Summer Vacation

I am planning to visit my best friendgirl in Charlotte, NC. We have been friends for more than 35 years.

Summer break

I plan to wash and wax the car tomorrow. Then finish up those fantastic lesson plans... Next week, who knows?

Summer Vacation

This time tomorrow (Friday), I'm going to be loaded up in the Honda Odyssey with my family headed at a high rate of speed in route to our place in Hilton Head. Going to be having some fun in the sun, ocean, Salty Dog Cafe, Harbor Town, the lighthouse, and a whole lot of seafood.

Summer vacation

I plan on spending the rest of my summer catching up and having fun with my son and wife!

Learned About Making Test

During this current year I have only used test that were generated from exam view or pre-written test from the ctaern web site. I have learned how to create my own test from the material I will be teaching about at the time. My test will be specific and will relate to the content that I am teaching at the time. Looking back over some of my previous test, even those that were pre-written had many rules that were broken. One of the main rules was that the directions were not clear. The Burns book taught me a great deal and I will use it through out my teaching career.

TEACHER MADE TESTS - WHAT I HAVE LEARNED...

This semester I have learned that teacher made tests must show clarity at all times. Students should have no difficulty in reading and following instructions on any teacher made test.

It is very important for me to complete my "Mise En Place" (A French culinary term meaning 'everything in its place"). Mise En Place includes the collection of ingredients, equipment, and making a time plan to complete a task in an efficient and timely manner. Therefore as a teacher I have to make sure my Mise En Place for any test is completed so that my students can complete any test efficiently.

This semester I learned that any teacher made test should have clear directions, all items on test should be arranged in a logical manner; free from overlap. Test items should be clear and free from clues. Test should be numbered in consecutive order - all parts of a test item should be on the same page. There should be a minimum of three types of questions included on a test, for example essay type questions, true or false questions, and fill in the blank questions. The test should be free of spelling and grammar errors. Most important a teacher needs to follow the rules for each type of question. For example use modified type questions for true or false questions. Make sure there are four alternatives in multiple choice questions. There should be space for student name or number, date, and score on the test.

I have learnt so much more than when I started - I feel that I can now write a test at the higher level where my students need to be in terms of the depth of knowledge. All this new data I have and am continually processing will be used to continue writing test that challenge my students and allow them to keep working at higher levels - the end result being students that can think critically and out of the box.

Teacher made tests

The lesson on designing tests could not have come at a better time. Not long ago I was discussing with another teacher about how to make sure you are covering information on a test that you have introduced in class. The information Dr. Burns provided to us is so valuable. I have been teaching going on three years and have never been given this information. I did not know that it is better to use capital letters on the multiple choice test. I also did not know that it is better that the words true and false be written out instead of "F" or "T." I have noticed that on some tests when the students are asked to select true or false and they write the letters T or F it is a bit confusing at times to read. It was also good to know that when designing a test it is based on the objectives you have put in place. This really was an eye-opener to me because this new found information is going to allow me to improve the way I teach my students. I was excited about this lesson becasue this was an area of teaching I needed information about.

Learned about making tests

After we discussed the information in class - I went back over all the tests I wrote this year and the last. Totally amazed at how many rules I broke and how bad the tests were. Equally bad were all the existing tests left for me when I took over the program. What I am able to salvage is that the intent of the questions are good and make sense but the muliple choice and matching need to be done over. I am in the process of doing this and will have ready for the final exams due sometime next month. It is also interesting to look at tests given by other teachers outside my group. Lots of room for improvement. I will never look at a test again without remembering details we learned. Great information.

What I Have Learned in Making Tests

You've done it again! Just when I think I have learned enough about teaching, I realize how much I do NOT know about teaching. I think the biggest challenge for me is to actually go back through my tests to see where I have violated the rules of test making.

Next, I must address each question and thoughtfully construct it so that it makes sense to glean the information I want from my students to see if they actually have learned the material. But it does not stop there...I must carefully layout the structure of the questions so that visually they make sense.

It is overwhelming to think that I might have been actually harming the learning process in my testing. I do have comfort in knowing that some of my most important tests are "hands on" tests and the information is used daily.

I must admit that my tests violated some, if not, most of the general rules of test making. The information you have provided me are useful today, tomorrow and next year! Again, I have to thank you for providing me with an arsenal of information to produce high quality tests.

Teacher Made Test

I have learned so much about test making this semester. I really did not realize that there were so many rules involved with making test. The Evaluation Strategies for Teachers and Trainers has so many great tips for making test questions and making sure that you are able to formulate great questions for your students. I especially like the examples used to help guide you with the process. The next thing that I found very useful was the creating of the scorecard and checklist. This really helped me a lot especially with my Health care Science labs and projects. The checklist are easy to develop and a very consistent form of evaluation. Lastly, learning about grids was very interesting. I feel that grids will help me to better prepare for upcoming units and structure quizzes and test around the most important information I want to cover in class. There becomes a direct relationship between my objectives and assessment tools. Overall, I feel that this semester has enlightened me so much on a lot of things that I have been doing wrong in the test making area of teaching.

What I have learned about teacher made test.

I have learned so much about testing this section of class. I learned that many of the teacher made tests that I have made and used were full of errors. I was making tests that confused my students and were not helping them retain the information. Things that I would never think about being wrong were. In doing this I will be much more careful about how I make a test. I want my students to succeed and in learning how to properly write a test will help them and not confuse them. When my student depend on me to do what ever it takes to help them , then that is what I must do. Now I can put one more thing to my repertoire of improving my skills for them.

What I have learned about teacher made test.

Tests

I have learned a lot about making tests this semester. I enjoyed learning the different small hints that would make the students think more for the answer. Everything from the size of fill-in the-blank lines to where to place those lines. Before this semester, I have created some test that now I know need to be revised from what was taught. I have really enjoyed learning the information NTI has presented to us.

Teacher Made Tests

Constantly I am amazed at how much there is to teaching. Developing tests as I have learned from NTI takes thought and time. The structure of the test is just as important as content. Using capital letters in order to help students choose a clear response was a light bulb moment for me. Something so simple can make a huge difference for some students. My understanding of how to write test items is much clearer after this section. As I look back on previous tests, many mistakes were made, especially using mostly tests from the state disk. My plan is to use a variety of test items on future tests. I found the modified true/false and the free response (without a word bank) test items interesting and I am looking forward to using them to prepare tests.

Teacher made test...

I have learned so much this semester about creating test. I now understand why we should have a good mix or a variety of at least three different types of questions included in a test. In the past I primarily gave multiple choice test to prepare my students for the state board exam. But I now see how placing a variety of test questions in one test will help meet the needs of all of my students. I really like the idea of saving a free/response short answer or essay question until the end of the test after the student has had time to warm up during the evaluation. I am also pleased to learn about modified true and false questions, and fill-in-the-blank assessments. In addition, by using all capital letters to identify responses will be helpful to clarify answers. I have acquired a lot of valuable information which I look forward to using in generating future test.

Testing All Teachers!

Creating tests have always been a test for me. I was surprised to find that I was doing alot of things correctly when creating tests in the past. I have never liked to print a test from a CD or website. That's simply because I don't trust anyone else's information. I tell my students the same thing. Also, I've always created the tests with the students' point of view in mind. Asking myself over and over again "will the student understand this?" Of course, I have been doing alot of things incorrectly. I will use the modified true/false testing method to ensure that students really do understand the subject matter. I will no longer place my multiple choice answer responses in a linear pattern, but will only place them in columns so that students can understand more clearly. Lastly, I will not copy information verbatim from the textbook.

Teacher made test..............

This semester through NTI I have learned that no method of test making is flawless. I have made test myself and I have taken test off of a CD and both ways have had mistakes. The one thing I have learned though is you need to give a test around three or four times before all of the kinks are worked out of it as far as wording and levels of knowledge. I will however re-write my true/false sections to reflect more levels of thinking. I also like the idea of using pictures in matching sections. I have always been scared of giving essay type questions but I may add one to each test. I have learned alot about test making. I learned about the different types and I think I will not be afraid to write my own, verses taking one off a CD.

