Blog post 1: Reflection on June sessions as preparation for internship

The June sessions provided so much of information to assist me not only during my internship but also in future classroom teaching. Each day focused on a range of features relating to a different theme which helped me understand just how many different parts there are to being a teacher and working with children. In this post I will focus on some of the content and skills which I found most valuable to apply during my internship.

·         Building an awareness of the different classroom strategies available to help in managing a disruptive classroom: knowing when to take a step back from a situation so that it doesn’t become a yelling competition/ power struggle between teacher and student, making notes so that you can get back to resolving an issue rather than stating pointless consequences that you don’t use anyway, walking over to a disruptive student and talking to them face to face rather than calling out from the front of the class for all the students to hear.

·         Developing ways to effectively integrate ICT into the classroom: many teachers consider that if they are using computers in the classroom that they are integrating ICT when really it is no different than books or overhead projectors. Assessment 1 provided a valuable way to use ICT in the classroom merging content with different forms of media, this task could be used not only by the teacher but by the students as well as they could create their own digital presentations for an assignment with proper structuring and assistance by the teacher so that students learn how the process actually works.

·         Being aware to take care of yourself: as this is the longest practicum we as student teachers have experienced, it is important to take the time to ensure that our wellbeing is also in check. Learning to take a step back at the end of the day and trying not to take home any of the stresses which may have occurred during the day, building on the positive experiences and looking at ways to relax.

Goals to achieve during Internship based on NSW Institute of Teachers’ Professional Teaching Elements:

·         Develop a deeper understanding of the range of different learning styles and methods which can be used in the classroom to enhance student understanding of the content. (Element 2 – 2.1.1., 2.1.3, 2.1.5)

·         Develop effective communication in classroom discussions to reinforce and develop areas of content. (Element 4 – 4.1.1, 4.1.2, 4.1.3)

·         Use feedback as a means of improving and developing on teaching and learning practices. (Element 6 – 6.1.5)