Learning from Professionals

Reflection on Anna Zantout

            This workshop was more valuable than I had expected. I wish that I had this workshop before clinicals so that I could have some of the tools and mindsets before the experience. She was very honest with us and shared experiences that made her uncomfortable, but were valuable real-life examples of how she handled certain classroom situations. When middle schoolers are unpredictable it is valuable to have a collection of first hand, crazy scenarios in which we can understand the kinds of solutions that work at this level. She also allowed us to understand how people with learning disabilities are affected by providing simulations of what the disability does. I really was fascinated by her demonstration of how to teach blind children to draw. I knew that tactile objects would be the best fit, but I never realized how the subtle differences between using a less defined stuffed animal and a detailed plastic toy can make all the difference as a drawing aid for the visually impaired. She gave a lot of insight into the inner workings of being a teacher as well. I think a lot of us are aware that teachers do so much more than teach; they create sub plans, and fill out all sorts of paperwork. It was reassuring to see her examples of curriculums, and sub plans as well as to get a better understanding of other paper works such as 504’s and I.E.D.s.

Reflection on Chris Grodowski

            Chris Grodowski’s classroom was unique compared to other classrooms I had observed. I was fascinated that he did not have any behavioral issues because of his proactive style of teaching. I learned so much from observing him. I liked the way he integrated assessment into student activities by having students make their own rubrics. To me this is authentic assessment because students are making art and then using the their own criteria of what good art is as well as Mr. Grodowski’s non-negotiable. This not only gives students ownership of their own learning, but also really curbs poor behavior because it doesn’t allow students to be bored or unengaged. I also loved his classroom management. He used two sets of bins for his classroom. He put table bins on either side of his classroom to ensure that students could clean up or set up without cluttering the classroom or waiting to put stuff away. He also had students do a lot of housekeeping tasks for him such as checking homework, or leading discussion. In his classroom the students have a lot of space and control. It was amazing to see how fluidly his classroom operated.

            Additionally I think he was a real inspiration for all of us in how he advocates the arts. He also gave amazing advice and some resources for us as new teachers. Overall it was a great learning experience in watching his sense of humor, good classroom structure and relaxed but intentional response to students.

Reflection on Rich Stachon

            Rich Stachon was very informative about the realities of teaching at the middle school level. He was very upfront and wanted to give us all that he knew. It was amazing to see how he integrated technology in the classroom. I believe, like him, that it is essential to include technology in the art room because it is very relevant to student’s visual culture and how they receive it. I personally think that constant integration of technology for multiple projects, not just a lesson will be one of the best ways to fight consumerism and show kids how to be democratic in a community. I also appreciated his insights about how to network. He stressed the benefits of creating a professional network and portfolio. I think this is especially important for preservice teachers because prior to our decisions of becoming a teacher, we all have had some sort of digital footprint. It is essential that we be seen as professional individuals otherwise you will not have the respect of students, fellow teachers or colleagues. I also appreciate that he was sharing his struggles about 3D printing as a new medium. It reminds me that when I begin my own teaching, I won’t always know everything about a topic and that I am just as much learning from my students as they are learning from me. He gave good advice about how to keep upbeat and that kids feed off of your enthusiasm for art. Overall the workshop went far beyond just solutions for technology in the classroom, but gave some really insightful information about the realities of the middle school classroom.

IPTS 8: The competent teacher builds and maintains collaborative relationships to foster cognitive, linguistic  physical, and social and emotional development. This teacher works as a team member with professional colleagues, students, parents or guardians, and community members. 

Here you can clearly see the collaborative relationships I am forming with other professionals in the field. I hope and plan to contact and collaborate with theses fine educators as a continue my career as a teacher.