One Piece of Advice

Wow - winning the lottery........ what a nice dream! Okay here goes. I would tell the new teacher to come into class everyday expecting something good to happen. Teaching is a very difficult career and there tends to be so many disruptions, interruptions and eruptions that it can really start to wear on even the most laid back person. But, if you get up everyday expecting something good to happen, at the end of the day when you are reflecting on all that has transpired you will usually find that something that will make you want to get up and do it all again the next day.

Updates

Hi All~

Sorry I missed you guys in last class...I was asked to judge the documentary portion of video entries for the Emmy's last Tuesday evening. I spent most of the night watching one video after another over at Fox 5 Atlanta.

Just prior to that, I pulled my upper level students aside to show them the implementation plan for retrofitting our video production studio. I made the students a promise earlier in the year that we would be a tapeless studio by the end of the year! Well, last week we received our new HD video camera and proceeded to redo the entire studio. We basically replaced an entire studio with one Mac computer and we have plans to bring in 4 more for post production.

Fulton County also came in with their own bit of good news. They realized that in video production it pays to be Apple Certified. FCS is going to pay for those who want it, to become Apple Certified. I was the first one to respond with a "sign me up!"

I now have my fourth student receiving state honors in video production this year!!! Our video production had never received one accolade in the years prior to me coming in.

For those of you who read my blog post about running it like you own it...That one statement has changed the way video is perceived in my school. It is now an honor to be selected to join our morning show. I plan the studio as a production studio to maximize the room that I have, implement new technologies (which, by the way cost less than old technologies!!) and I always keep my fingers on the pulse of what is happening in the industry to bring my students the latest and greatest!

This second year of my teaching has been a pleasure because of all that I have learned and applied from NTI! And, to add even more...ALL of my students are now required to have an online portfolio of their work....guess where I got that little GEM!!!!

I firmly believe that my applying the techniques taught in NTI have made my teaching very easy.....I equate this as learning how to swim...first you get tossed in the water...and THEN you learn how to swim, navigate, float, and tread water.

Thanks NTI!

Open-Mind

Always keep an open mind with the kids, curriculum, classroom, faulty, and administration. First, the kids the are lovable no matter how tough they many seem. The curriculum is not as hard as it is put off to be, always stick to what you know. Your space, is not your space just do what you can where ever you are. Try your best to make each space your own the kids will learn better if they see that you've designed a nice learning space. The faulty and administration ask only when you need too and just maybe someone will help you before you find away to do it yourself. Keep an open mind and put yourself and the kids first..

ONE PIECE OF ADVICE...

Honestly if I win millions in the lottery I may just come in let them know that I won and will never be a teacher again. I will advise that I am moving on to whatever I dreamed of doing if I ever won the lottery.

Lets get serious I care too much about teaching to leave like that. The most important advice I would leave for this new teacher is simply this. You have to have passion for whatever field you are teaching, if you do not have passion for your job - that job is not for you. You may as well walk away and allow someone who is passionate about teaching - fill the position. Being Passionate about your job allows you to give your best no matter what the circumstance.

I would give the new teacher Dr. Burns’s number so that he or she can contact GSU to take some courses because the instruction I received from NTI has been extremely helpful in making me more professional in the daily management of my classroom.

Whenever I leave a job I like to leave work samples for the incumbent, so that they can have a guide to work with so that the classroom standards are maintained allowing the kids get the best possible higher level education possible. Hopefully I would have the opportunity to give on the job training to the new teacher for at least a week before I leave. (Travel to: Hawaii/Paris/New Zealand/Australia/Italy/Africa....a world wide tour/cruise…....laugh).

That would be my advice to the incumbent.

My Best Advice

The best piece of advice I can give a new teacher is build relationships with as many students as possible. In the last two years, I've heard the importance of the 3 Rs about 1,000,000,001 times. Rigor, relevance, and relationships. I teach at a school with students who are labeled as "at-risk". In my opinion and my experience, the relationships have been the most important for me and for the students and should be listed before rigor and relevance. Forming relationships have enabled me to expand from just teaching healthcare science to teaching real-world life lessons. Teachers should be personable, approachable, and friendly to students. In many cases, we are the only one's they have to depend on, trust, lean on, turn to, and look up to.

Advice

I would tell my replacement that sometimes being a teacher involves alot more listening than talking on my part. To always follow the school policy's and procedures. Remember to follow the lab and classroom procedures things run much smoother when you let them know your expectations. Go into class everyday with your lesson plan prepared you might deviate slightly from it but, having a plan works better for you and the students. Don't always be so serious with them it can be a fun and educationally class for everyone and still teach standards. You have to love this job or it will show and the students will know you don't want to be there. All in all it is a great job and is very fulfilling to person who who truly cares about our youth and their futures.

Advice for the New Guy

The advice I would leave for my replacement is to come in strict and be consistant. These students stay more focused if they are know what is ahead and what is expected of them right up front. Keep them busy! Also, this school is very supportive of you, espically when it comes to disipline. Administration is behind your program, and wants to see it succeed. These are two important factors in a CTAE program.

A Peice of Advise

I would advise the new teacher to have or develop a classroom management plan. Be honest and straight forward when answering students questions. Make a strong first impression, follow school rules and above all be consistant with your actions.

One piece of advise....

If I won the lottery.... hhmmmm, that would be great; anyway, I think that one piece of advice I could leave a new teacher is CONSISTENCY. I have learned that the best way to be with your students is consistent. Students like to know what to do and how you are going to react to certain situations. You have to be just as consistent the last three weeks of school as you are the first three weeks. My school is very strict on dress code and electronics. What we discipline them for the first day, we discipline them for on the last day. This consistent attitude follows the students all year and makes for a better school year. You have to also be consistent in the classroom. My students know how to come in and what to do from first bell to last bell. Consistency goes with good classroom management, good classroom management leads to a productive, happy classroom :)

One Piece of Advice

Classroom Management! I would definitely tell the new teacher that managing your class is the key to being successful. Even the best made lesson plans will suffer if there is no management in the classroom. I would encourage the new teacher to be firm from day one and have policies and procedures in place to set the tone for the class. The students respond better to routines and this will help make them feel that they have more of an input in the classroom dynamics. I would also encourage the new teacher to be careful about sounding sarcastic or condescending. The students will instantly put up their guards and that will lead to a lot of confusion and mistrust. As long as they feel that they can trust you and you are being fair, they will respond positively. I would add that it will not be an easy task, but it can be done. Using humor and personal experiences will also foster the communication between the students. Stick to your guns and be patient and things will fall into place.

A Piece of Advice

This is an interesting question. A piece of advice I would let the incoming teacher know is to be true to yourself and ask for help. In other words, be yourself, and know everyone has a different way as to how they approach teaching. I have always been one who, "Marches to the beat of a different drummer." That is what I mean by being true to yourself. I am still adjusting to all the best practices, the rules, deadlines and the checklists that come along with teaching. Again be true to who you are and ask for help. I have found that teaching these past three years consist of studying your craft, truly caring about students and respecting everyone incuding, the office staff, the custodial staff, other teachers, administration and of course the students. The advice mentioned and these practices will ensure a successful career in education.

One Piece of Advice

I would advise the new teacher to be his or herself. Establish a healthy professional relationship first. Then start teaching from his or her professional experience. I would also tell the new teacher to stay connected to the Media and Production Industry and to make sure to adapt the Georgia Standards to the lessons.

If the teacher is comfortable with what is being taught, the main thing to always remember is to have fun and to stay organized.

One Piece of Advice

I would tell the new teacher to follow the required state standards. Then teach to get the students employed.
What I find in the standards are skills that are useful but will not totally prepare the students to get a job and are not the skills currently in demand.
Listen to what is happening in the industry and companies that are hiring and teach to that demand.
Also, hold the line on discipline.

One piece of advice !

I would advice the new teacher to follow the rules. Here are the important rules, come to work on time, complete all reports before the deadline, Turn in lesson plan before 3:15 P.M. Friday,
complete all extra duties, teach the Georgia standards and learn classroom management.

