Learner & Learning

Standard #1: Learner Development
The teacher understands how learners grow and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas, and designs and implements developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences.

Documents:

• Observation I (Field Experience) - EDU 3021
• Observation II (Field Experience) - EDU 3021
• Chapter 3 Presentation - EDU 2000***

Reflection:

Observation I and II are experiences that focus on the different learners of cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical. In this kindergarten classroom that I observed, the patterns of learning were developmentally appropriate yet challenging to the students. These documents are evidence in showing how I recognize the various ways learners grow and develop. With my observation, I now know that I need to actively build student interests, implementing developmentally appropriate and challenging experiences. 

Standard #2: Learning Differences

The teacher uses understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures and communities to ensure inclusive learning environments that allow each learner to reach his/her full potential.

Document(s):

·         Universal Design for Learning Components I & II - EDU 3051

·         Universal Design for Learning Presentation - EDU 3051

·         Multiculturalism – Bullying – PSY 1840***

Reflection:

With my experiences, the major aspect of teaching I can emphasize is to know my students. The field experiences and UDL (Universal Design for Learning) course helped me focus on the students diverse backgrounds and differences. The UDL Components chart was an organized document that helped me categorize the different needs of students and how I can create an inclusive learning environment. In this chart, I have focused specifically on gifted, struggling reader, hearing impairment, visual impairment, ELL, and learning-disabled learners. This chart helped me focus on students I have experienced in a classroom and how I can create an environment that helps these students with IEP/504 plans, classification, and needs reach full potential in learning. I constructed a PowerPoint presentation for the UDL course that summarizes in creating a classroom community inclusive to learning focusing on student needs.

Standard #3: Learning Environments

The teacher works with others to create environments that support individual and collaborative learning, and that encourage positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self motivation.

Document(s):

·         Learning Environment Plan Presentation - EDU 3021

• Learning Environment Plan Essay - EDU 3021***

Reflection:

The importance of a safe and encouraging environment is essential to learning for students. I have seen classrooms from my field experiences and EDU 3021 course focusing on the differences a classroom environment can make for a student. Within my Learning Environment Plan presentation, I discuss the significance in having a positive social interaction among students, how to engage in active learning, and encourage self-motivation. With an organized physical environment, meeting student needs and meeting teacher expectations are highlighted in my presentation. I have discussed how students need to be encouraged in a positive and specific manner to have a classroom environment that support learning.

***Additional documents to support my evidence