Please respond to my collegues posts just a few paragraphs on the same page just 1 page
Collegue post 1: All throughout my elementary years, I attended a private school. Except for my first grade teacher, I remember that the nuns mostly sat at their desks and wrote on blackboards, which was more of the traditional way of teaching. However, my first grade teacher was different. I still remember her name and her spunky personality. She would constantly walk around the classroom and engage with students. Her classroom was visually stimulating, there were many opportunities for exploration and discovery, and we were encouraged to be creative. And, although we each had our own individual desks, we gathered in a circle on the carpet first thing each morning. She was probably a constructivist in the making!
Unfortunately, I don’t recall any of the specific constructivist practices that may have been in place at the time. Therefore, my educational experience as a first grader may have been enhanced by activities that involved manipulation and exploration (hands-on learning). Many opportunities which led to working with other children on projects and tasks (collaborative work). A focus on what my interests, experiences, and perspectives were at the time (student-centered approach). Many opportunities to access a range of resources to support our different learning styles (varied learning materials). Making sure to link classroom activities to our everyday experiences (real-world connections). Making time for us to reflect on our learning and discuss it with peers (reflection and discussion). As from the teacher’s perspective, guiding and supporting learning rather than direct instruction (teacher as facilitator). Also, encouraging me and my classmates to think critically and express our ideas (open-ended questions).
The above-mentioned strategies would emphasize problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Today, other areas would include integrating technology for research and communication, incorporating many nature and outdoor experiences and parent involvement and communication.
Collegue post 2: Like you stated in your post, ensuring that the students value their autonomy and responsibility in their learning will definitely help them develop self regulation and independence. These two factors will ensure that they become lovers of learning and that they will be capable to navigate through challenges while achieving their goals inside and outside of the classroom. That’s why I loved that you brought up that point. The section in your post about reflective learning was explained very well, especially when you said that you will allow students to journal what they learned and what they want to learn in class. Journaling is a fantastic way to not only support the students academic work but also promotes emotional and personal development. So I can definitely see myself doing the same.