One Piece of Advice

If I could only leave one piece of advice for my replacement, it would be to pray for God's guidance. As you pray, trust how you are being led. For me God put key people in my pathway that led me to New Teacher Institute (NTI), which has helped me navigate my way in this foreign land, know as the "educational system". Prayer has helped me stay focused, especially on days when I wanted to give up, turn the key back in and leave. Do not lose sight of your purpose as obstacles come your way. Through prayer wonderful people have aided me from encouragement, giving supplies, lesson plans and even time showing me how to organize my room. Ask for help and remember you know more than the students do about your subject. Finally, be fair and let the students know what your expectations are of them on your first day. Remember be kind to yourself, Rome was not built in a day.

Replacement

I would have to say classroom management is the key. You must set clear expectations for the students on day one. I believe you should deal with today’s problems today. Don’t put things off until the last minute. Everything just piles up and creates more stress. I think you should always treat everyone with respect, (especially students, office staff, custodial staff, and cafeteria staff.) I recommend filling the period with interesting activity, and always monitor the students, never turn your back. If you sincerely care about the students and their success, you will be successful.

My Replacement

I think if I had a replacement and I could not be there to get them used to this new classroom setting, I would list these gems of advice.

1. Take control of your class early on with discipline, structure, and rules.

2. Be VERY consistent. It makes their life easier and YOUR life easier.

3. Give them EVERYTHING in writing and have them sign for everything. You will appreciate this later.

4. Plan to teach them bell to bell, but know that sometimes you may run out of steam. Have a backup for those times when your brain turns to mush.

5. Know that not everyone will share the same passion for video as you. Think of this as just opening their eyes to video. Some students will run with this, and some will run FROM it. Take neither personally.

6. Do NOT agree to do any extra work no matter how many times other instructors will tell you that everyone will benefit. Stay focused on your program and establish your program.

7. Get key parents involved early on and contact them monthly on the progress of their child and the progress of your program.

8. Always keep your program moving forward and embrace new technologies.

9. Charge a lab fee for incidentals.

10. Challenge the students each and every day.

11. Show them your work and explain how YOU learned video production.

12. Take time for yourself during the day to get out of the studio and just walk around. There's more to teaching than teaching. Learn the culture of the school and embrace it, or not!

13. Plan that sometimes your lesson will bomb. Admit it, move on, and do not look back.

14. Implement a way to keep track of all the equipment and check it daily. Things walk in school!

15. Encourage students.

16. Take time to sit with a student and teach them if they are open.

17. Take those students that get it and work with those students to set an example for the others.

18. Do not settle for mediocrity in their work. Criticize them when they do poorly. Praise them when they do well.

19. Run the studio like you own it.

20. Lead by example!

Elluminate Live

Ok....I am the first one to love technology. I rely on technology EVERY day. I am always connect to the internet to show my students the latest videos, the latest technologies. My love of technology can only be matched by my love of personal connection. It is this very reason why I love personal connection over the use of Elluminate Live.

I have personally and professionally gained almost as much knowledge gaining new friends and colleagues as I have being IN the classroom. Being around people that are going through the very same things I am going through helps me learn faster and more productively.

All that being said, I do applaud Dr. Burns' ability to go beyond her comfort zone and learn new technologies. The use of Elluminate Live by Dr. Burns and her team shows that I need to be getting out of MY comfort zone and trying new things.

Is Elluminate Live the end all? No, but this technology has enabled all of us to keep our class together, moving forward, and all within the comforts of our won homes! I like the fact that I did not have to install anything new on my wife's computer. I like the fact that for two and a half hours a week I am connected to all my peers, my mentors, and my professor.....Dr. Burns, thank you for trying new technologies!

Elluminate Live

Pro's: I like using elluminate live because it's a very convenient way to have class and it beats driving to Alpharetta once a week and I like having the option of being at home for my session. Although, I have taken online classes before, I never new about elluminate live until NTI. What I like most about elluminate live is the fact that we can communicate with each other during class.

Con's: However, what concerns me about elllumiante live are technical issue that occur with the mic's and headsets. Also, while I like the the break out sessions and working in groups, I wish that we didn't have so many problems with the whiteboard because I think it would be great to utilize and effective.

Elluminate Live

When I tell someone about this new way of on-line classes, they are amazed at the technology that is available today. This is the first on-line coarse that I have ever taken. I hope that future classes are at the same caliber. I like that we can respond verbally with each other, just as we are in the classroom. The only thing I dislike is when the technology has its glitches. One of the pros is that we don't have to on campus. And the con is not seeing anyone. I was glad to have the summer session to be able to personally meet and spend time with each other to at least remember what every one looks like.

Elluminate Live

Elluminate Live is a new concept for me. I am use to the classroom environment. I love being inside the classroom because of the direct contact with students and instructors. Elluminate Live has pros's and con's. The pros's are no driving to class and you can learn at home. The Con's are sometimes it is difficult to join the session.

Elluminate Live

I really like Elluminate Live. I believe this is the direction of our future, not only for education, but also for our business world. I welcome the chance to view a webinar or Elluminate Live because of the rising cost of oil and gasoline. I am very appreciative to be able to log onto a class via the internet, and do my work at the home or office, and get the college credit. I think Dr. Burns does an excellent job in making the class as interesting as possible. We will always have glitches to work out, that is just the way it is, until technology improves. I have to create one hour of online test and lessons in ANGEL weekly, in every class that I teach at the technical college level. I am well acquainted with the glitches that can occur. I realize the technology phenomenon is the wave of our future in education. The electronic age is here to stay, so I think we should all jump on board and take off.

Elluminate Live

I think this method of teaching and delivery of information works for this program at this time.

Pro: We are all working full time positions. With a normal career, it always seemed possible for me to alter my schedule and fit in college work. Teaching, however, seems very different. The time teaching is rigid and occupies 8 hours and then there is an easy 1-2 hours a day devoted to other duties. Being able to go home, take a class, and the benefits of easy logistics works.

Con: Nothing beats a one on one interaction of a classroom. We all got to know each other in the summer classes and can understand and visualize what an individual looks like and thinks in a response. I think our current sessions would be different without this background.

Elluminate Live

I must say I enjoy Elluminate Live. I realize there are times when it takes a while to log in and sometimes connection is even lost. Despite all of those things I welcome Elluminate Live as a platform to take a class. Like anything that is new, there will be glitches. But after a while adjustments are made and if they are not made the program will survive or die. I really like being able to come home and be home with my daughter. I also like the fact that I do not have to drive to Alpharetta which saves me money on gas. There is one point I would like to make about Elluminate Live, I do miss the interaction between classmates and the instructors. Other than that I like Elluminate Live and look forward to taking other classes on line using this format.

Pros and Cons of Elluminate Live

Sometimes it is difficult to get use to new ideas and forms of teaching if that is not how you learned. I have always liked the classroom setting. Once I got over the initial anxiety about being able to log on in a timely manner, I have actually enjoyed Elluminate live. Elluminate live allows me to avoid driving, which is always a plus. It is comfortable being at home and other tasks can be completed, for example laundry while still having class. On the con side, the inability to get the headphones or the mic to work adequately is irritating at times. Tech support was very helpful when my system was not working. Also, I miss the personal interaction that we have in class. The break out sessions can be a little difficult when you are talking one at a time. Overall, I give Elluminate live a thumbs up!

elluminate live pro's and con's

I really like elluminate live class.

Pros: I like the way we can hear what everyone point of view. The chat box is the best when you just don't feel like talking to anyone. It makes me feel close to my classmate even though everyone is in their own elements. When I was out of class for those couple of day I felt so lost I never thought I would feel that way about class.

Cons: I dislike when Alvin invades our classroom just when things are getting interesting. Sometimes I wish I was in a classroom setting so I can ask more question and get one on one assistance. Oh yeah, I really, really dislike when the internet knocks me offline and then I have to miss out on the lecture/directions.

