Final Reflection-
I have learned so many valuable lessons from taking ED 3120:Social Studies methods with Dr.Smirnova. When I first started this course, even though I am a technology major, I was still nervous about using tools that were not familiar to me. Dr.Smirnova introduced us to blogger to write our reflections from each class in. At first, I thought this was really unproductive. I did not understand the purpose of reflecting on my work. But as I learned in class, that journal writing is actually a method/strategy used in in formative assessment. I also learned how to improve my lesson plan writing. By doing 6 different lessons, I now understand the importance of lesson plans and its requirements. Although, I would say this was the most struggle for me. I never seemed to write perfect objectives, I would always be missing a certain element. Even though I would get really frustrated, this was good for me to learn because lesson planning takes time and practice. I walk away with knowing how to access and use so many valuable technology tools. As an IT major, I was always very excited to learn about new technology tools. I hope to use all the tools I have learned about from Dr.Smirnova and apply them in my social studies lessons. It will also help me achieve my goals of being a teacher of technology for students with special needs. Field work was also an interesting experience. It taught me how to work patiently with others and that teaching as well, takes practice.
Field work had its ups and downs as well. I think an up for me is that I took on the role of group manager. It felt good that I encouraged everyone to put effort into their work and teaching. It had its downs because sometimes we were not as well prepared for our lesson. I learned from the mistakes I made during field work, and I hope that I have learned my lesson from them.
The kind of SS classroom I want to create is a fun learning environment. Social studies was my favorite subject in elementary school, and I want to inspire my students to love it as much as I do. A lot of students think social studies is really boring, but it doesnt have to. With the proper technology, learning methods/strategies, and activities, students can have fun learning social studies. I hope that I will engage my students in active social studies learning. I hope to do this through fun projects and field trips. I walk away from social studies methods carrying tools with me all throughout my teaching career.
a BIG Thank You to Dr.Smirnova!!!
