As a first year student I often find it hard to see myself as a teacher. Transitioning from semester one into semester two and swapping (but not forgetting) the theory for a more hands on approach has begun to have a positive impact in overcoming this hurdle. Now that I have a better grasp on the curriculum that I will be teaching as well as a growing supply of teaching ‘hints and tips’ from my lecturers I have begun to feel less of a fraud and more akin to the real deal. However I cannot forget one of the main influential factors in my growing confidence… My Eportfolio.
This blog provides me with a sounding board for ideas, a diary for my professional thoughts and reflections and most importantly a community through which I can connect with my peers to give and receive feedback.
This collaboration of minds offers up so many opportunities. Being able to reflect on my learning whilst also reading the reflections of others gives me a broader base of knowledge through which I can expand and develop my points of view. As we grow as professionals we can learn from each other with everyone of us having something different to offer: New perspectives, differing ideas, the ability to expand on reflections and to offer constructive criticism. However, In order to reap these benefits each of us must endeavour to contribute in
a meaningful way. Following Derek’s input earlier today on our Eportfolios I decided to take this opportunity to reflect on my own contributions. Last semester I blogged about things I am passionate about as well as blogging in response to Tdts. I spent time reflecting on the feed back I received from my peers and making changes to my blog posts in response. This semester however I haven’t neglected my blog, as I have made an effort to write a post in response to every Tdt, but I would say that I haven’t spent as much time adding to it with posts on things I am passionate about as I did before Christmas. I could make excuses which relate to the work load this semester and continue to plod along at this mediocre pace but what would be professional about that? It is my responsibility to engage with this collaborative community MA1 are building and how could I possibly see myself as a teacher if I didn’t take that seriously? 
Within Derek’s input he provided us with links to our fellow bloggers work and asked us to reflect on the standard and craftsmanship of their posts. One of the blogs Derek selected belongs to someone who has provided me with a lot of feedback and support over my time at university and her blog is one I have followed since we started.
Michelle’s passion comes through in all of her posts in a way which draws the reader in as well as showcasing the amount of hard work and thought that she puts into each post. Her use of images, links to videos and references add so much depth to her points of view and offer the reader an avenue to begin exploring the topic of each post further if they so wish. Michelle is also a great example of someone who has really engaged with the collaborative culture being created. She always takes time to comment on my posts offering help and encouragement which is what it is all about.
After reading through all of the posts which Derek highlighted I chose to add all of the corresponding blogs to my homepage. Now I have a direct link to posts that will encourage me to be more interactive and that will remind me what this is all about: Collaboration. Each time I post or comment or browse through blogs from now on I will be reminded that I am a teacher, that we are all teachers, and that our eportfolios are key to our success!
