to take work home with me all that much. I think I have gotten better at this since the beginning of the year, and I can tell that I can get so much more done now than when I first started and felt like I was working in circles!! I have alos learned that it is okay to change it up a little if something is not working. I have tried some new stuff in class-projects and things, and if they seem a little flat to the kids, I have told them "hey, this doesn't seem to be working quite the way I thought it would-any suggestions?" and have taken it from there. Each unit and each day proves to be a learning opportunity. I think I have become more comfortable teaching and I enjoy it even more than I ever thought I would. I still have so much more to learn, but I have really learned the following:
1. Organize and plan-for everything!!
2. Have backups-for everything!!
3. Use your planning period for planning when possible, nothing else.
4. It is okay to shut your door to prepare-you won't seem like a snob!
5. STep outside between classes every once in awhile and breathe-each class is different and each class is a new opportunity to improve my teaching and the way students can learn in my class.

3 comments:

Teresa said...

Shelee, as I read your post you comment on flexibility and I must say, that seems to be what it takes in the classroom. Not only with students but also with unexpected changes in the school day (like fire drills, advisement, etc). I have also noticed that the class atmosphere changes depending on the students. These changes can be day to day and even semester to semester. If you have 2 intro. classes in a day, each will be distinctly different from the other as far as student personality. Therefore, we have to adjust our material and presentation based on each classes needs. Are we tired yet?????? Anyway, good luck with the rest of your year. When you get stressed pull up your post for this week. It will remind you of how far you've come this year, and what you have identified as key elements of maintaining your sanity.

AimeeMcD said...

Shellee I commend you on your first year of teaching. You have done a great job!! :) You have taken on so much with HOSA and still manage your teaching responsiblilities. Let alone having two children at home who demand your time and attention. Each year gets easier and runs smoother. Congratulations and keep up the good work!! :) If you ever need anything don't hesitate to ask.

Dr. M said...

Hi, Shellee - you know your wonderful post makes you a great candidate to mentor new teachers at your school next year! Everything you've said is on target, and your 5 items learned are simple, to the point, and meaningful. Share these with a new teacher next year!