I plan on teaching at the early childhood levels and understand that there is no one learning style that fits all students. To engage the younger children, I would incorporate more hands-on activities for students and follow the constructivist teaching method. This approach will help them be more involved in learning and retain the information longer than simply handing out worksheets and filling in the blanks or lecturing over material that must be memorized. I would have them working in small groups is also important in learning the subject at hand and helping to develop social skills at a young age.

One way to assess student learning under the constructivist approach to learning is by having multiple projects for multiple subjects. Students will be engaging their listening skills and hands on activity with the outcome being visual to them. Projects for science can include trips outside to observe and discuss, writing can be assigned journals to include pictures, and math can be concrete objects to count and visually see how simple addition and subtraction can work versus just memorizing numbers on a chalkboard. To ensure that students are learning the material is by frequent progress reports and heavy communication with parents in regards to progress reports. Another addition would be to ensure that non-verbal communication is received as well. Engaging with the children during the projects and making sure that they give a thumbs-up or smiling while doing the projects can help to make sure that they understand and limit confusion and frustration.

I will continue to learn and grow in my industry by attending workshops and conferences for teachers. I will also further my own education and obtain a master’s degree in education. I will familiarize myself with new technology that is available to me and my classroom and incorporate new technological tools for the students to enjoy. I will communicate as much as I can with the student’s parents and listen to any feedback that they provide. I will inquire with my team of fellow teachers to see what techniques they use and find to be helpful in helping their students learn.

Teaching is a passion for me. I want to install confidence in the children so that they are encouraged and excited about learning. I want them to remember their elementary years and be inspired for the rest of their lives to love learning and not be afraid or feel inadequate to take on the challenge of learning something new.