Teaching Reflection

 

    Within the course, we spent collaborative and individual time assessing different aspects of art education and its impact on our society. We learned the vitality of education and our position as future teachers being an essential one. I especially enjoyed learning about differentiated instruction and how ways of learning can be different for each and every student. Students should not be excluded simply because they retain information differently. 

    Throughout our own nation's history, education has been a symbol of privilege and power, selectively given to those people deemed 'worthy' (mostly those of European descent).  The wealthy are more inclined to receive education with their funding, while the less wealthy cannot afford it. I want everyone in this world to have access to the privilege of education and how knowledge is power. 

    In experiencing being the one to support diverse learners, it felt gratifying to give these students my time and energy to create a space to be creative and learn about the different ways to create art. It was initially challenging to take such a big step in my educational career. I often felt nervous and overwhelmed when trying to create the lesson plan itself and in teaching. I worried the most about the students being interested in the lesson and enjoying the projects. I did not want them to walk away from their time with me feeling unaccomplished or disappointed. 

    I had to remember that it was a learning experience and I would continue to grow as a teacher and become even more equipped with a variety of skillsets for my students. We all have to start somewhere. I am grateful to have a classroom that is inclusive and welcoming to everyone, willing and able to provide the tools for success.