Final Reflection on Nature of Schools

Well, we've come to the end of yet another five week summer course. I can't believe how fast the time flies! Over these past five weeks, we were supposed to achieve the following learning outcomes:
Knowledge of:
theories & philosophies of education
relevant history of American education
current issues impacting public schools
standards of professional conduct

Skills in:
applying theory to solve practical problems
analyzing social and philosophical forces shaping American education through research and grant writing
developing partnerships with colleagues, parents, administration
Independent learning and self-reflection

Professional attitudes related to:
critical self-reflection/examination
appreciating diverse learning styles
establishing a belief that all students can learn
developing a foundation for leadership

I would have to say that I have achieved everything on these three lists, except the grant writing. If this was an outcome of the class, we should have been given an assignment and guidance on how to write a grant. This was not explicitly stated in any of our project descriptions. I think this would have been a very useful outcome had it been taught.

This course has certainly made me think about my own personal teaching philosophy and how much that influences the education students receive. I have also done a lot of thinking about how students need to be taught in order to thrive in the 21st century.

I have always valued education. This is the reason that I became a teacher. I constantly evaluate what works and doesn't work in my classroom and make changes from semester to semester. I truly am an Agent of Change and will continue to advocate for new approaches in teaching our students.