This is my tenth year of teaching and each year I try to push myself into becoming better at supporting students and adjusting to their needs. The first few years were spent just figuring things out, what procedures I needed, what concepts did many students struggle with, etc. Several years into teaching our district partnered with LMU and shifted the way we teach math; this process was intense and supported me into transforming my teaching and my classroom. I got to a point where I felt like I was reaching the top of my learning curve (even though I know there is always room for improvement). Last year I transfered districts and was an academic specialist at New Tech, this began an entirely new set of challenges for me. Due to cuts I found myself back in the classroom this year. This year I have felt like I am back to ground zero. I have struggled in figuring out what the ideal PBL classroom looks like. Not knowing where I am headed has made me spin my wheels a bit throughout the year and even question if teaching is something I want to continue doing. I love building relationships with the students, I have wondered if teaching is the avenue in which I want to continue making a difference.
When I began this semester I was overwhelmed by being a single mom, keeping my head above water in my classroom, and many other responsibilities that I take on, but I have been wanting to get my Masters for a while and I was interested in the Innovative Learning program. When it comes to technology I consider myself to be open and somewhat capable, by know means would I consider myself good at technology. Most of the time I would feel overwhelmed by the amount of technology there is; I had no idea what was a good use of time and what would make a positive impact on my students. I was also struggling with how to implement PBL in my math classroom. Throughout the semester I have really enjoyed the 701 class. I have been inspired by a lot of the readings and conversations. As far as technology, this course has given me some specific guidance into what technologies to look at and also helped me to realize that I do not need to be an expert in all things technology. So many of my students are able to navigate new technology much more effectively than I can. As the teacher I can allow them to utilize different technologies that support their learning, ever if I have not mastered using the tool. The ideas of creativity, motivation, and the brain have inspired me to make continue to strengthen my classroom. I love that I can be inspired and then given some specific examples as to how/what to try in my classroom. I have also really enjoyed having a group of people to collaborate with along this journey. Many times I end the 701 class wanted to start fresh and implement what we have been focusing on. I am looking forward to exploring more about the flipped classroom and CBL along with being introduced to new technologies and new ideas.
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Kendra ParsonsAs a high school math teacher, I am passionate about bringing a joy of learning and of math to my students. Archives
April 2018
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