Elluminate pro's and con's

I like using Elluminate Live. I think the pro's outweigh the con's of the system as a whole. I like still being able to communicate live with my classmates and not having to worry about childcare or being home to cook dinner. I love the fact that it is so convent and you can log on almost anywhere. I do miss the face to face connection during class time but not having to drive is far more important (especially with the gas prices climbing!). I think it is neat that the instructors can still place us in groups to talk in small groups. Using the white board and coming up with ideas is fun as well. The system is temperamental at times but I would defiantly take another Elluminate class and I would tell anyone else to do the same.

ELLUMINATE...MY HONEST VIEWS....

This is my first time taking an online course. I have had ongoing issues logging in to Elluminate on a weekly basis. It takes me about 20 to 25 minutes to log in to the system. On a scale of 1 to 10 I would give this system a 5. The two major cons to me would be too many lost moments of instruction (for instance when the mike drops), and insufficient technical support.

However, with all the challenges we faced I must say that the material presented have been valuable to me and I have gained additional knowledge/skills from each presentation thus far. High fives to Dr. Burns and Ms. Chillis in that regard but thumbs down to Elluminate.

Two major pros would be that I learned a new technology, and I saved time and money by not having to travel from point A to B. Will I consider taking another online course? Yes I will, but I would need to have more classroom sessions included. Personally I do better in the classroom setting as I enjoy the personal interaction with teachers and classmates.

Elluminate Live

Wow, what an eyeopener this Elluminate Live has been. I really can't think of too many con's except we may have technical issues from time to time. It's really nice to be able to take this class no matter where you are or what you look (or feel) like. You can interact with your fellow classmate at the touch of a button and should you miss a class it's very easily made up at your convenience. This experience has made me want to not only take more online classes but to also venture new ways to teach my own class....the wheels are turning as I type! The only other con I can think of is not being able to give my wonderful classmates and instructors hugs more often.

Elluminate Live

I love Elluminate Live. I feel just like I'm in the classroom. This forum allows for one on one attention from the instructor and group activities. I would love to take online classes through Elluminate Live. The only con is trying to control the background noise at my house so that my classmates can not hear it. It is frustrating to me when another classmate's equipment is not functioning properly. I prefer the Elluminate Live sessions over the Alpharetta sessions!

Carl Perkins

I feel more knowledgeable about The Perkins Law. When I first started teaching, I heard other teachers mention, Perkins funds and money, but I was so confused, because everything sounded so foreign to me. My new understanding of how the moneys are alloted for our programs, gives me more confidence for planning out my program's future.

I was not sure how or where money came from to order equipment and supplies for my program, but with my new found knowledge of The Perkins law, I feel enlightened. I honestly want to continue to learn a little bit more about this legislation. It was a very interesting topic to me.

Elluminate Live

Elluminate Live has been a great experience. It does have its pros and cons. The convenience is amazing. I would say, some of the Pros for using Elluminate Live are: Convenient,Interactive, Digital. You could also take this class in your pajamas. Elluminate Live also allows us as students/teachers to be more creative when there is a problem or technical issue. We do have options.

The Cons for me would be technical issues, technical support is not as knowledgeable, connections drop, the sound is not always stable. I like the up close and personal, tangeable interaction, provided in a live classroom.

Overall, I have more of a positive outlook for Elluminate Live. I believe its a good tool for utilizing technology in the classroom.

Elluminate Live

Logistics, Logistics. Eluminate Live is a positive in my book. Attempting to drive from my job to down town GSU or heavens forbid if we were to meet at the Alpharetta campus would be a nightmare attempting to get there during rush hour traffic. Elluminate Live provides a classroom like setting in the comfort of your home with all the advantages of a classroom setting. I have had the opportunity to join in on serveral sessions provided by my place of work, and it appears that more organizations are participating via elluminate live.

I am a participant in the STEM project for my school in the Dekalb County School System, and there is a possibility that my class will participate in a joint class room project via skpe with students from other schools outside of the county. This will be a first for me and my students.

Elluminate Live

For the most part, elluminate live has been a beneficial experience for me. I like the idea of being able to participate in class, but not have to physically drive to a location and sit in a classroom. Elluminate brings all of the benefits of an actual classroom via the PC. Students are able to raise their hands to answer questions and also the instructor is able to use groups for projects and class discussions. There are a lot of good features available through elluminate live. Hopefully with continued use, I will be able to learn even more about the program and maybe one day be able to share this type of technology with my students.

The only negative thing that I would have to share about elluminate would be the technical issues. I haven't personally experienced any problems, but I have heard several classmates discuss issues. I would recommend the use of elluminate because the pros far out weigh the cons.

CTE and Perkins

I for one and very grateful to have learned exactly how my program as a CTE teacher was funded. When I was asked to teach this program all I remembered was what a CTE teacher was from when I went to school many moons ago. The student have so many options now for career tech that were never available before. The choices and the head start these kids have now is endless thanks to the Perkins funding.

When my program was started I asked where is the money coming from and what is the budget. The supervisor of the CTE program at our school said it came from the Perkins money. I of course not knowing any better said great. Of course it was great but I did not really understand at the time where the money came from or how this came about. I do now know and can better appreciate how this was started. I am truly grateful that we have these program to give the students a new view on a career choices. I think every day it is great to be a CTE teacher and I get to be one even on the bad days that we sometimes have.

CTE History and my Role as a CTE teacher

This history is very personal to me. I went through the health science program in high school in North Carolina and graduated as a CNA in 1973. I had no idea it was a federally funded initiative. I wanted to be a nurse since I was eight years old, so I was excited when this new program came to my high school. We had the agricultural courses prior to this of course, we were a farming community. But, I remember when they introduced the new "nursing" program and still have a picture of the group us who completed the course. Therefore, I'm thankful on a personal level, I was better prepared for college and actually had an opportunity to test out of an 8:00 am course (My favorite memory - sleeping in:)

When I became a CTE teacher, I felt I was giving back to Mrs. Lamb (My teacher, she's dead now.) It is my desire to share the enthusiasm of having a career in health care. I have come full circle.

I've used my own money in the past...silly me...didn't understand all the terminology...what Perkins funds were...or the use and loose concept for these funds. However, now that I've learned about the designated funding, I plan to use the money to create a more interactive classroom. In fact, I have started putting together a list of items to purchase (TLW)in August 2011. Thankfully, I spent every dime of my allotment for this semester. Yeah!!!

CTE and Perkins

Learning about the history of CTE makes me feel honored. To be apart of something that has evolved from teaching someone a skill or trade that they can make an honest living to support their family is very fufilling. It also brings on a huge responsibility knowing the young lives you are shaping to be decent adults. My assistant principal informed me that we had some money come in that we had to spend. I asked where it came from, he said Perkins funds. I did not ask him what that was, I just spent it. It came full circle when I learned about it. I was just surprised how many different times the government changed the way to fund these programs and how to spend the money.

PERKINS

I needed this information so badly. I did not understand this aspect of the job. They've been throwing money at me and I could not understand why. I felt as if I was being wasteful. No one ever explained where the money was coming from and what it could be used for. Since I did not use the funds, they were allocated to other CTAE departments. I find it most interesting that someone had the forsight to rally for career and technical education. It's funny how we have come full-circle to the fact that we need to put more people to work. Not just providing them with employment, but providing them with skills, enabling them to be hiqhly-trained, highly-qualified individuals in their fields. I now understand the importance of this legislation to my career as a HSTE educator, and my career as a healthcare professional.

Carl Perkins Funding

When I first started teaching, I was told that I had a budget for so many dollars and that I needed to spend it or loose it. I wasn't aware or told where the funding was coming from are if the amount was what was actually due to my program. I later learned that money was not allocated fairly due to being the new kid on the block,I did not receive my fair share. It appeared that the department chair spent it in a way that suited her, definitely for her program. Due to my new found knowledge about Perkin's funding, I can now speak the language and ask for equipment and supplies needed to make my program better so that my students will get the best experience that I can offer for them to succeed after high school.

