Educators have a broad knowledge base and understand the subject areas they teach.
During my EDUC-491 practicum I spent a lot of time reviewing how to teach grade 6/7 mathematical concepts. It had been a while since I had familiarized myself with many of these concepts and I realized that I needed to improve my understanding to give clear instruction on the concepts. I spent a lot of time watching at home tutorials, collaborating with my coaching teacher, and breaking down my lessons to chunk information into digestable lessons. I realized that although I personally understood how to complete a process, I didn’t necessarily understand how to explain it in a way that is digestable by all types of learners. My math unit for this practicum was guided by four essential questions:
- What is division?
- What is long division?
- What are decimals?
- What is decimal long division?
By chunking information into these 4 basic concepts, I was able to access the students that needed additional support as well as challenge the students who were extending to deepen their understanding.
I have a diverse post-secondary background prior to beginning the Bachelor of Education program. I have certification in Fine Arts (through the Emily Carr institution based at the College of New Caledonia, Prince George, BC) and French as a Second Language both in the workplace and classroom (University of Moncton, Moncton, NB). As well as these certifications I have explored many topics by completing classes in several fields of study: Biology, Math, History, English, Geography, First Nations Studies, Sociology and Psychology.
Expanding beyond institutional education I have taken an interest in many subject areas. I have a passion for outdoor recreation which I hope to carry over into my teaching. I have also participated in team sports such as volleyball and basketball both as a coach and player. Not only do these interests allow me to educate students in several different areas of the curriculum, but they also help me to thrive as an educator. Team sports have taught me a lot on community and working with peers while outdoor education has helped me to understand the natural world around me.
I am also interested in localizing education and creating social relevancy as a theme within my classroom on a daily basis. I connect many of my lessons to the local area by first getting to know the area I am learning and teaching on. I think it’s important to get to know the land and place that you are learning and educating in. This is what led me to participate in a conference in Vancouver that was focused on understanding the distinctions between place and land. This conference taught me a lot on understanding the local area and the indigenous roots that are in place around you. Understanding place, land, and community around you helps to deepen inquiry and student learning.
My diversified background combining of academic and real-life interests are part of what makes me unique as an educator. I have an open mind and am continuously learning which sets a strong example for my students of possibilities for them as individuals both academically and personally.