Contributions to Learning

 

     Beginning the next chapter of my educational journey has been an exciting endeavor. I pride myself on being a continual learner and enjoy being surrounded by like-minded individuals with whom I can grow and push myself. I feel I have been an active participant of both courses 5302 and 5305 by completing all of the required readings and postings, completing all of the assignments on time, and participating in a collaborative group with my peers to support each other’s learning. 

 

     Each week we were expected to read texts, read articles, and watch video segments that highlighted important messages and background information on key concepts like blended learning, different mindsets, being an innovator in education, and effectively communicating ideas. I enjoyed learning the content because I found the messages meaningful and relevant to my current role. Being able to read everyone else’s posts and replying to them helped me reflect more deeply about the content and also allowed me to see my peers’ perspectives that I may have missed or not focused on. I feel like contributing to these discussions helped us see how others were planning to use these ideas or how they have used them in past experiences. Although I contributed to all of the discussions, I was inconsistent in how quickly I participated. As the course went on, it took me more time to post my initial ideas which sometimes meant my classmates had less content to reply to. Going forward I plan to schedule a set time on my calendar to make sure I dedicate the time needed to post my reflections. I feel like making this change will help me better organize my time and allow me to use the content to complete my assignments better.

 

     Completing the course assignments was sometimes a challenge. However, these challenges forced me to think more honestly about my growth mindset and learning mindset. I had to make the decision to think differently as I approached these challenges. I really appreciated the feedback given so that I could make any necessary changes and learn from the mistakes I had made. Having that feedback not only helped me make revisions but also helped me to focus on these areas when completing future assignments. I have learned to focus more on APA formatting and pay attention to details. 

 

     In 5305, I was introduced to how to effectively communicate my Innovation Plan to my administrators. In doing this, I developed the reasons why I felt implementing a blended model would benefit our learners in today’s schools. I feel that focusing on these reasons will better help me in my role when making planning choices going forward. My literature review was an integral piece in learning more about why I should be implementing a blended learning model. Although I had my own ideas, it was important to have evidence to support them. Reviewing the literature also led me to other benefits I hadn’t thought of. This course also taught me the importance of having a clear implementation outline. Having done this supports my implementation efforts since my steps are clear and thought out. In 5305 I feel I have earned the grade of 45/50. I chose this score based on the grades of my assignments and my dedication to completing my work giving my greatest efforts.

 

     In 5302, I was given the opportunity to reflect on having a growth mindset. Completing this assignment helped me to recognize moments where I had a fixed mindset while completing assignments for both courses. Being able to identify these fixed mindset thoughts was important as I had to stop and shift my thinking. Reflecting on these moments reminded me that shifting to this mindset will be a work in progress. Building my growth mindset plan also helped me to develop a way to deliver the message of “the power of yet” to my second graders. Creating my learning manifesto was eye-opening for me. Being able to reflect on my beliefs on learning helped me better identify what I believe in which then will help me to be more intentional on creating authentic learning opportunities for my students in the future. All of the assignments in both courses will help me to further my abilities as an innovative educator. After reflecting on my assignments and dedication to my learning, I feel I deserve a 90/100. Although I completed all the assignments by giving my best efforts, I would like to work on the timing of my discussion posts. I also plan to develop deeper reflections in my posts and assignments. 

 

     Although a lot of work was put into completing these courses, I learned that having a collaborative learning network is vital. Quickly upon beginning these courses, some of my classmates took the initiative in creating a GroupMe to allow us to communicate and support each other more effectively. I consistently worked with Nadia Flores, Thaddeus Komorowski, Joseph Perrone, Jelisa Davis-Sophus, and Khelia Olison Williams. Being able to work in this collaborative group meant that we supported each other as we needed clarification while working on assignments, were able to ask and receive feedback on our assignments, and provided encouragement when we needed it. I was able to help my peers by immediately answering questions, offering examples of my work to share ideas, and offering ideas on how to present their ideas. Setting the expectation of developing these core learning groups has made a positive impact on my success in these first two courses.

 

     I look forward to continuing to collaborate with my peers in future courses. As I continue in this program, I plan to think more deeply about how to incorporate the new ideas and strategies that I learn to help me continue to grow as an innovative educator who provides choice, ownership, and voice through authentic learning opportunities.