UoDEdushare | Crea Campbell's ePortfolio

Through last Thursdays task I found a greater understanding of equality in the classroom. We were placed into 5 different groups and were allocated with envelopes containing resources to create something new to Dundee university. Throughout the task it didn’t dawn on me that we would be treated differently; I was very focused on the task given that I didn’t notice until all was revealed that we had in fact been given different quantities and variations of resources used to create these new ideas. Group 1 received basic resources such as paper, pens and a paperclip whereas group 5 was presented with these as well as scissors, colourful pens and blue tac; many more and useful resources than the others. this task showed me the impact inequality can have in a working environment. Having different resources to work with doesn’t necessarily effect the effort of performance or overall end product but the principal of not receiving the same level of equality is unfair and should not be tolerated. This task also made me reflect on the matter of favouritism in the classroom as it can really knock the confidence of others if class favourites are made obvious. This can often lead to inequality of how others are treated because if a certain student receives more attention or resources this can make the other students less confident in school. Overall the task assigned last week really made me think about the different aspects of learning and how every student learns in their own way. By giving every individual child the same level of respect and ensuring they all learn in equal environments this will help our young children today to strive in the future.

Primary Teaching is the profession I want to pursue. I want to make a difference to children’s lives through education. I am fascinated by different aspects of education and how having an interesting, challenging and enjoyable experience at school can influence young people’s future years and instil a passion for life-long learning.

My inspiration is a former teacher who taught me in primary 5 and led a project on World War II. He used every medium of education from language, art, music, drama and dance to immerse us in the subject. His passion, enthusiasm and sense of fun was contagious. I would hope that in the future I can make a positive difference to young people’s lives like he did to mine and teach in a unique, fun and creative way to help them dream big.

This course also interested me as it offers extended work placements, giving me an opportunity to work not only in Scotland but abroad. One of my greatest passions is travelling – working at an International School would be a wonderful way to feed that passion and at the same time help change children’s lives for the better.

I spent the past year volunteering in my former primary school, assisting the Deputy Head with a Primary 1/2 composite class. I enjoyed the responsibility of planning and preparing lessons to develop the children’s abilities. The class engaged with me well as I helped them with tasks; striving to make lessons exciting and interesting for them. I loved creating bonds with each individual in the class and aim to influence each one of them for the better in their school years. As Head Desk of 1st Violins in the school orchestra, I realise how important it is to co-operate with my team members and encourage everyone to work together to improve and complete a body of work. Even the smallest contribution can add positively to the finished article.

Values reflection

Primary teaching for me – why?