Carl Perkins Legislation

Since learning about the history of CTAE and the Carl D. Perkins legislation I have different outlook on my role as a CTAE teacher. CTAE has evolved so much over the years and without funding from Perkins to keep our programs running we would not be able to teach our subject matter with relevance to the real world. Part of my role as a CTAE teacher is to provide students with employability skills, workplace ethics, and career pathways that link secondary education to postsecondary education. I found it very interesting to learn that the initial purpose of the vocational education was to not only to benefit the people but to benefit the states. This new information has helped me further realize that effective vocational education programs are essential to the nation's future and this has been the case for many years. As they say, to know your past is to know your future. I am interested in understanding how much accountability is involved in how the funds are used and what requirements are specific to each program as it relates to meeting performance targets.

Perkins

In the first year of being a CTAE educator I have came to find that Perkins funds have been spent by the wrong parties in my county. I was under the impression that Perkins funds were allotted to schools that have students participating in the CTAE pathways. I had no clue that each student that is in my program represents a certain dollar amount up to a give amount per class. That amount is to be used in the CTAE pathway that the student registered, not by the school as it sees fit for other uses. Its no wonder I hadn't had food to cook with in labs. Looking at all of the detailed documentation that is required I have no idea how they have managed to get away with such poor spending. Last year we got a new cte person at the county level and he stopped all spending of Perkins funds at the school level. All purchases had to meet his approval. I didn't get it then but I do now. This just stuck out in my mind because we encountered a drastic change in spending between my first two years and now things are much clearer for me. Given our tight budgets we cant afford to have one dollar misspent

We have a unique responsibility as CTAE and CTSO advisers. Its our responsibility to know how the Perkins Legislation works so that we can get the most of what we are being given. Our programs need this legislation. I think we're all better advocates for or programs and Perkins given our new knowledge.

New Outlook

After reviewing the information on Perkins, I have a new outlook on being a CTE teacher. Throughout my first year of teaching I felt very lost most of the time because there was so many "unknowns". I understood the information that I was assigned to teach, but I did not fully know my purpose and my obligation to my students. After learning the history of Perkins and participating in class discussions, I have a better understanding of what CTE was designed to accomplish for educators and students. I feel more confident in designing lessons and activities for students that are more in sync with the major focus of the program.

Carl Perkins Legislation

When I was first hired to teach Healthcare Science I had no idea I was even a part of CTAE. I did not even know what it was. I had to attend orientation for a week and that is when I was told about CTAE. I did not begin understanding how important the Carl D. Perkins legislation was until I began studying it in class. At this point I saw how it tied to CTAE. I really appreciate the information because I believe it is important that as an educator I am informed and know my role in CTAE. I also found it quite interesting that the act was put into place in 2006 and it is in affect until 2012. Another important feature is the funding that is attached to the Perkins legislation. I am still not quite clear of all aspects of the Perkins legislation but I have a better understanding of the act.

Perkins Legislation

I am especially grateful for the Perkins Legislation. Our CTE programs would not be up to par without this type of funding. Although I realize some programs are older and do need some much needed funding for updating. After studying about Perkins Legislation, I now understand how imperative it is to implement Skill USA and form advisory board committees immediately at the beginning of the school year. I totally agree with accountability, even though it does come with quite a bit of paper work.

I was asked to create a cosmetology program at a new high school in 2009, before learning about Carl Perkins Legislation. I jumped at the opportunity. I thought the money I used to create the program was primarily from state and local taxpayer dollars. I just didn’t realize how much came from federal dollars. I remember my CTE director giving me some very strict spending stipulations on particular funds, depending on which pot of money it came from. For example each item had to cost at least one hundred dollars, not ninety-nine dollars, etc. I could see where a lot of taxpayer dollars are wasted. I could not purchase an item if I found it for less money. I have always been a penny pincher and I did not like this concept because I wanted to get the maximum amount of equipment for my program with the money I had received. However, we must continue to provide accountability in the many different aspects of the Perkins Legislation.

CTAE role and Perkins funding

Even though I have been teaching for three years now, I never really understood the meaning of Perkins. I think coming into teaching from the work force and not having a degree in education, we tend to get talked to like we should understand the abbreviations and lingo of the school. It was not until entering NTI that I have begun to understand meaning of things like Industry Certification and Perkins. Perkins is something that is demanding on us as CTAE teachers. We have to document and keep track of tons of equipment, but in the end, we get to have new materials needed to teach our students the most up to date techniques used in the field. I did not realize that Perkins was so new. I think we have a responsibility as CTAE teachers to keep this funding coming into our schools. Not all students are college material and for them to go through a technical course and find their interest is very rewarding. Our country cannot be full of Harvard graduates and for the most part, our students coming out of CTAE can make as much or more than the college graduates with four to six years of college. We are held to a high standard to be able to get federal funding, but the academic assessments and measuring the data needed to get the money makes everything worth wild in the end for our students.

Perceived Roles

I met with my son's counselor a couple of weeks ago. My perceived role was a "prejudgement" based on my own personal experiences in high school.

I was quickly put at ease with the vast knowledge of the way the system works within my son's counselor's network. She has access to almost every database of colleges, their requirements, and the rate of success in meeting those requirements.

I now think of the counselor as a coach....and I feel that we are armed very well to succeed with her vast knowledge and access to knowledge!

Perkins Legislation

I think knowing about the Perkins Legislation gives one major aspect to CTI that I never considered before.... CREDIBILITY!!!!!

When I first ook on the role of "tech teacher", I looked at most of my students as the ones who were never going to go to college. And now I look at my students at having a "leg up" on the majority in our school. The students are getting practical applications in a real life setting.

Knowing that we have a huge commitment from our government give me peace of mind and comfort that my subject has meaning a depth. I do not get that sense from some of the arts programs that are taught in our school.

Perkins Act Insight

For me coming into this field three years ago was scary for me. I was asked to come in and teach the skills that I had come to make a very good living at. I had no idea where the money to start my program came from or how this was to be set up. I did know that it was a great idea and I jumped at the chance to teach real life skills.

Thanks to the funding of our programs through the Perkins Act we are able to provide students with real work skills. The students are taught people skills and job skills. The students are able to leave our programs with the ability to work and support themselves. In many case they will still have to continue on with more schooling or enter into an apprenticeship program to finish and be licensed with the state. In providing these programs with the Perkins money in many cases these students are able to get a better start in life than their parents had. For some it is the only chance ,because their parents are not able to pay for school.

The classes that we are able to provide give the companies skilled employable workers. It is a great source of employs with basic knowledge and a willingness to learn. If the Perkins Act had never come to be many of the skilled work force we have now would not exist. Many of our local business are able to start these students out right away. This helps them as well as our local economy.

HOW HAS THIS NEW INFORMATION CONTRIBUTED TO HOW YOU THINK ABOUT YOUR ROLE AS A CTE TEACHER?

As a CTE teacher I have a new found understanding about Perkins. Before studying this new information on Perkins I was not aware about the history behind Perkins and its development over the years. Perkins allowed people from diverse backgrounds who could not afford an education to obtain training in non traditional fields. For instance soldiers returning from war were able to obtain training in different trades when they came home from war. CTE programs over the years have changed and grown into more organized programs where today students can receive training from high school into college.

As a CTE teacher I see my role as a facilitator who provides students with the best possible education so that they can use what they have learned for entrance into college. If possible my students can leave High School with certification so they can be a step ahead of their college counterparts.

Perkins has paved the way for us as CTE teachers - without Perkins we may not have had all the different CTE teaching positions within the school systems. This new found information will help me to stay focused on my goal to provide higher levels of education to my students on a daily basis.

New Information and CTE Role

When I was first offered my teaching position, I never gave any thought to how the program was funded. I just assumed that the money came from the local taxpayers.
Now that we have studied the Perkin's legislation, I understand the importance of certification, advisory committee meetings, and overall program documentation that is required.

It also made me consider how fortunate companies are to have a pool of skilled labor that Perkin's money provides. For most companies training is a major expense. Having an employee who is trained in the skill along with a solid understanding of safety and shop rules speeds up the time required to contribute to the bottom line.

