Reflection

Reflecting has always been a strong suit of mine. I gain very valuable insight from reviewing things I've done and observed. Thus, I choose this assignment as a way of processing what I had learned about the curriculums and thinking through the methods in which I agreed. As seen through my previous posts, I feel a strong connection with the Montessori method, though I feel the classroom warmth could be increased. I also appreciated aspects of Waldorf, in the constant song and attunement with the natural environment. Though difficult, I feel emergent learning is most beneficial to the students, following their interests and catering the lessons to their needs.

This course has been so beneficial to me. Going in, I didn't even know what a curriculum was, much less that there are so many different methods! It gives teachers an option and opportunity to teach in the method they most agree. I used to think all teachers were forced into following the behaviorist ways, and I was going to try my hardest to adapt the CCSS to fit every learning style. Though I will probably still have to do this when starting out, I feel reassured knowing there are other ways out there. Once I get experience and prove my worth, I can find a school with a similar philosophy to my own and have the perfect job! I have a renewed sense of hope for the teaching profession and student's perception of education. It starts with informing teachers, then informing the public. Once the facts and evidence has been presented, we can look to a brighter tomorrow. A time when all students are treated as individuals and educated uniquely to their learning style. This class is just the beginning. We can make it happen!

What if I can't find a job?!

One of the things I am really worried about in the future is not being able to find a job in an environment I enjoy. We are learning about all of these awesome curriculums and alternative ways of learning, but I worry that these will not be prevalent in the workforce. Or the places that do support these curriculums will not be accepting of a first year teacher. I was going back and forth about whether or not to go on for additional certification in Montessori, but after being in graduate school a year with one more to go, I have decided against the additional schooling for the time being. I would love to be able to mash together all of these wonderful curriculums, similar to ECDC, putting together the aspects I like. In order to do that, I need to find a like-minded school or a flexible principal willing to take a chance on a young mind. I fear I will be forced to follow the job and teach using the behaviorist ways I so much despise. I try to stay positive, thinking everything will work out for the best, and I know it will in the end, but sometimes it is hard not to worry. If placed in a behaviorist school, I fear I will grow to hate teaching.

All of that is a year away. Worrying, in general, is a pointless act. I just need to stay positive, enjoy learning the alternative methods, and hope that the perfect school for me will present itself in time. Until then, I will become the best candidate I can be, learning as much as possible about every teaching method, in hopes of winning the hearts of every principal I interview with when the time comes.