Reflective practice as defined by Osterman & Kottkamp (1993) is a “means by which practitioners can develop a greater level of self-awareness about the nature and impact of their performance, an awareness that creates opportunities for professional growth and development.”
When I reflect on my journey with Mindlab this year I have mixed emotions. I was never one for study and found it difficult to manage my time effectively to get the results I wanted. After walking in for the first session I looked around the room and found myself amongst experienced teachers, some of which taught me at college. The best part of this journey was the support from our Mindlab Taupo group and having the ability to bounce ideas off the other three teachers from my school who decided to give Mindlab a crack as well. I soon got into the swing of things and found myself reflecting on my teaching and how I can refine my practice to meet the needs of my students.
The Practicing Teaching Criterion I endeavour to reflect on is criteria 4 & 7.
Criteria 4: Demonstrate commitment to ongoing professional learning and development of professional personal practice
Mindlab has reignited my motivation to continue to be a life-long learner – something I believe as teachers are extremely important. Being involved with other educators within Taupo has set up effective communication where we can continue to support each other in our teaching journeys. Social media accounts such as Facebook, Twitter and Google+ will allow me to keep up to date with relevant teaching strategies and practice. I look forward to continuing to extend myself professionally and taking on exciting and challenging opportunities should they present themselves in the future.
Criteria 7: Promote a collaborative, inclusive and supportive learning environment
It is important for students to develop effective teacher/student relationships to be able to make learning gains within the classroom. Using the 21st-century skills and the growth mindset vs. fixed mindset ideas have helped me develop my classroom programme to create more effective learners. Also learning that collaboration is more about sharing has been huge learning for me as an educator.
Next dream
I want to continue to work on myself as a leader within my school. I want to challenge myself and take on opportunities that will allow me to engage in further learning. I want to support others with their challenges and inspire my students to be motivated in their learning. Further study has always been something I have looked at doing so who knows I could be a sucker for more punishment yet.
References
Osterman, K. & Kottkamp, R.(1993). Reflective Practice for Educators.California.Cornwin Press, Inc. Retrieved on 7th May, 2015 from http://www.itslifejimbutnotasweknowit.org.uk/files/RefPract/Osterman_Kottkamp_extract.pdf
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