Mike Z.

New Incite

It is always important to know where you came from. The history of Career and Technical Education along with the class on Perkins legislation helped me grasp a better understanding of the purpose of the career technical programs. As I look at how the CTAE program expanded based on the economic and work force needs, we are basically back at some of the same roads that helped ignite the expansion of the CTAE programs. Specifically, during this economically challenging time, we are faced with people in need of jobs; but, jobs were there are not enough qualified people to fill them. As I was listening to one of the economic analyst career forecast, the comment was made that there are many jobs however the applicants do not have the proper education and skills to fulfill the positions. They went on to forecast that our lack of skilled workers will be critical in the next five to ten years. One suggestions was to increase the marketability of students coming out of high school.

That is what CTAE does: we are to help the students guaduate with a marketable skill, prepare them for the work force or to enter a post secondary program ( technical or college). The Perkins Legislation provides funding for the CTAE programs. These funds are to help the CTAE build up quality programs that will provide skilled instructors and resources to ensure that students have the best opportunity, to not only be marketable but competitive in the technical work force that is already here. I understand that our class is not just an "elective" but has an essential role in helping to cultivate a trained, skilled and educated group of individuals that are diverse and ready for all opportunities; rather it be work force, entrepreneurial endeveors and or furthering their education.

My only concern is, because we are in such a critical time and funding is available, why is it that so many people are just given a key with no directions on how to operate these wonderful CTAE programs? It seems to me, if we look back and use the knowledge and funding wisely, we could really offer our students more opportunites for successful careers.

"Rewards and Challenges"

     The challenges and rewards of the counseling position are tremendous in each direction.  The pressure of what is required to be successful in the positon could make one transform from hero to villain, and vice-versa in the blink of an eye.  Some  challenges of the position could be mixing up student records ( like in the movie Class Act), losing student records, not getting required information to colleges in adequate amount of time, not knowing the correct information to give to students or parents regarding certain situations and so on.  Student schedules are a big issue at my school and the counselors carry the bulk of the blame for them not being correct.  The counselors at my school are responsible for preparation for standardized testing.  That one is a very big headache, especially with so many schools in our area under investigation for test tampering and excessive erasures.
     The rewards on the other hand are limitless!  Helping a student to get into the school of their dreams, aiding a student in receiving a scholarship or just helping them to get on the right track are tremendous rewards.  Counselors,  in some cases,  are more of a "pal"  than the School Principal.  They go the extra mile and are extra cheerleaders to help students and families accomplish goals.   Registering students for the NCAA clearinghouse and helping students with their transcripts are also extra rewards for counselors.  Counselors have a job that has both enormous risk and rewards, and since doing the research for this assignment, I know that this is something that I would love to do one day!

Rewards and Challenges

Guidance counselors have a laundry list of detailed job duties. Prior to speaking to a counselor I would have said that the reward for them would be being able to successfully schedule the entire student body. However, I have learned the for one counselor its protecting students. Protecting them from neglect, miseducation or abuse. I've found that helping a student advocate for their growth in weak areas or teaching a student how to better communicate with their parents or teachers is one of the most rewarding parts of the job. Unfortunately poor or tense communication with parents seems to be one of the most challenging areas. It makes sense that parents would think that they know their child best. Well counselors tend to reach students on a far deeper level if they have the right approach and bedside manner. The same goes for communicating with parents. Although the best counselor can find some parents impossible to work with. This is a challenge that is unwanted and also an area where counselors must tread lightly while still serving the best interest of the student. Certainly not an easy feat in some cases.

"Changed Impressions"

     Although I have always had pretty good counselors, one being one of the greatest influences in my life, I always thought that counselors truly had a "cake" job!  Boy has my view changed.  I thought they all had the fun, getting to walk around the school freely and every now-and-then handle a situation if a kid was "bad", but truly nothing in-depth.  I did not know the intensity and focus that is truly required or the dynamic history in which the position was founded.  I truly admire anyone that has the position and can be efficient with it.  Not only does a counselor have to have structure, but they also have to have tremendous patience and good judgement in dealing with sensitive situations.  I truly applaud those that do the job effectively.

Rewards and Challenges

The counselor that I interviewed expressed that one of her rewards would be that a student would return to visit. During the visit, they would thank her for helping them with a decision they made that he/she wouldn't have made without them. It could be as simple as just graduating. I would think one of the most challenging things would be the lack of precipitation from the parents. I hear all the time how they would call for a parent/teacher conference, and no one would come or they would cancel and not reschedule.

Rewards and Challenges

I think that the rewards of being a counselor are many. Definitely seeing the students succeed academically, graduate, and go on to do great things as a direct result of the time and effort they’ve put in. Especially with preparing them for college, receiving scholarships and making good personal choices. Also, I think that it is gratifying for counselors to know that they have established a relationship with the student and that they can reach them when in some cases the parents can’t. I believe that they share many of the same rewards as teachers. Just knowing that you’ve made a difference in the life of child is rewarding in itself. Challenges can be many as well. I would imagine that it is stressful at times, trying to accommodate so many students needs and keeping track of so many students. Additionally, I can imagine that sometimes it’s emotionally draining to deal with all the personal and social issues. However, these are the small sacrifices that counselors make for our future to succeed.

Changed Impressions

While my view on the roles and the responsibilities of a counselor has not dramatically changed, it has definitely expanded. After reading the information on the websites I have a renewed respect and appreciation for counselors because they offer so many services to the students. I’ve always been aware of the obvious duties and responsibilities which include tending to students in need of academic, social and emotional assistance. However, I wasn’t aware of the accountability placed on the counselors. It was very informative to learn about the history of guidance counseling. Although, its original purpose has evolved greatly since then, the same principles are present and it is hard to imagine what the education system would be without someone to guide and counsel the students.

Changed Impressions

Understanding where guidance counseling derived from, really allows one to see how different eras had a role in developing it to how it is today. When something begins during a social reform movement, it has only one way to go, but up. That of coarse being the foundation to everything they counsel on today. It was interesting to learn that one of the main persons responsible for modern counselors was a psychologist. Which is understandable given the issues they deal with at times. I am surprised at how they kept adding to the responsibilities through out the years, including being successful in our fast-paced growing communities and guide the students toward college or the workforce.

"Rewards and Challenges"

I saw a lot of material over the web-sites that discussed the role of a counselor including them being able to get into a classroom and talk to students or focus on improved student results. I feel that there is no way a counselor can first get into a classroom with all of the burdens being placed on them by school administration, and in order to measure some of these student results I really feel they need to be in a classroom more often. I rarely have the opportunity to have a counselor visit my class and talk to my students about anything, but the one or two times that it has happened the students did listen to them, and we actually got no math done after they left because we continued the discussion (on college admission) for about 30 more minutes while the counselor whisked through 3 more classrooms. We either need more counselors or they need less responsibilities so that they can better serve the students on their case-load.

"Changed Impressions"

I do see that guidance counselors have an enormous amount of duties placed on them on a daily basis, and even the amount of time that they are allotted to spend on a particular task is watched closely. There is just one thing that I read from the websites that I cannot let go without mentioning, even though I am not sure this is the correct blog to mention it. It came from the 3rd link, where we could view education courses guidance counselors take in order to become a counselor and there was just one section that really caught my eye. We all know that in college there are often those sections of classes where we have a choice of picking one class out of a group of three or four, well if you were like me, sometimes you made your choice looking for the "easy 'A' ". Guidance counseling students were told to choose one out of three of the following classes: Aspects of Addiction, Family Systems, or Play Therapy. Just looking at those classes it would appear that possibly the easy way out (and also possibly a fun course) would be play therapy, but I would really hope that the counselors that I am sending a troubled student down to see would have taken one of the other two courses. I am not sure why this got my dander up, but it did.

