3.4 Prof. Reflection & Commitment | teacher education eportfolio

Semester one of university consisted of several important moments on my path to becoming a teacher. The values module made me think and in certain aspects re-evaluate my personal and professional values and beliefs. However, it was the working together module and how it taught me to be reflective that was one of the most important moments of semester one for me.

I was initially hesitant about the working together module as I was eager to dive straight into teaching however on reflection I can see how this module was important. During this module we had to work with people from teaching, CLD and social work and ultimately give a group presentation on an agency visit related to one of the key professions. Initially, I was shy and rather reserved, not offering my opinions however as time progressed and our group started to bond I became more comfortable with expressing my opinions.

Before this module I didn’t fully understand how all these different professions were interconnected however on reflection I can see how different professionals need to work together for the benefit of the child. The working together module has taught me that even though it may be difficult for the different professions (teaching, CLD and social work) to find the time and resources to work together, it will ultimately benefit the child. It is important to put the needs of the child above your own personal opinions and compromising is vital in order for all the professions to work collaboratively and effectively.

The working together module has highlighted how important reflection is to my professional development. Reflection allows you to assess what went well, what could’ve been better and it allows you to set goals in order to improve in the future. This will be vital for me as I develop as a teacher.

I can’t remember the exact moment that I knew I wanted to become a teacher but it was always a career I have seriously considered. As a young child I was extremely shy but it was my primary school teachers’ that made me develop a passion for learning. These teachers’ where kind, caring, compassionate and most importantly helped me to discover a true love for learning. The idea of working with children to help them reach their full potential has always greatly appealed to me.

Through my experience in a classroom setting I believe teaching is one of the most challenging but also one of the most rewarding jobs possible. Being heavily involved in outreach work in Warsaw, Poland has developed and encouraged me when working with children in such a diverse world. This experience not only challenged my thinking but as a leader within the local schools and orphanages, I was able to use my knowledge and past experience to overcome the language barrier and creatively promote learning and development to suit their needs and abilities. Today’s children are growing up in a multilingual world and the ability to communicate effectively in social, academic and commercial settings is crucial if they are to play their full part as global citizens.

Teaching requires enthusiasm, leadership, teamwork and ability to be flexible. From volunteering in Sunday school and Bible Clubs I have been involved in delivering structured lessons in a short time frame. This experience has given me the chance to be creative and use my initiative and imagination to teach a subject to young children to ensure that the main focus and message is being taught; skills which are vital for a good teacher. Other key aspects of teaching are commitment, good organisational skills and the ability to build positive relationships with both students and parents. Through helping in creche and children’s church and being an active member of St. John’s Ambulance I feel more competent to face the challenges which teaching presents.

Teachers play a crucial role in shaping children’s’ futures. It is imperative that children have hardworking, motivated and devoted teachers educating them. I believe that I have these necessary skills to be a great a teacher and will continue to improve upon them throughout my degree.

Reflection on Semester 1

Why Teaching?