What am I learning in grad school ?

Wow. If I even try to put into words what I have learned, I might be here all night! I might also lose any followers I might have had before this reflective learning blog. All kidding aside, the discussions in my group have been interesting; however, I don't know if they are "real." I feel like everyone just gives the answer that is "soft on the instructors ears." I know that the year is 2010, but I do feel there is a place for some behaviorism learning styles in today's classroom. I am not saying that we should all teach from a basal, and have children memorize answers just to complete test and activities. I do believe that there is a healhty balance in teaching styles and we should vary in the way we teach children. I received several comments on my lesson plan about how to use more visuals and more repeat learning techniques to accomodate for any ELL students, but these same individuals had just commented on not using these techniques in their classrooms because they are "outdated" and don't involve interactive learning techniques. Overall, I did teach in a rural area when I was in the classroom and the administrators didn't care for teaching styles that differed from traditional behaviorist styles; however, I do know that all children learn differently so we should vary our teaching techniques and this includes "old school" techniques. It was difficult to write a detailed lesson plan since it has been 11 years since I have written one, but I do enjoy details and organization. I wish my children were still in school at the present time so I could really apply what I am learning in class.

behaviorism

I feel the negativism from others about using behaviorism in their classroom. I have learned that I believe that there is a place for this approach in the classroom. It doesn't mean that you have to teach from the textbook. You can balance your teaching approach with different techniques. A great way for children to reinforce what they know and understand about multiplication is through a behaviorist approach. I have experienced this first hand.

new perpective

In my last post I stated that I am too old for college. I have changed my mind. I am capable of working full time hours for part time pay (because it is all for Jesus), go to school and pass all exams needed for re-certification, and raise three precious boys. Yes I can do it and I will succeed. I am learning things all over again that I had learned back in college in my undergrad years. Most importantly, I have rediscovered the reason why I chose this profession. I am not to old for this discovery!

First Class EDT 630

I'm too old for all of this.