Rewards and Challenges

Rewards and Challenges......They are so closely related that sometimes it's hard to separate them. I think that the rewards and challenges a guidance counselor would be closely related to that of a parent.
Let me see, the first challenge would be to connect to the student and to try and get the student to understand that you really do have their best interest at heart. You try and get them to understand that what you are telling/suggesting to them is not for your benefit but for theirs. You can only get "through" to a student if they respect and trust you. As a counselor, if they trust you they may possible open up to you about some of the things that are going on in their lives that may be affecting them on an academic level.
Rewards - seeing that a student gradually matures and comes into their own. They start making intelligent decisions regarding their lives or they take hardships and/or mistakes and use them as a learning experience. For me, it wouldn't so much be about them graduating or going to college, it's more about them becoming young adults who can reason and rationalize what their next move for the future is going to be....setting their future goals.

Changed Impressions

Wow, I must admit that you really don't know someone's situation until you walk a mile in their shoes, or at least take the time to talk with them awhile about what their job entails.

After a lengthy conversation with one of our guidance counselors, I have to say that my intial impressions of them are not that far off; except that I didn't take into consideration the sheer number of students they deal with on a daily basis nor the other responsibilities that I was ignorant about.

Sometimes I think I have it rough dealing with 120-150 students in one year. They have to deal with anywhere from 250-300 students a year. The difference is that my biggest concern is getting them to pass my class, the counselors are trying to get them to pass "all" their classes while trying to help them decided what to pursue for the future and dealing with any mental, emotional, social or family issue along the way. It's no wonder that on first look they don't seem that interested in what CTAE classes they are going to take.

This is where taking a little time to connect with them comes in. Most of them are well aware that only 30% of these students will actually go to a 4 year colledge. So, where does that leave the other 70%. Well a good start is getting the students educated and interested in our programs. I learned the counselors are not negative to this idea, they just don't have time to develop or implement a workable plan.

I have decided that if there is going to be a progression towared more education for the students regarding CTAE, it will have to come from the CTAE teachers. This is something that I plan to work on for the rest of the year so that maybe we can have a better plan implemented for the students next year.

Changes Impression

Wow, you really don't know someone's situation until you walk in their shoes; or at least talk to them and get their perspective. What a stressful responsiblity these guidance counselors hold in their hands. I think my first impressions were on the right track but in the totally wrong direction!

Guidance counselors assume so much more than I ever imagined. They not only have the present and future career paths of students in their hands, they have to deal with the mental, emotional and familial problems and concerns as well. And the sheer number of students they are responsible for is mind numbing.

I understand now how their time is so limited that worrying about the CTAE classes that a student should take is not high on their priority list. After talking with a counselor at length and discussing that only 30% of high school students actually attend a 4 yr. college, I was encouraged to see that she was much more receptive to any suggestions that I had to reaching these students earlier in their academic life to help them get headed in the right direction.

I decided that if our high school was really going to see an improvement on students being more selective in their choices of CTAE classes, that I would have to come up with some valid and legitimate suggestions (with implementation processes) to present to our counselors and administration. It is not that the counselors don't want to help, it's just that like most of us they are spread too thin.

Rewards and Challenges

I believe the greatest reward for a Guidance Counselor is seeing that kid who everyone thought wasn't going to make it become successful. After a few years of the stress and frustration working with a student going through difficult struggles, then seeing them slowly getting it together and becoming successful, has to be good feeling. It has to be feel good knowing you were a part of that process. It must be equally challenging seeing a good student slowly crumble from the the pressures of growing up in a tough environment. We see it in the classroom, but counselors deals with more students and because of their responsibilities, they are more intimately involved with the students personal lives.

Changed Impressions

I must admit my ideas of a Guidance Counselor was completely wrong. As I read the history of Guidance Counseling, the early years fit my idea of a guidance counselor. I thought their main objective was helping students to meet graduation requirements and post high school planning. I didn't think I was that old, but I remember it was the counselors you went to for help with career goals and deciding if you needed to go to college for that goal or vocational training. It was my counselor who helped me decide which "elective" best suited my career goals, as early as middle school. After reading the article, the counselors' role felt more like a school social worker. So I know better understand why at schools where students and families have many socioeconomics challenges, counselors spend the majority of their time "putting out" (or "preventing") fires. I've only taught at schools with challenges, my last school in California had a 98% free and reduce lunch population. I was always disappointed that the school didn't spend a enough time with college fairs, SAT prep, college scholarship or financial aid workshops , and a host of other things I thought would help the students post high school life. I know understand their roles gear toward student problems like;–personal, academic, and social. Although career issues are on the list of responsibilities, I can see how it takes a back seat to the students' other personal problems

Perceived Roles

My first year of teaching I heard alot of horror stories of how the counselors would load up classes with troubled kids. I was amazed to hear this and thought these counselors was just enrolling students without any consideration. I am very glad of this assignment, it has made me more aware of their responsibilites. Until Friday, I only thought in knew what the job(s) of the counselors are. They have so many more duties than I realized when talking to her, as she listed them one right after another. Everything from social issues to signing off on a students credits that they have earned. I had no idea that they are required to achieve a masters degree. I have a new respect for them.

Rewards and Challenges

School counselors are challenged by the sheer number of students they have to manage. Many counselors chose their area of study with the expectation that they would have an opportunity to guide students to success, no matter what post secondary career the student may choose. Counselors may feel personal gratification when students visit and confide their dreams and fears. In addition the counselor may enjoy their one-on-one sessions and receive gratification in being able to reach the student, especially when he or she is angry, because the counselor has already established a sense of trust. I feel counselors are rewarded each time a student receives a scholarship, wins an award and/or a class graduates. Therefore, in spite of the challenges a counselor faces, it is the "one" student that makes it against all odds that provides the necessary internal rewards for a counselor to continue in his or her role...in other words the reward is definitely not the money.

"Rewards and Challenges"

It appears to me that the challenges of guidance counseling outnumber the rewards. However, the rewards outweigh the challenges. Every Guidance Counselor must have at least a dozen success stories. Stories that may not have been if it were not for the counselor's intervention. How challenging it must be to motivate a young person to not follow the same path as their peers or even their parents! Even more challenging is collaborating with a parent who does not understand or value the importance of education. I think it must also be very challenging to remain open-minded and unbiased regarding the data sources used to gather information on the students. While that data helps to determine what services that student may need, it does not determine who that student is or can be. Guidance Counselors know this and have the challenge of conveying this to the student.

Changed Impression

Ok...so when I first got to my school, the only thing I knew about counselors were from my own personal experience; and my counselor in high school was terrible. He had not a clue of anything; a social misfit; a clueless individual with an IQ not much more than a house plant.

When I started getting students with poor behavior, poor testing, poor academics, I talked with the counselors about ramping up my program. The counselors listened and became concerned when those poor students started failing my class and asking to be transferred out.

I met with them again and described that they could send me ANY student as long as that student WANTED to be there. Within a year, the student in my classes changed. My students WANTED to learn; they wanted to be there.

My impressions changed over this time period because they (the counselors) asked me for input so they could get that information to a prospective student. This tells me that counselors listen to the student when they talk; thus the student, my classes, and the counselors have achieved success.

I think the biggest change occurred through honest and open communication. The counselors at my school take pride in matching teachers with students to achieve success. We have a good relationship with the counseling department as I often request their feedback almost daily...and they respond in kind!

"Changed Impressions"

Wow, my perception of Guidance Counselors has changed greatly. I believed that their primary duties were simply to "guide" students to make good decisions. I had no idea of the level of education and skill required to be an effective Guidance Counselor. I never thought of them as advocates for the student. Everyone, including the students, knows that they are there, but no one goes to visit them until they are in trouble. I find great comfort in knowing that students do have someone to rally for them by collaborating with everyone involved in the student's life. Also, I had no idea that guidance counseling was so data driven. I now know that the counselors lead, advocate, collaborate, and adapt to system changes in order to ensure that each and every student has an individualized plan of action to succeed.

Rewards and Challenges

Having my son at the school I teach has opened my eyes to the counselor's role in the student's academic career. Here's an example of what happened at my meeting with the counselor and my son.

She had his grades already opened with all his test scores right there while we talked. She asked my son questions about his interests and then asked him about his grades...

My son has an interest in culinary and wanted more culinary classes. Before agreeing, she wanted him to explore the success/failure rate of those going into culinary. She also asked my son about his math/science grades which happened to be in the 99th percentile.

She mentioned that based on his current test scores he could go into AP calculus as a junior and pretty much exempt his senior year and go right into GA Tech.....For FREE!!!

My son's eyes grew big as she related that GA Tech is one of the best schools in the country and asked him to explore ALL of his interests...

The challenge that his counselor faces is that delicate balance between a dream and a reality...not that she would squelch his dreams, but that she could open his eyes to something bigger and greater....

She also suggested many options that we had not yet considered as to careers that are not yet invented...my son loves technology and is a whiz for all things electronic...a gift and a curse for me (anyone ever experienced a son/daughter that knows more tech stuff than you?) Then you know what I am talking about.

The fact is, the counselor looked at the big picture first and then after we decide a big path, we can start looking at narrowing that path....she made a huge monumental task seem rather simple.

I have a huge amount of respect for her.

Precieved Roles

My personal perception about the role and the responsibility of the counselors is that they keep the students on track for a successful graduation in four years. Guidance counselors are responsible for providing information on post secondary options and any scholarships that might be available to students. Additionally, they provide them with resources for SAT/ACT preparation and give them information on career paths that they may be best suited for them. I know that they deal with many of the personal issues that student struggle with at home and in school. Oftentimes counselors know about things going on with the students before the parents. What I do feel is that they wear many hats and their position can be very strenuous especially when it comes to scheduling 1500 plus students and trying to accommodate students and parents who aren’t happy with the schedule. I don’t feel they get the respect or appreciation they truly deserve.

"Rewards and Challenges"

I think what is most rewarding for a guidance counselor is to see his/her hard work with the student pay off. To see them graduate, pursue and complete their academic goals. I am sure that the little thing such as parent participation and communication is rewarding as well. Which leads to the challenges. After meeting with a counselor at my school, her biggest issue or concern is lack of parent participation in their student academic goals and success. She states that many parents depend on the counselor to make sure that the student is on the correct path. Most often the parent shows up when there is a problem; such as when the student is failing and is at risk of not graduating on time.

"Changed Impressions"

My impression of the role and responsibilities of guidance counselors have changed mainly due to my ignorance. Just the fact that I did not understand their full role and responsibilities. It is much more than meets the eye. I was quite impressed with the amount of training and practicum hours required. A person can truly understand some one's job or role once they are informed about what it takes to do their job. Counselor's are not just advocates for the student, but plays an integral role with the community by coordinating resources with the school to meet the developmental needs of the student.

“Rewards and Challenges.”

I believe the most rewarding moment for a counselor is when that emotional, heart broken, academically challenged student pull through and reach his/ her goals. This moment shows off the students drive and determination that the guidance counselor had instilled in him/ her.

The challenges that I see are having to deal with the upset, over confident, supportive and brain washed parent. This moment would take all of the the counselors soft skills, hard skills, and education background to productively help the student and parent.

“Changed Impressions.”

After reading the five sites my impression of the guidance counselor has definitely changed. The counselors responsibilities extended much further than I thought-personal issues. Due to the fact that each student, school system and demographic are different ;therefore, a guidance counselor has to adjust to each situation, adversity, attitude and personality to successfully help that individual or individuals. The education and background that a counselor have to poses allows them to cope, support, understand and listen too the students personal issues. There is no level of education that will help prepare a person for the hard and emotional times I believe that in order to be a guidance counselor you must have a special passion for the field. I think that cause I am in a classroom room setting 8hrs a day I didn't get the full view of what the responsibilities of a guidance counselor are. I have a new found respect for the counselors.

“Perceived Roles.”

My personal impression of the guidance counselor is to provide the student, parents, teachers, schools and community with the connection to the world of educational possibilities. Guidance counselors are the glue that keeps the student and parents stuck to the pathway to graduation and beyond. I think that the guidance counselor should support the teachers in their endeavor to guide the students academics education regardless of the placement issues. I also believe that its important for the counselor to listen and be readily available to the students, parents and teacher. Guidance counselor are hard workers with little to no help that's why I believe that its important for all of us to step up and support them.

REWARDS AND CHALLENGES

The most rewarding factor for a guidance counselor in my opinion would be to achieve a 100% graduation rate at their school. This can only be achieved with the help and support of parents/staff/administration. Facts state that over 20% of students do not complete their high school education. Its very rewarding to see them walk that stage on graduation day. Even more so when they come back to visit during and after completing their college education.

The most challenging job/task for guidance counselors is time management - caseloads are very heavy - there are not enough counselors for the large student body in most schools. Counselors have to arrange student schedules to ensure that all students receive the classes they need to graduate in a timely manner as per the States laws.

Diversity in schools can be very challenging - counselors must be able to communicate with students/parents of diverse cultures. For instance if the school population has a high level of Spanish speaking students the counselors should be able to speak Spanish in order to communicate with parents/students to ensure that their needs are met on a daily/timely basis.

Hard work brings greater rewards and even more challenges....

CHANGED IMPRESSIONS

After perusing the information presented in the links provided for this module I must say my impressions on guidance and counseling have been flooded with a lot more data. In the beginning evidence of the foundations of counseling can be traced back to the 20 century in Rome and Greece. In the 1890's with the social reform movement, I learned that Frank Parson was considered the father of the vocational guidance movement. His work with the Civic Service House led to the development of an outline for a system of vocational guidance in Boston public schools. World War I introduced assessments in the form of standardized testing and during World War II the focus moved away from testing.

Since then counseling methods have changed and grown but most important the students are still the main focus. Counselors focus in providing all the necessary tools for students to have the best possible education available. Each grade level from 9 grade through 12 grade schools counseling methods depends on the school board/governing body of the school. Each county may have slightly different guidelines but all counselors must be licenced and follow strict guidelines. Some schools use the counseling standards as a blue print like we teachers use our standards to create our lesson plans, however, not all school systems use the standards. This fact was posted in one of the websites.

My impressions were not changed but I learnt a lot. Like teachers counselors have a very tough job and have many hats to manage.

"Rewards and Challenges"

I think what would be most rewarding for a counselor is to know that their hard work paid off when a student is accepted to a college or university. Or when the counselor has intervened on behalf of a student that sought help due to being in an abusive situation. I would think a counselor would feel good when they are told "Thank you" by the parents and the students that they may have helped along the way. Oftentimes people only want to know that what they do is appreciated and one way to let them know is to say "Thank you," or "I really appreciate your helping me." What is probably most challenging for a counselor is wondering if they are making the right decisions for the student. I think they would be concerned about protecting a student when they know that student is in an unsafe situation. And informing the correct authorities. Because oftentimes the first person to know of any problems with a student is the counselor. Another concern or challenge for a guidance counselor is educating the students and their parents about gang activity.

"Changed Impressions"

After reading the articles about the role of a guidance counselor I realize they wear as many hats as teachers. They are expected to enroll students in their correct classes, if they are not placed correctly in a class they go back and make the changes. They have to keep current on resources available for students that are troubled and may need assistance. I also noted that the role the high school guidance counselor is quite different from the role of an elementary school guidance counselor. One thing I did not realize was, at one point they were the gate keepers for students' IEP. Also it was interesting to note the extensive training they go through according.I guess overall my impression was not changed greatly. I knew just from observing and talking to the counselor at school that their work is very time consuming, and like teachers they must have a caring heart.

Changed Impressions

My impression hasn't changed, but along with their traditional duties, I've been made aware of additional duties. It appears that their roles are changing where as they get more involved in personal issues of the student. Such as abusive relations with family members , homelessness, low to no financial funds for graduation activities. Many do not have parental support or encouragement to strive for better. Therefore, the counselor's are often the first line to be made aware of the situation and contacts the school social worker and school administrators. They are also known to be mediator's either because of bullying or mutual conflict among students. I have been unable to view the module, but I am using the heading and information from the hand out.